Iconic audio post studio Skywalker Sound and the makers of PixelStrings media conversion technology Cinnafilm are working together on a new audio tool expected to hit in the first quarter of 2020.

As the paradigms of theatrical, broadcast and online content begin to converge, the need to properly conform finished programs to specifications suitable for a variety of distribution channels has become more important than ever. To ensure high fidelity is maintained throughout the conversion process, it is important to implement high-quality tools to aid in time-domain, level, spatial and file-format processing for all transformed content intended for various audiences and playout systems.

“PixelStrings represents our body of work in image processing and media conversions. It is simple,  scalable and built for the future. But it is not just about image processing, it’s an ecosystem. We recognize success only happens by working with other like-minded technology companies. When Skywalker approached us with their ideas, it was immediate validation of this vision. We plan to put as much enthusiasm and passion into this new sound endeavor as we have in the past with picture — the customers will benefit as they see, and hear, the difference these tools make on the viewer experience,” says Cinnafilm CEO/ founder Lance Maurer.

To address this need, Skywalker Sound has created an audio tool set based on proprietary signal processing and orchestration technology. Skywalker Audio Tools will offer an intelligent, automated audio pipeline with features including sample-accurate retiming, loudness and standards analysis and correction, downmixing, channel mapping and segment creation/manipulation — all faster than realtime. These tools will be available exclusively within Cinnafilm’s PixelStrings media conversion platform.