What is Print Master QC?
Print Master QC evaluates the discrete .wav original language mixPrint Master audio as delivered into Content Hub. The picture reference used for this QC is the same as that of M&E QC. It is an audio-only evaluation to identify any and all technical errors impacting the mix.
Why was Print Master QC implemented?
Previously, Netflix only covered the QC of original language Print Master audio as part of the native IMF delivery. QC rejections and necessary audio redeliveries often come too late as a result of waiting until the final IMF is available. In many cases, the original language mix will be completed and available much earlier than the finalized picture. So, Netflix identified an opportunity to support earlier QC notes as soon as the mix is ready to allow for audio fixes and approval of the audio prior to IMF packaging.
Print Master + M&E QC
Print Master and/or M&E QC requests may include any combination of full, spot or fix check tasks of one or both assets. For more information on these modes, please check this article. It’s important to pay attention to the specific task(s) and asset(s) identified in the QC request.
In many cases, the M&E QC will require a comparative pass against thePrint Master to identify discrepancies between overall levels, treatment, music cues, effects fill, etc. When this is the case, and whenever mix and delivery timing allows, we will typically combine the QC of the Print Master and the M&E into a single request (see example below). This joint request will be grouped under the Print Master QC umbrella, but the tasks and assets required will also encompass the M&E. The logic here is that if we are holding for the Print Master audio to allow for a comparative pass, the integrity pass of the Print Master audio can and should be included in the same request. By including both assets in a single, joint QC, it allows QC operators to easily cross check issues between the original language Print Master and M&E and specifically call out when issues impact one or both. It also consolidates all audio issues into a single set of results for production. They don’t need to cross reference two separate QC reports on their end to coordinate fixes with their mix team(s).
When a comparative pass is not required, we will separate the Print Master and M&E QC requests. The logic here is that we should not hold QC for one asset or the other, if we have identified there is not a need to compare the two mixes against one another. This will typically occur when the M&E is not being used to specifically source dubbed language audio for Netflix. In those instances, the M&E is strictly an archival asset and as such, may not be as timely a delivery as the original language Print Master. We want to facilitate QC of the Print Master audio by itself as soon as it is available.
There are also scenarios where regardless of whether a comparative pass is intended, timing of the delivery of both assets may not coincide. For example, some sound facilities/mixers prefer to receive a fully approved QC for the Print Master before they proceed with mixing the M&E. In those instances, we may need to complete the QC of the Print Master ahead of the delivery of the M&E. However, the M&E may still require a subsequent QC and include a comparative pass against the Print Master once it delivers. While this scenario falls outside of the expected and intended workflow, we allow for this using manual request creation by our Asset Specialists.
