About the Blackmagic Design BMD-CINTELSCAN4KG2 Cintel Scanner G2
The Blackmagic Design Cintel Scanner G2 is a high-end film scanning system designed to transform physical film reels—including 16mm, Super 16, and 35mm—into ultra-high-resolution digital files with exceptional color fidelity and dynamic range. Utilizing a state-of-the-art continuous transport mechanism and dual, native 4K image sensors, it captures the full richness of the film grain, color dyes, and subtle textures directly from negative, positive, or intermediate film stocks. The scanner operates at real-time speeds, scanning film at up to 30 frames per second at 4K resolution, which dramatically accelerates the digitization process for archives, restoration projects, and modern film productions finishing on digital intermediates. Its integrated wet-gate system is a critical feature, as it fills in scratches and minimizes surface imperfections on the film during the scan, resulting in a cleaner image that requires less digital restoration.
At the heart of the system is powerful, integrated color science software that provides extensive control over the scanning process. The software can automatically color grade the image by reading the film's KeyKode or by analyzing a color chart filmed at the head of the reel. It offers real-time primary color correction, allowing the colorist to adjust contrast, lift, gamma, and gain during the scanning session. The system also includes a built-in digital audio reader that can synchronously capture high-quality audio from magnetic stripes or optical soundtracks on the film, preserving the complete audiovisual experience. Scans can be recorded directly to common digital formats like CinemaDNG, DPX, or ProRes, making the files immediately ready for editing and finishing in applications such as DaVinci Resolve.
The Cintel Scanner G2 is engineered as a complete, professional solution. It features a modular, robust design with a large, backlit film gate for easy threading and a built-in monitor for real-time preview. Its HDR capabilities allow it to capture the extreme latitude of film, preserving highlight and shadow details that are often lost with traditional telecine methods. By combining high-speed, high-quality scanning with sophisticated image processing in a single integrated system, the Cintel G2 provides film archives, post-production houses, and filmmakers with a powerful tool to breathe new digital life into film libraries and seamlessly integrate film-originated content into modern 4K and HDR digital workflows.