BBC Post Production is launching a second 5.1 sound suite this month in response to a growing demand for surround mixing and to support the BBC's HD channel requirements.

The new Blue Theatre features a Digidesign Pro Tools HD system and an Icon D-Control ES desk.

It will connect to the existing second and fourth floor editing network as well as the East Tower Pro Tools suite, enabling full media transfer capabilities without the use of tape.

BBC HD coverage is extending to nine hours daily in 2009 and surround sound is preferred whenever possible.

The Blue Theatre complements BBC Post Production London's first 5.1 sound suite, the Red Theatre, where Oceans, the recent HD science series for BBC Two and Discovery was mixed by Chris Graver and Steve Hudson.

The new kit was bought from and installed by audio reseller Scrub.

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