Audio Video News

Starz is making a big move to improve quality and expand their HD offerings. They're going to start using the MPEG-4 codecs instead of their current MPEG-2 systems. This will effect their complete lineup of HD channels: Starz HD, Starz Kids and Family HD, Starz Edge HD, and Starz Comedy HD, in addition to the soon-to-be launched Encore HD.

What's the difference between MPEG-4 and MPEG-2?

Motorola is implementing the new four-channel HD MPEG-4/AVC system for Starz. MPEG-4 is the codec used for Blu-ray discs, while MPEG-2 is used on standard DVD, but MPEG-4 is more efficient. MPEG-4/AVC can handle 1920 x 1080i or 1280 x 720p with half the bandwidth required by similar MPEG-2 signal.

According to Motorola, this move will allow Starz to expand the HD channel count without using up more transponder space.  Motorola will be providing new satellite receivers/transcoders that will allow a seamless transition.-Leslie Shapiro

Via CNN