Echolab announces a compelling and cost-effective way for existing customers to migrate to HD production. For a limited time, the company will replace a facility's existing Echolab Nova, Opera or Overture standard-definition switcher chassis for an Echolab Atem, the company's recently launched 1-M/E multi-definition switcher.

"We hope that this upgrade offer helps mitigate some of our customers' concerns regarding their transition to HD production," says Ankit Patel, senior product manager at Echolab. "Our clients keep their familiar panel and workflow, and simply replace the chassis. Because every input in the Atem switcher accepts SD signals, it is easy to swap out the old chassis and unlock the features and power of an Atem switcher—all at an unbeatable price."

Atem, Echolab's paradigm-busting 1-M/E 3Gb/s 1080/60p production switcher, features the flexibility and functionality necessary to fit almost any production environment. Atem's 10 mixed-format inputs with built-in synchronization and scaling accept SD and HD signals, while two of them also accept computer signals over HDMI.

More features include an internal 32-frame still store, two channels of clip playback, and a 10-channel multi-viewer. To support sophisticated program quality, Atem incorporates four upstream and two downstream keyers, as well as Echolab's unique SuperSource cross-point and Stinger transitions, making it possible to build a composition of as many as 12 layers.

Echolab's offer assumes customers will keep their existing panel while the switcher chassis is replaced to afford full Atem functionality. The upgrade is available now for $14,500.