MSNBC is now operating with two new Calrec Audio Alpha digital audio consoles at its Secaucus, N.J. broadcast center. The installations replaced existing digital consoles that the network had been using for almost 10 years.

Installation of both of the new consoles had to be done within a 48-hour timeframe to maintain continuity of operations.

"We could not afford to be down beyond our 48 hour installation window, and that's where the coordination between Calrec and the network installation was crucial," said Tim Canary, MSNBC engineering manager.

The two identical Alpha consoles are being used to accommodate overlapping production schedules. The installation allows mixing duties to shift back and forth between two control rooms. In large productions, the consoles are configured to allow one control room to act as a subcontrol room for the other.

The facility originates a number of programs including "Imus in the Morning," "The Abrams report" and "Hardball with Chris Matthews."