2k / Full HD Film Scanning

2K Film Scanning – Frame by Frame

Retroscan Universal full HD film scanning machine

Digital Mix offers 2K (2048 x 1576) or Full HD (1920 x 1080p), frame by frame scanning of all small gauge film formats.

Our 2K (2048 x 1576) high definition film scanning system captures film using the frame by frame process. The film transport system handles the film by it’s edges and has no sprockets or claws, this virtually eliminates the possibility of film damage.

Image capture is triggered by an optical system using the sprocket holes in the film as a reference. The unit also incorporates a cold light source, totally eliminating the possibility of burn through. Even film that has shrunk or has partially damaged sprocket holes can be captured, this is dependent on the extent of the deterioration.

Post scanning colour correction is done if and where required.

File types:

Output files can be supplied in the following popular formats.

QuickTime uncompressed (MOV) 2K 4:3 – as scanned with no post production work
QuickTime (MOV) 1080p 16:9 – top and tail edit with basic colour correction.
Image file sequence – JPEG, PNG or TIFF – as scanned with no post production work
QuickTime HD – H264
MP4 HD – H264
DVD (SD)
Custom file tytpes

If you require a specific file type please contact us.

Prices:

Cost for film scanning – Including GST

Super 8 / Regular 8 – No audio – $ 7 per minute
Super 8 / Regular 8 – With audio – $ 10 per minute
9.5mm film – $ 7 per minute
16mm film – no audio – $ 7 per minute
16mm film – with optical audio – $ 10 per minute

There are no setup fees or minimum charge. The minute count is summed from all the reels and round up to the nearest minute, then multiplied by the minute rate. For example, 3 x 3.5 minute reels = 10.5 minutes = 11 minute charge.

If you are unsure of the film format or duration, Use these charts to calculate approximate times for different film types

Film with soundtracks:

16mm film with variable density sound track — 16mm film with sound track

Film with Audio

Audio is captured separately and added at the post scanning phase. As a result, the audio / video synchronization cannot be guaranteed 100%. Slight variations in the timing of the different machines can cause minor issues.

Film Leaders

The film scanning system requires leaders of sufficient length to thread the scanner. Damaged or short leaders will need replacement. There is an additional charge for film leader. There are no other charges. Film splicing (if required) is included in the price.

Film Cleaning

Before and after cleaning. We use specialist film cleaning solution to clean and lubricate the film.

Single frame of 8mm film before cleaning

Vinegar Syndrome – Acetate Leach

If your film has a very strong vinegar odour it’s a sure sign of acetate leach.

This is usually present in film that has been in sealed containers for a very long time.

Film damaged by acetate leach or vinegar syndrome

The acetate leach process causes the film to shrink and become brittle. This is a race against time, the longer it is left the worse it will get. In most cases we can recover sections of damaged film. Contact us for more information.

Film Supplies:

Digital Mix stock genuine Kodak film supplies.

Unfortunately, film cement is extremely difficult to source and is considered a dangerous product by freight companies and airlines. We will continue to try and source film cement.