OConnor, a Vitec Group brand, is proud to announce that its new O-Box WM Mattebox System has been awarded the coveted Black Diamond Award from DV Magazine at the recent NAB (National Association of Broadcasters) convention and exhibition in Las Vegas. The Black Diamond awards are given as “Best of Show” recognition. The O-Box WM is the second OConnor camera accessory in just two years to win the Black Diamond: the company’s O-Grips Handgrip System was awarded last year.

The O-Box WM Mattebox is the first truly new breed shading and filtering solution for today’s professional cine-style camerawork. Top cinematographers understand the advantages of high-end professional glass filters both for in-camera effects and practical exposure issues. OConnor’s O-Box WM Mattebox makes it possible for not only feature film and episodic television camerapersons to utilize such optical tools, but brings that capability to users of video DSLR and new, full-frame sensor camcorders such as the Sony F3 and the RED Epic.

"Our teams searched the NAB show floor for products that were truly deserving of recognition," said NewBay Media Broadcast & Video Group Vice President & Group Publisher Eric Trabb. (NewBay is DV’s owner.) "Recognition with an award at NAB from the Broadcast & Video Group is a strong vote of confidence and admiration from this leading industry publication."

Two important factors insure the new mattebox is built for long life. To begin with it is the first commercially produced mattebox to have integrated handgrip interfaces. While traditionally operators often grab a mattebox by the sunshade (a frequent cause of breaks), this precarious handling is remedied by OConnor’s O-Grips that can be conveniently attached directly to the O-Box support cage in three locations: camera left, right or bottom center. Another durability advantage is OConnor’s proprietary composite material that makes the O-Box WM sunshade lightweight, yet substantially stronger and more rugged than other matteboxes.

The O-Box WM Mattebox System provides intuitive filter handling and allows configuration freedom to meet nearly any shooting situation. The two-stage mattebox is designed around the 16:9 format full-size sensor. A wide-angle yet compact system, it accommodates lenses up to 18mm, and in some cases wider. The O-Box accepts up to 3 filters: 2 in top-loading filter frames (2 each 4x4” and 4x5.65” frames are included), and provides a rear frame that rotates 360-degrees. A third 138mm round filter fits sleekly in the optional bellows ring.

Packed with innovations and groundbreaking features, the O-Box WM Mattebox is cost-effective enough for use by budget conscious production crews and yet delivers the OConnor quality industry professionals continue to rely on.

For more information go to www.ocon.com, become a fan on Facebook or follow the company on Twitter; or contact OConnor, 2701 N. Ontario St, Burbank, CA 91504, Phone: 818-847-8666, Fax: 818-847-1205.

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News Release Effective: April 19, 2011

About Oconnor

Pioneering fluid head and tripod innovator OConnor has been the choice of top cinematographers since its invention nearly 60 years ago by Chad O’Connor of OConnor Engineering.  Known for their hallmark smooth feel, consistent reliability, and cinematographer-friendly features, OConnor’s award-winning fluid heads offer maximum control and stability for film-style cinematography. Today’s support line includes the Ultimate range of fluid heads and Cine HD and carbon-fiber tripods. With the 120EX OConnor introduced the flagship of its new series of EXTENDED CAPACITY fluid heads—the EX range. OConnor’s new 2575D fluid head continues the legacy of the industry standard – the Ultimate range of fluid heads for cine and digital cameras. The new camera accessory line will offer a range of camera lens tools for high-end cinematography applications.

A Snapshot of The Vitec Group

Vitec is an international Group principally serving customers in the broadcast, photographic and military, aerospace and government (MAG) markets. Listed on the London Stock Exchange with 2009 revenue of £315 million, Vitec is based on strong, well known, premium brands on which its customers worldwide rely.  Vitec is organised in three divisions:  Imaging & Staging, Videocom and Services.

Imaging & Staging designs, manufactures and distributes equipment and accessories for photography, video and events.

Videocom designs and distributes systems and products used in broadcasting and live entertainment, film and video production and MAG.

Press Contact:
Susan Lewis
Lewis Communications
724 Ocean Park Blvd
Santa Monica, CA 90405
Tel 310-392-4531
Fax 310/392-0183
Email susanlu(at)aol.com