Scalar quantizer decision scheme for dependent scalar quantization

An apparatus, comprising one or more processors, wherein said one or more processors are configured to:

• entropy decode a first type of syntax flags and a second type of syntax flags in a first scan pass for entropy decoding transform coefficients of a block in a picture, said first type of syntax flags indicating whether the absolute value of a corresponding transform coefficient is greater than 1, and said second type of syntax flags indicating whether the absolute value of said corresponding transform coefficient is greater than 3;
• entropy decode a first type of syntax elements indicating remaining levels of transform coefficients in a second scan pass for entropy decoding said transform coefficients of said block;
• entropy decode a second type of syntax elements indicating signs of transform coefficients in a third scan pass for entropy decoding said transform coefficients of said block;
• obtain said transform coefficients for said block, based on said first type of syntax flags, said second type of syntax flags, said first type of syntax elements, and said second type of syntax elements;
• and
• reconstruct said block responsive to said obtained transform coefficients for said block.