Imax Enhanced Program Based on Software, Calibration, Performance, Says DTS

DTS expanded on the Imax Enhanced program (see 1809040073), emailing us that it's based on static-metadata-based HDR10 “with dynamic metadata as optional.” Benefits of Imax Mode are “achieved through a combination of software, calibration and performance standards,” a spokesman said. Products currently in the market that have been certified for the Imax Enhanced program could receive an Imax Mode through a software update, the spokesman said. Although the original announcement didn’t cite disc players as one of the hardware products in the Imax Enhanced chain, he said the program includes Ultra HD Blu-ray Discs and 4K HDR streaming content, “which will be streamed at or above existing 4K HDR bit rates.” Once a device is accepted into the program, DTS and Imax “will work with that CE manufacturer to design an IMAX Mode for that particular device that is meticulously optimized to play IMAX digitally remastered content for the best viewing and listening experience as the filmmaker intended,” he said. On the pricing premium that will apply to Imax Enhanced titles, the spokesman left that to the content producers, saying, “Studios will dictate pricing.” Sony and Sound United brands Denon and Marantz will be among the first to bring product to market with the Imax Mode. High-end video server company Kaleidescape didn't respond to questions on its plans for the technology.