Renting a grading suite in Paris: what you need to know
Reference monitor, controlled environment, HDR, prices: how to choose a grading suite in Paris for a film or series.
Why a real grading suite
Grading on a desktop screen in a lit room skews colours. A dark room with neutral walls and a calibrated monitor ensures that what you approve is what audiences will see.
The reference monitor
For SDR, a calibrated monitor such as the BenQ SW272U or Flanders AM250 is enough. For HDR and Dolby Vision, you need a mastering monitor like the Flanders Scientific XMP310C (1,000 nits).
Workstation and control surface
DaVinci Resolve Studio on a powerful machine, a video interface (UltraStudio 4K) and ideally a control surface (Mini Panel) to work fast and precisely.
Prices
At ForCut Bastille, the Grading & Finishing Suite is €110 incl. VAT per half-day, €180 per day, €800 per week. The Flanders XMP310C rents on top: €450 excl. VAT per day, €225 (−50%) when booked with a ForCut suite, at Bastille or République.
Preparing your session
Bring a clean conform export (XML or AAF), the original rushes, a reference LUT and your colour intentions. Plan a final check on the room's OLED TV.
FAQ
Can I bring my own colourist?
Yes, the room is rented self-service: come with your colourist and director.
Is the suite HDR-ready?
Yes with the Flanders XMP310C, Dolby Vision certified, set up in the room for your session, at −50% with the suite.
Post-producing in Paris?
At Studio Bastille (Paris 12), the editing suite starts at €80 and the grading suite at €110 per half-day (incl. VAT), with 24/7 self access and Mac Studio M2 Ultra machines. Studio République (Paris 10) offers five rooms on an Avid Nexis SAN, including 5.1 sound and a screening room, on quote. Depending on the project, costs may qualify for the French film tax credit or TRIP.