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News.gif   Casablanca News & Updates


2/18/10: MSUS announces the Hiring of Philip Bice as new Vice President of Marketing & Sales
MacroSystem US announces the hire of Philip Bice to the position of Vice President of Sales and Marketing, helping to ensure MacroSystem’s profitable growth in North and South America. Bice will have responsibility for all pro-active customer facing activities including marketing initiatives, sales efforts, and supporting the dealer network.  Read the entire press release in the Casablanca Expert Blog here - along with some biographical information on Philip Bice


1/6/10: Macrosystem US Releases Smart Edit 8.3 for NTSC
Check this page for details & download file/s


1/6/10: Macrosystem DE Releases Smart Edit 9 and Bogart V3 update in PAL
Macrosystem AG announced the release of two new Operating System version today:
Smart Edit V9.0. For details - click here (in German language - use Google Translator for assistance)
Bogart OS SE Version 3.1.  For details - click here.


12/21/09: Macrosystem DE Releases Store 'n' Share software in PAL
Macrosystem AG announced the release of the Store 'n' Share software... with the very cool ability to use an externally connected (USB) hard drive with Bogart SE v2 or v3 as an alternative to the internal hard drive.  The Store'n'Share software can save your projects directly to the external hard drive. Read details on the MS AG website here.

12/7/09: Macrosystem DE Releases new Bogart OS (V3) software in PAL
Macrosystem AG announced the release of the new Bogart SE Version 3 Operating System. At the present time - the information is only available

12/5/09: Macrosystem US Releases Add-on Software & Updates for Bogart OS
MSUS Announced today the release of several add-on software products for NTSC customers.  The long awaited Blue Box World for Bogart OS owners is here!  Smart Edit OS customers are advised to read the notes for each program prior to updating.  You can view these details and access the download link/s on the MSUS Website here: http://macrosystem.us/index.php?pr=Add-Ons
  • Blue Box World  V 1.1.  For Bogart and SmartEdit. 
  • Particle Magic  V 1.1  - Bogart and SmartEdit. 
  • Photo Studio 2 V 2.2a - Bogart and SmartEdit. 
  • Big Maps XXL
  • FlagX 1 - Bogart Only. 
  • Flag X America

1/6/09: Macrosystem US Release Smart Edit 8.3 Update
MSUS announces the NTSC release of this (long-awaited) Smart Edit update.  This software is free to any customer already using Smart Edit Version 8

Items addressed in this OS update:
-Wrong colors displayed while trimming and playing back scenes on a Claro fixed.
-Enhanced playback on Claro.
-Ksebara works now with DVD-Arabesk 3
-Playing in the Audio-Mix envelope begins near selected position.
-Title Effects with 4 lines of controls will now properly display in single analog mode.
-Moving the playback controls or the Trim menu up or down on the screen no longer shows a gray box where the menu used to be.
-Filters that won't properly work in the Effect Stack now will be blocked out.
-Improvements to recognizing USB thumb drives in the Backup Archives menu.

Smart Edit V8.3 Release Notes (PDF)

Click here for the download links for NTSC Smart Edit 8 OS Software

12/5/09: Macrosystem US President Addresses Concerns/Question about MS AG Acquisition
MSUS President Eric Kloor shares his views & optimism following the announcement of the Lowew/Macrosystem AG business arrangement.  You can read Eric Kloor's message in this post on my Casablanca Expert Blog.
12/1/09: Macrosystem AG Acquisition Announced
This morning on the Cassie Tips List, Jorg Sprave announced the acquisition of a major share of Macrosystem AG by the German Consumer Electronics company Loewe AG.  You can read Jorg's announcement, some info on Loewe and my brief thoughts on my Casablanca Expert Blog here .

11/20/09:  MSDE Announces Top New Features - Bogart SE 3, SE 9

Jorg Sprave, CEO of MacroSystem DE made the following announcement this morningl (note that some features are Bogart only - noted by BogartSE) :

"As always around this time of the year, we are getting closer to release the big updates. BogartSE is now in its third incarnation, and SmartEdit is in the 9th version!

As usual, I share the features with the members of the Cassie Tips list first. So, here is a list of the most important new features. Technical changes may happen and this is not a guarantee, just the most likely feature list we have at this time. Beta testing is still going on.

1.    Real time audio (BogartSE, SE)

2.    Effect rendering much accelerated (BogartSE, SE)

3.     SD material can be directly recorded into an HD project, and the other way round (BogartSE only)

4.    In addition to the existing 1440x1080 HD project resolution, now there is 1920x1080 and 1280x720 as well (the last one is nice for Youtube projects), you can record HD and SD  material into any of these project sizes now (BogartSE only)

5.    Direct import if all the Media Manager formats into BogartSE (includes DivX and MP4), no need to go through Media Manager (BogartSE only)

6.    The effect stack now generates genuine operators that show up like the other FX

7.    Multiple scene rows now also in the 1280x720 and 1280x1024 screen resolutions (BogartSE, SE)

8.    Audio editing completely reworked. Many new features. Audio envelope directly available in the audio timeline, just click and change (real time, BogartSE, SE)

9.    Audio samples can now be moved between the audio tracks (BogartSE, SE)

10.    Over steerings in the audio edit menu can now be detected (new button)
(BogartSE, SE)

11.    A project can now be copied, with all scenes, effects and audio samples, into another (empty) project (BogartSE, SE)

12.    The clip board can now be evoked with one click (new button, BogartSE, SE)

13.    New play mode shows the current scene name and icon while playing (BogartSE, SE)

14.    Reworked, clean settings menu (BogartSE, SE)

15.    HDBackup (optional) can now be started from the main menu (BogartSE, SE)

As always, many smaller fixes and new features in addition to this list.

Hope you like it!
Jorg Sprave"


11/16/09:  MSUS Releases Bogart 2 OS Update to NTSC Customers
MacroSystem US has today released a new version of the Bogart 2 Operating System.  This new update is free to customers who have the Bogart 2 OS  - you can download the update on the MSUS website here

Please note there is also a 2-page PDF document titled Bogart 2.4c Release Notes you can download and review here

Here is a list of the changes and fixes from Bogart SE v2.3e to v2.4c:
- VGA modes fixed. Most 2 monitor solutions should work.
- With DVD-Arabesk v4.6 the "DVD" button for a virtual preview can be used.
- The current input setting is listed in the Recording menu when there is no video signal.
- The Mix/Range Panel is bigger to show the scene name.
- The emergency VGA switch (see notes from 2.3e) goes to 1280x720p.
- Export from Bogart to MM reworked.
- Support for the Smart Edit used HP printers.
- PowerKey combination (ctrl alt del) now switches the machine off.
- Supports the Pioneer DVR-218
- Firewire support for Sony DHR 1000
- Other minor fixes added
- NEW: In the Envelope/Range menu, it is possible to switch between sample and storyboard.

MediaManager
-  If you are using a two button mouse, hold both mouse buttons to get a help
  menu.

11/16/09:  MSUS Releases Add-on Software for NTSC Customers
The following new software updates are now available from MacroSystem US for NTSC Customers:
  • Arabesk 4.6
  • Bogart HD Backup 1.3
  • HD Mix V1.0c
  • SplitX Celebration  V1.1
  • Ultimate Spice Box  V1.0c
  • Ultimate Spice Box HDV V1.0c
For a complete description of these add-on software updates and to download the latest all -software CD, please see this MSUS Webpage.

11/13/09:  MS DE Product Show in Europe/ News about upcoming software

On the MS DE Website I noticed the following post (translated from German language)
From November 14 - December 2, 2009 Macrosystem DE is hosting a series of events in Germany, Austria & Switzerland to share some of the latest and forthcoming software for the Casablanca (and the Enterprise Home Entertainment System).
The agenda includes:
Smart Edit 9 & Bogart 3 - software for 2nd & 3rd generation editors
Store 'n' Share - Editing with external hard drives for Casablanca
Caladan - Graphic & Print System for Bogart SE
Macro System 2010 - 20 years MacroSystem and so it goes ...
Also showing will be Photo Studio 3 and Columbus 3


When asked on the Cassie Tips List about a teaser or preview of what the new features might be in the new OS, here is the latest reply from Jörg Sprave:

"Hold on a little longer guys. We are finalizing the feature list right now, will be published soon.  I can give you a little 'appetizer' : Real time audio, audio editing completely reworked and much more intuitive now! Both SmartEdit AND BogartSE.
Jörg Sprave"
11/2/09:  MSUS Sales & Pricing for November 2009
  • "For the month of November we're giving away free software with the purchase of an S-2000 or an S-4100."  
You can read more about this offer on the MSUS News Page.
  • "Join Club Casablanca during November and get 14 months for the price of 12" Click here for details
Details on the Club Casablanca web page
10/28/09:  MSUS announces new Tech Support Fees starting 11/1/09 & Changes in Software Support Fees
Beginning November 1, 2009, MacroSystem US will be charging for Technical Support. Phone Support will be available for $.75 per minute. Email Support will be available for $5 per issue or $10 for a message addressing multiple issues.  You will also have the option of purchasing a Support Contract. A Support Contract will provide you with phone and email support for $249 per year.


Free Support options:
Our website features answers to some of the most frequently asked questions.  You can find them on the MacroSystem US website here

There are some other great options available for free support. Please check out the Casablanca Forum and the Cassie Tips List. Both offer fast and free answers to your Casablanca questions.

Your local Casablanca Dealer can be a great source of information as well.
Other Support options - Check out Chet Davis' Casablanca Expert website

10/29/09: Columbus 3 for Bogart Released in NSTC
The well known Columbus 2 has been updated to Columbus 3 which is modified to work with Bogart V2.  The modifications in this version include a few new buttons to create new objects that are separate from key points.  This even includes the ability to place a new object like a sizable PIP scene on a map route.
**Columbus 3 requires Bogart SE version 2.3 or higher to operate

Pricing:
Full Version - US $229.00
Update Pricing* - US $119.00
*Update pricing is for current Columbus 2 owners.
 

Editors Note: I comment on both the above news items in my Casablanca Expert Blog here

9/16/09: Bogart OS, DVD Arabesk 4, Bogart HD-Backup Updates Released in PAL
Macrosystem DE has released the following updates to the Bogart OS in PAL. 
NTSC cutomers - these products are in testing and the good news is that these updates will become available to you as well once released by MSUS.

Bogart SE v2.4 - Update
Bogart SE
- VGA modes fixed. Most 2 monitor solutions should work.
- Installation fixed for used screenmode.
- With DVD-Arabesk v4.6 there is a preview possible.
- The input is shown in the record menu while there is no signal.
- NEW: In the Envelope/Range menu it is possible to switch between sample and storyboard.
- The Mix/Range Panel is bigger to show the scene name.
- The emergency VGA switch goes to 1280x720p.
- DVD-writer was sometimes not recognized. Fixed. 
- Export from Bogart to MM reworked
- DV transmission to PC reworked.


MediaManager
-  If you are using a two button mouse hold booth mouse buttons to get a help.


DVD-Arabesk v4.6 - Update     
- It is possible to use a preview before writing the DVD (via Media manager in Bogart OS)
- Much faster rendering - depending on the Casablanca up to 3× (for Bogart OS)
- A little visual disturbance was fixed (needs Bogart SE v2.4 or the coming soon SmartEdit v8.3)

HD-Backup Bogart v1.2 - Update
- Reworked for Bogart SE v2.4
 
8/14/09: MSUS Releases new Bogart 2 and Arabesk 4 update

Bogart v2.3e - Changes/Fixes
-A problem with WinterX could damage the Image pool. Fixed.
-Field swap while HD->SD conversion. Fixed.
-Changes for Media Manager import/export.
-Some bug fixes for VGA-2-Monitor.
-Firmware update for Pioneer BDR-203 v1.10
-Sometimes the video mode for Bogart or MM was changed during an installation. Fixed.

-It is possible to change the MM screen mode with an emergency switch. Go to MM main menu (Just from Bogart main menu click the button "Media Manager" at the front display you will see "main menu".) Now you will press and hold the right mouse button for 5sec., at the front display you will see "Display: SCART" for example and you are able to click once the left button than to switch to DVI.

-The possibility to emergency switch the Bogart screen has changed. Go to Bogart main menu. At the front display you will see "MacroSystem". Now you will press and hold the right mouse button for 5sec., at the front display you will see "Display: SCART" for example and you are able to click once the left button than to switch to DVI and VGA.

-Download the OS Update click here (NTSC Only)
- Bogart SE OS 2.3e Release Notes available - click here .

DVD-Arabesk v4.5 - Changes/Fixes
A bug fix for HD->SD conversion. Please remember that you have to use Bogart SE v2.3e and DVD-Arabesk v4.5 to fix the field swap.

Download the new All Software CD here (NTSC Only)

7/2/09: MSUS Announces Release of new Bogart SE OS 2!
From MacroSystem US "This new version greatly improves the stability of the Bogart platform".
Download this new software here http://macrosystem.us/index.php?pr=Bogart

Some of the fixes & new features are as follows:
- DV input with perfect preview display
- Analog input in high quality and with perfect preview: no video/audio sync issues
- Quadcam fix for both HD and SD
- HDV: perfect preview (no audio yet, but that's coming soon)
- XDCAM (Sony PMW-EX1/3) import directly into Bogart
- Many smaller issues solved
- XDCAM support also covers the new JVC camcorders that can record in XDCAM mode as well
The MSUS Offices have sent a free CD with this newly updated software and release notes to all currently registered NTSC owners.


7/2/09: MSUS Announces Release of several new Add-on Software Products
* Arabesk V4.4 (for Bogart):  Allows burning of HD projects in "AVHCD" format
    - Primer for this new process click here to download this 2-page PDF document
* HD-Backup Bogart V1.1 - Update (Bogart Only)
* Photo-Transfer V1.9 - Update (for Bogart)
* Photo Studio 2 V2.2- Update (for Bogart)
* QuadCam V1.3 - Update (for Bogart and SmartEdit)
* Twin X V1.0d (for Bogart and SmartEdit)

Read more about the specifics of these new software releases on the Casablanca Forum here
You can download the new All-Software (add-on) ISO Image file here
http://macrosystem.us/index.php?pr=Add-Ons

 
7/6/09:  Comment of Further Development for Casablanca II products
Althought it is not official news, the following post and reply (from Macrosystem CEO Jörg Sprave) is a question I have been asked by a number of folks so I thought it pertinent to share with you here:
"I have a feeling us ''lowlys'' (folks on the Generation II editors) are gradually being fazed out. Probably to the point when ALL the Software will be Bogart ONLY."
Prestige Owner

-------
"That depends entirely on the demand. MacroSystem and also the third party software developers are businesses that need to make money. As long as enough users keep buying software products for the older machines, we will keep offering such new software.

There will certainly be a SmartEdit 9 upgrade this (late) fall, together with Bogart SE 3. This decision has already been made. If we sell enough copies, then a SmartEdit 10 a year later is likely. "
Jörg Sprave - CEO Macrosystem DE

4/9/09: SmartEdit 8.1 Update Released in NSTC
NSTC customers now have access to the many fixes brought by the release of the Smart Edit 8.1 Update. This is a free update for folks already operating on Smart Edit 8.  You can read all about the update and what it addresses here: http://www.macrosystem.us/index.php?pr=News .  You can download an ISO image file to install the update on the MSUS website here:
http://www.macrosystem.us/index.php?pr=Smart_Edit

4/0/09: MacroSystem US Announces winners of FutureVision Video Contest 2008
You can view the work of the FutureVision category winners (and the Grand Prize Winner on the MSUS website here http://www.macrosystem.us/index.php?pr=FutureVision_2008

3/24/09: MacroSystem US offers new programs in conjunction with S2000 Editors:
I want to ensure you were aware of the new program MSUS is offering - these new options are similar (but in my opinion even better than previous trade-in programs). NOTE: The language 'to us' is in reference to 'MacroSystem US' as this post is directly from the Casablanca Forum Official News:
Software Transfer/Upgrade to a New Casablanca S-2000
If you'd like to buy a Casablanca S-2000 and you own an older system, we are now offering two options to upgrade and keep your software. You can transfer your software from your Avio, Kron, Prestige, Solitaire, or Renommee to an S-2000. Here are the details.

Surrender Option
You surrender your unit to us and we will license the software from that unit to your new S-2000. This software swap is done free of charge. You simply need to purchase a new S-2000 and the current software you own will be transferred to your new system.

Retain Option
With this option, you ship us the old unit from which you want the software transferred. We will remove the software from your older unit, sprinkle magic dust on it, and *poof* it will be on your new S-2000. Your original unit will be left with the software that is not transferred. The original unit will also receive a new serial number. There is a fee of $350 for this option, plus shipping.
This info is from the online forum found here:  http://casablancaforum.us/viewtopic.php?f=28&t=1260
 

3/12/09:  MSUS announces new software releases.

There are two new products released and a software update (for Bogart OS)
New: PatternX  - Smart Edit & Bogart SE
New: Deshaker - Bogart SE only
Update: Object Tracer - Bogart SE version

PatternX is a packager of 350 patterns and 5 masks.   It can be used in SD or HD, and works on SmartEdit 3 or higher, and on Bogart SE.  Click here to read more about PatternX:

Deshaker is a new image stabilization software that is only available for the Bogart OS.  This is the new software that Jorg Sprave was showing folks last week at the MGT 2009.  Click here to read more about Deshaker.

 Object Tracer is now ready for the Bogart OS.  You will need v1.1 to run on Bogart.  If you already have the activation code for Object Tracer for your S4000/S4000 PRO (for example, if you purchased the All Software Bundle) or had Object Tracer on your Casablanca 2 that you traded in) you only need to download the new software and can activate it with the code you were previously issued.

These three products are listed in the new All Software CD download link on the MSUS website here http://macrosystem.us/index.php?pr=Add-Ons


3/12/09: 5th Annual March Get Together (MGT) Wraps Up with Success
The annual gathering of the Casablanca family, organized by Jim Meeker wraps up it's 5th yearly conference.  More than 70 people attended this event and enjoyed 3 full days of presentations, seminars and networking opportunities.  Jorg Sprave (Macrosystem DE) and Eric Kloor (MacroSystem US) were on hand to meet customers and to share the latest product information.

For a full report of the goings-on as well asa video recording of the Thursday evening presentation made by Jorg Sprave - please see the MGT Report on this web page.


3/12/09: Casablanca S-2000 Begins Shipping in NTSC
The new "budget-priced" S-2000 has begun shipping from the warehouses of MacroSystem US in Boulder, Colorado (the PAL Version began shipping in February 2009). This new Bogart enabled editor  will have a lot of the same key features of the S-4000 -- Bogart SE, Media Manager, HD editing and display capabilities, and the Blu-ray option (standard DVD is included) -- all for half the price of the S-4000.

"I had the change to explore the new S-2000  recently and think it is going to be very well accepted... a great performer at a very reasonable price point!" said Chet Davis, Casablanca Expert after the TCEA 2009 Conference (CAM Audio, Inc had an S-2000 demo unit at their exhibit booth).

You can read more about it - click here
This new editor will come standard with: BogartSE Operating System 2, Media Manager (Premium Pack), Arabesk 4, Fonts 1-4, Effects 1-4, Presentation Options,
The MSRP is set at US $1999.00


3/3/09: Macrosystem DE releases new Casablanca S-4100 editor
"We are now happy to announce the successor to the S-4000.  The new system will of course be based on the Linux and Bogart SE software (incl. Media Manager) combination. NTSC (North America release of this new editor is expected in April 2009)
The most important specs will be:
- fast Core 2 Duo E8500 processor
- 2 GB RAM
- 1 Terabyte hard-drive
- Built-in DVD burner (optionally Blu-ray burner)
- Partially passive cooling system (whisper mode operating noise)
- Elegant case (size just like the S-2000) with a glass front

Further details, including specifications are available on the MS DE Website here:
http://www.macrosystem.de/e/s4100.html  or the MSUS website here
http://www.macrosystem.us/index.php?pr=S4100


2/12/09: New Software Release - HD Backup for Bogart
This is A new BOGART ONLY program that allows you to back-up (archive) project data to an external hard drive. Options include the ability to back up, restore, or delete project data.  Click here to read more about HD Backup for Bogart.