New generation Quantel technology has been adopted by all five of Frances free terrestrial channels as a key component in their transition to multi-format, multi-resolution and High Definition production and broadcasting. These systems were chosen after elaborate tests of competitors products and, in all cases, performance, reliability and users input tipped the scales in favour of Quantel.
The first French broadcaster to adopt Quantels new equipment was the public-service network France 3, which acquired an HD/multi-resolution Paintbox gQ for use in news production and close-to-air applications.
The next broadcaster to choose Quantel new generation equipment was Arte, the Franco-German cultural channel, which also opted for the multi-resolution Paintbox gQ last summer. Arte is a very arts-oriented channel, comparable to Channel 4 in the UK or PBS in the US, and the quality of its graphics allows it to enhance its image, well beyond its budgetary means. The Paintbox is used a great deal for what are known as Artes Thema evenings, an omnibus string of programmes (features, documentaries, chat shows, etc.) on a specific theme, all shown on a given day. Graphics created on the Paintbox, often the work of several artists, can be harmonised to link the various programmes and genres and thus generate audience loyalty.
M6, Frances youth-oriented generalist terrestrial broadcaster, was next to purchase new Quantel technology, opting for an eQ for their on-air promotions and station identification department, and to develop their transition to HD. M6, known for its snappy graphics and rapid-fire editing style, has always been an early adopter of Quantel equipment and the eQ was chosen for its versatility and ability to integrate multiple image sources. The openness of the system was the key factor in the selection process and the eQ is now the creative hub for station ID, integrating material generated on all types of graphics software, such as After Effects, Illustrator, PhotoShop, etc.
Private channel TF1, Frances (and Europes) leading free terrestrial broadcaster, ordered a series of new systems in November 2004, including two Paintbox gQs and three QPaintbox software packages for off-line work. TF1 will use its Paintbox systems as the core of its graphics creation department for its news operations. They will enable TF1 and its sister channel LCI, a 24/7 cable news broadcaster, to share material and increase synergy. Quantel kit was chosen for its close-to-air reliability and its workflow enhancement properties, as well as for its creative graphics tools.
To close off the year and make the Grand Slam, France 2, Frances leading public broadcaster ordered a Paintbox in December for use in its news programmes and other close-to-air applications.
What makes these wins particularly gratifying for us, comments Michel Lepretre, Quantel France Country Manager, is that we were chosen after very rigorous technical tests and trial runs. Broadcasters are particularly demanding, especially when it comes to live or close-to-air programmes. Quantels legendary reliability, speed and intuitive ergonomics really made the difference.
The other thing were really happy about is the incredible support we got from the graphic artists involved in the selection process, adds Jean-Luc Wolff, Quantel France Major Account Manager. Being on the front line every day, they know what our performance standards mean. They were really the key people in convincing the broadcast executives to go for Quantel. As several of them pointed out, Quantel is the only manufacturer to have 15 or 20-year old kit, such as Hals, first-generation Paintboxes and Editboxes, still working efficiently in their production and editing suites. They argued passionately for our systems as the best way to move forward without upsetting existing workflow and practices. We believe that this first round of victories is the beginning of a winning streak, as French broadcasters make the transition to HD.