US audio/video communications systems provider CP Communications has supplied NEP Broadcasting’s SS25C HD OB vehicle with a digital console upgrade and a new audio fibre network.
CP turned to Stagetec technologies to make this complex upgrade a reality in the short time period available – the upgrade was completed during the last week of August at NEP’s headquarters and has already been used for three NFL games in Miami, New York and Dallas.
The upgrade includes an Aurus console for audio submixing of all field, crowd and camera mics, and a Nexus system to transport all audio and control signals including the intercom control data (RS485) and four-wire from the truck bay to the booth and field. The Nexus also connects the trucks via fibre and Madi. Connections between the mobiles, booth and field devices are via single strand single-mode fibre.
There are a total of seven Nexus Base devices and a Nexus Star in the system, along with a 32-fader Aurus console installed in the submix trailer – all with room for growth. Control stations running the Nexus GUI for routing, monitoring and metering purposes sit in the main production truck, the submix truck and at the announcer booth. Besides sonic quality, the main reason for the upgrade is the flexibility that the Aurus and Nexus package offers. The Nexus not only acts as the I/O for the Aurus but in addition, it functions as a true digital router, which enables any source or output to be routed to whomever needs it.
As part of the upgrade, CP has fitted its booth and field kits to include the Nexus TrueMatch Digital mic preamps, which deliver 158dB dynamic range. ‘We’ve been using the Nexus mic pres on several sporting events including XGames, NBA Finals and the MLB All-Star game,’ says Kurt Heitmann, SVP of Sales & Marketing at CP. ‘The feedback from senior audio engineers has been phenomenal. We knew from the start that these high-end mic pres would catch on and I’m glad we’re able to continue to provide the best equipment for our customers.’
‘We’ve been concentrating on the remote sports market for a few years together with CP and it’s great to see such a highly rated sports broadcast put their trust into our systems’, says Stagetec USA President, Rusty Waite. ‘As these trucks do a variety of shows for key sports broadcasters, the flexibility and expansion capabilities of the system is paramount. We can simply add base devices and expand to every other mobile unit and connect them all in a ring if needed. Obviously we’re hoping that the word gets out and look forward to a great NFL season’.
More: www.cpcomms.com
More: www.usa.stagetec.com
