Leader Electronics announces an enhancement to the audio measurement toolset provided in its ZEN series LV5600 waveform monitoring and LV7600 rasterizer when fitted with the LV5600-SER03/LV7600-SER03 hardware option. The additional features form part of the new ZEN Version 5.3 software which is available as a free download for all ZEN series products.

Established options which can be integrated into each instrument, the LV5600-SER03/LV7600-SER03 modules includes a digital/analogue audio input and output and also features audio loudness monitoring and reporting. The LV5600 and LV7600 both come as standard with support for BS1770, ARIB, EBU, ATSC loudness measurements. Users can also create and save their own audio loudness monitoring profiles with target level tolerance adjustable in increments of 0.5 LU.

"EBU recommendation R128 has been adopted by the Digital Production Partnership as part of the AS-11 file format for programme delivery," comments Kevin Salvidge, Leader's European Regional Development Manager. "The original DPP Delivery requirements for audio program loudness only referenced Live (including As-Live), which caused issues for post production mastering and delivery. These resulted in a new Non-Live specification being published."

"For audio loudness monitoring and reporting tools to be compliant with both standards, they must be able to switch between Non-Live and Live mode and allow operators to adjust in Non-Live from a target level of -23.0 LUFS +/-0.5 LU and for Live (including as-live) -230. LUFS +/-1.0 LU. Leader's Version 5.3 software allows this to be performed quickly and easily with all relevant information clearly visible on the LV5600's monitor display and LV6700's rasterized output."

"These and ongoing enhancements to the ZEN series demonstrate the flexibility and future expandability of Leader products which continue to provide unsurpassed support for the rapidly developing broadcast world."

Leader's LV5600 is a mains-powered SDI/IP waveform monitor in a half-rack width 3 U desktop chassis with a touchscreen front panel display. It provides all the facilities needed to monitor UHD/HD/SD SDI as well as video-over-IP signals seamlessly in a hybrid operating environment. Engineering-related features include test pattern generation, eye pattern display, closed-caption monitoring, CIE colour chart, high dynamic range measurement, focus assist, customisable screen layout, tally interface, 4K/UHD operation, 10G IP input and 12G-SDI interfaces. SMPTE 2022-6, SMPTE 2022-7 and SMPTE 2110 protocols are all supported. The LV5600 also incorporates Leader's intuitive CINEZONE and CINELITE which are familiar to many content production staff.

The LV7600 rasterising waveform monitor offers the same capabilities as the LV5600 but in a low-profile 19 inch 1U form-factor for easy rack or desk mounting.