QFT
The Voice with his insanely funny/corny puns is great. I always will remember the K-1 2006 Dynamite with Schilt vs Peter Graham. Peter never had a chance but combined with his never quit Rocky vibe and Schiavello's commentary which was truly epic (with Peter trying to get a rolling thunder). I suspect the reason is HDnet wants to brand their product as much as possible. I can't really blame them, its simple marketing.
I am quite happy that HDnet is not using anymore library music dubbed over the fighters parade and the intros. It shows they are improving or with the first two realistically there was just not enough time to clear the rights (keep in mind some of the music is from Non-US companies and copyright research can take a while, (I speak from my own experience doing such work).
If I could offer HDnet some friendly suggestions:
1. Work on improving long shot camera coverage. The opening of DREAM 3 with such a long barely in focus view of the opening video was just awful, it was like a person with a HQ cam recording it for youtube. I am happy you showed some of it. However, Satima Arena is one of the most modern facilities in the world. I can't believe more camera options do not exist. It was like watching old Court TV footage.
2. Talk with Mike Kogan about obtaining Sato's packages ahead of time and subbing them. I can't believe at some point they do not exist as textless. Heck, I have Kogan's email and number (from public sources) maybe we should ask him to make this available to HDnet.
3. Work on miking the arena better and possibly improving sound mixing techniques. Japanese fans may get a rap for being quite, but this time it was simply not the case.
4. Keep ensuring that you never have to use library music again (it never mixes well and sounds awkward). This means staying on top of what music FEG will use so it can be properly cleared for US broadcast.
5. I also agree with keeping a crew in Japan for the show. Does the video just come via a feed? If so spend a little to send a crew to Japan to at the least consult with and advise the US fed crew. However, since I think the crew is there (at least it was for Fedor's Return, they should work on improving angles and shooting positions.
This is just some friendly suggestions. HDnet is moving at breakneck speed compared to what the delay in broadcast was only a couple of years ago (and that they are live). Hiccups are bound to happen, but the mantra should always be to improve and move foreward.
Also get some K-1 and K-1 MAX too
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Anyone have any comments on my suggestions. I might just send an email to HDnet with it and if people can suggest any others (and maybe cc it to Mike Kogan).
