A shortage of 4K test patterns has only made this more difficult. Apart from using expensive test pattern generators - which circumvent the player which is a critical part of the calibration chain - patterns have only been available from enthusiasts.

We may still have a long way to go with HDR; however, things are about to get a lot easier, thanks to the release of the Spears & Munsil UHD HDR Benchmark 4K Calibration disc. The latest version is authored by Stacey Spears and Don Munsil, neither of whom need much in the way of introduction in the calibration world.

Those familiar with previous incarnations of the disc will already be familiar with some of the test patterns, which have now given the 4K treatment. The disc also contains a lot of new material, much of which has been created specifically for HDR. 

All HDR patterns are authored in 600, 1,000, 2,000, 4,000 and 10,000 cd/m2, enabling enthusiasts to assess peak light capabilities and make more informed decisions around tone mapping with their display. 

The disc has been divided into chapters, each containing test patterns for configuration, video setup, A/V Sync, Advanced Video test Patterns, Video Processing and SDR Test Patterns. Professional and budding calibrators will welcome the inclusion of 5% windows, colour checkers, saturation sweeps and the patterns for assessing and calibrating the colour gamut of a display.

The test patterns have been rounded out by new demonstration material mastered in 8K. 

Of course, we’ve only scratched the surface here, so stay tuned for StereoNET's full review of the disc.

The Spears & Munsil disc is available now and sells for AUD $59.99 RRP. StereoNET readers can take advantage of a 10% discount by using code STEREONETAU10 at the checkout on the MediaLight Australia website.

For more information, visit MediaLight Australia, or buy it online here.

StereoNET Discussion Thread