Dubai-based MBC Group – the leading free-to-air, pan-Arab, news and entertainment broadcaster – has purchased a Quantel Genetic Engineering shared workflow infrastructure for its three Quantel eQ online finishing systems. The news comes as MBC advances its migration to HD.
The deal also includes a Sam, which will enable other edit, graphics and audio workstations to benefit from the shared workflow. In addition, the eQs will be upgraded to the latest V5 software.
“We rely heavily on our eQs to produce the large number of promotions and interstitials we use across our network of ten channels,” said Keith Dallison, MBC post production manager. “They’re real all-round workhorses and our editors love the interface which gives them instant access to all the different tools they need in our fast turnaround environment. As we migrate to HD over the course of this year, demands will get heavier still.
“Genetic Engineering will greatly improve our efficiency by giving us complete flexibility on which job is finished in which suite, or if necessary we can put all three eQs onto the same project. Last minute jobs are a daily issue with some channels such as our Al Arabiya 24 hour news channel, as well as coping with the inevitable late schedule changes.
“MBC purchased its first eQ in 2004 and ever since then I have always been impressed with Quantel support. We are a 24 hour operation and need 24 hour support. It’s nice to know that Quantel has got our back.”
