Calrec Audio and media transport and resource scheduling specialist Net Insight have struck a strategic partnership ‘to simplify the challenges broadcasters are facing in deploying remote live productions’. A key aspect of the partnership will see Net Insight’s Nimbra platform integrated with Calrec’s RP1 Remote Production Unit to provide simple connectivity, assured transport and precise control of audio mixes from any location.
‘Most of the focus on remote production in the industry to date has been on the video side but it is audio that is much more complicated to manage,’ says Net Insight CEO, Fredrik Tumegård. ‘Setting up different interfaces on-site is time consuming, takes greater resource and means there are many more points in the chain where faults can occur. The integration of the Nimbra portfolio with Calrec’s RP1 is another key step to unlocking the full potential of remote production.’
The two companies have worked together on integrating Calrec’s Hydra2 audio and control protocols into the Nimbra platform, which provides a variety of interface formats, including SDI and AES67.
‘Remote broadcasting using RP1 and Net Insight Nimbra means fewer resources are needed on site, and controlling audio from a remote console saves money on setup time, crew, logistics and equipment,’ says Calrec VP of Sales, Dave Letson. ‘Production can be up and running quickly, thanks to the plug-and-play unison of just two boxes and operation does not require high-level technical expertise, and provides assured no-latency audio processing from any venue to any production base.’
The integration provides immediate workflow efficiency advantages for Net Insight customers in the field and will be offered as a turnkey solution for new customers.
The versatility of the combined solution means productions can connect via analogue, AES, Madi, SDI, and the latest AoIP solutions from AES67, and SMPTE 2022 and transport remotely over IP. With all DSP processing for monitor mixes taken care of on-site, the transmission console at base can concentrate purely on the main programme mix.
