TV3 deploys Artist-1024 IP intercom matrix from Riedel

Crosspoint has deployed two Riedel Artist-1024 nodes at Spanish broadcaster TV3 (CCMA), ready to integrate the Bolero intercom and 1200 Series SmartPanels in a 100% IP context.

The Riedel Artist ecosystem landing at TV3 will connect the Audiovisual Production Centre (CPA) with the news editing facilities. The adoption of Artist-1024 nodes will allow decentralising and scaling communications, as well as distributing audio and intercom signals. All of this, taking advantage of the benefits of IP, given that the Catalan broadcaster is in the process of transitioning to this type of infrastructure. In the words of Ignasi Jauset, project manager at TV3: “Clearly, the present and future are IP, and we feel fortunate that Riedel and Crosspoint had the most competitive and compelling offer during the public tender to deliver without any doubt, one of the best intercom systems in the world. Thanks to a great partner relationship and close collaboration among the three of us, we’ve been able to make a smart, safe transition to IP — and a surprisingly robust communication system.”

The Artist-1024 ecosystem combines with the Bolero wireless intercom, which includes 10 antennas supporting 28 beltpacks, to give TV3’s production workflow greater versatility without compromising audio intelligibility. In addition to providing a long battery life that ensures reliable operation for more than 17 hours in support of production workflows, the Bolero beltpacks offer such a comfortable fit that TV3’s staff “often forget they are wearing them,” according to Riedel. The installation of the Riedel systems began in two phases, with the deployment of a first Artist-1024 node at the CPA, followed by a second node at the news editing facility. Throughout the process, Crosspoint provided ongoing training and support to the TV3 team.

Jordi Soler, chief engineer at TV3’s TV studios, believes that this IP-based intercom system will provide the broadcaster with “incredible flexibility in configuring communications”, as “IP creates a whole new world of possibilities”: “All audio can be used as inputs in the matrix, allowing us to use the panels for audio monitoring, which greatly reduces the need for extra equipment and rack space.” Another advantage is outlined by Roger Maneu, MCR technician at TV3: “Artist’s ability to integrate telephone systems into the network lets operators make and receive phone calls via its SmartPanels. Because all audio sources are in the panels and headsets, TV3 teams now benefit from working in a much quieter environment, a great improvement from previous workflows”.

Víctor García, director of Crosspoint, highlighted the “innovative vision” taken by TV3, which through a public tender had the “necessary vision and confidence to trust in the Artist-1024 and Riedel as a reference of communications in the most challenging scenarios.” On the other hand, Maribel Román, regional sales manager of Riedel, underlined: “Riedel, TV3, and Crosspoint are three companies that live for innovation. TV3, in particular, has been a leader in the evolution of IP technology, always eager to push innovative technologies. We’re proud to have worked with Crosspoint, a trusted partner and reliable provider of technical support and solutions, to make this forward-looking project a success.”