No QT available this time around sorry. I initially tried Rendering to QT and it was way too much; I have sinced picked up Sorenson Squeeze and will use this in the future as I love QT.
John, I don't think the 3.5 and 7.5 IRE bars should be distinct at all. I think you'd have to crush it until the 7.5 IRE becomes black too, something about NTSC and the proc amp 7.5 IRE push. I think it's the 11.5 IRE bar that should be barely visible. But it's really hard to tell from a Computer monitor, so...
on another note, your work, as always... Dude, you have an obligation of doing some serious work and posting here. Just write those stuff and shoot it already, John! C'Mon!
I have my home and work computer monitor set at this specification. The 3 and 7's are crushed hard and there is a minute difference in their shades while the 11 is a super faded charcoal that is barely visible.
At first i couldnt stand it but have gotten used to it.
Can you be more specific on your camera settings and post corrections? You already commented the use of ND and polarizer filter as the use of contrast in post. Any more details? The underexposure was set on camera or did you use any further post adjustments?