Using Core Digital Technologies’ HD601 hybrid SD/HD production truck, SHOWTIME aired its first live high definition sporting event late last month—the very short Tyson/Etienne heavyweight boxing match. In addition, the premium cable network will be airing six of its original series and many of its original movies in high definition. Programs airing in HD include returning series Queer As Folk, The Chris Isaak Show, and Jeremiah. New series to be aired in HD include Earthlings, Dead Like Me, and the limited series Out Of Order.
SHOWTIME launched its HD service in 2000, in Dolby Digital 5.1 surround sound. According to Glenn Oaklay, senior vice president, corporate strategies and international, his network’s goal is to have HD production be cost neutral with SD production. While it is not there yet, he says things are progressing. SHOWTIME’s HD programming is shot on both film and video.
