A lot of discussion has been put out there to create a 1080p HD demo disc to show off our rooms. I’ve decided to start an official discussion about the creation and design of this disc.

Current Plan
We’ll make the disc so it can be burned to a normalDVD9 (dual-layer). You WILL NOT NEED a blu-ray burner for this demo. All movies will be in AVCHD format (which is natively playable on nearly all stand-alone Blu-Ray Players and the PS3) with minimal video quality loss. You WILL NOT be able to play these files on a standard-definition DVD player, sorry.

Design
I want to style this one after one of the original SD Demo Discs (Disc #5) made by bclews. He had the clips divided up into categories. This is what I had in mind:


LFE – Intense Low Frequency scenes
Surround – Good use of surround sound (5.1 or 7.1)
HD Eye Candy – Stellar video re-production and detail that shows off 1080i/p
Music – HD Concerts and the like



Authoring
I’ve had one fellow AVSer offer to help with the authoring of this disc. He has the software needed to get the job done. He is not a graphics design guy so we will probably need help with the interface. Any “graphic artists” out there that would like to help, please PM me (swithey).

Content Gathering
If you have a beefy PC with an installed Blu-Ray player and would like to provide content, please PM me (swithey). We need to keep this part of the project free of AVS Science because of the grey nature of this endeavor. More details will follow outside of the forum. Please DO NOT ask questions about this process in the thread as those posts will be deleted by the moderator.


What I need from YOU
Dig deep and really think about clips that will highlight the categories I’ve listed above. Let’s keep the list short and only use the best of the best.

Guidelines:

Classic clips (from older movies) are fine as long as they are true to the 1080p format.
Animation movies are great but we’ll want an equal share of true actor based movies as well.
Let’s try to keep the clips to G, PG or possibly PG-13 so we can show this to a family audience.
If you do not know the exact chapter and time segment, please do not post. We want this to be as specific as possible. Please DO NOT post something like “Saw 2 – the entire movie is great for LFE” or “The scene from [insert movie here] where they blow up the ship.”
Remember, we’re trying to highlight 1080 as well with these clips. Top Gun has some great surround jet fighter scenes in the 1080p release but the movie looks yellow and very grainy even at 1080p.
Please be as specific as possible.
If someone has already listed a clip you think is a good fit, please post that you love it as well. The more votes a clip gets, the more likely it will be on the demo disc.


When listing a clip idea, please note the following:

Movie Title
Time stamp – start and end time of the "money" scene
Brief description of the clip.
Audio used and how many channels
Clip Rating (G, PG, PG-13 (for mild language or mild violence))
Best category for this movie (LFE, Surround, HD Eye Candy)


Yes, Yes, it is a lot of information. However, I think the more effort we put into this disc, the better it will be.

I’ll try to keep a summary post of the best ideas as the second post in this thread.

Happy hunting everyone :)

Final Selected Titles:

TBD

Semi-Final Selected Titles:

LFE Category
Star Trek 2009: "At the end when the Enterprise is having trouble warping

Incredible Hulk (2008): 00:50:37-00:58:02: "Hulk is being chased. Canons firing"

Iron Man: 00:15:11-00:15:48: "Jericho"
Iron Man: 00:35:12-00:37:46: "Emergence of the Mark I suit in the caves"
Iron Man: 01:15:57-01:19:17 "New suit, Middle East desert battle"

Master and Commander: 00:08:43-00:11:39 "Initial attack"

Serenity: 01:23:59-01:27:28 "Large armada battle with LFE, explosions and music"

Fast & Furious: 01:03:46-01:04:30 "I´m gonna enjoy what happens next"

Surround/Action
Dark Knight: 01:15:00-01:22:30 "Lower city car chase with Joker and Bat Bike."

Star Trek (2009): "Shoot-out scene aboard the mining ship"

Casino Royale: 00:11:17-00:15:59 "Construction yard foot chase. Heavy equipment sound, destruction, music, textural sounds (metals, drywall, etc)"
Quantum of Solace: 0:00:33 to 00:03:35 "The Gun fire, bullet shells falling from automatic weapons, engines revving and crashes"
Quantum of Solace: 0:00:35 to 00:01:37 "Car chase scene"

G.I. Joe: Rise of the Cobra: 00:06:15-00:12:06 "Forrest battle"

House of Flying Daggers: (00:12:10-00:15:30) "The Echo Dance"

Knowing: 00:38:55-00:41:11 "Plane crash"

Peal Harbor: 01:28:00-01:38:50 "1st Strike on Pearl Harbor"

Super Speedway: 00:16:15-00:20:15 "Surround sound CART testing on racetrack with two cars passing each other back and forth. you can hear everything fly by the cars!"
Super Speedway: 00:36:25-00:38:00 "Racing with good music and surround"

The Aviator: 00:42:45-00:47:26 "Howard Hues breaks the air speed record only to run out of fuel and crash into a beat field. Old Planes , Classic cars and Music.

Animation
Bolt: 00:07:52-00:10:55 "Opening Scene"

Up: 00:59:55-01:02:30 "Dog chase"
Up: 01:16:40-01:25:00 "Ending sequence"
A Bug’s Life: Around the 10 min mark "Grasshoppers bust into the ant’s den"

Wall-E: 01:23:51-01:25:11 "Hyperjump and Earth landing of Axiom"
Wall-E: 00:32:21-00:33:48 "´Time to go´ Scout ship launch, Wall-E hanging on"

THX Trailer - "Amazing Life": (00:44) "THX Trailer Demo"

Monsters Inc: 00:29:45-00:31:06 "Radio falls into Mike's mouth, Boo starts to laugh and all the lights burn out"

Polar Express: 00:05:08-00:06:58: "When the train comes in"

Kung Fu Panda: 1:19:20-1:20:05 "Ska-Doo-shh"
Kung Fu Panda: "Tai Lung´s escape from prison"

Cars: 00:00:36-00:03:08 "Great in HD. Scenes change from pitch black to bright, vivid colors."

Music
Blue Man Group - How to be a Megastar: "1st Song: Above"

The Police: Certifiable: (No Time Stamp)

Hitman David Foster and Friend: 01:21:22-01:25:45 "Great start of the orchester with a 'bumm' and than the song with Michael Buble"

Eye Candy
Planet Earth: Oceans episode "Great White Sharks breach and eat the seals"
Planet Earth "Angel Fall scene"

Imax Movie: The Last Buffalo "Great outdoor animal footage"

Earth (the ´british´ version) 00:00:00-00:03:22 "Opening scene"


Forum Suggested Titles:
LFE
Fast & Furious: 01:03:46-01:04:30 (:44), DTS-HD, PS-13
- Desc: "I'm gonna enjoy what happens next"
- Contributor: oman321
- Votes: 1

Fast & Furious: 01:28:33-01:35:50 (7:17), DTS-HD, PG-13
- Desc: Getting Braga
- Contributor: oman321
- Votes: 1

Finding Nemo: (No Time Stamp), Audio??, G
- Desc: Fish Tank Thump
- Contributor: storman
- Votes: 1

Harry Potter: Chamber of Secrets: 00:53:00-00:58:50 (5:50), DD 5.1, PG
- Desc: Quidditch match
- Contributor: Mrkazador
- Votes: 1

Incredible Hulk (2008): 00:50:37-00:58:02 (7:25), DTS-HD 5.1, PG-13
- Desc: Hulk is being chased. Canons firing???
- Contributor: jikkjack
- Votes: 2

Iron Man: 00:15:11-00:15:48 (:37), Dolby True-HD 5.1, PG-13
- Desc: Jericho
- Contributor: fiveohno
- Votes: 1

Iron Man: 00:35:12-00:37:46 (1:26), Dolby True-HD, PG-13
- Desc: Emergence of the Mark I suit in the caves
- Contributor: jaede77, NismoZ
- Notes: LFE
- Votes: 2

Iron Man: 01:15:57-01:19:17 (3:20), Dolby True-HD, PG-13
- Desc: New suit, Middle East desert battle
- Contributor: jaede77, NismoZ
- Notes: LFE
- Votes: 2

Master and Commander: 00:08:43-00:11:39 (2:56), DTS-HD MA 5.1, PG-13
- Desc: Initial attack
- Contributor: tulsaweather
- Notes: May fit into the surround category as well
- Votes: 3

Monsters Inc: 00:29:45-00:31:06 (1:11), DTS-HD MA 5.1, PG
- Desc: Radio falls into Mike's mouth, Boo starts to laugh and all the lights burn out.
- Contributor: Mrkazador
- Notes: BR release date Nov '09
- Votes: 1

Polar Express: 00:05:08-00:06:58 (1:50), DD 5.1, G
- Desc: When the train comes in. Starts quite with the boys bedside clock ticking and ends with a train that seems to come to rest right in your room.
- Contributor: deewan
- Votes: 1

Serenity: 00:09:33-00:10:54 (1:22), DTS-HD MA 5.1, PG-13
- Desc: Spaceship atmospheric re-entry plus dialogue, music, metal strain and low freq rumbling
- Contributor: NismoZ
- Votes: 1

Serenity: 01:23:59-01:27:28 (3:29), DTS-HD MA 5.1, PG-13
- Desc: Quiet transition to loud space battle scene. Large armada battle with LFE, explosions, music, and dialogue
- Contributor: NismoZ
- Votes: 1

Serenity: 01:27:33-01:29:45 (1:56), DTS-HD MA 5.1, PG-13
- Desc: EMP hit on Serenity and crash sequence on planet. Good demo of sound sep blended with lots of LFE
- Contributor: NismoZ
- Votes: 1

Sunshine: 01:33:05-01:34:29 (1:51), DTS-HD MA 5.1, R
- Desc: Booster ignite/Icarus II destroyed. LFE with destructive effects
- Contributor: NismoZ
- Votes: 1

Sunshine: 01:33:05-01:34:29 (1:24), DTS-HD MA, R
- Desc: Fire in oxygen garden. Quiet dialogue mixed with scenes of special effects and fire destruction
- Contributor: NismoZ
- Votes: 1


Surround/Action
Bolt: 00:07:52-00:10:55 (3:03), DTS-HD MA, PG
- Desc: Opening Scene
- Contributor: Mrkazador
- Notes: We need the best 3mins!
- Votes: 2

Casino Royale: 00:11:17-00:15:59 (3:42), PCM 5.1/DD 5.1, PG-13
- Desc: Construction yard foot chase. Heavy equipment sound, destruction, music, textural sounds (metals, drywall, etc), no dialogue
- Contributor: jaede77, NismoZ
- Notes: Surround
- Votes: 1

Children of Men: 01:26:13-01:31:07 (4:54), DTS, R
- Desc: Rebels vs Army
- Contributor: fiveohno
- Notes: Might fit in LFE category as well
- Votes: 1

Dark Knight: 01:15:00-01:22:30 (7:30), Dolby True-HD, PG-13
- Desc: Lower city car chase with Joker and Bat Bike.
- Contributor: NismoZ
- Notes: Might fit in LFE category as well
- Votes: 1

Fast & Furious: 00:00:35-00:7:30 (3:26), DTS-HD, PG-13
- Desc: Opening Scene
- Contributor: oman321
- Notes: Might fit in LFE category as well
- Votes: 1

Fast & Furious: 00:37:30-00:44:00 (6:30), DTS-HD, PG-13
- Desc: Race for driver spot
- Contributor: oman321
- Notes: Might fit in LFE category as well
- Votes: 1

Fast & Furious: 00:58:15-01:01:21 (2:06), DTS-HD, PG-13
- Desc: Desert smuggle run thru tunnel
- Contributor: oman321
- Votes: 1

G.I. Joe: Rise of the Cobra: 00:06:15-00:12:06 (5:51), DTS-HD MA, PG-13
- Desc: Forrest battle
- Contributor: MaxxMark
- Votes: 1

House of Flying Daggers: (no time stamp), LPCM 5.1/DD 5.1, PG-13
- Desc: The Echo Dance
- Contributor: storman
- Votes: 1

I, Robot: 00:52:13-00:55:20 (3:07), DTS MA, PG-13
- Desc: "You Are Experiencing a Car Accident" (tunnel chase with NX-5s jumping on Audi)
- Contributor: jaede77, NismoZ
- Votes: 2

I, Robot: 01:35:59-01:40:11 (3:12), DTS MA, PG-13
- Desc: "What If We Didn't Have Six Minutes?" (end battle with tons of NX-5s)
- Contributor: jaede77, NismoZ
- Votes: 2

I AM Legend: 01:20:40-00:01:21:45 (1:05), Dolby True-HD, PG-13
- Desc: "They followed us home." He starts setting off bombs in front of his house.
- Contributor: Mrkazador
- Votes: 1

Iron Man: 00:02:19-00:03:53 (1:34), Dolby True-HD, PG-13
- Desc: Taken Hostage
- Contributor: fiveohno
- Notes: Might fit in LFE category as well
- Votes: 1

Iron Man: 00:15:11-00:15:52 (:41), Dolby True-HD, PG-13
- Desc: Stark weapon demo
- Contributor: jaede77, NismoZ
- Notes: Might fit in LFE category as well
- Votes: 1

Iron Man: 01:19:52-01:24:16 (3:24), Dolby True-HD, PG-13
- Desc: Iron Man dogfighting with F-22s
- Contributor: jaede77, NismoZ
- Votes: 1

Iron Man: 01:44:44-01:47:44 (3:00), Dolby True-HD, PG-13
- Desc: Two behemoths battle
- Contributor: jaede77, NismoZ
- Votes: 1

Knowing: 00:38:55-00:41:11 (3:33), DTS-HD, PG-13
- Desc: Plane crash
- Contributor: fiveohno
- Notes: Might fit in LFE category as well
- Votes: 1

Knowing: 01:00:52-01:02:26 (1:34), DTS-HD, PG-13
- Desc: Subway crash scene
- Contributor: fiveohno
- Notes: Might fit in LFE category as well
- Votes: 1

Master and Commander: 00:08:43-00:11:39 (2:56), DTS-HD MA, PG-13
- Desc: Initial attack
- Contributor: tulsaweather
- Notes: Might fit in LFE category as well
- Votes: 3

Matrix 1: 00:02:10-00:03:17 (1:07), TrueHD 5.1, R
- Desc: Trinity vs. the cops
- Contributor: CJO
- Votes: 2

Matrix 1: 01:42:20-01:45:34 (3:14), TrueHD 5.1, R
- Desc: Saving Morpheus - 1
- Contributor: CJO
- Votes: 1

Matrix 1: 01:45:58-01:47:13 (2:15), TrueHD 5.1, R
- Desc: Saving Morpheus - 2
- Contributor: CJO
- Votes: 1

Matrix 1: 01:49:12-01:51:05 (1:53), TrueHD 5.1, R
- Desc: Saving Morpheus - 3
- Contributor: CJO
- Votes: 1


Peal Harbor: 01:28:00-01:38:50 (10:50), DD 5.1, PG-13
- Desc: 1st Strike on Pearl Harbor
- Contributor: NismoZ
- Notes: Might fit in LFE category as well
- Votes: 1

Peal Harbor: 01:49:00-01:58:41 (09:40), DD 5.1, PG-13
- Desc: Air Field attack
- Contributor: NismoZ
- Notes: Might fit in LFE category as well
- Votes: 1

Quantum of Solace: 0:00:35 to 00:01:37 (1:02), DTS-HD, PG-13
- Desc: Car chase scene
- Contributor: gthrift
- Votes: 2

Quantum of Solace: 0:00:33 to 00:03:35 (2:58), DTS-HD, PG-13
- Desc: The Gun fire, bullet shells falling from automatic weapons, engines revving and crashes sound amazing.
- Contributor: deewan
- Votes: 1

Race to Witch Mountain: 00:30:35-00:32:00 (1:25), DTS-HD, PG
- Desc: Alien Chase & Train Crash
- Contributor: oman321
- Notes: Might fit in LFE category as well
- Votes: 1

Race to Witch Mountain: 1:24:00-1:28:26 (3:26), DTS-HD, PG
- Desc: Escape in ship
- Contributor: oman321
- Notes: Might fit in LFE category as well
- Votes: 1

Race to Witch Mountain: 00:23:27-00:27:30 (4:03), DTS-HD, PG
- Desc: Alien fight, Explosions and getting away
- Contributor: oman321
- Notes: Might fit in the LFE category as well
- Votes: 1

Race to Witch Mountain: 00:13:58-00:17:00 (3:58), DTS-HD, PG
- Desc: Ship crash landing and helicopters
- Contributor: oman321
- Notes: Might fit in LFE category as well
- Votes: 1

Transformers: 00:38:58-00:44:39 (5:41), Dolby True-HD, PG-13
- Desc: Marines are battling Scorponok in the small Qatar village and try to contact the pentagon for air support. Includes gunfire, explosions, planes and a bit of humor.
- Contributor: maxposure
- Votes: 1

THX Trailer - "Amazing Life": (00:44), DD 5.1, Unrated
- Desc: THX Trailer Demo
- Contributor: storman
- Votes: 1

Transformers: 00:06:00-00:07:00 (1:00), Dolby True-HD, PG-13
- Desc: Openning Helicopter scene
- Contributor: NismoZ
- Votes: 1

Transformers: 00:39:00-00:44:25 (5:25), Dolby True-HD, PG-13
- Desc: Scorpion Desert
- Contributor: NismoZ
- Votes: 1

Transformers: 01:49:00-01:51:00 (2:00), Dolby True-HD, PG-13
- Desc: Highway Scene
- Contributor: NismoZ
- Votes: 1

Transformers: 01:59:25-02:02:33 (2:08), Dolby True-HD, PG-13
- Desc: Openning last city fight scene
- Contributor: NismoZ
- Votes: 1

Transformers: 02:09:32-02:11:07 (1:35), Dolby True-HD, PG-13
- Desc: Megatron/Prime fight
- Contributor: NismoZ
- Votes: 1

Transformers 2: 2:07:11-2:12:46 (5:39), DTS-HD MA, PG-13
- Desc: Precious Cargo Coming" Sam and Michella running to save Optimus Prime. Megan Fox runs in slow motion, Megan Fox falls in slow motion, Megan Fox runs and falls again... in slow motion. Fighting decepticons, lots of shooting, bombs drop, Sam dies. Some good surround and LFE when bombs drop.
- Contributor: SpeedracerII
- Votes: 1

Transformers 2: 0:58:18-1:2:50 (2:33), DTS-HD MA, PG-13
- Desc: Optimus Prime Dies" Sam and Michella rescued from old warehouse by Optimus. Fight goes through forest. Optimus is killed. Some good surround and LFE
- Contributor: SpeedracerII
- Votes: 1

Transformers 2: 2:15:06-2:20:01 (4:56), DTS-HD MA, PG-13
- Desc: Sam and Optimus come alive" Sam and Optimus come back from the dead. The pryamid is being destroyed. Optimus kills the "master" decepticon.

- Contributor: SpeedracerII
- Votes: 1

Wall-E: 00:32:21-00:33:48 (1:48), DTS-HD MA, PG
- Desc: "Time to go" Scout ship launch, Wall-E hanging on
- Contributor: jaede77, NismoZ
- Votes: 1

Wall-E: 01:23:51-01:25:11 (1:20), DTS-HD MA, PG
- Desc: Hyperjump and Earth landing of Axiom
- Contributor: jaede77, NismoZ
- Votes: 1

X-Men Origins: Wolverine: 00:51:22-00:56:28 (5:06), DTS-HD MA 5.1, PG-13
- Desc: Helicopter scene
- Contributor: CJO
- Votes: 1


Eye Candy
The Aviator: 00:42:45-00:47:26 (4:41), DD 5.1, PG-13
- Desc: Howard Hues breaks the air speed record only to run out of fuel and crash into a beat field. Old Planes, Classic cars, beautiful lighting and good sound.
- Contributor: maxposure
- Votes: 1

Cars: 00:00:36-00:03:08 (2:32), LPCM 5.1/DD 5.1, G
- Desc: Great in HD. Scenes change from pitch black to bright, vivid colors.
- Contributor: deewan
- Votes: 1

Planet Earth: Oceans episode, 00:27:28-00:30:42 (3:14), DD 5.1, PG
- Desc: Great White Sharks breach and eat the seals
- Contributor: dlp3719
- Votes: 2

Imax Movie: The Last Buffalo: 00:04:32-8:02:00 (3:30), DD 5.1, PG
- Desc: Great outdoor animal footage
- Contributor: lockeed
- Notes: You can see a field scenery followed by a deer, followed by an eagle, then by a vison, then by a lake trout or salmon, then by the bear! All those shots are footage of incredible quality.
- Votes: 1


Music
Blue Man Group - How to be a Megastar: Need Timestamp, DD 5.1, PG
- Desc: 1st Song: Above
- Contributor: Mrkazador
- Notes: 1080i Resolution
- Votes: 1

Dave Matthews and Tim Reynold - Live at Radio City Music Halls: 01:09:52-01:14:44 (4:52), Audio Unknown, Unrated
- Desc: Betrayal (Track 11)
- Contributor: deewan
- Votes: 1

Dave Matthews and Tim Reynold - Live at Radio City Music Halls: 01:15:39-01:20:40 (5:01), Audio Unknown, Unrated
- Desc: Out Of My Hands (Track 12)
- Contributor: deewan
- Votes: 1

Hitman David Foster and Friend: 01:21:22-01:25:45 (4:23), Dolby 5.1 PCM, Unrated
- Desc: Great start of the orchester with a "bumm" and than the song with Michael Buble
- Contributor: AndiTimer
- Votes: 1

Immortal Beloved: (No Time Stamp), Unrated
- Desc: Has many great sounding clips of Beethoven's works
- Contributor: storman
- Votes: 1

John Mayer - Where the Light Is: 00:25:45-00:29:45 (4:00), Audio Unknown, Unrated
- Desc: Free Fallin'
- Contributor: deewan
- Votes: 1

John Mayer - Where the Light Is: 01:45:15-01:51:11 (5:56), Audio Unknown, Unrated
- Desc: I Don't Need No Doctor
- Contributor: deewan
- Votes: 1

Nine Inch Nails - Beside You In Time: 00:7:15-00:12:10 (4:55), Dolby True-HD, Unrated
- Desc: Track: "Terrible Lie"
- Contributor: NismoZ
- Notes: 1080p Resolution
- Votes: 1

Pat Metheny Group -- "The Way Up -- Live": 00.05:05-00.12:50 (12:45), DTS-HD, Unrated
- Desc: Track 2 -- "Part One"
- Contributor: ArtieR
- Notes: Jazz Fusion with fantastic interplay from this septet. Great camerwork focusing on the actual playing up close. 1080i Resolution
- Votes: 1

Pat Metheny Group: "The Way Up - Live": 00.56:00-01.06:55 (10:55), DTS-HD, Unrated
- Desc: Track 4 -- "Part Three"
- Contributor: ArtieR
- Notes: Pat's guitarwork is frenetic !!!! The climax to an awesome concert performance.
1080i Resolution
- Votes: 1

The Police: Certifiable: (No Time Stamp), Unrated
- Desc: Not Available
- Contributor: Fatawan
- Votes: 1

Return To Forever: "Returns - Live at Montreux 2008": 00.18:50-00.22:10 (3:20), DTS-HD MA, Unrated
- Desc: Track 4 - "The Sorceress"
- Contributor: ArtieR
- Notes: One of the most distinctive rhythmic grooves in all of Jazz Fusion by the "supergroup." Blazing fast and crisp solo by Guitar Magazine perennial "Best Guitar Player" Award Winner Al Di Meola. 1080i Resolution
- Votes: 1

Return To Forever: "Returns - Live at Montreux 2008": 01.43:53-01.47:20 (3:27), DTS-HD MA, Unrated
- Desc: Track 12 - "The Romantic Warrior"
- Contributor: ArtieR
- Notes: A "classic." Title track from their best LP. Acoustic bass (Stanley Clarke) and guitar (Di Meola) blending with Chick Corea's electronic keyboards. 1080i Resolution
- Votes: 1


Unfiled
Fast & Furious: 01:18:26-01:19:12 (:46), DTS, PS-13
- Desc: FBI
- Contributor: oman321
- Votes: 1

Voting is now CLOSED

Click on the links to see official voting results:

1. LFE Category: View Results (http://www.votations.com/asp/resultsview.asp?pollid=121077)
2. Surround/Action Category: View Results (http://www.votations.com/asp/resultsview.asp?pollid=121078)
3. Eye Candy Category: View Results (http://www.votations.com/asp/resultsview.asp?pollid=121079)
4. Music Category: View Results (http://www.votations.com/asp/resultsview.asp?pollid=121080)

Voting closed Thur, Dec 3rd, 2009 at midnight.

Official Disc Name: HD Preview Disc: Combination Series I

Screen Format Menu (Draft as of 9/21/09)
The first thing you see is a basic black background with two aspect ratio icons - one for 1.78:1 and another for 2.35:1. Your initial selection will determine which menu aspect ratio you receive. Each of the two menu ARs would have a similar theme and be optimized for that particular format.

The idea is that scope folks could select 2.35:1 initially and not have to worry about engaging or disengaging the lens/scaler/etc to accommodate the menus. The majority of the clips will be in this format anyway so you wouldn't need to worry about adjustments if you select play all, or are bouncing around between the menu and your favorite clips. Some clips will be 1.78:1 (Planet Earth and probably all of the music). The current interface mockup includes an icon that indicates AR for each clip, so you would at least have some cue that it isn't scope before proceeding.

http://swithey.gotdns.org/swithey/ht/avs/HDPreview-SelectAspectRatiov1.jpg (http://swithey.gotdns.org/swithey/ht/avs/HDPreview-SelectAspectRatiov1-Full.jpg)
(Click on picture above for Full-Size Version)

Main Menu (1.78:1 Draft as of 8/25/09)
http://swithey.gotdns.org/swithey/ht/avs/HDPreview-Mainv1.jpg (http://swithey.gotdns.org/swithey/ht/avs/HDPreview-Mainv1-Full.jpg)
(Click on picture above for Full-Size Version)

Main Menu (2.35:1 Draft as of 9/21/09)
http://swithey.gotdns.org/swithey/ht/avs/HDPreview-Mainv1-Scope.jpg (http://swithey.gotdns.org/swithey/ht/avs/HDPreview-Mainv1-Scope-Full.jpg)
(Click on picture above for Full-Size Version)

Comments: Categories to include LFE, Surround, Eye Candy, and Music.

LFE Category (1.78:1 Draft as of 8/25/09)
http://swithey.gotdns.org/swithey/ht/avs/HDPreview-LFEv1.jpg (http://swithey.gotdns.org/swithey/ht/avs/HDPreview-LFEv1-Full.jpg)
(Click on picture above for Full-Size Version)

Comments: Please note that the movies pictured above are not necessarily the ones that will be used on the final disc. This is just a representation of what it will look like. As far as navigation, the idea will be that you select the DVD cover along the bottom and the info above changes based on that selection. The picture at the top will actually be an 8-10 second video loop of the scene you are about to view.


Background Images: Yes, that is SandmanX/Ruben's room in the background. We are still awaiting permission to use it on the final disc. The plan is to use various AVSers HT rooms as background throughout the disc. The backgrounds will be randomized so we can use a number of different theaters on the DVD. We will also incorporate very subtle background music(recorded at low volumes so you aren't blown away when you've just finished watching a clip with your AMP cranked)

If you would like your room considered for the DVD, please PM me a link where I can download a high-resolution version of your room (ideally 1920x1080 or higher). We’ll want your “money shot” – most commonly from the rear looking toward the front at an angle (similar to what we have now).

This is a great idea. Over the weekend I will post some suggestions on clips.

S

Very cool project! If I only had the hardware to do such a project...

Victor

I was actually thinking of this a long time ago. I get tired of trying to find something to "show off" my theater to people wanting to see it.

BUT I dont need 1080p. I need sddvd. I was thinking it would be nice to have like the Trex part from Jurassic Park, War Of The Worlds part where they come out the ground, A part from the new Texas Chainsaw Massacre from 03 with a good chainsaw part..Just some really good loud crazy demos would be nice.

I was actually thinking of this a long time ago. I get tired of trying to find something to "show off" my theater to people wanting to see it.

BUT I dont need 1080p. I need sddvd. I was thinking it would be nice to have like the Trex part from Jurassic Park, War Of The Worlds part where they come out the ground, A part from the new Texas Chainsaw Massacre from 03 with a good chainsaw part..Just some really good loud crazy demos would be nice.
Most of those are already on some SD Demo DVDs. Check out THIS (http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?t=575236) thread.

You guys going to put hi res audio on these disks too? I used the original SD demo disc more for their sound then video.

Steve - I'm in...at least for the downloading part. :D

But seriously, I'll send a PM with how I might be able to help.

Great project. It is time to migrate to the next level, so to speak...

Depending on what kind of graphic interface you are looking for, I might be able to help with that part.

You guys going to put hi res audio on these disks too? I used the original SD demo disc more for their sound then video.
Absolutely!

Great idea, thanks for championing it!

I will think about some clips. Unfortunately I do not have any graphics experience or a blu ray with my computer.

But I will help all I can.

Great project. It is time to migrate to the next level, so to speak...

Depending on what kind of graphic interface you are looking for, I might be able to help with that part.
Thanks Warren, you are on the list.

If I may be so bold, a request on the interface - lets not lock up the screen. I have some of the early dvd demos and one of them has this long crawl credits that can't be skipped. Kind of annoying to sit through when you want to test out the sub. I'll think about scene clips.

Agreed, a simple (fast) good looking menu is best.

You need to be careful of copyrights here. I'm not so sure this is "fair use" of clips.

I can tell you that the studios often deny use of clips for demo purposes at NAB and CES.

I can't wait to help. I am currently in the process of my first theater build (my first home) and this will be a great way to display my system. I am currently working up a list of scenes but am waiting to post till i can give you the exact scene location. Thanks !

In it to win it!

I will still suggest that we do an online streaming instance and an AVC-HD disc though. That way everyone will have access to it.

What kind of bit rate are we talking about for the disc? We won’t get much on a single layer DVD if it is at 18 mb/sec or greater.

Also are we talking about standard DD or DTS audio or are we going to try for 5.1 channel PCM?

In it to win it!

I will still suggest that we do an online streaming instance and an AVC-HD disc though. That way everyone will have access to it.

What kind of bit rate are we talking about for the disc? We won’t get much on a single layer DVD if it is at 18 mb/sec or greater.

Also are we talking about standard DD or DTS audio or are we going to try for 5.1 channel PCM?
Not sure on bitrate yet. My guess is it will be in the 15mb range (which is still very good). At that rate, you get about 30min on a DVD5 (single-sided DVD) and about 60min on a DVD9 (Dual-sided). Not a huge amount but I'm trying to focus on really good clips with great video and sound.

The plan will be keep the audio in it's original format. I'm still doing research on what we are capable of doing.

Because of the nature of the material we are proposing, online streaming would not be a good idea (as suggested above).

I think that Planet Earth has some very nice scenery and actions shots. I'll try to remember to get you some specifics tonight.

CJ

Would it be possible to author these in a format that is playable by an NMT (Networked Media Tank) such as the Popcorn Hour? Here are the specs off of there website:

Media files supported

Video containers:
MPEG1/2/4 Elementary (M1V, M2V, M4V)
MPEG1/2 PS (M2P, MPG)
MPEG2 Transport Stream (TS, TP, TRP, M2T, M2TS, MTS)
VOB
AVI, ASF, WMV
Matroska (MKV)
MOV (H.264), MP4, RMP4

Video codecs:
XVID SD/HD
MPEG-1
MPEG-2 : MP@HL
MPEG-4.2 : ASP@L5, 720p, 1-point GMC
WMV9 : MP@HL
H.264 : BP@L3, MP@L4.0, HP@L4.0, HP@L4.1
VC-1 : MP@HL, AP@L3


CJ

FWIW - I too have all my media on a server, and would not be using any disc media. I pull the original demo discs from XBMC.

This weekend I watched Transformers and 3:10 to Yuma.

Both have some good scenes for a 1080p demo.

But man, it is hard to decide which ones!

Just reference quality audio is easy. Reference quality video is not that hard either.

But a clip that has it all is tough!

This weekend I watched Transformers and 3:10 to Yuma.

Both have some good scenes for a 1080p demo.

But man, it is hard to decide which ones!

Just reference quality audio is easy. Reference quality video is not that hard either.

But a clip that has it all is tough!

The whole last fight scene in Transformers could go onto on of our hi rez demo disks. That's excellent video and Audio. One of my favorite demos.

I agree that it is a nice stretch to demo. But on a demo disk, you want as many top quality clips from various sources as you can fit without compromising the quality.

That is why I was happy to hear that this disk will not be heavy on animation. Honestly, a lot of the animation looks spectacular. But I think Blu ray really shines when a "real actor" film looks great.

Actually an all animation disk would be awesome.


So long story short I guess, how long would you like the clips to be? (on average of course)

Would it be possible to author these in a format that is playable by an NMT (Networked Media Tank) such as the Popcorn Hour? FWIW - I too have all my media on a server, and would not be using any disc media. I pull the original demo discs from XBMC.
I'm sure once it is all said and done, we can convert it into something that could be read by NMT or other digital device(s). We'll cover that once we get to that stage.

I agree that it is a nice stretch to demo. But on a demo disk, you want as many top quality clips from various sources as you can fit without compromising the quality.

That is why I was happy to hear that this disk will not be heavy on animation. Honestly, a lot of the animation looks spectacular. But I think Blu ray really shines when a "real actor" film looks great.

Actually an all animation disk would be awesome.


So long story short I guess, how long would you like the clips to be? (on average of course)
Agree that having a combo of material will be important. An all animation may be a great Disc #2 :)

As far as clip lengh, I would think it would be up to the clip. I'd prefer something in the 2-4 min range if we can do it and the clip still makes sense.

If we only have 30-60min to work with, we'll want the clips to get to the point as fast as possible.

If I may be so bold, a request on the interface - lets not lock up the screen. I have some of the early dvd demos and one of them has this long crawl credits that can't be skipped. Kind of annoying to sit through when you want to test out the sub. I'll think about scene clips. Agreed, a simple (fast) good looking menu is best.
Yes, organized, uncluttered and without a disclaimer at the beginning. We aim to please :D

Hey Guys -- Where's the content?

I'm watching U-571 right now and might have a few clips that look and sound pretty nice on 1080p. One old and one new clip I believe.

This was one of my first thoughts. I hope to bring more soon.

Transformers
Start 38:58 End 44:39 (This may be a bit long but it can probably be trimmed to the highlights)
This is the scene where the Marines are battling Scorponok in the small Qatar village. The marines try to contact the pentagon for air support. Includes gunfire, explosions, planes and a bit of humor.
Dolby Digital 5.1 Surround
PG-13
Explosions or Sound.


Thanks again for putting all of this together.

I'm sure once it is all said and done, we can convert it into something that could be read by NMT or other digital device(s). We'll cover that once we get to that stage.

XBMC (and most other systems like NMT) can read most formats - direct rips/copies of the discs are fine. However, I know that XBMC has trouble with native ACVHD files. So a conversion would be necessary. I think NMT can handle the files though.

Perhaps another perspective would be to have the "raw" source authored as Blu Ray, with the DVD disc bound media offering being the "scaled" down version. As I understand it, this would complicate the authoring process (especially menus) a little. But, I think a fair number of folks these days would prefer to have the demo material at full force - especially if they have the same material already in their media server and could pull it up fairly easily using bookmarks, etc.

Either way, I'm happy to do my part.

Yes, organized, uncluttered and without a disclaimer at the beginning. We aim to please :D

Yes - and I even think some user input during the design phase would be welcomed. I'm happy to focus on this.

Kung Fu Panda
"Skadoosh" scene near the end of the movie
Great mid-20s Hz bass and reference Video

Serenity
Federation vs. Reavers battle near the end of the movie
Great Video with good 5.1 surround activity

Incredible Hulk
"Sound Cannon" scene

Transporter 3
"ambulance exploding" near the beginning of the movie
Great deep bass and near reference Video

The Dark Knight
2 scenes: batmobile flipover scene on highway and then the 18-wheeler flip over scene
Both great bass, great surround use, and of course good video

Ratatouille
Shotgun blast scene
Great deep bass

Hellboy 2: The Golden Army
Fight near the end between the "army" and Hellboy et. all
Outstanding 7.1 surround

Kung Fu Panda
"Skadoosh" scene near the end of the movie
Great mid-20s Hz bass and reference Video

Serenity
Federation vs. Reavers battle near the end of the movie
Great Video with good 5.1 surround activity

Incredible Hulk
"Sound Cannon" scene

Transporter 3
"ambulance exploding" near the beginning of the movie
Great deep bass and near reference Video

The Dark Knight
2 scenes: batmobile flipover scene on highway and then the 18-wheeler flip over scene
Both great bass, great surround use, and of course good video

Ratatouille
Shotgun blast scene
Great deep bass

Hellboy 2: The Golden Army
Fight near the end between the "army" and Hellboy et. all
Outstanding 7.1 surround

Evidence that your wife is no longer at the wheel...:cool:

I'm hoping to spend some time this weekend to be able and get some clips of material and let you know chapters and scenes.

Gonna hopefully look at Watchmen, Fast and Furious, TDK, Defiance and whatever else I can get my hands on.

The official 2009 Universal Blu Ray demo disc lists these...don't know that I would agree, but since I found them I thought I would share. Unfortunately they don't include the Chapter and time stamps.

The Bourne Identity (2:13) DD 5.1
The Bourne Supremacy (2:07) DD 5.1
The Bourne Ultimatum (2:26) DD 5.1
Death Race (2:34) DD 5.1
The Express (2:35) DD 5.1
The Tale Of Despereaux (2:18) DD 5.1
Role Models (2:29) DD 5.1
The Fast And The Furious (1:41) DD 5.1
2 Fast 2 Furious (1:21) DD 5.1
The Fast And The Furious: Tokyo Drift (2:06) DD 5.1

More food for thought...again, not my choices but found on other demo discs elsewhere.

Concorde Promo Blu-Ray Disc 2009

12 Monkeys (1:36) DTS-HD MA 5.1
30 Days Of Night (2:14) DTS 5.1
Alone In The Dark (1:40) DTS-HD MA 5.1
Alpha Dog (2:31) DTS-HD MA 5.1
American Psycho (1:27) DTS-HD MA 5.1
Black Christmas (0:50) DTS-HD MA 5.1
Brothers Grimm (2:38) DTS-HD MA 5.1
Death Sentence (1:27) DTS-HD MA 5.1
Doomsday (1:37) DTS-HD MA 5.1
Iron Man (1:38) DTS-HD MA 5.1
The Italian Job (1:39) DTS-HD MA 5.1
Mr. Brooks (2:34) DTS-HD MA 5.1
The Phantom Of The Opera (1:38) DTS-HD MA 5.1
The Jackal (2:04) DTS-HD MA 5.1
Silent Hill (1:31) DTS-HD MA 5.1
Death At A Funeral (2:14) DTS-HD MA 5.1
Tideland (0:52) DTS-HD MA 5.1
Tomb Raider - Lara Croft (1:33) DTS-HD MA 5.1
Tomb Raider - The Cradle Of Life (2:33) DTS-HD MA 5.1
Underworld (1:37) DTS-HD MA 5.1
The Incredible Hulk (2:26) DTS-HD MA 5.1
We Were Soldiers (1:25) DTS-HD MA 5.1
Asterix And Obelix vs Caesar (1:29) DTS-HD MA 5.1
Babylon A.D. (1:07) DTS-HD MA 5.1
The Big Blue (1:34) DTS-HD MA 5.1
The Fighters (1:33) DTS-HD MA 5.1
Die Geschichte vom Brandner Kaspar (1:31) DTS-HD MA 5.1
Pathology (0:46) DTS-HD MA 5.1
Twilight (1:31) DTS-HD MA 5.1
Vicky Christina Barcelona (2:33) DTS 5.1
Knowing (1:50) DTS-HD MA 5.1
The Hurt Locker (0:39) DTS-HD MA 5.1

FWIW - I too have all my media on a server, and would not be using any disc media. I pull the original demo discs from XBMC.

Is there a good way to do Blu-ray integration in XBMC yet? Can you point me to a tutorial for that?

Is there a good way to do Blu-ray integration in XBMC yet? Can you point me to a tutorial for that?
It seems that it might be able to play them natively. Check out THIS (http://www.xbmc.org/forum/showthread.php?t=30020) thread.

Kung Fu Panda
"Skadoosh" scene near the end of the movie
Great mid-20s Hz bass and reference Video

Serenity
Federation vs. Reavers battle near the end of the movie
Great Video with good 5.1 surround activity

Incredible Hulk
"Sound Cannon" scene

Transporter 3
"ambulance exploding" near the beginning of the movie
Great deep bass and near reference Video

The Dark Knight
2 scenes: batmobile flipover scene on highway and then the 18-wheeler flip over scene
Both great bass, great surround use, and of course good video

Ratatouille
Shotgun blast scene
Great deep bass

Hellboy 2: The Golden Army
Fight near the end between the "army" and Hellboy et. all
Outstanding 7.1 surround
John

Thanks for the info. Would you be able to provide a timestamp (start and end time) for each of these clips?

Here are some 1080P trailers that might be handy as source material for someone wanting to test out authoring a hi-def demo disc. Some are also in TrueHD.

http://www.demo-world.eu/trailers/high-definition-trailers.php

There are also some THX trailers here, not Hi Def though.

http://www.demo-world.eu/trailers/thx-captcha.php

Does anyone have a link to a place I can learn about free DVD authoring tools? Or even low cost tools. I'd like to see if I can make some of these THX trailers into a disc but I'm a noob at this.

Race to Witch Mountain

Chapter1 at 3mins. to 4mins.
Ship crash landing and helicopters
surround

Chapter 3 at 13mins. and 58sec.to 17 mins.
Chase scene
surround effects and some LFE

Chapter 4 at 23 mins. to 27 mins. and 30 secs.
Alien fight, Explosions and getting away
Surround & LFE

Chapter 5 at 30 mins. & 35 secs. to 32 mins.
Alien Chase & Train Crash
Surround & LFE

Chapter 11 at 1 hr & 24 mins to 1hr 28mins and 26secs.
Escape in ship
Surround & LFE

A lot from the same movie but it had good effects and family friendly.

Fast & Furious

Chapter 1 at 35 secs. to 7 mins. & 30 secs.
Opening Scene
Surround and LFE

Chapter 8 at 37 mins. & 30 secs. to 44 mins.
Race for driver spot
Surround some LFE

Chapter 11 at 58 mins. & 15 secs. to 1hr 1 min. & 21 secs.
Desert smuggle run thru tunnel
Surround effects

Chapter 11 at 1hr 3 mins & 46 secs to 1 hr 4mins. 30 secs.
"I'm gonna enjoy what happens next"
LFE

Chapter 15 1hr 18 mins. & 26 secs. to 1hr 19 mins. 12 secs.
FBI
Effects

Chapter 17 1hr 28 mins. & 33 secs. to 1hr 35mins. 50 secs.(stopping at 50 secs. avoids swear)
Getting Braga
Effects and LFE

I have a Bluray drive, and I backup all my Blurays. also, I could seed or try to host a FTP site too. if there's anything that I could do, please do let me know!!

have blu-ray writer here i would like to make these on blu-ray if possible ?

have blu-ray writer here i would like to make these on blu-ray if possible ?

A full Blu-Ray version is being considered. It does require extra effort in the authoring and design phase as opposed to the original project charter. But, if enough people chime in with similar wishes I think it will get bumped up the priority list.

I have a Bluray drive, and I backup all my Blurays. also, I could seed or try to host a FTP site too. if there's anything that I could do, please do let me know!!

Always LOVED your theater! Since you seem to have a collection...how about posting some clips that you think should be included? ;)

I'm still waiting to get my hands on Akira (anime) so can't give you exact timestamps yet, but there are apparently some scenes that go down to 18Hz.

As soon as amazon deliver i'll update you with times!

Cheers,
Simon

Great project guys!

"Children of Men" has some great combat scenes. Definitely the plane crash in "Knowing" - 0:38:55... and the subway scene - 1:00:57

If someone has the BR disc of "The Flight of Phoenix", can you post the chapter and time of plane crash scene?

Great project guys!

"Children of Men" has some great combat scenes. Definitely the plane crash in "Knowing" - 0:38:55... and the subway scene - 1:00:57

Thanks for the input.

What category would you put each of these under? Would you be able to put some ending times as well?

If someone has the BR disc of "The Flight of Phoenix", can you post the chapter and time of plane crash scene?
Definitely a great scene. This one has some nice LFE.

I just started reading this thread - great project !!!

I'll be lining up to buy (beg or steal) the finished product.

Here are some 1080P trailers that might be handy as source material for someone wanting to test out authoring a hi-def demo disc. Some are also in TrueHD.

http://www.demo-world.eu/trailers/high-definition-trailers.php

There are also some THX trailers here, not Hi Def though.

http://www.demo-world.eu/trailers/thx-captcha.php

Does anyone have a link to a place I can learn about free DVD authoring tools? Or even low cost tools. I'd like to see if I can make some of these THX trailers into a disc but I'm a noob at this.

Those are great links!

Thanks for the input.

What category would you put each of these under? Would you be able to put some ending times as well?



"Children of Men" & "Knowing" both have good LFE and surround use. Knowing's video quality is pretty good too.


"Knowing" DTS-HD MSTR (Good LFE & Surround)

The plane crash in "Knowing" - 00:38:55 - 00:41:11

The subway crash scene - 01:00:52 - 01:02:26


"Rise of the Lycans" TrueHD (Good LFE & Surround)

Werewolf chase scene - 00:04:19 - 00:06:22


"Children of Men" LPCM (? Not sure if I changed it when ripping) (Great combat scene LFE, surround)

Rebels vs Army - 01:26:13 - 01:31:07


"Ironman" TrueHD (Good LFE and surround)

Taken Hostage - 00:02:19 - 00:03:53

Jericho (crazy LFE) - 00:15:11 - 00:15:48

I have a Bluray drive, and I backup all my Blurays. also, I could seed or try to host a FTP site too. if there's anything that I could do, please do let me know!!
Thanks Gary. We'll put you on the list.

Sounds like this is going to be more of an audio than a video demo disc, am I right?

Sounds like this is going to be more of an audio than a video demo disc, am I right?

I look at it more from a user's choice point of view. Once a comprehensive list of clips are submitted, they'll get organized and then folks will "vote" - just with comments in this thread. I think it is fair to say that swithey has the final say on what gets included, but this effort really should be all about what people want. :)

Sounds like this is going to be more of an audio than a video demo disc, am I right?

I think hi rez Audio is more exciting then visual. But, really there are movies with both great video and audio. Those are what we'd like to have on our disc.

Maybe something from "Planet Earth" ?

Maybe something from "Planet Earth" ?

Which Disc, clip?

This should give more ideas
http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?t=755493

Thanks!
Thank you to everyone who has been contributing their thoughts to this project. In the end, the best result will only come with your own input and perspectives.

The original demos were great
I appreciate and use the demos from the original HT Demo Tree (http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?t=575236). As some have indicated, the menu interface in those discs could be improved. Essentially the feedback regarding those discs boils down to:
(1) menus should get out of the way, and
(2) they should look professional and "resemble" the amount of time, effort, and cost we put into our HT spaces.

What do YOU want to see?
So, I'd like to ask a few menu related questions of the fine AVS users who LURK beneath the surface (you know who you are).

(Uno) Based on what I've seen/heard, the default menu option that is selected once you arrive at the menu should be "Play All". Yes? No?

(Dos) If you weren't going to hit the "Play All" button/option, would you want to see some sort of category menu? Like LFE, Action, Animation/Kids, etc...

(Tres) From a layout/design perspective, what would YOU want to see?

A direct, thumbnail based option similar to these...
http://i243.photobucket.com/albums/ff254/Audixium/Red-DVDA-LOB0.jpg

http://i243.photobucket.com/albums/ff254/Audixium/ac_BD_Menu_1a1.jpg

Or a categorical/icon approach, similar to this....
http://i243.photobucket.com/albums/ff254/Audixium/bd300-menu-with-youtube.jpg

Or a more thematic approach like this....
http://i243.photobucket.com/albums/ff254/Audixium/fallenangels.png

This is your chance to be heard! :D

Thanks!
Thank you to everyone who has been contributing their thoughts to this project. In the end, the best result will only come with your own input and perspectives.

The original demos were great
I appreciate and use the demos from the original HT Demo Tree (http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?t=575236). As some have indicated, the menu interface in those discs could be improved. Essentially the feedback regarding those discs boils down to:
(1) menus should get out of the way, and
(2) they should look professional and "resemble" the amount of time, effort, and cost we put into our HT spaces.

What do YOU want to see?
So, I'd like to ask a few menu related questions of the fine AVS users who LURK beneath the surface (you know who you are).

(Uno) Based on what I've seen/heard, the default menu option that is selected once you arrive at the menu should be "Play All". Yes? No?

(Dos) If you weren't going to hit the "Play All" button/option, would you want to see some sort of category menu? Like LFE, Action, Animation/Kids, etc...

(Tres) From a layout/design perspective, what would YOU want to see?

A direct, thumbnail based option similar to these...
http://i243.photobucket.com/albums/ff254/Audixium/Red-DVDA-LOB0.jpg

http://i243.photobucket.com/albums/ff254/Audixium/ac_BD_Menu_1a1.jpg

Or a categorical/icon approach, similar to this....
http://i243.photobucket.com/albums/ff254/Audixium/bd300-menu-with-youtube.jpg

Or a more thematic approach like this....
http://i243.photobucket.com/albums/ff254/Audixium/fallenangels.png

This is your chance to be heard! :D

I'm not a fan on the thematic version and not quite sure about the categorical look but it could work the best depending on how you set it up. Care to make a mock-up?



As for good clips, the car chase scene in Quantum of Solace is great. It looks good about the sound is amazing. I'm thinking about 0:00:35 to 00:01:37.

I'm not a fan on the thematic version and not quite sure about the categorical look but it could work the best depending on how you set it up. Care to make a mock-up?

Ok, so a vote against the Thematic version, and hesitation regarding the categorical look. Does that mean you prefer the initial, direct approach?

Mock ups will come once the community starts to show a preference for a common direction.


As for good clips, the car chase scene in Quantum of Solace is great. It looks good about the sound is amazing. I'm thinking about 0:00:35 to 00:01:37.

Thanks!!! I agree that is a great scene. It made my dog pee...;)

I kind of like the 'HeadSpin' look. Also, everyone seems to be concentrating on big crash bang boom. I would like to see a nice quiet scene. You know, maybe some good music or ambiance. A dark cave to show off your blacks, a mountain to show off you whites or canyon with surround echo or spin around . Something like that. Every move has a quiet scene, yes?

I like both the Direct and Thematic with Thematic having the edge because you can get to a direct look by going to scene selection.

I like both the Direct and Thematic with Thematic having the edge because you can get to a direct look by going to scene selection.

Interesting, for thematic I was thinking something along the lines of theater based. Perhaps some folks around here wouldn't mind sharing some high quality pics of their setups.

Here is an XBMC shot - the menu is clearly in the way, but I think you can get a sense for the theme:
http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3156/2747760514_a6ee278814.jpg

Or would you rather have a movie based theme with a background image that rotated/changed occasionally?

I like that HT idea. Maybe add a couple of them so they could rotate as you suggest with the movie theme. You can perhaps combine them also showing the HT's screen with a screen pic on it.

Audixium – thanks for getting the design discussion going. I like the idea of a main title page with all the categories and sub pages under with specific clips for that category.

Here is my stab at the front page design. Basic but gets the point across. I don’t think either of these is “the one” but I’m hoping it will spur on some more thought.

Title Page Idea #1
Each icon depicts the category to be viewed. Once selected, another page would be displayed where the viewer could choose an individual clip (with thumbnails) and/or have the ability to play all clips at once.

NOTE: I also added a “Play All” option to play all clips from all categories
http://swithey.gotdns.org/swithey/ht/avs/hdd-title1.jpg

http://swithey.gotdns.org/swithey/ht/avs/hdd-title3.jpg



Title Page Idea #2
This one is similar to the XBMC clip above (but not nearly as elegant, sorry). As a category is selected, the category icon would get larger and the others would get smaller and gray out. I see it operating like XBMC or Windows Media Center where the focus stays in the center and the icons move up and down. This would allow for more categories and not be limited to screen size.
http://swithey.gotdns.org/swithey/ht/avs/hdd-title2.jpg

http://swithey.gotdns.org/swithey/ht/avs/hdd-title4.jpg

You know it is going to be a great disc when there is a category labeled "explosions."

What an awesome thread! I like title page #1. Appreciate your efforts swithey.

I really like the title #1 look. And I say it is a great idea to break clips down into categories.

I watched a couple of movies this past weekend. Twister and Transformers. Both have excellent audio, and several good scenes for a clip disk.

But in Transformers, most would say that the Ironhide flip scene is a good one. Whereas I think the Scorponok in the desert scene is better to demo. That one has exellent picture quality, surround, and lfe.

I agree with the other poster that would request some quiet beautiful scenes too. I have a blu titled Alaska, and it is gorgeous.

Sorry I did not get any time stamps yet. But the kids and wife do not like me pausing during the action!

This weekend I will get a couple scenes from Twister, Transformers, and Wanted. 3:10 to Yuma too..

I too like the category title too. make it easier to organize. however, do keep it mind that if we are really gonna use DVD-5/DVD-9 disc, that would mean we can only put a limited amount of clips in each disc. may be like 8-12 clips at best?? if so, than it would make not much sense to just put 1-3 clips in each own category and make it harder to browse/found.

just a simple thumb nail of each clip like Audixium's direct thumb nail template which could hold ALL of the clips that we could fit into a DVD might be a better choice for easy navigation imho.

and I do like the theme-base template too! but might it for just a specialized disc like LEF specialied disc? e.g. original HT Demo disc's Disc 5 & 21?

oh, here's the theater background image that you might be able to use. :)

http://landshark-racing.com/pics/hover_moving picture.png

I too like the category title too. make it easier to organize. however, do keep it mind that if we are really gonna use DVD-5/DVD-9 disc, that would mean we can only put a limited amount of clips in each disc. may be like 8-12 clips at best?? if so, than it would make not much sense to just put 1-3 clips in each own category and make it harder to browse/found.

just a simple thumb nail of each clip like Audixium's direct thumb nail template which could hold ALL of the clips that we could fit into a DVD might be a better choice for easy navigation imho.

and I do like the theme-base template too! but might it for just a specialized disc like LFE specialized disc? e.g. original HT Demo disc's Disc 5 & 21?

You might be onto something. If we do use a DVD5/9 medium, maybe we could make a specific disc for each category. This would net us more clips per disc.

But, if we use the "download" model, then we could make the disc as large as we want. What you lose there is portability -- i.e. for demos on a friends system, testing out TV/Proj/Speakers at a Home Theater Store, etc.

I like your background. Here is Idea #1 with your background.
http://swithey.gotdns.org/swithey/ht/avs/HDD-Title5.jpg

Go ahead Steve, you can use your HT as the background ;)

Too much good stuff...besides what has been mentioned

Live Free Die Hard - apartment scene and car coming at them in the tunnel
Smokin Aces - 50 cal
Serenity - griever chase
Underworld
Shoot Em Up
Hitman
Constantine
Push

Look good and sound good
I Robot
Speed Racer
Coraline
Chris Botti

All have some really great scenes

You might be onto something. If we do use a DVD5/9 medium, maybe we could make a specific disc for each category. This would net us more clips per disc.

But, if we use the "download" model, then we could make the disc as large as we want. What you lose there is portability -- i.e. for demos on a friends system, testing out TV/Proj/Speakers at a Home Theater Store, etc.


Is the potential loss of portability a big deal? Seems like it would be, for the reasons you cite. Plus, the convience of popping in a disc vs downloading (if I understand this correctly). I don't understand the technology/hardware implications as the technical discussion is beyond me.

But, from a convience perspective, I imagine a room of guests anticipating the demo while waiting/hoping for a successful 'download' to complete or just hitting the play button on the BD player.

By the way, this really is a great project.

I'd suggest the Title Page 1 of Swithey or the Headspin of Audixium. Simple and right to the point. A title page with categories, thumbnails, and a Play All. More than that and we start using disc space for the menu and menu animations...

Re: the download versus DVD, I vote for DVD. You have the portable issue, as discussed, but the size limit will also help to force the end result to be more effective. Doing multiple discs then becomes the logical solution, but of course now the project is expanding. :)

FWIW:
I vote for a single DVD with the simple straightforward title page, as shown above

Is the potential loss of portability a big deal? Seems like it would be, for the reasons you cite. Plus, the convience of popping in a disc vs downloading (if I understand this correctly). I don't understand the technology/hardware implications as the technical discussion is beyond me.

But, from a convience perspective, I imagine a room of guests anticipating the demo while waiting/hoping for a successful 'download' to complete or just hitting the play button on the BD player..
I was implying that people would download the entire demo disc to their hard drive (ahead of time) and play it with a Home Theater PC (http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?t=940972) (HTPC) or something similar to the Popcorn Hour (http://www.popcornhour.com/onlinestore/) (PCH). However, downloading 24-50gb might take a while anyway :o

We'll play it by ear and see how things turn out.

Here is my stab at the front page design. Basic but gets the point across. I don’t think either of these is “the one” but I’m hoping it will spur on some more thought.

Title Page Idea #1

http://swithey.gotdns.org/swithey/ht/avs/hdd-title1.jpg

Each icon depicts the category to be viewed. Once selected, another page would be displayed where the viewer could choose an individual clip (with thumbnails) and/or have the ability to play all clips at once.

I like this category based menu and simple menuing. If this is a blu-ray disc, I will be converting into .mkv files to run on the PCH and it will be fairly easy to convert a simple menu like this into a YAMJ menu for demos.

Thanks for your work!

oh, sorry, I was under the impression that it will be DVD-size base for people to burn onto a DVD disc.... and that's why I think we'll be limited by how many clips that we could squeeze in. and why I vote for a simple thumbnail/play all menu.

I wouldn't mind for a download PC playable version tho as I have HTPC for each TV in the house. and it will most likely be the method that I'm gonna play it back anyway regardless which way we go.

but I think we do need to think 'bout the end product's file size tho. first, even someone is kind enough to host it on their FTP server, it will eat up lots of bandwidth for his hosting. and if we go for the torrent way, even with lots of people seeding it, it will take days/weeks to download 20+GB of file. versus if we need it w/in a DVD size, and just make more different discs, people don't have to wait that long to download them.

oh, sorry, I was under the impression that it will be DVD-size base for people to burn onto a DVD disc.... and that's why I think we'll be limited by how many clips that we could squeeze in. and why I vote for a simple thumbnail/play all menu.

I wouldn't mind for a download PC playable version tho as I have HTPC for each TV in the house. and it will most likely be the method that I'm gonna play it back anyway regardless which way we go.

but I think we do need to think 'bout the end product's file size tho. first, even someone is kind enough to host it on their FTP server, it will eat up lots of bandwidth for his hosting. and if we go for the torrent way, even with lots of people seeding it, it will take days/weeks to download 20+GB of file. versus if we need it w/in a DVD size, and just make more different discs, people don't have to wait that long to download them.


I pretty much agree on all of that.

A DVD5 format is really a must as far as I can see, as it means you can take it along to anyone's place and demo it there, just the same way we have the original dvd demo disks.

Sizing them to fit a DVD5 also allows the option of usb sticks to move stuff around for demo purposes.


At the same time we have a lot of people with HTPC's, which would in effect remove the size 'restrictions' away from a DVD5.

As far as hosting it somewhere, I have no problems with continuing on from the DVD demo disks, however the server that I have it on is now around 1000km away from here, so to upgrade to a bigger HD to allow for multiple HD demos is going to be quite costly, as I'll have to pay someone to go in to put new hard disk in, then copy the data across. :(


So really a DVD5 sized HD demo disk/s is possibly the way to go.

Also as has been mentioned, 25Gb is a huge amount of data to ftp or torrent around the place in one hit, whereas 5 x DVD5's is going to be a whole lot more convenient if you ask me. :)

what you on about down loaded 120gb in a week for the dvd demo discs 1-27 on the torrent and ftp site.

25gb-50gb is nothing really. you should be able to choose if you want it on dvd or blu-ray or pc file a vote me thinks?

Good discussion here...logistically I see the value of starting with a single DVD5 or DVD9 AVCHD disc. In utopia it would be a multi-disc Blu-ray series, but reality keeps tapping on our shoulders :).

what you on about down loaded 120gb in a week for the dvd demo discs 1-27 on the torrent and ftp site.

25gb-50gb is nothing really. you should be able to choose if you want it on dvd or blu-ray or pc file a vote me thinks?

Dunno what sort of bandwidth you guys outside of Australia have, but we're pretty much the internet backwater over here. :( We have download limits on broadband of as little as 10Gb per month, and many of 20 - 25Gb per month.

All that said, I still think we need to start small, i.e. a DVD5 for distribution purposes.

Down the track we can get more elaborate, with BD size disks. :)

I personally think most of us that are looking at this sort of stuff, have HTPC's where they'll download and keep the demos for direct access, rather than messing around with disks, be they DVD or BD ! :)

Why not use rapidshare/megaupload for distribution?

I vote for a DVD9 at the minimum.

Why not use rapidshare/megaupload for distribution?

Depends upon how much the group of us here want to push our luck against the movie corporations I guess. :)

I know the dvd ht demos were supposed to be via a fairly private distribution system, i.e. PM for ftp logins, etc., so as to avoid waving flags in the face of the movie corporations, and telling them 'up yours', or 'come and get us' by having download locations searchable via google and the like. :)

Depends upon how much the group of us here want to push our luck against the movie corporations I guess.

I understand the quasi legal nature on the endeavour, but we dont necessarily need to publish the rapidshare/megaupload links. They can very well be exchanged via PM/email just like its currently being done for FTP for the demo DVD's.

The advantage with rapid/mega is that one poor guy/ftp server wouldnt have to bear the brunt of all the download requests that are going to pour in, plus its atleast a little bit more "safer" than putting it on anyone's private FTP server.

For best results, the DVD should be split up in multiple parts and uploaded to multiple file sharing sites, where each part on each site is identical and the links can be exchanged. That way, free users can simulate multiple downloads by simultaneously downloading say part1.rar from site A, part2.rar from site B, part3.rar from Site C, etc.

What about audio? Is this going to be DTS core(Full bitrate DTS) or HD Audio?

I think torrents is the best way to go about this, I know there are lots of people with fast connections that would help including me. I like Megaupload and Mediafire the best, a lot faster for non-paid users. I think we should start at a 4.37gb DVD, they're dirt cheap and lots of people have 50-100 packs already.

I understand the quasi legal nature on the endeavour, but we dont necessarily need to publish the rapidshare/megaupload links. They can very well be exchanged via PM/email just like its currently being done for FTP for the demo DVD's.


Doh ! ... you're quite correct there, that's just so easy to still keep it all 'private'. :)


The advantage with rapid/mega is that one poor guy/ftp server wouldnt have to bear the brunt of all the download requests that are going to pour in, plus its atleast a little bit more "safer" than putting it on anyone's private FTP server.


Don't I know that with the current HT demo disks with my site here in Australia. The torrent idea in principle was good, but in reality very few people really kept the torrents running after they got what they wanted. :(


For best results, the DVD should be split up in multiple parts and uploaded to multiple file sharing sites, where each part on each site is identical and the links can be exchanged. That way, free users can simulate multiple downloads by simultaneously downloading say part1.rar from site A, part2.rar from site B, part3.rar from Site C, etc.

I'm not sure if that's the best way though, unless I've misinterpreted what you said. ;)

I think we should start at a 4.37gb DVD, they're dirt cheap and lots of people have 50-100 packs already.

Agreed.

If we're going multi layer, then let's skip the DVD9 level, and go straight to Blu Ray disks.

DVD5, BD, and 'downloadable' are all options to consider. :)

What about audio? Is this going to be DTS core(Full bitrate DTS) or HD Audio?The idea is to keep the audio in it's prestine form. There is a little "hoop-jumping" to make this happen with the AVCHD format but it appears to be doable.

Agreed.
If we're going multi layer, then let's skip the DVD9 level, and go straight to Blu Ray disks.

DVD5, BD, and 'downloadable' are all options to consider. :)
DVD5 = ~20-30min of video (roughly 6-10 3min clips)
DVD9 = ~40-60min of video (roughly 13-20 3min clips)

The DVD5 will not have much room for demo material (as stated in an earlier post). However, if we created a specific DVD5 disc for each category, it could work with the smaller DVD5 disc.

IMO, if we go with an all-in-one disc, DVD9 is the entry point. Believe me, I'm all about a smaller download and less expensive media. I just don't see another way.

Portability is king for this 1st pass. This will allow everyone to use this disc whether they have a HTPC, PS3, Media Server or a stand-alone BR player. I cannot tell you how many times I used the old HT demo DVDs when I was testing out speakers, subwoofers and projectors (at that time there were only 2 of them LOL!). Every time I pulled out one of the demo discs at a B&M store, the sales guy's mouth dropped and asked where I got it.

With that said -- I'll go with whatever the majority wants (and what the DVD authors will tolerate :D)

Demo Update….

Okay everyone, I have some good and bad news to report.

First the good news. We’re making some nice headway on the design of the demo DVD. Below is a prototype of that design. A more refined version will be revealed over the weekend – so stay tuned. The idea is you can scroll to the DVD cover you want and the info above changes based on that selection. The plan it to have a 5-8 second clip above that highlights the movie clip you’ve selected. Also added to the right is the audio format, screen format and the movie rating. Any comments/suggestions are welcome.

http://swithey.gotdns.org/swithey/ht/avs/HDD-LFE2.jpg


Now for the bad news (for some of you). I’ve made an executive decision to make this 1st disc an All-In-One disc. This forces us to use the larger DVD9 format. Also, so we have room for more clips per category, we’re reducing the categories from 5 to 3. The categories will most likely be: LFE, Surround and Beauty/Music/Other. Based on 3min clips, we should be able to fit about 15 demos on this DVD – roughly 5 per category. We’ll have a main title page that will allow you to select the category (along with a Play All option). A refined version of this page will be revealed over the weekend as well.

Will there be larger versions in the future? Absolutely! However, I wanted to get something out that nearly everyone could burn for only a few bucks and could play it in nearly every BR player out there.

Well, there it is. I’m excited about the prospect of this disc and we’ll keep moving forward. ETA you ask? Hmm, not sure but I feel pretty confident that we’ll have it done in time for the holidays. So keep making suggestions on the “best” clips we can put on this disc. Without those, we don't have a disc :)

Lookin good! Can't wait for it to be ready! :)

Loving the design, looks awesome...Great concept with the clip preview. Your really knocking it out of the park.

I'm a newb at this so excuse my ignorance. Why would it be a problem for it to be DVD9 other than some were preferring blu ray. Just not sure if I'm missing something on how to eventually make this disc. Thanks.

Loving the design, looks awesome...Great concept with the clip preview. Your really knocking it out of the park.

I'm a newb at this so excuse my ignorance. Why would it be a problem for it to be DVD9 other than some were preferring blu ray. Just not sure if I'm missing something on how to eventually make this disc. Thanks.

Some wanted a DVD5 format for lower size downloads. I think a DVD9 will be ok though.

I see, thanks.

Looking good. Who is making the menu? I'm curious the software of choice for the menu designer...

Looking good. Who is making the menu? I'm curious the software of choice for the menu designer...

I'm going to take a stab at it and will be posting the rough draft stills this weekend - Adobe CS4 (PhotoShop, After Effects, Encore, and Premier Pro).

Demo Update….

Okay everyone, I have some good and bad news to report.

First the good news. We’re making some nice headway on the design of the demo DVD. Below is a prototype of that design. A more refined version will be revealed over the weekend – so stay tuned. The idea is you can scroll to the DVD cover you want and the info above changes based on that selection. The plan it to have a 5-8 second clip above that highlights the movie clip you’ve selected. Also added to the right is the audio format, screen format and the movie rating. Any comments/suggestions are welcome.

http://swithey.gotdns.org/swithey/ht/avs/HDD-LFE2.jpg




Now for the bad news (for some of you). I’ve made an executive decision to make this 1st disc an All-In-One disc. This forces us to use the larger DVD9 format. Also, so we have room for more clips per category, we’re reducing the categories from 5 to 3. The categories will most likely be: LFE, Surround and Beauty/Music/Other. Based on 3min clips, we should be able to fit about 15 demos on this DVD – roughly 5 per category. We’ll have a main title page that will allow you to select the category (along with a Play All option). A refined version of this page will be revealed over the weekend as well.

Will there be larger versions in the future? Absolutely! However, I wanted to get something out that nearly everyone could burn for only a few bucks and could play it in nearly every BR player out there.

Well, there it is. I’m excited about the prospect of this disc and we’ll keep moving forward. ETA you ask? Hmm, not sure but I feel pretty confident that we’ll have it done in time for the holidays. So keep making suggestions on the “best” clips we can put on this disc. Without those, we don't have a disc :)

Fabulous start - this looks great!!
I agree on the decisions (good compromises)

If I had to select only two choices for source material; would have to come from Master and Commander and one of the Transformer flix

I'm going to take a stab at it and will be posting the rough draft stills this weekend - Adobe CS4 (PhotoShop, After Effects, Encore, and Premier Pro).


Cool. As of now, I stick in DVD Architect for authoring. (I use Vegas Pro and DVDA comes along for the ride). I'm a big fan of After Effects, just wish I was better at it! The guys here might get bored of the details, but I'd love to hear your thoughts of using Encore for this...

Cool. As of now, I stick in DVD Architect for authoring. (I use Vegas Pro and DVDA comes along for the ride). I'm a big fan of After Effects, just wish I was better at it! The guys here might get bored of the details, but I'd love to hear your thoughts of using Encore for this...

Well if you're working in Vegas you should be doing this...right? Walk in the park for you...no? :) I told Steve the more potential options the better.

I've been trying to think of something a bit different from the normal clips, and came up with three for the Visual category.

One is from Curse of the Golden Flower. The colors in the palace are almost magical - that is absolutely beautiful on screen.

Two is from the documentary Winged Migration. Might sound boring, but I used that disc as a demo when it was plain old standard DVD. No booms, just amazing shots of birds. I know how that sounds.... I really do! Master and Commander fight, it is not! We need that category to show off the pretty side of the disc.

Three would be some of the concert of Chris Botti (as mentioned) or perhaps The Police. Those are my fav two concert Blus at the moment.


For the surround sound, Hellboy II has some impressive soundstage. The fight in the cogs is intense.

I'll try to pull the chapters and times of these over the weekend...

Well if you're working in Vegas you should be doing this...right? Walk in the park for you...no? :) I told Steve the more potential options the better.

I'll do what I can, but I have nothing to rip Blus. I'm also not sure how DVD Architect deals with the HD audio formats. I've not done anything in that outside of standard Dolby Digital. I don't know if DTS HD, Dolby TrueHD, etc... are supported at this time.

No park walking for me! :)

Monsters Inc.: 00:29:45 - 00:31:06
The scene where the girls starts crying. No one touches little Mikey!

This MUST go on there!

Steve, looks like a great start. Nice clean menu with preview clips to boot! Looking forward to this and I hope the DTS-MA will remain intact.

The menu looks perfect to me.

The only problem with the DVD9 is distribution. It was hard enough with the DVD5's. If there isn't an ftp site it is going to be painful. I seeded many of the SD demos for awhile but some users were taking almost a week to get one SD disc. Eventually I think most gave up and my traffic disappeared.

Still I'll try to get my hands on this demo... looking forward to it!

The only problem with the DVD9 is distribution. It was hard enough with the DVD5's. If there isn't an ftp site it is going to be painful. I seeded many of the SD demos for awhile but some users were taking almost a week to get one SD disc. Eventually I think most gave up and my traffic disappeared.



Yep, that was my concern, getting the first iso distributed is going to be a pain for everyone, as the size is getting rather large to the point that people grab what they want, seed the torrent (if we do it via torrents) for all of about 5 minutes, then turn off the torrent client.

If we could get people to really leave the torrent seeding indefinately, then we might be in with a bit of a chance, but I can't see that happening though. :(

don't forget the famous battle scene in Master and Commander.

Monsters Inc.: 00:29:45 - 00:31:06
The scene where the girls starts crying. No one touches little Mikey!

This MUST go on there!
Is this the scene where the radio falls on top of Mike's head, she starts to laugh and all the lights get very bright then burn out. Yes, good short LFE scene (if that's the one I'm thinking of). Please confirm.

Yep, that was my concern, getting the first iso distributed is going to be a pain for everyone, as the size is getting rather large to the point that people grab what they want, seed the torrent (if we do it via torrents) for all of about 5 minutes, then turn off the torrent client.

If we could get people to really leave the torrent seeding indefinitely, then we might be in with a bit of a chance, but I can't see that happening though. :(
Completely understandable and a concern of mine as well. I like the idea ebirbal had about breaking it up into pieces and hosting it on multiple download sites (http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?p=17024706#post17024706). I've not used them much in the past but if we kept the links private, it might work. I'll also host via FTP to our other FTP hosters to help get the disc out as quickly as possible.

If it turns out the way I'm imaging, it will be well worth the time it takes to download this DVD.

REMEMBER - We need your input on movies with chapter times and best category match (LFE, Surround, Visual/Music/Other). If its an oldie but goodie from the old SD demos (but now in HD), that is fine. I plan to re-use some of the great ones on the new disc.

LFE
Iron Man: 00:15:11-00:15:48 (:37), DD 5.1, PG-13
- Desc: Jericho
- Contributor: fiveohno
- Votes: 1


Explosions
Race to Witch Mountain: 23:27-27:30 (4:03), DTS, PG
- Desc: Alien fight, Explosions and getting away
- Contributor: oman321
- Notes: Might fit in Surround and LFE categories as well
- Votes: 1

Transformers: 00:38:58-00:44:39 (5:41), DD 5.1, PG-13
- Desc: Marines are battling Scorponok in the small Qatar village and try to contact the pentagon for air support. Includes gunfire, explosions, planes and a bit of humor.
- Contributor: maxposure
- Votes: 1


Surround
Iron Man: 00:02:19-00:03:53 (1:34), DD 5.1, PG-13
- Desc: Taken Hostage
- Contributor: fiveohno
- Notes: Might fit in LFE category as well
- Votes: 1

Knowing: 00:38:55-00:41:11 (3:33), DTS-HD, PG-13
- Desc: Plane crash
- Contributor: fiveohno
- Notes: Might fit in LFE category as well
- Votes: 1

Knowing: 01:00:52-01:02:26 (1:34), DTS-HD, PG-13
- Desc: Subway crash scene
- Contributor: fiveohno
- Notes: Might fit in LFE category as well
- Votes: 1

Quantum of Solace: 0:00:35 to 00:01:37(1:02), DTS-HD 5.1, PG-13
- Desc: Car chase scene
- Contributor: gthrift
- Votes: 2

Race to Witch Mountain: 00:13:58-00:17:00 (3:58), DTS, PG
- Desc: Ship crash landing and helicopters
- Contributor: oman321
- Notes: Might fit in LFE category as well
- Votes: 1

Race to Witch Mountain: 00:30:35-00:32:00 (1:25), DTS, PG
- Desc: Alien Chase & Train Crash
- Contributor: oman321
- Notes: Might fit in LFE category as well
- Votes: 1

Race to Witch Mountain: 1:24:00-1:28:26 (3:26), DTS, PG
- Desc: Escape in ship
- Contributor: oman321
- Notes: Might fit in LFE category as well
- Votes: 1

Beauty

Other


I have the above-listed movies on BluRay and can help however you want.

CJ

Completely understandable and a concern of mine as well. I like the idea ebirbal had about breaking it up into pieces and hosting it on multiple download sites (http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?p=17024706#post17024706). I've not used them much in the past but if we kept the links private, it might work. I'll also host via FTP to our other FTP hosters to help get the disc out as quickly as possible.


Would it work well to set up an FTP site for 10 or so people to download it if they would all agree to seed it as a torrent for a certain period of time?

CJ

I have the above-listed movies on BluRay and can help however you want.Great. I'll be in touch when we're ready to move into that phase.

Would it work well to set up an FTP site for 10 or so people to download it if they would all agree to seed it as a torrent for a certain period of time?Kind of my plan. Hopefully we can smooth out the distribution a bit that way.

As to some demo suggestions

Bolt opening sequence I hear is great

5th Element- Dallas fights the aliens in the casino

Star Trek 1st contact- federation vs borg cube

Spiderman 2- subway sequence

Firefly- space battle sequence

Hellboy 2- the bedtime story

The Aviator- test flight sequence

Live Free or Die Hard - Freeway sequence or subway sequence


Air Force 1- AF1 takeover/landing attempt sequence

Victor

As to some demo suggestions

Bolt opening sequence I hear is great

5th Element- Dallas fights the aliens in the casino

Star Trek 1st contact- federation vs borg cube

Spiderman 2- subway sequence

Firefly- space battle sequence

Hellboy 2- the bedtime story

The Aviator- test flight sequence

Live Free or Die Hard - Freeway sequence or subway sequence


Air Force 1- AF1 takeover/landing attempt sequence

Victor

Great ideas Victor. Do you think you could give some detailed time stamps (start and end times) and the best category for each?

Is this the scene where the radio falls on top of Mike's head, she starts to laugh and all the lights get very bright then burn out. Yes, good short LFE scene (if that's the one I'm thinking of). Please confirm.

That's the one.

The Bolt intro is amazing but its 10min long...

I AM Legend= 01:20:40 - 00:01:21:45
"They followed us home." He starts setting off bombs in front of his house.

don't forget the famous battle scene in Master and Commander.
Planned on that one! Can you site any time stamps for this scene?

Planned on that one! Can you site any time stamps for this scene?

I'm watching it tonight or tomorrow. I'll submit my thoughts too...

The gunfight scene in Open Range. Great test for dynamics. From faint whispers to loud gun shots.

I too like the lastest menu design! great work!!

another vote for the Bolt intro, will try to get time stamp over the weekend for you.

How do I get my mits on this demo disk??

Thanks,

I can at least give you time stamps:

Master & Commander - initial attack 8:43 to 11:39.

How do I get my mits on this demo disk??

Thanks,

It isn't available yet. The guys are still working out all the details.

You know, considering that Braveheart and Gladiator both come out Sept 1 on Blu (in the new Sapphire Series), maybe we should wait a week(ish) to see if there is a worthy clip or two from one of those discs?

How do I get my mits on this demo disk??

Thanks,

Once it is done, you need to send Swithey one pair of Klipsch speakers, then he will give you the secret handshake to use at the hidden door. :)

You know, considering that Braveheart and Gladiator both come out Sept 1 on Blu (in the new Sapphire Series), maybe we should wait a week(ish) to see if there is a worthy clip or two from one of those discs?

I think the timeline supports their possible inclusion ;).

You know, considering that Braveheart and Gladiator both come out Sept 1 on Blu (in the new Sapphire Series), maybe we should wait a week(ish) to see if there is a worthy clip or two from one of those discs?

also, X-Men: Wolverine Origin will be out next month too.

You know, considering that Braveheart and Gladiator both come out Sept 1 on Blu (in the new Sapphire Series), maybe we should wait a week(ish) to see if there is a worthy clip or two from one of those discs?

I agree, the opening scene in Gladiator was one I was going to suggest.

Hey all!

I have followed the discussion and i must say i love the idea of putting together a really good demo disc :)

I can support the project with distribution via ftp and/or torrent via my server with 10Mbit upload (located in sweden). Just let me know if my services is needed.

Keep up the good work!

Hey all!

I have followed the discussion and i must say i love the idea of putting together a really good demo disc :)

I can support the project with distribution via ftp and/or torrent via my server with 10Mbit upload (located in sweden). Just let me know if my services is needed.

Keep up the good work!
Thanks and I'll add you to the list :)

Thanks and I'll add you to the list :)

Excellent! :)

Also one suggestion, there are some really good scenes in Band of Brothers. The video is stunning with all the grain and the sound is excellent. There are some terrific fighting scenes... (obviously) :) that might fit the demo disc.

hey guys here is 2 scenes you could use for the LFE

Transformers chapter 12....time 58:50 ---1:01:30 (autobots arrival on earth)
U-571 chapter 15 time 1:17:00 --- 1:19:30 (depth charged in barrel in the deep sea)

thanks and keep up the godd work for a wonderful demo disc to come

J

For LFE, has anyone referenced The Master List of DVD, HD-DVD & Blu-ray Movies with BASS Thread (http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?t=755493)? It contains a ton of info, including user ratings, chapter, and time stamps.

I think this is turning into an LFE disc :)

I think this is turning into an LFE disc :)

Ha! Well, I'm searching for surround right now. Really, a great live music clip is also a must in my book.

For LFE, has anyone referenced The Master List of DVD, HD-DVD & Blu-ray Movies with BASS Thread (http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?t=755493)? It contains a ton of info, including user ratings, chapter, and time stamps. I plan to steal a few from that thread for our "LFE" disc.

I think this is turning into an LFE disc :) Damn, you guys figured out my plan :D ;) We'll get some surround material in there -- don't worry.

Ha! Well, I'm searching for surround right now. Really, a great live music clip is also a must in my book.

Blue Man Group - How to be a Megastar
The first song is pretty good, I have to look at it later. The video quality is not so great but the audio is good.

Harry Potter Chamber of Secrets: 00:53:00 - 00:58:50
Quidditch match makes good use of the surrounds and LFE.

It seems that many of the clips being suggested are already on previous demo discs. I'm sure we can find newer ones. I'm not saying we shouldn't use the older ones, it's just that I'm growing tired of the same ol' scenes.

Slightly off-topic -- If this scene was longer I would suggest it, but it only lasted a few seconds -- We were watching "The Legend of 1900" last night. In one scene the two lead characters are talking while sitting on a pile of coal in the belly of an oceanliner. As they are talking one guy picks up a piece of coal and throws it in the direction of the camera. I thought it would be funny to have the left surround pick up the landing. Sure enough, the piece "landed" right behind me. I laughed out loud. :D Great use of the surrounds.

It seems that many of the clips being suggested are already on previous demo discs. I'm sure we can find newer ones. I'm not saying we shouldn't use the older ones, it's just that I'm growing tired of the same ol' scenes.I'm fine with new clips as long as they look good and will be popular. Care to make any suggestions for newer material (with time stamps :D)?

Slightly off-topic -- If this scene was longer I would suggest it, but it only lasted a few seconds -- We were watching "The Legend of 1900" last night. In one scene the two lead characters are talking while sitting on a pile of coal in the belly of an oceanliner. As they are talking one guy picks up a piece of coal and throws it in the direction of the camera. I thought it would be funny to have the left surround pick up the landing. Sure enough, the piece "landed" right behind me. I laughed out loud. :D Great use of the surrounds.
I might have to check out this clip

Here is my input. I know the transformers is alot, but the end sequence is the best I've heard and seen for just about any movie. Try and fit that one in!
Pear Harbor clips are excellent for both Surround and LFE.

Transformers:
00:06:00 - 00:07:00
00:39:00 - 00:44:25
01:49:00 - 01:51:00
01:59:25 - 02:11:40

Pearl Harbor:
01:28:00 - 01:38:50
01:49:00 - 01:58:41

Dark Knight
01:15:00 - 01:22:30

I-Robot
00:52:13 - 00:55:20

I think the movie is called "Always", and it's where the plan flies in overhead and lands on the water, would be great for surround.

However I'm not sure if it is available in HD yet.

I'll try and track down what the full name and other details are of it if I can. :)

I don't know if we have put anything up for the 'beauty/other" section yet but my first vote is going to be for a speed trial scene from "The Aviator". This scene has great sound but also is very beautiful with close up detail on the old plane and its gauges, classic cars and beautiful people. Its has a lot of excitement.
My only concern is that there is a bit of language. Howard drops a single "G**D***" which I understand my be offensive to some.

Anyway here is the info.
The Aviator
42:45-47:26
DD 5.1
PG-13
Howard Hues breaks the air speed record only to run out of fuel and crash into a beat field. Old Planes, Classic cars, beautiful lighting and good sound.
Beauty/Other

I love the look of the menu. And swithey I totally agree with your decision of a DVD9. Its a very popular format, not to hard or overly expensive to ascertain the materials if you don't own them. I know we would love to have tons of movie clips to sample the system but I do think there is something to be said about simplicity and only having 12-15 of THE BEST clips.
I am here to help. Let me know what I can do.

Steve,

Glad you're taking the lead on this. I'm in and will try to think about some clips as well. Do you have one central post in this thread where you listed the clips you're decided on this far?

Bud

I still dont understand how is DVD9 better then 2xDVD5 or 3xDVD5?

It will be cheaper to burn, easier for download, and you can separate disks for AUDIO and VIDEO demo (nature/humans and effects/animation - can be 2 separate dvds too)

Many users may not have good audio setup (or didnt have dts support, like WD TV), why they will be forced to download double size, and use more expensive disk?

And for example if there will be upgrades for this demodisks - if you are satisfied with old audio disk you can only download new video disk and vice verse.

I still dont understand how is DVD9 better then 2xDVD5 or 3xDVD5?

It will be cheaper to burn, easier for download, and you can separate disks for AUDIO and VIDEO demo (nature/humans and effects/animation - can be 2 separate dvds too)

Many users may not have good audio setup (or didnt have dts support, like WD TV), why they will be forced to download double size, and use more expensive disk?

Welcome to AVS! Thanks for the input. Those users you talk about won't be forced to do anything. If they don't want the larger disk they can certainly decide not to download it. :)

Ha! Well, I'm searching for surround right now. Really, a great live music clip is also a must in my book.

I commend you on your efforts. Can't wait to see the finished product and put it to good use.

Here's my 4 votes for "live music clip" -- I personally use these to demo my HT BD system. Check em out (in no particular order):

Pat Metheny Group -- "The Way Up -- Live" (1080i)
LPCM Stereo, Dolby Digital 5.1, DTS HD

(1) Track 2 -- "Part One"
00.05:05 --- 00.12:50
Jazz Fusion with fantastic interplay from this septet. Great camerwork focusing on the actual playing up close.

(2) Track 4 -- "Part Three"
00.56:00 --- 01.06:55
Pat's guitarwork is frenetic !!!! The climax to an awesome concert performance.

Return To Forever --- "Returns - Live at Montreux 2008" (1080i)
LPCM Stereo, Dolby Digital 5.1, DTS HD Master Audio

(3) Track 4 -- "The Sorceress"
00.18:50 --- 00.22:10
One of the most distinctive rhythmic grooves in all of Jazz Fusion by the "supergroup." Blazing fast and crisp solo by Guitar Magazine perennial "Best Guitar Player" Award Winner Al Di Meola.

(4) Track 12 -- "The Romantic Warrior"
01.43:53 --- 01.47:20
A "classic." Title track from their best LP. Acoustic bass (Stanley Clarke) and guitar (Di Meola) blending with Chick Corea's electronic keyboards.

dvd-9 disc are not that expensive go out and buy a real demo disc then say this is expensive.

they want the convenience of having all the demos on one disc and its been explained why in previous posts.

if you don't have surround why do you want this disc in the first place absolutely no point apart from demoing new gear.

DVD9 is preferable because...

1. Convenience. This is going to be a Hi-Def disk... a DVD 5 will contain too little content on it
2. Not really expensive - about USD 2 a pop. Where I live, a 10 pack is about USD 10
3. Unless you have a proper Hi-def system, this disk would not be of much use - in which case, you are probably better off downloading one of the standard DVD demo disks - there is a separate thread on the forums, try searching around

Here is my input. I know the transformers is alot, but the end sequence is the best I've heard and seen for just about any movie. Try and fit that one in!
Pear Harbor clips are excellent for both Surround and LFE.

Transformers:
00:06:00 - 00:07:00
00:39:00 - 00:44:25
01:49:00 - 01:51:00
01:59:25 - 02:11:40

Pearl Harbor:
01:28:00 - 01:38:50
01:49:00 - 01:58:41

Dark Knight
01:15:00 - 01:22:30

I-Robot
00:52:13 - 00:55:20
Thanks for the clips NismoZ. Would you be able to give a brief description of each of these scenes? Also, a few of the clips are really long. Would you be able to shorten them to something closer to 3min? We just don't have that much room on the disc and the clips need to be short. Sorry for the extra work.

Steve,

Do you have one central post in this thread where you listed the clips you're decided on this far?

Bud
Check out the 2nd post of this thread :D We'll slim it down once we have the master list.

Excellent! :)

Also one suggestion, there are some really good scenes in Band of Brothers. The video is stunning with all the grain and the sound is excellent. There are some terrific fighting scenes... (obviously) :) that might fit the demo disc.
holmur,

Would you be able to site any specific time stamps and scene descriptions for "Band of Brothers"?

Serenity Blu-Ray (DTS-HD MA)

- 00.09.33 to 00.10.54
Spaceship atmospheric re-entry plus dialogue, music, metal strain and low freq rumbling

- 01.23.59 to 01.27.28
quiet transition to loud space battle scene
large armada battle with LFE, explosions, music, and dialogue

- 01.27.33 to 01.29.45
EMP hit on Serenity and crash sequence on planet
good demo of sound sep blended with lots of LFE



Sunshine Blu-Ray (DTS-HD MA)

- 00.36.33 to 00.39.16
Fire in oxygen garden
quiet dialogue mixed with scenes of special effects and fire destruction

- 01.33.05 to 01.34.29
booster ignite/Icarus II destroyed
LFE with destructive effects

I still dont understand how is DVD9 better then 2xDVD5 or 3xDVD5?

It will be cheaper to burn, easier for download, and you can separate disks for AUDIO and VIDEO demo (nature/humans and effects/animation - can be 2 separate dvds too)
I understand your argument around this. However, we have to also consider the author(s) and designer(s) of the disc(s). It takes numerous hours to make one of these (much longer than it took for SD Demo DVDs). They are doing it for the sheer joy of giving back to the community and because they love home theater. Making 2 or 3 (at least right now) is just too much of a burden on them and their personal life. I hope you understand.

For this first HD disc, we decided to go with the larger media so we would have a one-stop-shop for most of our HT audience. This is not to say we won't make single (more specific DVDs) in the future. We already have several other ideas brewing but want to get this one out first. Also, I'm sure we'll have some AVS saint that will convert it to .MKV so that people with Media Servers like the WD or PCH can play the clips.

Believe me, once you see the mock-ups we've created over the weekend, you'll fully understand what kind of time is going into these discs. These are "Professional Grade" discs -- no mistaking it. We should have the pro-mock-ups to show everyone very soon.

007 Casino Royale PCM Uncompressed 5.1

- 00.11.17 to 00.15.59
construction yard foot chase
heavy equipment sound, destruction, music, textural sounds (metals, drywall, etc), no dialogue

Iron Man Dolby TrueHD

- 00.15.11 to 00.15.52 (quick scene)
Stark weapon demo

- 00.35.12 to 00.37.46
Emergence of the Mark I suit in the caves

- 01.15.57 to 01.19.17
New suit, Middle East desert battle

- 01.19.52 to 01.24.16
Iron Man dogfighting with F-22s

- 01.44.44 to 01.47.44
two behemoths battle

Wall-E Disney Blu-Ray DTS-HD MA

- 00.32.21 to 00.33.48
"Time to go" Scout ship launch, Wall-E hanging on

- 01.23.51 to 01.25.11
Hyperjump and Earth landing of Axiom

I, Robot DTS-HD MA

- 00.52.17 to 00.55.20
"You Are Experiencing a Car Accident" (tunnel chase with NX-5s jumping on Audi)

- 01.35.59 to 01.40.11
"What If We Didn't Have Six Minutes?" (end battle with tons of NX-5s)

007 Casino Royale PCM Uncompressed 5.1

- 00.11.17 to 00.15.59
construction yard foot chase
heavy equipment sound, destruction, music, textural sounds (metals, drywall, etc), no dialogue

Iron Man Dolby TrueHD

- 00.15.11 to 00.15.52 (quick scene)
Stark weapon demo

- 00.35.12 to 00.37.46
Emergence of the Mark I suit in the caves

- 01.15.57 to 01.19.17
New suit, Middle East desert battle

- 01.19.52 to 01.24.16
Iron Man dogfighting with F-22s

- 01.44.44 to 01.47.44
two behemoths battle

Wall-E Disney Blu-Ray DTS-HD MA

- 00.32.21 to 00.33.48
"Time to go" Scout ship launch, Wall-E hanging on

- 01.23.51 to 01.25.11
Hyperjump and Earth landing of Axiom

I, Robot DTS-HD MA

- 00.52.17 to 00.55.20
"You Are Experiencing a Car Accident" (tunnel chase with NX-5s jumping on Audi)

- 01.35.59 to 01.40.11
"What If We Didn't Have Six Minutes?" (end battle with tons of NX-5s)
NismoZ,

Thanks for the clips! Would you be able to pick a category for each of those -- LFE or Surround?

Steve

Thanks for the clips NismoZ. Would you be able to give a brief description of each of these scenes? Also, a few of the clips are really long. Would you be able to shorten them to something closer to 3min? We just don't have that much room on the disc and the clips need to be short. Sorry for the extra work.

I split up transformers a bit, but you can't on Pearl Harbor.

All DTS-MA or TrueHD below

Transformers:
00:06:00 - 00:07:00 Openning Helicopter scene, LFE and surrounds
00:39:00 - 00:44:25 Scorpion Desert, LFE and surrounds
01:49:45 - 01:51:00 Highway Scene, LFE and surrounds
01:59:25 - 02:02:33 Openning last city fight scene, LFE and surrounds
02:09:32 - 02:11:07 F-22, Megatron/Prime fight, LFE and surrounds

Pearl Harbor:
01:28:00 - 01:38:50 1st Strike on Pearl Harbor
01:49:00 - 01:58:41 Air Field attack

Dark Knight
01:15:00 - 01:22:30
Lower city car chase with Joker and Bat Bike.

I-Robot
00:52:13 - 00:55:20
"You Are Experiencing a Car Accident" (tunnel chase with NX-5s jumping on Audi)

NismoZ,

Thanks for the clips! Would you be able to pick a category for each of those -- LFE or Surround?

Steve

A buddy gave me these, so this is all the info I have.

A Drum Roll Please…..

After a weekend of hard work and many drafts, I believe we have the design down for the newest member of the HT Demo family. Before I continue, I want to extend a HUGE “Thank You” to our official HD demo graphic designer Audixium/Erik. I believe his work speaks for itself.

Official Disc Name: HD Preview Disc: Combination Series I

Main Menu (Draft)
http://swithey.gotdns.org/swithey/ht/avs/HDPreview-Mainv1.jpg (http://swithey.gotdns.org/swithey/ht/avs/HDPreview-Mainv1-Full.jpg)
(Click on picture above for Full-Size Version)

Comments: We’ve expanded the categories to include LFE, Surround, Eye Candy, and Music.


LFE Category (Draft)
http://swithey.gotdns.org/swithey/ht/avs/HDPreview-LFEv1.jpg (http://swithey.gotdns.org/swithey/ht/avs/HDPreview-LFEv1-Full.jpg)
(Click on picture above for Full-Size Version)

Comments: Please note that the movies pictured above are not necessarily the ones that will be used on the final disc. This is just a representation of what it will look like. As far as navigation, the idea will be that you select the DVD cover along the bottom and the info above changes based on that selection. The picture at the top will actually be an 8-10 second video loop of the scene you are about to view.


Background Images: Yes, that is SandmanX/Ruben's room in the background. We are still awaiting permission to use it on the final disc. The plan is to use various AVSers HT rooms as background throughout the disc. The backgrounds will be randomized so we can use a number of different theaters on the DVD. If you would like yours considered for the DVD, please PM me a link where I can download a high-resolution version of your room (ideally 1920x1080 or higher). We’ll want your “money shot” – most commonly from the rear looking toward the front at an angle (similar to what we have now).

Simply stunning, amazing, awe inspiring. To sum it up WOW!!! Looks great, fantastic job...

Funny you have the SMX theater pictured, 1st one that came to mind when theater backgrounds were being talked about.

Really coming together.

I will say that the menu screens look pretty sweet.

Don’t know how I feel about having pictures of HTs better than the one my guests are sitting in up on the screen though… :o

Don’t know if this was asked already or not, but will the menus be formatted for cinemascope? Don’t want to have to switch continuously between scope and 16:9 going between menus and content. For that matter, will scope and 16:9 content be in separate sections on the disc?

In any case, keep up the good work. I’ll be looking forward to the end results.

-Suntan

Good point Suntan, about the scope that is ;)

Funny, I had been meaning to ask if all the clips will be 2.35:1 or not.

CJ

Can I have one? Paleeeese??:D

Seriously, the draft looks fantasic. Very nice work.

Looks great - echo Suntan's comment...... just wish my HT was in the same league as Sandmans to warrent inclusion.

One other thing that might be nice is to have the clip run times. That is unless they do end up being 3 min or so on all of them.

I also agree on the AR comments by Suntan, and the others.

I don't have a CIH 2.39 screen yet, so how bad is it with the menus and movie being different aspect ratios?

I don't have a CIH 2.39 screen yet, so how bad is it with the menus and movie being different aspect ratios?


It would be a pain for both zoomers and lens users alike. Zoomers will have overspill show up on their borders and/or walls if it goes from 2:35 to 16:9 and with the menus. Those of us that use lens' will have menus cutoff on the bottom if you start off set to scope. You could start off in 16:9 then switch to scope but if some of the content is 16:9 the images will get cut off top and bottom and you will be missing part of the picture unless you switch back to 16:9. Also unless you switch back the image will be wider than it should be and for some folks that is a problem.

Yep definitely sounds like a pain. But what are people doing with the movies they watch now? Are they leaving the settings on "scope" and just have the menus spill off the screen, that way when the feature starts they don't have to worry about switching back (unless of course its a 16x9 movie). I would think this would be the easiest way. But like I said I don't really know, because I don't have my setup yet.

I start off with 16:9 because all menus are different so I want to see what I'm doing. Even so if i did leave it at scope with most movies I can just press "ok" to play once it gets to the main menu.

Once the movie actually starts it's a press of button in order for my Harmony to send the proper commands to switch my scaler from 16:9 to 2:35. Unfortunately my scaler doesn't do a direct change from 16:9 to scope so it has to cycle thru 4 screen changes to get to scope and 2 changes to get back to 16:9. Some folks may have direct input/aspect control which will take you between the 2. All depends on your equip or projector.

I have read that some zoomers simply use the menu from the overspill.

That looks excellent.

Simply stunning, amazing, awe inspiring. To sum it up WOW!!! Looks great, fantastic job...

I will say that the menu screens look pretty sweet.

Seriously, the draft looks fantasic. Very nice work.

Looks great

That looks excellent.

Thanks everyone for the kind words. At a minimum I was hoping it would turn out to be something you weren't embarrased to put up on all your amazing systems. Steve and I are committed to turning this series up a notch or two. He's a great captain! I'm merely a deck hand...:D

Somewhat related to the topic of scope vs 16:9, but has there been any talk (sorry haven’t read through the whole thread) about having dedicated “TV” clips in 16:9 format?

Although I haven’t seen the season collection for “Lost” on blu ray, the broadcast quality of some of the outdoor scenes is really quite good. I would assume the Blu Ray editions would be even better?

Honestly, I can’t think of too many other TV shows off the top of my head that have PQ up there with Lost, but I gotta think there are others. Any love for TV shows around here?

-Suntan

Hey guys,
just went over the thread, and this is awesome. The whole concept is great, and of course the work already put into it amazing.

One question though; how is this going to be distributed? I recently hosted an HD file just over 4.7gigs (1080P regular dolby) on my FTP server and it did take 7-8 hrs. to download, unless someone has an unrestricted downstream pipe, then the download is subject to each ones internet connection speed otherwise that's the downloading time.

I know in the past, there was a chain type of distribution scheam, don't know if that worked or not but that was another way for people with slow connections back int the modem era.

You can PM me if FTP info is needed ...

Congrats guys! That looks amazing!

Can't wait to get my grubby little hands on it!

Cheers,
Simon

Yes, the preliminary screenshots are looking great !!!

The scope issue/non-issue is going to be interesting, but I was thinking of how the TV guys work with 4:3 and 16:9 , and that's by safe cropping the main part of the image in the 4:3 boundaries. If the menus were worked in to a 'safe cropping' type of deal, where the key details of the menus were still visible when someone was watching the disk in 'scope-mode', I think most of us would be happy to see it that way. :)

love that screen shot!! really really professional look!! two thumbs up guys!!

Looks very professional indeed.
You Guys rock!

Audixium, Wonderful job on the menu thus far. So all the HD audio formats work in Encore and Premier? I may have to switch tool sets...

Looking good!

Awesome job guys... wow...!

When can we expect the disc to be available?

Very, Very Cool! I'd dig a copy for my reference theater. Kudos for the effort.

BTW, Any money shot of thebland's theater would also be great for the background. His theater is awesome!


Maybe take a few background images and have them rotate... (you know, in case the menu needs to be more complex... hehe...) ;)

Audixium, Wonderful job on the menu thus far. So all the HD audio formats work in Encore and Premier? I may have to switch tool sets...

Looking good!

Thanks - I'm not out of PhotoShop yet. And it's most likely someone else that will be doing the actual authoring/finalization of the disc.

Awesome job guys... wow...!

When can we expect the disc to be available?

Thanks - We're keeping the timeline fluid fully expecting things like the aspect ratio and distribution discussions to potentially change the course and final outcome.

Very, Very Cool! I'd dig a copy for my reference theater. Kudos for the effort.

Thanks - this is definitely being done with a community focus.

To continue with making the menu more work ;) any thoughts on music to play during the menu sequences or sounds for button movements? I might be able to work on that, if so desired... (of course we could also pull from a soundtrack for the music)

To continue with making the menu more work ;) any thoughts on music to play during the menu sequences or sounds for button movements? I might be able to work on that, if so desired... (of course we could also pull from a soundtrack for the music)

Yes! Well, at least right now we plan to have SUBTLE background music/ambience as well as audible navigation and selection cues/feedback. All of these things will adhere to high standards and pass multiple reviews before getting "into the wild" as they say.

Send Steve (swithey) a PM cause we'd love some additional hands on deck ;).

Yes! Well, at least right now we plan to have SUBTLE background music/ambience as well as audible navigation and selection cues/feedback. All of these things will adhere to high standards and pass multiple reviews before getting "into the wild" as they say.

Send Steve (swithey) a PM cause we'd love some additional hands on deck ;).

I sent him a PM. Have you guys discussed examples of what you like yet?

Happen to stumble upon this thread and WoW. Kudos for putting together a nice HD reference disc. I love the old thread with the SD reference disc and this one already looks superior menu wise.

Glad to see other members adding newer material not covered in the SD thread. Keep up the good work.

Steve and I were chatting about the aspect ratio discussion. In an attempt to have the initial disc serve a wide range of uses (dedicated home theaters with a lens, zoomers, 16:9 PJ folks, 50" LCD HDTV w/killer sound system, demoing equipment out and about, comparing at a friend's place, etc.), we're thinking about the following scenario:

The AR Mini Menu
The first thing you see is a basic black background with two aspect ratio icons - one for 1.78:1 and another for 2.35:1. Your initial selection will determine which menu aspect ratio you receive. Each of the two menu ARs would have a similar theme and be optimized for that particular format.

The idea is that scope folks could select 2.35:1 initially and not have to worry about engaging or disengaging the lens/scaler/etc to accommodate the menus. The majority of the clips will be in this format anyway so you wouldn't need to worry about adjustments if you select play all, or are bouncing around between the menu and your favorite clips. Some clips will be 1.78:1 (Planet Earth and probably all of the music). The current interface mockup includes an icon that indicates AR for each clip, so you would at least have some cue that it isn't scope before proceeding.

If at the Mini Menu you select 1.78:1 you get the menus as currently presented in the mockups. Nothing different than your normal Blu-Ray, DVD, or media center operation.

Would this approach work for your own situation?

Would this approach work for your own situation?

Although more difficult to implement, I think that sounds about as accommodating as one could hope for.

A simpler solution, menu creation-wise (although more cumbersome for authoring and distribution) would be to develop two separate discs. One for scope and one for 16:9 format screens.

-Suntan

Not to make this project even more complicated, but is there any desire to showcase full resolution still images as a sort of High-Def slide-show? One possible option would be a “Ken Burns Effect” slide show put to music?

Not to toot my own horn, but I do have a decent collection of stills from a couple of different genres (landscape, wildlife, racing, etc.) that I would offer up royalty free if there’s interest.

-Suntan

Would this approach work for your own situation?

This seems a perfect solution IMO. Thanks for the thought you guys are putting into this.

Wow, really nice job so far!

The menus and such look more professional than any disk I have seen!

And the approach for the scope is perfect, imo.

Not to make this project even more complicated, but is there any desire to showcase full resolution still images as a sort of High-Def slide-show? One possible option would be a “Ken Burns Effect” slide show put to music?

Not to toot my own horn, but I do have a decent collection of stills from a couple of different genres (landscape, wildlife, racing, etc.) that I would offer up royalty free if there’s interest.

-Suntan
Suntan,

Interesting idea. We might be able to use a slideshow as one the "clips" under the Eye Candy category. PM me so we can discuss offline.

Not to make this project even more complicated, but is there any desire to showcase full resolution still images as a sort of High-Def slide-show? One possible option would be a “Ken Burns Effect” slide show put to music?

Not to toot my own horn, but I do have a decent collection of stills from a couple of different genres (landscape, wildlife, racing, etc.) that I would offer up royalty free if there’s interest.

-Suntan

I've done a disc like that before for a photographer friend of mine (http://natcoalson.com/). Whether to include that in this series will be up to Steve.

swithy; NismoZ and I collaborated on picking a lot of those scenes (on page 6)... I feel we went for scenes that had both LFE and surrounds. Unfortunately, my sub is just not good enough to give me a solid handle on LFE right now. :-( I am taking donations for an SVS...

I concur on the aspect approach too.

great ideas guys. I'm subscribing to follow this thread.

Would this approach work for your own situation?
I've got mixed feelings on this. The more I think about it the less I like it unless I misunderstood. If the material is going to be a mix (1.78, and "scope"), then I'd rather have some extra decision to get it going on the front end. I'd ust prefer the menu "fit" in either scenario. That is, make the menu so the buttons aren't obscured when in scope mode.

I may have misunderstood the intention as I admit to just skimming the suggestion (sorry). That said, if you are going to segregate the material below the aspect selections between "Scope" and 1.78:1 then I can see the utility of having the selection. For me the switch takes 1 second so not a big deal, but for a "zoomer"... different perspective. But in this case, you need representative subject material (e.g subwoofer demo) in 2.3x:1 and 1.78:1. You end up with double work, sort of 2 DVD's in one.

GetGray,

As I understand it would be similar to selecting a theatrical version of a movie or an unrated version for example. You typically would select this just before the movies goes to menus. Same idea, select if you want 16:9 or 2:35, then the menu on out will be set to the proper AR.

The material won't be segregated for vertical stretch you'll simply get some clipping top and bottom. Zoomers are the ones that would suffer I believe.

I've got mixed feelings on this. The more I think about it the less I like it unless I misunderstood. If the material is going to be a mix (1.78, and "scope"), then I'd rather have some extra decision to get it going on the front end. I'd ust prefer the menu "fit" in either scenario. That is, make the menu so the buttons aren't obscured when in scope mode.

I may have misunderstood the intention as I admit to just skimming the suggestion (sorry). That said, if you are going to segregate the material below the aspect selections between "Scope" and 1.78:1 then I can see the utility of having the selection. For me the switch takes 1 second so not a big deal, but for a "zoomer"... different perspective. But in this case, you need representative subject material (e.g subwoofer demo) in 2.3x:1 and 1.78:1. You end up with double work, sort of 2 DVD's in one.

Let me try to clarify. First, all of the clips can be selected individually which would meet your desire to "have some extra decision to get it going on the front end".

The content will not intentionally be segregated by aspect ratio. However, most of the Blu-Ray movie content in the LFE and Surround categories by default will be 2.3x:1. This isn't a problem for folks who are 1.78:1 because when they currently play a 2.3x:1 Blu-Ray (or any other scope formatted SD flick) they just get the horizontal black bars. Nothing new for them here.

In a nutshell there would be:

- Two menu aspect ratios: the initial selection at load takes you into either a scope or 16:9 formatted menu system
- A single HD version of each of the content clips: both menus systems point at the same content

GetGray,

As I understand it would be similar to selecting a theatrical version of a movie or an unrated version for example. You typically would select this just before the movies goes to menus. Same idea, select if you want 16:9 or 2:35, then the menu on out will be set to the proper AR.

The material won't be segregated for vertical stretch you'll simply get some clipping top and bottom. Zoomers are the ones that would suffer I believe.

Yes - this poses a problem for zoomers when they decide to pull up a 1.78:1 clip (assuming they start out zoomed and select the scope menu). However, the category menus (links to HD version) (http://swithey.gotdns.org/swithey/ht/avs/HDPreview-LFEv1-Full.jpg) contain an indication of the aspect ratio for each clip. If you have a memory function it will be easier to toggle. If you are manually making adjustments (manual sled and/or PJ w/o zoom or AR memory) you are probably already used to "the process".

Steve is on top of all this (and is scope if you didn't already know). One of the intial goals for this disc was to be "portable" and serve a variety of uses. So unless that goal is removed I think this setup might just work.

We want everyone's feedback before a decision is made. So please chime in with your thoughts.

P.S. We have talked about "2.3x:1 only" discs in a future series - perhaps a "CinemaScope" series. That is certainly a way off right now.

As long as the menu is quick I wouldn't object to the extra click.

i concur on the aspect approach too.

+1

How hard is the authoring? If we wanted, could we modify the background with our own images?

CJ

I know I'm a little late to the party, but here's my 2¢.

Scenes: Casino Royale Chapter 2; 00:10:40 to 00:16:20 (the freerunning intro) Great scenery, especially the crane part. One explosion at 00:12:26.

Casino Royale Chapter 16; 02:18:40 to 02:20:06 (the Bond. James Bond part) Also great scenery; the helicopter pan of the chateaux is stunning.

Disc format: AVCHD on DVD9. I'm not interested in watching a whole movie, just some scenes to rock the house.

Thanks.

-Marc

I know I'm a little late to the party, but here's my 2¢.

Not late at all! While the discussion has been focused lately on the menu design, we still need more input regarding the clips. Folks should chime in with confirmations of already submitted clips, or provide their own favorites just like you have done. :D

How hard is the authoring? If we wanted, could we modify the background with our own images?

CJ

You have PM. :)

Guys i have great news! :D


With the talks about where to seed from, an idea popped into my head.


I emailed the ceo of my ISP (a Canadian company who's actually in touch with their user base... they actually hosted some game servers for us not too long ago) and asked him if he could donate some server space/transit to seed this and they said sure!


when you guys get this finished up let me know and i'll work with them to get it hosted for torrents :) Should be a pretty fast connection. Guessing here, but i think they have 100mbps available.. maybe more?

Wow, that's great news Mike.

CJ

Guys i have great news! :D


With the talks about where to seed from, an idea popped into my head.


I emailed the ceo of my ISP (a Canadian company who's actually in touch with their user base... they actually hosted some game servers for us not too long ago) and asked him if he could donate some server space/transit to seed this and they said sure!


when you guys get this finished up let me know and i'll work with them to get it hosted for torrents :) Should be a pretty fast connection. Guessing here, but i think they have 100mbps available.. maybe more?

Thanks so much Mike! We'll be in touch with you when we get to that point.

I think the choice of menu AR is the best way to go. It gets my vote.

I think the choice of menu AR is the best way to go. It gets my vote.

mine too, i'm using a 16:9 ratio display (58B650)

Menu approach sounds great to me too. This project is coming together nicely! Thanks Steve, Audixium.. keep up the great work!

I can't wait :-D

Wow I can't wait for this, I have a blu ray and anydvdhd if there is anything I can help out with just shoot me a PM.

Wow I can't wait for this, I have a blu ray and anydvdhd if there is anything I can help out with just shoot me a PM.
Thanks BigCity. I'll put you on the list.

Draft screen shots look great!

Mini Menu is a great idea!

Server space at 100mbps is AWESOME!

Looking forward to it.

If you guys need some stills I have a few as well. ;)

Draft screen shots look great!

Mini Menu is a great idea!

Server space at 100mbps is AWESOME!

Looking forward to it.

If you guys need some stills I have a few as well. ;)
Thanks Mike. Yes, we may need some more shots. I'll add you to the list and contact you when the time is right.

First, all I can say is WOW! You guys look to be knocking this one out of the park! A little extra incentive for me to finalize my theatre design and start building...

As I understand the current menu setup, you can choose to scroll through LFE, Surround, etc. by choosing that category from the main menu. Will it be possible to jump to a different category without exiting back to the main menu, such as by pressing the "up" or "down" remote buttons?

Looking forward to this disc's completion. I've never actually done any file sharing of any kind, but I may just have to learn how to help out on this one. Let me know.

A Drum Roll Please…..

After a weekend of hard work and many drafts, I believe we have the design down for the newest member of the HT Demo family. Before I continue, I want to extend a HUGE “Thank You” to our official HD demo graphic designer Audixium/Erik. I believe his work speaks for itself.

Official Disc Name: HD Preview Disc: Combination Series I

Main Menu (Draft)
http://swithey.gotdns.org/swithey/ht/avs/HDPreview-Mainv1.jpg (http://swithey.gotdns.org/swithey/ht/avs/HDPreview-Mainv1-Full.jpg)
(Click on picture above for Full-Size Version)

Comments: We’ve expanded the categories to include LFE, Surround, Eye Candy, and Music.


LFE Category (Draft)
http://swithey.gotdns.org/swithey/ht/avs/HDPreview-LFEv1.jpg (http://swithey.gotdns.org/swithey/ht/avs/HDPreview-LFEv1-Full.jpg)
(Click on picture above for Full-Size Version)

Comments: Please note that the movies pictured above are not necessarily the ones that will be used on the final disc. This is just a representation of what it will look like. As far as navigation, the idea will be that you select the DVD cover along the bottom and the info above changes based on that selection. The picture at the top will actually be an 8-10 second video loop of the scene you are about to view.


Background Images: Yes, that is SandmanX/Ruben's room in the background. We are still awaiting permission to use it on the final disc. The plan is to use various AVSers HT rooms as background throughout the disc. The backgrounds will be randomized so we can use a number of different theaters on the DVD. If you would like yours considered for the DVD, please PM me a link where I can download a high-resolution version of your room (ideally 1920x1080 or higher). We’ll want your “money shot” – most commonly from the rear looking toward the front at an angle (similar to what we have now).

First, all I can say is WOW! You guys look to be knocking this one out of the park! A little extra incentive for me to finalize my theatre design and start building...

As I understand the current menu setup, you can choose to scroll through LFE, Surround, etc. by choosing that category from the main menu. Will it be possible to jump to a different category without exiting back to the main menu, such as by pressing the "up" or "down" remote buttons?
I'm glad you like the design. We plan to have the disc ready by Nov/Dec -- so you have a few months to get your theater completed :D

As for your navigation question, I do not know if you can do that with keys (up/down or something else). We'll know more once we get to the authoring stage. Thanks for the idea.

I really have been wanting this badly. I hate having to flip through so many different discs to show things off.

Planet Earth episode where the Great White Sharks breach and eat the seals.
It's the Oceans episode as seen here:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=n-t2ayKadD0

Opening scene of Saving Private Ryan for LFE and Surround.

How were you planning to share this out once it is completed? I would assume the file will be quite large once complete, so a 70kb upload from a FTP server might take, well, forever. Were you going to author it and send it to folks, or would it be made a torrent and shared like that? Just curious as I did not see it mentioned at it is certainly worth some thought.

How were you planning to share this out once it is completed? I would assume the file will be quite large once complete, so a 70kb upload from a FTP server might take, well, forever. Were you going to author it and send it to folks, or would it be made a torrent and shared like that? Just curious as I did not see it mentioned at it is certainly worth some thought.


i've got it covered ;)

http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?p=17071734#post17071734

I second the great white breach!

That is an awesome scene!

i've got it covered ;)

http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?p=17071734#post17071734

Thats excellent

Disc: Nine Inch Nails - Beside You In Time (bluray)
Track: Terrible Lie
Time: 00:7:15 - 00:12:10
Format: TrueHD/1080p

KungFu Panda - TrueHD
Chapter 8 00:22:40 - 00:23:20
Chapter 21 1:16:00 on till end of battle (Skidoosh)

Coraline - DTS:MA
00:03:25 - 05:46:00 (Thunder and visuals)

Great Project, how can i get on?

Thanks
Andi

Great Project, how can i get on?

Thanks
Andi

Just keep checkign this thead, it's going to be a while before the disc is done. Do you have any blurays that you can give us clips from? Only the good stuff.

Is there anything I can do to help? I haven't seen any updates in a while. Are you still wanting more content suggestions? Or are you going to lock that down and move on to content acquisition?

Sorry I'm late to this thread but wow, such amazing work thus far. I would love to be added to the list if possible. Please let me know if I can help in any way.

- Mark

hello count me in. I am in the SF Bay Area (in case there is any local work to be done too).

Azi

I'm in also, awesome job guys! Wow !! That's gona be fun to watch! I can help with anything. I can do graphics, photoshop etc... etc... let me know if I can do something usefull for once!!

Cheers guys, can't wait to see the end result!

EDIT: 1 suggestion, there are incredible images in the Imax movie: The last Buffalo. The eagle scene and the bear scene are possibly the cleaness video I've seen in a long time! Just a suggestion!

Sorry for that Question, are the timestamp on german blu-ray's (region b) the same as region a? I'm looking for some great scenes for your project.

Music: HitMan David Foster and frieds, a song with Michael Buble is really great and has a good picture quality.

kind regards
Andi

KungFu Panda - TrueHD
Chapter 8 00:22:40 - 00:23:20
Chapter 21 1:16:00 on till end of battle (Skidoosh)

Coraline - DTS:MA
00:03:25 - 05:46:00 (Thunder and visuals)
Thanks for the post. Do you know the best category for each of the KungFu Panda clips?

I'm in also, awesome job guys! Wow !! That's gona be fun to watch! I can help with anything. I can do graphics, photoshop etc... etc... let me know if I can do something usefull for once!!

Cheers guys, can't wait to see the end result!

EDIT: 1 suggestion, there are incredible images in the Imax movie: The last Buffalo. The eagle scene and the bear scene are possibly the cleaness video I've seen in a long time! Just a suggestion!
Thanks for your office to help with the graphics end of things. Just get in touch with our head designer Audixium/Erik and let him know you are there to help.

On the Buffalo scene, would you be able to give us a time stamp for that scene?

Sorry for that Question, are the timestamp on german blu-ray's (region b) the same as region a? I'm looking for some great scenes for your project.

Music: HitMan David Foster and frieds, a song with Michael Buble is really great and has a good picture quality.

kind regards
Andi

Not sure if there is any difference. Just post what you have and we'll make any time adjustments on the US/Reg1 version if needed.

On the David Foster song, is is available on Blu-Ray? I looked and only saw it on standard DVD (http://www.shoppbs.org/product/index.jsp?productId=3379659).

Sorry I'm late to this thread but wow, such amazing work thus far. I would love to be added to the list if possible. Please let me know if I can help in any way.

- Mark

hello count me in. I am in the SF Bay Area (in case there is any local work to be done too).

Azi
Thanks for your offer to help. If you wanted to help with design, please PM Audixium/Erik. If you can supply content, please PM me.

What about the fight scene in Hellboy II with the forest god I think it was, I know it's around the one hour mark. My theater is the construction phase thus I have no way of checking it otherwise I would get it myself, can any one give the time stamps for that scene? It would be great for both visuals and for the subwoofer low end.

A few updated design pics for everyone....

Here is the first draft of the Aspect Ratio Selection Screen. This will be the 1st thing you see when you put in the disc. Hopefully this will make all you "Scope" guys happy :D

http://swithey.gotdns.org/swithey/ht/avs/HDPreview-SelectAspectRatiov1.jpg (http://swithey.gotdns.org/swithey/ht/avs/HDPreview-SelectAspectRatiov1-Full.jpg)
(Click on picture above for Full-Size Version)


And here is the scope (2.35:1) version of the Main Menu.
http://swithey.gotdns.org/swithey/ht/avs/HDPreview-Mainv1-Scope.jpg (http://swithey.gotdns.org/swithey/ht/avs/HDPreview-Mainv1-Scope-Full.jpg)
(Click on picture above for Full-Size Version)

The design pics look great - nice work. I continue to be impressed at how well thought out and executed this project has been so far. Are you still in need of content suggestions? If so, are there any content areas where you are more in need of suggestions than others? The technical part of this project is well beyond me. However, I can watch movies in my room now, and will gladly make that sacrifice:), if needed.

Definitely like the AR selection screen. That's exactly what I (and I think most of us here) was thinking.

I didn't even think about it before, but now I could use it easily with both my 61" setup, and my future dedicated "scope" room. Very cool.

Thanks for your office to help with the graphics end of things. Just get in touch with our head designer Audixium/Erik and let him know you are there to help.

On the Buffalo scene, would you be able to give us a time stamp for that scene?

YEP, well I have the movie recorded in HD on my DVR. Starting from the very first shot of the movie, the footage I'm talking about is playing at about 4m30s into the movie and has a duration of about 3m30s. You can see a field scenery followed by a deer, followed by an eagle, then by a vison, then by a lake trout or salmon, then by the bear! All those shots are footage of incredible quality.

THX!

I can host on a ftp server when the time comes. Let me know if you need me.

g

+1 offering help...

At Cedia - SMX booth demo had a scene from the newer Hulk starting with shooting in tear gas then through to the part with the dude saying - is that all you got.

Those sound cannons shook the room and sounded amazing and lots of machine guns, 50 cal machine guns and explosions. I can post exact timing if you are interested. It was a very good action sequence.

Planet earth shark scene was shot with a 720p camera, no?


Not really appropriate on a 1080p demo disc.

At Cedia - SMX booth demo had a scene from the newer Hulk starting with shooting in tear gas then through to the part with the dude saying - is that all you got.

Those sound cannons shook the room and sounded amazing and lots of machine guns, 50 cal machine guns and explosions. I can post exact timing if you are interested. It was a very good action sequence.

+1 !!!! I was there also and loved it --- awesome action scene !!!!

At Cedia - SMX booth demo had a scene from the newer Hulk starting with shooting in tear gas then through to the part with the dude saying - is that all you got.

Those sound cannons shook the room and sounded amazing and lots of machine guns, 50 cal machine guns and explosions. I can post exact timing if you are interested. It was a very good action sequence.

Lets get that timestamp!

I would LOVE to have a disc like the one you guys are describing... You can never have enough demo material to show off with!