Grass Valley Introducing Compact K2 Solo 2-Channel Server

At IBC, Grass Valley unveiled the latest addition to its family of K2 server products, the K2 Solo portable multi-format standard- and high-definition server, designed for remote live productions and small studio post production applications.

The new K2 Solo is a compact, cost-effective, broadcast-capable, 2-channel standalone server, with up to 20 hours of HD or 40 hours of SD storage. The K2 Solo leverages the K2 Summit production client architecture, making it compatible with the entire K2 family of software applications, control protocols, and formats for file-based environments. K2 Solo also includes all of the same functionality as the standalone 4-channel K2 Summit and can be used in any broadcast facility under automation control or with its internal playlist capability.

While K2 Solo is optimized for live event workflows – as a replay server as well as a VTR replacement device – it can also be used in a traditional broadcast environment under automation or manual control. This includes automation, media asset management, and support for multiple control panels as well as the K2 Dyno replay controller. Instant replay functionality (record-to-play) can occur in less than ½ second and be performed remotely via Ethernet connectivity.

"The Grass Valley K2 Solo will prove invaluable to a wide variety of production situations where space and budget are limited, but high-quality record and playout is critical," said Jeff Rosica, Senior Vice President of Grass Valley. "This compact 2-channel server leverages all of the award-winning technology found across the popular K2 product line and really brings the technology to a whole new level. Now, even small production companies can offer HD replay services to their clients very cost-effectively."

A highly portable device, with all of the ruggedness found on the Grass Valley K2 Summit server, the K2 Solo is housed in a compact ½ rack width, 2 RU package and weighs a mere 7.5 kg (16.5 lbs.). It measures 446 mm. (17.5 in) deep, 210 mm (8.25 in.) wide, and 89 mm (3.5 in.) high. A built-in 2-channel multiviewer output – with a variety of overlays – is standard, eliminating the need for multiple video monitors.

K2 Solo comes standard with either hard disk drive (HDD) or solid-state drive (SSD) internal storage. Its compact design and light weight make it easily portable with only a VGA monitor needed to be fully operational. Options include a hard case for shipping, handle and feet/corners protective kit, and a dual rack kit for side-by-side rack mounting of two units.

The K2 Solo provides two DVCPRO 25/50 & DVCPRO HD bi-directional channels, each with MPEG-2 playout capability. A simple software change (without reboot) allows users to go from one operational mode to the other. The system, which includes Grass Valley’s AppCenterPro file management applications suite as a standard feature, is also QuickTime-compatible for edit-in-place applications using Final Cut Pro, Grass Valley EDIUS, and other NLE systems.

Pricing and Availability
The new Grass Valley K2 Solo starting price is $20,000 (16,400€) and will be available for shipment in November 2009.