There may be some (unfounded) controversy with the image quality of this release, so I might as well kickstart the deliberations! Let me state for the record that this new MPEG-4 AVC encoded Blu-ray presents the film with the best image quality it is ever going to have on home video. That probably still won't stop questions being raised by some who either never saw these films theatrically or don't remember what the film looked like in the theatrical screening. There were some issues with the DPX files - such as poor camerawork (out of focus), various aspect ratios, inconsistent color correction on some shots, weak CGI, ghosting on some motion shots especially during the car chases or fight scenes and DNR applied during post production, as reported earlier. However these are all production errors, and not associated with the actual blu-ray encoding. Fine detail is excellent, particularly when it comes to the texture of the actors' stubbly, sweaty faces. The transfer also nicely reproduces the film's color palette and showcases a wonderfully proficient presentation worthy of serious praise. Primaries are tempered yet wholly engrossing and skin tones are natural. While perceived contrast inconsistencies and a few brief bursts of increased noise are unfortunate side effects, the transfer itself doesn't falter. Color correction is director approved, and film grain elements are retained. A few random pops, scratches, and stray lines are also visible throughout. But, If you remember how this film looked theatrically, you will most likely agree that this is the best looking 'Singam' has ever been, in any release form (theatrical, home video or otherwise).

Singam roars onto Blu-ray with a solid DTS-HD Master Audio 5.1 surround track and an equally absorbing LPCM 5.1 uncompressed track. Though not overly active, the bass is potent, the rear channels intelligently used, and the high-frequencies not overdone. Generally speaking, there is a good range of dynamics that enhance the narrative rather well. The dialog is crisp, clean, stable, and easy to follow. There are no balance issues with the music score either. Lastly, while viewing the film I did not hear any annoying pops, cracks, hissings, or dropouts to report in this review.

Overall, the SINGAM Blu-ray comes HIGHLY RECOMMENDED, especially if you are a Surya fan. I am happy to report that most of the above-mentioned DPX issues are never apparent to any casual observer unless you are nit-picky by design or nature, and that is a testament to the expertise of the personnel involved with this release by Ayngaran

New AVC encoder? Is Ayngaran using x264?

AFAIK no commercial release is yet to use x264 for encoding the Blu-ray content. Criterion I believe will be the first commercial distributor to use x264 for encoding Blu-ray content.