Kadokawa Daiei Studio Enhances Virtual Production

Kadokawa Daiei Studio Co. Ltd., a prestigious video and film production studio based in Tokyo, Japan, has unveiled its cutting-edge facility, No.C Stage.

This state-of-the-art virtual production studio now features Brompton 4K Tessera SX40 LED processors and Tessera XD 10G distribution units powering Sony Crystal LED VERONA, marking a significant investment in advanced LED display technology. These enhancements are designed to elevate the studio's capabilities in in-camera visual effects (VFX), enabling the creation of immersive, high-quality virtual environments for films, commercials, and other creative projects.

Kadokawa Daiei Studio, part of the KADOKAWA Group, has consistently been at the forefront of innovation, blending cutting-edge technology with traditional art production expertise. The studio is set to install a Sony Crystal LED VERONA LED wall, measuring 15 metres wide by five metres high, to facilitate its next-generation virtual production services. These immersive LED panels, driven by Brompton 4K Tessera SX40 LED video processors and Tessera XD 10G data distribution units, will provide filmmakers with a dynamic and flexible platform to shoot in-camera VFX, eliminating the need for green screens and enhancing the realism of virtual environments.

Brompton's LED video processors ensure seamless image control and colour accuracy for the large LED display, which features an innovative electric winch system allowing adjustable vertical movement for enhanced flexibility in content production. This adaptability is further supported by the studio's award-winning creative art department, which expertly integrates real-world set designs with virtual assets to create cohesive artistic environments. The advanced virtual production setup also includes the Mo-Sys StarTracker Max for highly accurate camera tracking, Unreal Engine 4.27 to 5.3 powered by Nvidia RTX 6000 Ada graphics cards for real-time rendering and complex simulations, and the Sony PCL ZOET® 4 system, delivering smooth, high-quality video playback across diverse production needs.

"With our 6K-resolution Sony Crystal LED VERONA panels paired with Brompton Tessera SX40 LED processors, we are able to offer unparalleled colour calibration, precise frame store capabilities, and fast adjustments via custom presets on a StreamDeck controller," said Billy Rameau, Technical Director at Kadokawa Daiei Studio. "With an emphasis on reliability and stability, the Brompton LED processors have been selected for their exceptional performance across various LED panel providers, ensuring Kadokawa Daiei Studio can meet the demands of high-end virtual production."

In addition to its technological advancements, Kadokawa Daiei Studio is committed to sustainability. By utilising Sony Crystal LED VERONA panels for virtual sets, the studio aims to reduce traditional art set waste by up to 50 percent, contributing to a reduction in greenhouse gas emissions and supporting KADOKAWA Group’s broader environmental goals. The integration of these energy-efficient systems reflects the studio’s dedication to addressing climate change and promoting eco-conscious production practices.

The studio itself spans an area of 550 square metres, with a ceiling height of eight metres, providing ample space for a variety of productions. It is equipped with a robust power supply of 180 kW, supporting both 100V and 200V configurations.

Kadokawa Daiei Studio is currently focused on producing high-quality commercial content, including promotional videos and commercials. However, the studio is poised to expand into feature films and global OTT content, leveraging its expertise in virtual production to create engaging content for international audiences. By blending real and virtual worlds, Kadokawa Daiei Studio aims to redefine storytelling with innovative and visually stunning cinematic experiences.

www.bromptontech.com