Japan’s Nagoya Broadcasting Network (NBN) has adopted Clear-Com’s FreeSpeak II Digital Wireless Intercom System for its Studio A, further expanding its investment in Clear-Com IP-based intercom solutions.
A principal production studio inside the Nagoya Broadcasting Network (also known as Me-Tele) headquarters, Studio A serves operates a flexible space for mid-to-large-scale programming, including news segments, variety shows, and other studio-recorded content.
NBN first standardised on Clear-Com’s Eclipse HX Digital Matrix system in 2019, incorporating E-IPA interface cards, Agent-IC mobile apps across its broadcast operations. Building on the proven reliability of these solutions, the station later upgraded two OB vans with FreeSpeak II, where it received high marks from production teams for its audio quality and coverage range.
With the 2023 introduction of FreeSpeak II IP transceivers supporting Japan’s DECT specifications, NBN moved quickly to evaluate and adopt the system for its Studio A operations. With systems integration and support from long-time partner Matsuda Trading Co (MTC), NBN updated the firmware of its existing E-IPA card and distributing antennas over PoE, and was able to expand its wireless communications infrastructure without investing in new base stations.
‘FreeSpeak II has significantly improved our on-air communication reliability,’ says Hideaki Inoue of NBN’s Operations Management Department. ‘The audio quality is excellent, the flexibility of antenna placement has expanded our coverage area, and the beltpack features, such as independent volume controls, have been well received by our users. The system has already proven itself as an essential tool for our daily live broadcasts.’
MTC, Clear-Com’s partner in Japan, handled design support, system integration and pre-installation RF testing.
Looking ahead, NBN plans to expand its use of IP connectivity by integrating FreeSpeak II with Agent-IC and LQ Series interfaces to reduce reliance on temporary copper and legacy lines for remote production.
‘NBN has been an early adopter of Clear-Com’s IP workflows, and their confidence in FreeSpeak II reflects the system’s ability to deliver mission-critical communications in both studio and OB environments,’ says Clear-Com Regional Sales Manager, Brian Chow. ‘We are proud to work alongside our trusted partner MTC in supporting NBN’s continued innovation in broadcast communications.’
More: http://mtc-japan.com