ALAMEDA, Calif.—Clear-Com has unveiled the purpose-built Avalon 1RU IP intercom communication platform for modern networked production.

Designed to simplify and scale workflows across broadcast, live events and production environments, Avalon supports FreeSpeak wireless beltpacks, HelixNet digital partyline, V-Series and I.V. Direct within a compact 1RU form factor. The platform features scalable licensed port capacity and flexible IP interfacing, allowing users to configure systems based on current operational needs and expand over time without replacing hardware.

Built for fully IP-based intercom environments, Avalon provides a streamlined alternative for users who do not require analog audio connectivity. The platform combines scalable licensed port architecture with a compact rack-mounted design, helping users reduce system complexity while maintaining the performance and reliability. Optimized for modern network infrastructures, Avalon expands customer choice within the Clear-Com product family as a cost-efficient option for IP-only workflows.

“Avalon represents a major step forward in how intercom systems are designed and deployed,” said Dave MacKinnon, vice president of product management at Clear-Com. “We focused on simplifying deployment while maintaining the flexibility and performance our customers expect. The result is a modern IP platform that enables teams to scale efficiently and communicate reliably across a wide range of environments.”

Avalon complements the company’s Arcadia Central Station, which remains part of the Clear-Com product portfolio for applications requiring hybrid analog and IP connectivity, front-panel control and legacy system support.

The platform supports AES67, Dante and Clear-Com’s I.V. Direct technologies for local and remote connectivity. Avalon also offers expanded IP capacity and networking flexibility for productions and installations operating on converged infrastructures.

“With Avalon, we wanted to remove traditional barriers to system design and expansion,” said Frank Linton, product manager at Clear-Com. “The licensed port architecture allows users to scale capacity over time without replacing hardware, while support for open standards helps simplify integration into existing workflows.”

More information is available on the company’s website.

ALAMEDA, Calif.—Clear-Com has announced FreeSpeak Cell, a cellular-based wireless intercom system that uses LTE and 5G infrastructure to support large-scale production communications. The system makes its debut at the 2026 NAB Show between April 18 and 22.

FreeSpeak Cell is designed to operate over public and private LTE and 5G networks, enabling full-duplex wireless intercom across wide geographic areas without relying on traditional radio frequency coordination. FreeSpeak Cell directly addresses increasing congestion in UHF, DECT and Wi-Fi bands, particularly in large venues and high-density live event environments.

Unlike traditional wireless intercom systems constrained by local spectrum and physical coverage boundaries, FreeSpeak Cell leverages cellular networks to support communications across much larger areas with fewer on‑site components.

“FreeSpeak Cell represents a shift in how productions approach wireless intercom,” said Bob Boster, president of Clear-Com. “We are applying carrier-grade cellular infrastructure to professional communications, expanding both scale and coverage.”

FreeSpeak Cell is intended for large‑scale and distributed environments where conventional wireless systems can face channel limits, coverage constraints or spectrum coordination challenges.

The system supports deployments of 100 or more beltpacks and can scale to hundreds of users depending on network configuration. Because it operates over LTE and 5G, coverage can extend beyond a single building or compound, enabling communications across large properties or distributed production areas.

More specifically, Clear-Com reported that FreeSpeak Cell supports:

• Operation over LTE and 5G networks
• CBRS private LTE (Band 48) in the United States
• Dual SIM capability, including physical SIM and eSIM
• Global radio support across 700–900 MHz and 1700–4200 MHz bands

The dual SIM design allows users to configure access to private cellular networks, public carrier networks or a combination of both, depending on operational needs.

FreeSpeak Cell complements Clear‑Com’s existing FreeSpeak wireless intercom portfolio, extending communications beyond the physical limits of traditional RF‑based systems.

While FreeSpeak II is optimized for contained venues and localized productions, FreeSpeak Cell is designed for large, distributed environments that require wide‑area coverage, high user density and seamless communication across campuses, venues or geographically dispersed production zones.

Unlike traditional DECT- or UHF-based systems that require local transceivers positioned throughout a venue, FreeSpeak Cell leverages existing cellular infrastructure. In venues with private LTE or 5G networks, the system can operate over that infrastructure. In other environments, it can utilize public carrier networks where coverage and policies permit.

This approach can reduce the amount of on-site RF infrastructure required for large-scale deployments and simplify coordination in spectrum-constrained markets.

The system is designed to support multi-channel, full-duplex voice communications alongside other workflows running on the same network, including data applications and video transport, subject to network configuration and bandwidth availability.

By relying on cellular infrastructure rather than venue‑specific RF transceivers, FreeSpeak Cell can significantly reduce the amount of temporary equipment, cabling and frequency coordination typically required for large productions. This model allows teams to deploy communications more quickly, scale systems more easily, and adapt to changing production layouts without reconfiguring RF infrastructure.

Currently, FreeSpeak Cell works with the Eclipse HX digital matrix platform. Integration with Arcadia Central Station is expected a few months after initial release and support for Gen-IC , Clear-Com’s cloud-based intercom platform, is planned for later this year.

FreeSpeak Cell will begin shipping in spring 2026 in the United States. Additional regulatory certifications for other regions are expected throughout the year.

Clear-Com will be showing the system during the 2026 NAB Show at Booth C5807.

ALAMEDA, Calif.—Clear-Com announced significant updates to its Arcadia Central Station as well as enhancements to the Eclipse HX Digital Matrix System now running the latest EHX v15 software. The improvements deliver expanded scale, flexibility, and network resilience across its intercom ecosystem, the company reported.

EHX v15 represents the newest software improvements for Eclipse HX, delivering expanded configuration capabilities, increased system capacity, and enhanced network resilience. They also enable the introduction of ARC (Access, Resource, Configuration).

ARC introduces a fundamentally new architectural model that redefines how intercom systems are designed, deployed, and experienced, shifting the industry toward a more flexible, software-defined future. Rather than binding users, devices, and resources to fixed physical infrastructure, ARC decouples hardware from system behavior, transforming intercom into a more flexible, software-defined platform. This shift helps systems to dynamically adapt to users, workflows, and environments in real time.

This architectural shift enables more efficient use of system resources and removes traditional hardware constraints. That means ARC can significantly reduce system complexity and cost, while simultaneously expanding capability and in many use cases, customers can achieve substantially greater functionality with fewer resources compared to conventional intercom approaches.

Built on three foundational layers (Access, Resource, and Configuration) ARC offers these key features:

• Access introduces secure, identity-based system entry, allowing users to log in and operate seamlessly across devices and locations.
• Resource allows dynamic allocation of system capacity through floating or fixed assignments, improving efficiency, scalability, and resilience.
• Configuration establishes role-based workflows, allowing users to move between panels, beltpacks, and virtual clients while maintaining consistent communication and system behavior.

Together, these layers remove traditional hardware constraints for a more agile, resilient, and scalable intercom experience, aligned with the needs of modern, distributed production environments.

With expanded support for the FreeSpeak family and the latest high-density keypanels, users can now also build larger, more flexible systems with increased endpoint density. System capacity has grown to support up to 424 registered beltpacks with up to 255 online at a time, enabling more complex and demanding communications environments.

Updates to Arcadia Central Station are designed to further enhance its role as a flexible, all-in-one intercom core with expanded support for broadcast, live production, and other fast-paced communication environments.

New capabilities include:

• IFB support, expanding program audio and monitoring workflows
• Support for AES67-enabled panels, improving interoperability within IP-based systems

Arcadia continues to support a wide range of Clear-Com endpoints including FreeSpeak wireless systems, HelixNet wired beltpacks, V-Series keypanels, V-Series-Iris-X keypanels, and analog (2-wire) partyline within a single, scalable platform.

“These updates mark a step change in how intercom systems are conceived and deployed,” said Bob Boster, president of Clear-Com. “With ARC, we’re introducing a new architectural approach that breaks traditional constraints between users, devices, and infrastructure. The result is a more flexible, efficient, and scalable system that allows customers to do more with less... unlocking new levels of performance that simply weren’t possible before.”

Clear-Com will showcase these latest enhancements at the 2026 NAB Show between April 18 and 22 at booth C5807.

ALAMEDA, Calif.—Clear-Com has introduced its four-channel HelixNet beltpack, a next-generation advancement of its widely used two-channel model, and anticipates availability next year.

In addition to an expanded channel count, the new beltpack offers an improved user interface designed to meet the evolving demands of live productions and broadcast environments.

The four-channel HelixNet beltpack allows users to simultaneously communicate across four distinct channels, providing greater flexibility for multiteam coordination in complex production setups. While fully compatible with the recent updates to Clear-Com’s Arcadia Central Station, it maintains backwards compatible two-channel functionality on legacy HMS stations and earlier Arcadia versions, Clear-Com said.

The current HelixNet product family offers intuitive, networked party-line intercom solutions built on Clear-Com’s heritage of analog systems. HelixNet user stations, beltpacks, speaker stations, remote stations and central stations provide familiar workflows, effortless administration and scalable deployment without crosstalk or interference.

Powered by Clear-Com’s I.V.Core technology, the existing system dynamically manages audio mixing across up to 24 channels, making it well-suited for live performances, broadcast productions, theme parks and public-safety applications.

“Building on the legacy of the two-channel HelixNet beltpack, this new four-channel version empowers production teams with greater control, communication efficiency, and versatility,” Clear-Com product manager Frank Linton said. “It’s a sustaining project that not only improves our existing portfolio but also introduces a product that meets the real-world demands of our customers.”

More information is available on the company’s website.

ALAMEDA, Calif.—Clear-Com has announced that Nagoya Broadcasting Network (NBN, also known as Me-Tele) has adopted the FreeSpeak II Digital Wireless Intercom System for its Studio A facility, further expanding its investment in Clear-Com’s IP-based intercom solutions.

Studio A, a principal 320-square-meter production studio inside Nagoya Broadcasting Network’s modern headquarters, serves as a flexible space for mid- to large-scale programming, including news segments, variety shows, and other studio-recorded content.

Matsuda Trading Co. Ltd. (MTC), Clear-Com’s partner in Japan, provided design support, system integration, and pre-installation RF testing for the project.

NBN first standardized 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 outstanding audio quality and wide 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. By updating the firmware on the existing E-IPA card and distributing antennas over PoE, NBN was able to expand its wireless communications infrastructure without investing in new base stations, the company reported.

“FreeSpeak II has significantly improved our on-air communication reliability,” said Hideaki Inoue, operations management department at NBN. “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.”

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,” said 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.”

MOUNT VERNON, N.Y.—In my line of work, whether it’s eSports tournaments, televised boxing, high-stakes upfronts or massive events like Formula One, flawless communication isn’t optional, it’s critical. Over the years, I’ve used a variety of Pliant Technologies wireless intercom systems and headsets on a range of projects. The Pliant gear has become a go-to for me, thanks to its clarity, comfort and adaptability across a variety of production environments.

I first discovered Pliant’s lightweight IEHU In-Ear Universal Fit Headset at NAB Show New York and started using it right away. The thing that really sold me was its incredible comfort, as I wear it all day and hardly notice it’s there.

Customized Comfort
I had the custom ear molds made by my audiologist and sent them to custom ear-mold manufacturer Coda Room Custom Audio. I ordered one for each ear, in red and green. I switch ears throughout the day to combat listening fatigue, especially on marathon productions. It’s a small touch, but one that makes a big difference when you’re doing this for a living. The color coding ensures that I have the right one in the right ear, with no guesswork.

What I also love is how discreet and effective it is. The noise-canceling mic performs really well in loud settings, and the headset connects via a single wire with a four-pin (or five-pin) connector. I’ve never needed or wanted to use anything bulkier since.

As a freelance audio engineer, I work with various manufacturers’ gear, as I
am typically called into established workflows. The great thing about the Pliant
In-Ear Universal Fit Headset is that it works with most industry-standard intercom beltpacks, and I bring it with me to every job.

I use the Pliant headset on just about everything—eSports shows around North America, televised boxing events and network upfronts, which are surprisingly complex productions packed into just 90 minutes.

On top of range and reliability, I also require gear that can withstand long, intense days. I’m usually on comms from 7 a.m. to midnight. Even the best headset can cause fatigue after a while, especially the over-ear models I used to use.

I liked the Pliant headset so much that I bought three more and gave them to crew members as gifts. They’d always say, “Man, I wish I had one of those.” Now they do. (I told them they’d have to get their own molds, though!)

At the end of the day, a headset should be simple: It should sound good, feel good and stay out of your way. That’s what I get from Pliant. Whether it’s the MicroCom XR wireless intercom system or the Pliant In-Ear Universal Fit Headset, the company’s products are always dependable.

And when something works this well, you stick with it.

Extended Coverage
I’ve worked in some pretty unconventional setups. One production in particular involved a show taped inside someone’s private house. The production truck was stationed more than 600 feet away, which posed a huge challenge for comms. A main benefit of Pliant is that the antennas are removable, so I was able to use a directional antenna on each side of that 600 feet to extend the coverage.

Pliant’s MicroCom XR system was deployed for this project, and because it has a wide range and multiple modes of operation, we were able to achieve the coverage we required from the house to the truck and all areas in between. We had a solid signal all the way back to the compound, and that kind of flexibility in the field makes a huge difference.

With Pliant, you get scalability, flexibility and modern features that work just as well for small gigs as they do for large-scale events. It’s a smart investment for any rental company.

More information is available at plianttechnologies.com.

AMSTERDAM—Pliant Technologies has announced that it will be a range of its latest intercom technologies at a IBC 2025 (Booth 10.F33), including two new additions to its renowned CrewCom system the CXD-32CF 32x32 I/O Digital Audio Network Interface along with its new Six-Bay Battery Charger (PBT-6BAY-01).

The brand’s newly available PHS-IEHU In-Ear Universal Fit Headset will also be featured at the show which runs from Sept. 12 to 15 in Amsterdam.

The CXD-32CF 32x32 I/O Digital Audio Network Interface is a 32x32 digital I/O device that supports Dante and AES67. It provides routing and expansion capabilities into and out of a CrewNet infrastructure via EtherCon Copper and Dual LC Fiber connections. This half-rack device can be powered with either net power over a CrewNet copper connection or via the supplied 48VDC power supply (PPS-48V-02), the company announced.

Combined with the upcoming release of CrewWare 2.0 software, this new hardware interface will easily integrate into the CrewNet ecosystem, creating a bridge between CrewCom and other digital audio network-based devices that are standard throughout the industry. The new CXD-32CF is ideal for a variety of broadcast applications, from larger productions to houses of worship. The CXD-32CF is scheduled to be available late 2025, with a new release of CrewWare (Version 2.0) expected to launch within this same timeframe as well, the company reported.

Pliant is also showing its new PBT-6BAY-01 Six-Bay Battery Charger at IBC for the first time. Engineered with professional users in mind, the new PBT-6BAY-01 is designed to support the efficient charging of CrewCom Lithium-Polymer batteries (PBT-LIP-01) outside of CrewCom devices. It offers a reliable and space-saving solution for maintaining uninterrupted system operation in demanding environments. It provides simultaneous charging for up to six Pliant LIP-01 batteries, allowing users to manage larger battery inventories with ease. Batteries can be charged from empty to full in approximately 2.5 hours, minimizing charging time and optimizing workflow continuity.

Designed with flexibility and portability in mind, the unit measures approximately seven inches (17 cm) in length, three inches (8 cm) in width, and two inches (5 cm) in height. This compact footprint enables technicians to deploy multiple chargers in tight spaces, making it an ideal solution for a range of broadcast applications, whether that be in broadcast facilities, for live event productions or other applications where space efficiency is critical. The PBT-6BAY-01 is scheduled to be available late 2025.

The newly available PHS-IEHU In-Ear Universal Fit Headset will also be on display at the show. Designed with both comfort and flexibility in mind, it features silicone ear concha locks and earbuds and supports either left or right ear orientation. The headset is compatible with custom ear molds from trusted manufacturers like Coda Room Audio and Sensaphonics, offering a personalized fit for individual users. Despite its high-performance features, the PHS-IEHU remains an affordable option, making it an excellent choice for users seeking professional-grade audio at a reasonable price.

More information about Pliant Technologies is available at www.plianttechnologies.com.

NEW YORK—SwXtch.io, a wholly owned subsidiary of IEX Group, said it is working with Telos Alliance to enable scalable broadcast intercom in the cloud with very low latency.

The solution provides broadcasters with the same features, functionality and mission-critical performance they are accustomed to from their on-prem environments. The swXtch.io cloudSwXtch intelligent media network will provide the multicast connectivity and elasticity required to provide clear, real-time communications across multiple teams and locations, swXtch.io said.

The first live deployment of the technical collaboration occurred this summer with coverage of a major sports event. The cloudSwXtch network served as the gateway to help live production teams from a major global broadcaster and a regional sports network use Telos Infinity VIP’s virtual intercom platform, it said.

Telos Infinity VIP eliminates the traditional intercom matrix, bringing live voice and contribution audio into the IT backbone without concern over exceeding the number of available ports. Its networked architecture allows broadcasters and content producers to recreate a multipoint on-prem intercom configuration within a virtual environment, swXtch.io said.

CloudSwXtch simplifies the connectivity of Telos Infinity VIP software panels from Europe, North America and elsewhere with the physical on-prem communications system while eliminating delays in live voice communications. The virtual panel architecture also allows production teams to support multi-language broadcasts, it said.

“cloudSwXtch’s multicast-switching capabilities, unavailable in other systems we tested, enables seamless connectivity in the cloud in ways that replicate the local area network functionality broadcasters have long relied on when using their on-prem intercom systems,” Telos Alliance Vice President of Business Development Martin Dyster said.

“Multicast connectivity sharply reduces the network traffic that results in very noticeable delay, reducing latency from up to 10 seconds to mere milliseconds and enabling real-time conversation without clipping and interruption,” Dyster added. “CloudSwXtch removes the clunky methodology that we would otherwise have to employ to make this work in a far-less-effective manner, and effectively positions Telos Infinity VIP as a truly enterprise-level virtual intercom platform.”

The companies will continue to collaborate on cloud-networking ecosystem initiatives with a focus on helping TV and radio broadcasters seamlessly extend on-prem systems to the cloud, swXtch.io said.

More information is available via the company’s website.

TULSA, Okla.–Winnercomm, a well-respected production company, along with sister company Major League Fishing, the world’s premier tournament-fishing organization, recently collaborated to unveil a state-of-the-art in-house studio and control room.

Since 1981, Winnercomm has been at the forefront of providing content across all media platforms. It has a distinguished track record of delivering top-tier content to a diverse range of clients, earning 16 Emmy Awards as a result. Winnercomm produces Major League Fishing’s TV shows, which air on a variety of platforms including the Outdoor Channel, World Fishing Network, and Discovery Channel.

As a senior engineer at Winnercomm—where we previously leased a studio and relied on a remote truck as a control room—I knew that our increased production needs required us to build our own production and editing spaces.

The New Production Studio
We now have a dedicated studio and control room at Winnercomm’s facilities in Tulsa, Oklahoma. This transition marks a significant milestone, bringing Major League Fishing’s production operations back in-house.

Our new facility includes a selection of audio and video equipment with extensive Avid editing capabilities. This includes two complete Pro Tools suites for audio sweetening, VO’s, etc. Additionally, we have several Dante-compatible solutions from Studio Technologies that deliver pristine digital audio, including Model 372A beltpacks, Model 203 announcer boxes, and various intercom stations including the Model 348, Model 5304, and two Model 5312. We also have two Model 5422A Dante Intercom Audio Engines as the core of our comms system.

I have had a lot of great experiences with Studio Technologies gear in the past so when it came time to equip our studio and control room, they were at the top of my list. The company’s digital audio solutions, particularly those with Dante capabilities, offered solid reliability and were easy to integrate.

These features made the Studio Technologies solutions a must have on my equipment list. The products we’ve deployed are delivering pristine digital audio, with little interference or distortion. This level of quality is essential for our live broadcasts, which now number over 80 events per year, with audiences across multiple networks and streaming platforms.

Beltpacks and Consoles
The Studio Technologies Model 372A Intercom Beltpack is a highly compact user-worn device that combines a single channel of talk audio and two channels of comms or program listen. The Model 203 Announcer’s Console, which supports Dante Audio-over-Ethernet (AoE), offers simple deployment and the audio resources needed to directly support a complete professional on-air position. The Model 348 Intercom Station is a tabletop unit that provides eight independent talk and listen channels designed to serve as an audio control center for production and support personnel.

The Model 5304 Intercom Station is also a desktop unit that provides four independent talk and listen channels that are compatible with Dante audio-over-Ethernet networks. The Model 5312 Intercom Station is a rackmounted unit that is designed to serve as an audio control center for production and support personnel, and the Model 5422A Dante Intercom Audio Engine is a high-performance, cost-effective solution for creating party-line (PL) intercom circuits when used with Dante-compatible products.

More information can be found at https://studio-tech.com/.

ALAMEDA, Calif.—Clear-Com has begun shipping its Gen-IC Virtual Intercom, a new system combining the benefits of cloud production with the system reliability for which the company is known.

The Gen-IC Virtual Intercom seamlessly integrates with existing hardware ecosystems and can function as a standalone software solution. Its scalability allows users to add virtual clients as needed. The virtual intercom can also integrate with Clear-Com's hardware infrastructure over LAN, WAN and the internet, the company said.

Addressing latency challenges inherent in virtual intercom systems, Gen-IC's application can be deployed on selectable regional targets, ensuring minimal latency and seamless communication for mission-critical productions. 

"We're excited to announce that Gen-IC Virtual Intercom is now shipping," said Kari Eythorsson, product manager at Clear-Com. "This solution offers unparalleled flexibility and reliability, empowering professionals across industries."

Gen-IC Virtual Intercom is user-friendly. It uses Clear-Com's virtual clients, such as the Agent-IC mobile app and Station-IC virtual desktop client. Integration with hardware ecosystems is seamless through Clear-Com's LQ Series of IP Interfaces, streamlining setup and eliminating the need for additional interfacing requirements, it said.

Gen-IC and the Station-IC and Agent-IC companion apps support AES-128 encryption to ensure reliable and secure communications between various endpoints, the company said.

Gen-IC Virtual Intercom is now available for purchase through Clear-Com's global network of resellers.

More information is available on the company’s website.

ALAMEDA, Calif.—Clear-Com has unveiled updates for its Arcadia intercom platform to offer expanded connectivity and device support.

Arcadia now delivers a seamless, highly efficient communication experience and provides a variety of features, such as I.V. Direct Interfacing, which allows effortless interfacing with LQ, Eclipse E-IPA and other Arcadia systems over LAN, WAN or the Internet, the company said.

New HelixNet HXII-DPL Powerline device support expands intercom capabilities with enhanced support for HelixNet devices, allowing for greater flexibility and integration within communication infrastructure, it said.

The increased capacity for FreeSpeak II digital wireless system beltpacks and IP transceivers means that Arcadia now supports a significantly higher number of these devices, accommodating larger teams and more complex communication requirements. Arcadia now also doubles the number of supported HelixNet user stations, the company said.

"Our goal has always been to provide our users with the most advanced and reliable communication solutions. Arcadia represents a significant leap forward in terms of connectivity and capacity, empowering our customers to achieve even greater efficiency and performance in their operations," said Clear-Com president Bob Boster.

The latest release of Arcadia is now available.

More information is available on the company’s website.

LONDON—Shakespeare’s Globe has deployed Riedel’s Bolero intercom system for communications at its Globe Theatre and Sam Wanamaker Playhouse, Riedel said.

The Bolero intercom system addresses the need to roam and deliver excellent audio quality—the two main communications challenges facing these live theaters. The addition of Bolero brings a new level of efficiency, clarity and collaboration to the venues for stage management, rehearsals and show running, it said.

"The range and clarity of Riedel's Bolero intercom system have significantly enhanced our communication capabilities, transforming the way we manage our performances," said Charli Hurford, senior technician at Shakespeare's Globe.

"The technology's seamless roaming and plug-and-play functionality have eliminated the need for troubleshooting, resulting in more efficient technical rehearsals and smoother show running. This system has proven to be an essential tool for our stage management teams, enabling us to provide unparalleled support and deliver outstanding performances."

Bolero has made it possible for Shakespeare’s Globe to streamline its workflow, creating efficiencies and better resource use. With the improvement in the range and clarity of communication across both venues, the performing arts venue simultaneously reduced the required number of antennas from nine to three, it said.

The reduced need for troubleshooting has eliminated downtime and waiting periods, enabling seamless technical rehearsals. Adopting Bolero also has produced cost savings by eliminating the need for a standby technician during technical rehearsals, it said. 

During the venue's winter season, the interconnectivity between the Globe Theatre and the Sam Wanamaker Playhouse played a vital role in the production of "The Winter's Tale," which spanned both venues. Additionally, the system's reliability has played an important role in large filmed events, the company said.

Shakespeare's Globe chose Riedel's Bolero intercom system based on its successful track record in other show environments, its alignment with industry standards among major theatrical counterparts and the support provided by the Riedel team, it said. 

Shakespeare’s Globe is a reconstruction of the Globe Theater, first built in 1599.

More information is available on the company’s website.

CINCINNATI—From the very beginning of my tenure at the Playhouse (a large, regional, nonprofit theater in its own right) it was clear that there were frequent aspirations for transitioning shows to Broadway. We’re a regional Tony Award winner and have also won a Tony for shows we’ve transferred to New York. So, we have a profile in the region and we’re beholden to our patrons to provide the best possible experience with cutting-edge technology and by dedicating resources to our shows so that they’re great, not just on a local scale, but on a national, global scale.

Recently, the Playhouse had a huge capital campaign and opened a new building in March 2023. The theater we were in had been in place since the 1960s, so, this was a total campus renovation that required a big investment, not only for the build but also the technology needed to make it functional.

New Build, New Clear-Com Tech
We’ve been devoted Clear-Com acolytes for years. Previously, we’d been using CELLCOM, but coming up to this build, we decided to upgrade to an Arcadia Base Station, FreeSpeak Edge, and FreeSpeak II. Arcadia handles comms for the entire campus, which has two spaces: the 537-seat Moe and Jack’s Place—Rouse Theatre and the 172-seat Rosenthal Shelterhouse Theatre.

The Shelterhouse is our original theater. It’s literally a historic park department stone-walled shelter house with unique comm needs because it wasn’t built as a theater. Using FreeSpeak II there—with one antenna that covers the entire space even through the stone walls—along with FreeSpeak Edge, works well for our bigger space.

Getting shows up and running requires a lot of personnel who require constant, detailed communication. So we needed an intercom system that could handle a variety of needs for productions ranging from dramas and jukebox musicals to farces and Broadway shows with a large cast and orchestra. That’s where Clear-Com comes into the picture—their technology is so flexible, modular, and scalable; and with Arcadia and FreeSpeak II we’re discovering features we didn’t even realize we wanted.

Digital Comms with Arcadia
Now we’re running digital wired comms, FreeSpeak Edge, FreeSpeak II, and an old analog 4-channel wired system simultaneously through Arcadia. It’s pushing the whole system. We can communicate between digital and analog, wired and wireless, digital and digital comms. No matter what we need, we’re able to facilitate it, which I don’t think any of us in our wildest dreams expected we’d be able to do with one base station—especially for multiple spaces.

We can also create custom groups/channels that we can change depending on where we are in production. In tech rehearsals vs. previews vs. production, our needs are distinct, so being able to quickly and efficiently switch between those stages of production serves us very well. 

Even though we had minimal training on the system, on the first try, it all worked, which is rare. We just opened the web browser, set it up the way we wanted, tested it, and it worked immediately. Right off the bat, the cross-platform functionality—using all these different Clear-Com technologies together and being able to communicate between them—was tremendous.

But to me, the primary function of comms is safety. This new theater has many moving parts overhead we didn’t have before: set pieces flying in and out, automated scenery, trap doors, and all manner of motorized, moving objects that can be dangerous if you don’t have constant, vigilant communication. The fact that people can communicate with whoever they need to efficiently and quickly is very important.

Clear-Com’s audio quality also plays into that—noise, interference, ringing, buzzing, or just being unable to hear what people are saying. Eliminating that helps us focus and communicate more clearly. 

More information is available at www.clearcom.com

AUBURN, Ala.—Pliant Technologies has released CrewCom V1.14 firmware with new enhancements, including support for two additional hardware devices, new features and improved CrewWare control software. It will show the release at InfoComm 2023 in Orlando, June 10-16. 

The release brings new support for the IP-rated lineup of radio transceivers (RTs) and the current CrewCom CRP-12 series of radio packs (RPs). Improvements to CrewWare include a unique UI display in the system diagram of CrewWare that automatically detects the new IP-rated RT hardware. It also adds display of when an RT hardware device is being used as well as the corresponding model numbers in the details and device list views, the company said.

“We look forward to providing these important updates and showcasing them for the first time at InfoComm,” says Gary Rosen, vice president of global sales at the company. “As we expand on our CrewCom line, we continually provide hardware support for the newest products. Additionally, the ability to now chose from three unique RPs with an existing CrewCom system adds a greater level of flexibility for existing and new customers.”

For the CRP-12 radio packs, the release adds dual listen/single talk functionality, giving users the ability to listen to two pre-selected conferences simultaneously on a single volume belt pack while also allowing them to talk on either one of those conferences. The company also has modified the software UI to display the new RP support as well as to indicate dual listen/single talk capabilities, it said.

The new Ping function makes it possible to activate the location function from within the software on both RTs and RPs. When activating Ping for the RT, both the top ping light and the mode LED on the bottom of the transceiver will blink to make finding the specific location of a device possible, it said.

For the RP, when activated, Ping causes the backlight of the LCD display (or LEDs in the case of the CRP-12) to blink until deactivated by the operator. To facilitate the location of a specific RP or RT, ping indications remain latched on until the device has been found and the operator manually disables the function, it said. 

The CrewWare system’s display of the Radio Transceiver also now has the added ability to see the status of each individual device’s antenna selection. It will now graphically indicate whether it is in Dual (two antennas) or Single (Left or Right) modes, it said.

See Pliant Technologies at InfoComm booth 4854.

More information is available on the company’s website.

LAS VEGAS—Pliant Technologies will showcase its CCU-08 CrewCom control unit at the 2023 NAB Show, April 15-19, in Las Vegas.

The latest addition to its CrewCom intercom system, the CCU-08 can be used with up to eight 4-Wire ports while retaining the same features of the existing companion CCU-22 and CCU-44 products, the company said.

As with those units, the CCU-08 does not have a radio and is frequency-agnostic. It can control and monitor any device across CrewNet regardless of the radio frequency bands being used. Combined with CrewCom Radio Transceivers, the new unit supports up to 82 Radio Packs, 18 in Normal mode and 64 in the new High Density mode, across all RF bands. Up to four CCU-08 Control Units can be used in one system for applications requiring many users, it said. 

“The new CCU-08 is a great addition to those intercom applications that need more I/O but do not require 2-wire connectivity,” said Gary Rosen, vice president of global sales at Pliant Technologies. “The CCU-08 is ideal for larger production and broadcast applications, and we look forward to featuring the latest hardware addition to our renowned CrewCom line at this year’s show.”

The latest CrewCom firmware update (V1.12) includes the recently released High Density mode feature, which is a selectable mode of operation that greatly increases user densities. It also supports the new CCU-08. The firmware is available for download at no charge for all users and includes several enhancements, including faster configuration file (CCF) upload speeds and a new Radio Pack paired list function that allows the user to view and manage a list of all the Radio Packs paired to each Control Unit, it said.

See Pliant Technologies at 2023 NAB Show booth C7521.

More information is available on the company’s website.

ALAMEDA, Ca.—Clear-Com has expanded its FreeSpeak range of products with the launch of the FreeSpeak Edge Base Station, an IP base station that supports the full range of FreeSpeak digital wireless intercom solutions as well as third-party Dante devices.  

The base station is designed to provide an accessible IP solution to a broad range of its customers, the company said. 

“While many of our customers choose an integrated solution with wired and wireless elements all within one system, a large group are still looking for a dedicated wireless operation, often to link to other pre-existing systems,” noted Stephen Sandford, senior product manager for Clear-Com. “While we have offered this kind of customer the existing FreeSpeak II Base II up to now, the requirement for an IP-based solution of this type has become increasingly apparent and the FreeSpeak Edge Base meets that need with its IP-based transceiver architecture as well as links to external systems over the most popular IP protocols in the industry.”

The FreeSpeak Edge Base Station provides a standalone solution for FreeSpeak Edge 5 GHz systems, as well as support for FreeSpeak 1.9 GHz IP Transceivers via AES67 connections, previously only available through Eclipse Digital Matrix systems with an E-IPA card. 

The single 1RU device supports up to 16 total belt-packs and 6 IP transceivers, (10 E1 Transceivers), with the flexibility to mix and match bands, as well as up to eight ports of IP interoperability with third-party Dante connections. With a mixture of IP, 2-wire and 4-wire audio ports, the FreeSpeak Edge Base Station can integrate a variety of systems, including Clear-Com Encore party-line and even two-way radio systems with an intelligent GPIO interface.

FreeSpeak Edge Base Station is configured through Clear-Com's browser-based CCM software which has been redesigned from the ground up to improve the configuration experience through intuitive menus and functions. 

Designed to be quick to deploy, users can be up and running with a transceiver and two beltpacks in less than 5 minutes, the company reported. 

Other features include a default system set-up right out of the box, the ability to add transceivers on the fly right from the front panel, and the ability to add belt-packs via USB. 

The 1RU station features two full-color high-resolution touch screen displays with four rotary encoders allowing four talk and listen channels, enabling the station operator to be able to communicate with the wireless belt-packs.

WUPPERTAL, Germany—To ensure that the crew of Amazon Prime Video’s “The Expanse” has reliable multichannel communications, the show’s director of photography Jeremy Benning opted to go with Riedel’s Bolero wireless intercom platform.

Prior to the addition of Bolero, individual teams on “The Expanse” crew had their own communications methods. Bolero offers a single, unified system that helps to remove miscommunications and potential delays.

Bolero is a DECT-based intercom that operates in the license-free 1.9 GHz frequency range. There are 26 beltpacks and four antennas on the set of “The Expanse.” On the set, the audio feed from the sound mixer is patched in to allow all connected departments to listen to actors’ dialog when needed. The crew also uses it to deliver announcements to the entire crew.

Bolero is also used to communicate with actors when they are in their prop space helmets. In addition, three walkie-talkie channels are patched into the Bolero system, enabling the keys to communicate with the rest of the crew.

"The ability to communicate instantly, clearly, and effectively is a critical requirement to keep any film or episodic series on schedule. We knew we needed more efficient, zero-compromise comms capabilities in today's new world, and after extensive testing and comparison with other leading systems, Bolero was hands-down the best tool for what we needed," Benning commented. "Not only does Bolero have excellent audio quality and an ultra-low noise floor, it's also super-easy to control the entire system through the intuitive user interface."

For more information, visit www.riedel.net.  

LONDON—Developers of professional intercom systems have made much of the fact that while modern technology has helped enable remote operations and working from home, much of that technology was already available prior to the pandemic.

Social distancing has forced broadcasters to accelerate their adoption of these technologies but with no indication as to how long the new ways of working will be in place, systems have been adapted and upgraded to offer features that were not immediately necessary a year ago.

Some companies have even developed brand new products during this time, although these are not all comms-oriented. Riedel Communications responded to the need for social distancing with its DisTag distance monitor. This alerts the person wearing or carrying it if someone gets too close through haptic (a two-stage vibration alarm), visual (a two-stage LED signal) or acoustic (a two-stage sound signal) methods.

In addition to DisTag, Riedel has “made a lot of improvements” to its core comms products according to Intercom Product Manager Felix Kolls. Some of these concern the user interface more than connectivity and are targeting non-technical, creative staff working from home. The 1200 Series SmartPanel now offers touchscreens that support icons and an eight-character main label plus 16-character sub-label per key, so that each function can be identified and explained.

VoIP (voice over IP) has come into its own and is being used in conjunction with Virtual Intercom Panels for working from home, Kolls said. “This allows a regular computer or mobile device to function as an intercom end-point,” he explains. “The integration of panels or audio into an intercom system via long-distance connections is key for today’s distributed productions.”

Catering to nontechnical users was also the impetus behind the design of Pliant Technologies’ new MicroCom full-duplex range, which allows multiple people to be on a system without the need for a technician onsite setting it up, configuring it or operating, according to Gary Rosen, vice president of global sales for Pliant.

In general, Rosen adds, having more wireless intercoms “can be extremely helpful,” not just through connecting people without physical constraints but also in maintaining social distancing. “Before COVID restrictions, you could walk up to someone and whisper to them,” he says. “Intercom enables you to stay 30-feet away and still whisper to them.”

THEY’RE ALSO MULTITASKERS

AEQ has combined several products from its different technology areas—intercom, communications and networking—to expand coverage over different platforms and connectivity formats. In addition to intercom systems, which are designed with KROMA Telecom, AEQ also develops codecs to provide connections over either ISDN, standard telephone lines (PSTN) or IP. It also produces call-in/conferencing management technology and from this range the Systel-IP platform is being integrated with the Conexia intercom to provide more options for broadcasters.

AEQ Sales Director Gustavo Robles explains that integration can be through SIP (session initiation protocol) or the Phoenix codec. “We can also offer Dante, RAVENNA and AES67 for audio over IP,” he said. “Also included are SMPTE ST 2110 interfaces, while our remote links can run over standard Ethernet or VPNs [virtual private networks] with intercom panels in different locations.”

John Kowalski, director of broadcast and network sales at Clear-Com, agrees that SIP enhances connectivity, particularly for field reporters or for those working from home. “SIP and VoIP are technologies we were supporting in 2019 and which increased in business applications, including being used to come in and out of intercoms, during 2020,” he says. “IP connectivity to mobile devices as well between studios is something else we are seeing.”

Kowalski added that the need to improve connectivity for remote production existed prior to 2020 and was addressed by ClearCom through its LQ Series of AoIP interfaces. These have been adopted for working from home and also work with the Agent-IC mobile app, which allows iOS and Android devices such as smartphones and tablets to become mobile user panels.

IP IS CRUCIAL

IP functionality has been able to adapt to the needs of working from home natively, said Martin Dyster, vice president of business development at Telos Alliance, but it needs to be more user friendly for less technically inclined staff.

“We realized at the outset of the pandemic that the configuration was not going to be simple for all users, so we made some fundamental changes that made the Infinity IP intercom as close to ‘plug and play’ as possible,” he said.

A more general trend brought about by the pandemic, Dyster notes, is the acceleration of TV studios migrating to cloud-based workflows. This is, in turn, pushing intercoms towards having some of its core functions located in third-party facilities.

“This new way of working in TV has taught us that the need for scalable, reliable and secure off-premises products and services will continue to grow, with broadcasters becoming increasingly adept at these workflows,” he says. “We have accelerated our own transition to cloud-based products based on this demand and also adapted some of our hardware technology to facilitate work-from-home or remote use.”

RTS has provided new features for its VLink software-based intercom that include cloud service redundancy, recording, encryption, video capture/streaming, enhanced control panels and standalone capabilities.

“We have also improved our long-distance studio interconnection technology—RTS Trunking—which is now able to support volume control,” says Angelo Piga, global product manager for RTS Partyline. “This is a real game-changer because it allows users to adjust listen volumes for remote point-to-point and partyline assignments as if they were local assignments.”

Away from technology, hygiene and cleanliness continue to be serious considerations in controlling the spread of the virus. Piga agrees that sharing equipment, particularly headsets and microphones, is still a concern for customers.

“We have helped by giving instructions on how to keep things like that clean,” he says. “We’ve also seen a significant increase in headsets and microphone orders.” Rosen adds that sales of replacement foam mic covers and ear pads have increased, while noting that the days of having a “bin of headsets” and “just grabbing one are behind us.”

Whether workflows and working practices will go back to anything approaching how they were pre-pandemic is still uncertain. As John Kowalski of Clear-Com says, any changes going through 2021 and into 2022 are likely to be “more subtle than abrupt.” The only constant will be the continuing need for communications and connectivity.

AUBURN, Ala.—Pliant Technologies has a new addition to its CrewCom line of products, the CrewCom CB2 professional wireless intercom system. Pliant says that the CrewCom CB2 is ideal for small to mid-level applications.

The CrewCom CB2 is available in both 900 MHz and 2.4 GHz frequency options, as well as 900 MHz Oceania and 2.4 GHz CE compliant models. The intercom includes the CrewCom CB2 basestation and up to six CRP-12 two-channel radio packs. Users have access to two intercom channels and interconnectivity to industry standard two- and four-wire intercom systems.

Two CrewCom CB2 basestations can be connected and the audio synched to create one system with up to 12 full-duplex users. Two separate CB2 systems can also be synced to ensure RF performance if they need to be co-located in the same RF area. The system can also sync and be co-located in the same coverage area as an existing CrewCom system.

Additional features of the CrewCom CB2 include lightweight beltpacks, 7K audio quality, as well as compatibility with Pliant’s 6+6 Drop-In radio pack and battery charger and SmartBoom headsets.

For more information, visit www.plianttechnologies.com.  

BURBANK, Calif.—As the NBA playoffs progress down in the Orlando, Fla., bubble, a key component of production for the games has been Riedel intercom technology, including the Bolero wireless intercom and Artist digital matrix intercom systems.

Firehouse Productions has been utilizing Riedel for production personnel to communicate safely, as well as for officials and coaches.

Firehouse’s bubble setup includes 12 Riedel Artist intercom nodes, providing almost 500 active communication ports to support 113 master panels, 57 Performer C3 intercom beltpacks; 116 Bolero wireless intercom beltpacks and 186 analog four-wire connections to six onsite OB trucks.

The Artist nodes are deployed in a fully redundant fiber ring, allowing them to support users communicating via Bolero beltpacks throughout the ESPN Wide World of Sports Complex. In addition, Firehouse Intercom Curator Luis Espinal built custom functions into the Artist nodes that allow specific mic feeds to be routed to specific broadcast trucks.

There is also an onsite Bolero universe that is based on two fully redundant hub-and-spoke networks of Luminex switches and offers up to 128 multicast flows.

“Working with the Riedel team, we were able to design a truly elegant and integrated solution that enables crystal-clear communications while also ensuring that officials, coaches and producers maintain safe distances from each other,” said Vinny Siniscal from Firehouse Productions.

For more information, visit www.riedel.net.

ALAMEDA, Calif.—Clear-Com is starting to ship its new FreeSpeak Edge digital wireless intercom, what the company is calling its most advanced wireless intercom system to date.

The FreeSpeak Edge system delivers high-end audio quality, as well as more control and configuration options as a result of advanced frequency coordination capabilities and design features in the system’s transceivers and beltpacks, says Clear-Com.

Based on feedback from FreeSpeak II users, FreeSpeak Edge uses audio-over-IP AES67 connectivity, a 5 GHz chipset with proprietary radio stack development optimized for intercom and RF technology from Clear-Com based on OFDM.

FreeSpeak Edge can be combined with FreeSpeak II 1.9 GHz and 2.4 GHz systems, supporting three wireless bands across a single unified communications system.

For more information, visit www.clearcom.com.  

I have often pondered the fact that live television is technically easier to set up and get to air today because of digital technology and fiber optics. I could not imagine undertaking the sound of a golf event using what is known as “dry pair,” which was commonly used for audio connectivity just a couple of decades ago.

Forget about the noise and constant maintenance, dry pair is unshielded, thin-gauge copper telephone wire and was very prone to crosstalk between the pairs. If you were lucky and had enough noise on the circuit, you may never notice the crosstalk—I didn’t and got burned, badly.

In the early 1980s, I came out of a recording studio and was stunned at how television audio was really noisy and low fidelity. Further, I was dismayed by some of the practices used in remote audio production, such as using dry pair for show sound and intercoms. After the “shock and awe” of learning that sound fidelity was secondary to the director and producer headsets, I quickly realized the importance of intercoms under some difficult circumstances.

Back then, in the early days of live remote broadcasting, the telephone company was usually hired to provide “clean” dry-pair circuits with minimum noise and crosstalk specifications. Over time, the audio crews learned dry pair by trial and error. Dry pair at major event facilities such as at The Masters in Augusta, Ga., and the Daytona 500 track were usually permanently installed and professionally maintained by the telephone company.

PUSHING THE ENVELOPE

Problems seemed to arise as the TV crews started to push the envelope with large events such as golf and car racing with a system designed for low-fidelity telephone communications. A couple of years into my career, I was audio mixer for a car race taking place over a weekend at a large track in Alabama where the commentator booth was a mile away from the outside broadcast van. The network tried to save some money and the audio crew had to set up the dry-pair infrastructure.

After setup and a full Engineering FAX, I determined to turn my attention on getting good sound. I did not detect any problems for a couple of days because the cars were always running and the noise masked the problem. But on Sunday morning, when there were no cars running, you could hear the producer talking to the announcers in my mix speakers. Unfortunately, the producer channel was crosstalking into the commentator microphones’ circuit and going over the air. The next four hours of television was the most painful experience of my professional life. Needless to say I never worked for that network again.

AUDIO AND INTERCOMS

Audio routing, recording and transmission along with intercom systems have gotten bigger, manageably complex as well as more flexible. Clearly with the digitization of all things audio and intercoms, the performance standards have radically improved and with presets and resets, everything has gotten a bit easier to set up and prepare for a live transmission.

For decades I have debated the issue of whether or not communications should be lumped into the world of audio. Intercoms are the backbone of any studio facility and OB van, and clear communications and intercoms are critical to your success and the success of the production. Accordingly, communications will be a major concern to the director, producer and the engineers working on the production, and it seems that everything with a microphone and a headset is the audio supervisor/A1’s responsibility.

There is a good and logical reason for this: The A1/Audio Supervisor is unique because the role is equal parts engineering and production. The production team and network expect the A1 to make the show sound good. Sounding good is often qualified subjectively by production, but significantly the A1 is often the bridge between production and engineering.

Remember, most directors, producers and broadcast production types are not technically savvy, but they can sure tell you who they need to talk to and who needs to listen to them. Fortunately, the engineer-in-charge can help with intercoms and can make adjustments and changes in real time without distracting the audio mixer during the production.

Yes, for the A1/mixer, the engineering setup has gotten physically and technically easier to accomplish, sometimes as easy as pushing a button, but one aspect of live TV remains a challenge. The audio mixers seem to be listening to more and more noise and less sound. Many people in the audio community, including me, believe that it is hard enough to mix a live event, much less have to listen to a director, producer and all the other chaos.

Yes, it is easier and faster to set up all the equipment, but I have been told that it is still just as difficult—if not more so—to mix a show because of ear fatigue from poor monitoring facilities and excessive intercom usage.

LISTENING FATIGUE

I remember working with a director whom I swear got paid by the word—so much so that my friend and fellow A1, Pete Addams, coined the phrase “word economization,” which translates into not giving too much information for the situation and slowing down the delivery of the message. Remember the mixer is trying to listen to the mix and make dynamic adjustments while filtering through all these distractions.

Every top tier audio mixer I talk to brings up ear and listening fatigue—fatigue not only from listening to audio that is too loud, but also listening to too much. Even for a seasoned mixer who practices good volume management, it is easy to let the sound pressure level creep up as the director and producer get excited and louder. Next the announcers are talking louder and the mixer is adjusting speaker levels everywhere. Soon your head is spinning as you are straining to hear everything—hence “listening fatigue.”

As the live television business goes back to work, I consider an industry that has always depended on headset communications between the operators, technicians and the producers. I recently thought about headphone etiquette after I heard a news story about how people speaking loudly facilitates the spread of the coronavirus. I have worked with people who thought that the louder they talked, the better I could hear and understand them. The old analog intercom systems had a compressor so that the louder someone yelled, the softer the yell became in volume resulting in not hearing the yeller as well. Loud, compressed, distorted intercoms equals fatigue. Additional contributors to noise fatigue are poor speaker selection and placement along with little acoustical isolation and treatment in the OB van.

I have often said, you can mix the best sounding show of your career, but if the producer’s headset is mucking up, what is the producer going to remember about your show? Intercoms have been the demise of more than one audio practitioner—including yours truly.

Dennis Baxter has spent over 35 years in live broadcasting contributing to hundreds of live events including sound design for nine Olympic Games. He has earned multiple Emmy Awards and is the author of “A Practical Guide to Television Sound Engineering.” He can be reached at dbaxter@dennisbaxtersound.com.

SKOKIE, Ill.—Studio Technologies is ready to share its new Model 5421 Dante Intercom Engine, a Dante audio-over-IP (AoIP) party-line intercom system that can handle up to 16 users.

The Model 5421 is designed to remove possible party-line issues like a high noise-floor and poor voice intelligibility by moving party-line comms to a Dante-based, AES67 and Dante Domain Manager-compatible, Power-over-Ethernet system that uses a a standard Ethernet local-area-network. 

The new Studio Technologies intercom requires a single RJ45 Ethernet connection for both data and power, and setup from Studio Technologies’ STController software. It features a field-programmable gate array-based mix minus matrix to create the party line for up to 16. The systems’ audio engine can be divided into five group configurations. Meanwhile, the beltpack’s bidirectional Dante audio paths can be configured by routing transmit (output) and receive (input) pairs to the Model 5421 using the Dante Controller software application.

Model 5421 also features an intercom-specific Auto Mix that when activated employs a digital-audio algorithm designed for enhanced party-line audio performance. This automatically adjusts the level of each user’s contribution to a group mix based on an analysis of every input.

The new intercom is compatible with all Dante-compatible intercom beltpacks, including Studio Technologies’ own Model 372A and Model 373A. Model 5421 can also be integrated into applications that utilize other audio devices, including mixing consoles, user stations and matrix intercom systems.

Additional features include a USB type A connector for firmware updates and LED status indicators for Ethernet network and Dante status monitoring. An installation kit is also available to mount one or two Model 5421 units in one space.

For more information, visit www.studio-tech.com.  

AUBURN, Ala.—Pliant Technologies has released its MicroCom XR, a digital wireless intercom that is available in 900 MHz and 2.4 GHz.

MicroCom XR is a two-channel intercom system that can accommodate up to 10 full-duplex users, as well as featuring 15-hour battery life, extended range and high-quality audio, per Pliant. The intercom also has an OLED display, an optional five-bay drop-in charger, optional wired interface, is IP67-rated and its beltpacks are water resistant and lightweight.

Pliant designed MicroCom XR with advanced RF technology and firmware meant specifically for broadcast and production use.

MicroCom XR can be used with a wide range of professional headsets, according to Pliant, including the company’s own SmartBoom series.

For more information, visit www.plianttechnologies.com.  

BURNSVILLE, Minn.—With the launch of ESPN’s ACC Network, all participating schools were required to upgrade their production capabilities for live national broadcasts and the online platform. As part of the University of North Carolina’s upgrades, it turned to RTS for help with its intercom system.

UNC built the Athletics Media & Communications Center (MCC) for its GoHeels production team, housing three control rooms, a podcast radio room and a remote-controlled Bureau Cam Room. The MCC is fully self-contained, including the use of the RTS Adam matrix frame for its four-channel analog partyline intercom system. The RTS Adam features 48 analog channels and 128 channels of Dante OMNEO digital.

The MCC has 53 keypanel stations, three of which are DKP-3016 portable desktop models that are used to communicate between control rooms. Mobile phones can also be ported in the system with eight TIF-2000A interfaces from RTS.

UNC also uses RTS ROAMEO, a wireless intercom system that can connect into the ADAM system via wireless access points that are located across the school’s campus for coverage between stadiums without changing wireless channels.Coverage for men’s football and basketball—as well as in the stadiums for field hockey, baseball, softball, soccer/lacrosse and women’s basketball—is provided by 15 AP-1800 access points, in addition to the MCC.

UNC says that the RTS tools are easy to use for both ESPN employees for national broadcasts, and its crew of students for other broadcasts.

AMSTERDAM—Building on its family of FreeSpeak digital wireless intercom products, Clear-Com has announced that the new FreeSpeak Edge system will be on hand at IBC 2019, taking place from Sept. 13-17 in Amsterdam.

Developed based on feedback from FreeSpeak II users, FreeSpeak Edge features a new 5GHz chipset that features an exclusive radio stack development optimized for intercom. It also is implementing state-of-the-art audio over IP developments in its architecture, using AES67 connections between the transceivers and the host intercom frame for flexible deployment.

With FreeSpeak Edge operating in the 5GHz band, it can be managed with frequency coordination for reduced interference while offering a range of RF channels. The higher frequencies provide more bandwidth for data that allows for finer control, additional audio channels, more robustness, lower latency and better audio quality.

FreeSpeak Edge can deliver 12kHz audio quality with ultra low latency and is able to support 100 beltpacks and 64 transceivers during productions. Users can combine the platform with the FreeSpeak II 1.9GHz and 2.4GHz systems to provide three bandwidths across a single unified communications system.

The uniquely designed transceivers and beltpacks for FreeSpeak Edge are meant to offer more customization and control to accommodate complex communication needs. The beltpack features asymmetrical concave/convex top buttons; eight programmable buttons; rotary controls on both sides; a master volume control and flashlight on the bottom; and a mic and speaker for headset-free or desktop operation. The transceiver can support up to 10 beltpacks and includes attenuation and external antennas for custom RF zones, as well as wall and mic stand mounting options.

Clear-Com will display the FreeSpeak Edge at its stand, 10.D29, throughout IBC 2019.

WUPPERTAL, Germany—School’s back in session, and students aren’t the only ones who need to prepare for the new school year. The University of Georgia Athletic Association prepared itself for its upcoming schedule of live sport productions by expanding upon its Riedel Communications infrastructure with an updated Artist digital matrix intercom platform.

Installing a new Artist 128 mainframe in its central core, Georgia uses the system to integrate its multiple sports venues across campus to help streamline live broadcasts, live streaming, video board presentations and in-venue fan promotions. The venues covered by the Artist 128 include Sanford Stadium and Stegeman Coliseum through the central core, while the system is linked via fiber to the frames for Foley Field, Jack Turner Stadium, Turner Soccer Complex, Gabrielsen Natatorium and the William Porter Payne and Porter Otis Payne Indoor Athletic Facility.

The school is also adding a Bolero wireless intercom system with 15 beltpacks and seven antennas to replace a wired system that was used in several venues. The Bolero system can integrate directly with Artist and enables all user groups to communicate with a single system.

Georgia says that the new setup has helped specifically with men’s and women’s basketball and gymnastics, where multiple wireless channels have replaced an existing party line setup.

Cleveland, OH (June 12, 2019) – The Telos Alliance will be delivering IP Communications and IP Audio Mixing Solutions to the pro AV market at InfoComm 2019, June 12-14 in Orlando, booth 7083, including updates to the award-winning Telos Infinity™ IP Intercom platform and the new Axia® iQx IP Audio Console.

Additionally, as the pro AV industry moves towards adopting broadcast standards, the Telos Alliance is leading the charge by implementing those standards into its solutions. In fact, Martin Dyster, Telos Infinity Project Director, will be giving presentations on this very topic with “SMPTE ST2110 and Intercom,” at AIMS Booth 375 at 1:45 PM June 12th and 13th.

"More than ever, customers are demanding solutions over products and partners over 'manufacturers'. As IP workflows have become standard in the pro AV industry, the Telos Alliance—with its long history in the development of IP audio and reputation as globally recognized audio experts—is uniquely positioned to deliver solutions that address this market's needs, including communications and mixing built on an IP backbone," saysJohn Schur, President of the Telos Alliance TV Solutions Group.

Communications Solutions Built on IP

Telos Alliance invented AoIP for the broadcast market, but the utility of its award-winning Infinity matrix-free IP intercom extends beyond market borders into the Pro AV space, with applications for House of Worship, Esports, Corporate AV, Education, Hospitality, Live Venue, Security, and more. Updates to the Telos Infinity IP Intercom platform include Infinity Link, which seamlessly extends Infinity's reach and usability by providing site-to-site connectivity over WAN and the Internet. Direct communication is no longer bound by the speed of a dedicated network, effectively bringing the rest of the world directly into the matrix-free Infinity ecosystem. Built on the latest standards-based VoIP and Livewire+™ AES67 AoIP protocols, this design provides more capacity as the system grows, eliminating previous concerns about running out of ports on a matrix.

Also new to the Telos Infinity platform and designed for intercom systems of all sizes and applications is Infinity Dashboard Advanced. This optimized configuration and system management tool has an extended feature set, including SAP/AES67 advertising and discovery and offline configuration, unlocking the full potential of the Infinity matrix-free IP Intercom System.

IP Audio Mixing Solutions

The Telos Alliance will also be demonstrating IP Audio Mixing Solutions at InfoComm, including the new Axia iQx IP audio console, which uniquely combines a surface and mix engine in a single unit. This approach makes the iQx far easier to set up quickly, piggybacking off existing network resources. iQx is great for nontraditional audio setups, such as a temporary studio for a special event, mixing remote audio, as a backup TV console, and more. Designed for AES67 and ready for SMPTE ST 2110, iQx is standards-based, allowing AV integrators, installers, and consultants to bring in sources from all over the world. Control is not just a local thing either, as iQx can be controlled from the remote site.

Contact Krissy Rushing, Telos Alliance Marketing Manager, for booth appointments, interviews, or other media requirements at krissy.rushing@telosalliance.com.

About The Telos Alliance
The Telos Alliance is a global leader in audio, trusted by the biggest names in the media landscape. Telos Alliance's exclusive focus is to deliver innovative, intuitive solutions that inspire the creation of the most exciting and engaging audio experiences imaginable. No audio challenge is too big; no technology is beyond reach; no solution, large or small, is unobtainable. The Telos Alliance portfolio of brands includes Axia® Audio, Linear Acoustic®, Minnetonka Audio®, Omnia® Audio, Telos Alliance®, Telos Infinity®, Telos® Systems, and 25-Seven® Systems. Headquartered in Cleveland, Ohio, USA, with additional offices and dealers around the world, the Telos Alliance supports the diverse needs of audio professionals around the world with best-in-class support 24/7.

BURBANK, Calif. — The NBA’s Memphis Grizzlies has adopted Riedel’s Bolero wireless intercom system as part of a large scale upgrade and modernization of the video control room at the FedExForum, their home arena in Memphis. Bolero enables reliable AES67-based communications for the type of complex, demanding broadcast productions the Grizzlies produce at the FedExForum venue.

With Bolero’s proprietary Advanced DECT Receiver — along with Riedel’s Artist digital matrix intercom solution and SmartPanel multifunctional user interfaces — communications can be relayed across the venue from just three antenna locations.

[Read: 2018 Guide to Intercoms Now Available]

Three decentralized Bolero antennas, located at strategic points in the building, connect to AES67-compliant IP switches, and an Artist matrix intercom frame equipped with AES67 client cards, to enable wireless roaming for six Bolero belt-packs across the facility and control room. With AES67-connectivity, up to 24 additional beltpacks can be supported without further investments in antennas, and 13 wired rackmount SmartPanels and five desktop SmartPanels are used as intercom key panels.

Together, the Riedel solutions form a communications platform that drives live video and audio for broadcast, LED presentations, and AV-based marketing programs within FedExForum.

“During the initial planning stages, it was decided that a standards-based AES67 IP network would be the best solution for distributing antennas throughout the facility,” said Josh Shibler, vice president of Comprehensive Technical Group, the Atlanta-based systems integrator that managed the upgrade. “The result is an … IP infrastructure that allows Bolero to deliver outstanding sound quality from almost any location in the FedExForum.”

[Want more information like this? Subscribe to our newsletter and get it delivered right to your inbox.]

ALAMEDA, CALIF.—Clear-Com is now a part of the broadcast infrastructure for Elevation Church, serving as the intercom solution at the church’s broadcast production facility and campus in Charlotte, N.C. The facility produces multiple online video streams to broadcast live to Elevation’s 15 locations across the U.S. and Canada, and houses a 1,850-seat auditorium.

The Clear-Com gear that was implemented at the church—by SES Integration—includes the Eclipse HX-Delta digital matrix intercom with built-in slots for expanding the system. The Eclipse HX system is loaded with an IVC-32 IP interface card to connect local and remote production crews through the V-Series user keypanels, Agent-IC mobile app and LQ IP interfaces with local partyline systems over secure IP networks.

In addition, an E-Que-HX wireless cell controller card with Eclipse HX integrates with FreeSpeak II wireless beltpacks in the 1.9 GHz range to the overall intercom system. Two FreeSpeak II transceiver antenna modules were strategically placed to provide wireless coverage throughout the facility.

With its production set-up, Elevation Church produces and distributes weekly sermons and can integrate live feeds from other campuses.

MADRID—AEQ has released the Conexia platform, an integration of AEQ’s broadcast audio technology and Kroma intercom systems, a fully featured intercom system that can also serve as the centralized management of audio signals for radio and TV studios.

The Conexia is based on the Kroma Intercom Master Controller and AEQ Audio Matrix with a capacity of up to 1024x1024 cross-points and a modular card structure. The system is able to integrate intercom and broadcast audio sources into the same matrix, with internal sampling at 48 KHz at 24 bits and a 100 percent redundant system at all levels. It is also compatible with all Kroma intercom terminals and can expand its interface with Kroma accessories and AEQ cards.

An optional feature available for the Conexia system is the AEQ Phoenix Family of Audiocodecs. These codecs are suitable for a range of telecommunications infrastructures and integrate 100 percent through Conexia’s management software CrossMapper.

AEQ reports that the Conexia intercom system has already been put in place in a number of broadcast stations around the world.

ALAMEDA, CALIF.—The music’s worlds stars came out to be honored at the 2016 MTV Video Music Awards, while Clear-Com and its FreeSpeak II digital wireless intercoms had a presence behind the scenes. During the live production on Sunday, Aug. 28, at Madison Square Garden, FreeSpeak II was used to connect the live production crew to cover the entire venue with 20 integrated Transceiver Antennas and 25 wireless beltpacks.

Firehouse Productions ran this year’s VMAs, and used FreeSpeak II for all of its 20 stage managers. The intercom system was also able to support five more tech positions. Full coverage was possible with the addition of Clear-Com’s Eclipse HX-Delta digital matrix with two E-Que-HX cellular frame cards, according to Vinny Siniscal, Firehou’se director of RF communications division. The production was able to operate the FreeSpeak II intercoms in the 1.9 GHz band, which allowed it to leave the 2.4 GHz band open for other signals, like lighting control and Wi-Fi devices.

Additionally, the FreeSpeak’s beltpacks can support up to five configurable channels per unit and hold an 18 hour charge. The beltpacks also come with a bottom-mounted LED flashlight.

“Whether they are handling cues for the talent, the rigging, or automation, I know that each stage manager can connect seamlessly to the people they need to talk to anytime,” said Siniscal.

STRAUBING, GERMANY & BURNSVILLE, MINN.—The 31st Olympiads is just four months away and NBC Olympics is continuing to put its production tools together. In doing so it has announced that RTS will provide broadcast intercom systems and support.

RTS will supply NBC Olympics, a division of NBC Sports Group, its OMNEO, RVON, IP trunking ADAM intercom matrix and intercom panels. These systems will aim to expand intercom communications during the coverage.

The Olympic Games will take place in Rio de Janeiro from Aug. 5-21.

Read more about how broadcasters are covering the Rio Games at our Live@TheRioOlympics social media hub.

AUBURN, ALA.—For the past 25 years, CoachComm has been a provider of intercom systems to major college football programs. According to Gary Rosen, the company’s global sales manager, CoachComm has a 97 percent market share of NCAA 1A football programs, including marquee name schools like Alabama, UCLA and Notre Dame. However, when CoachComm sought to expand their offerings to the professional market with its Tempest wireless communication line of products it encountered a bit of a hurdle.

“Many people would say, ‘we don’t really do coaching, we’re not sure why you’re coming to us,’” said Rosen. “We realized we needed a name change that helped illustrate to the industry that we were stepping up our efforts for the professional market, so Pliant Technologies was formed.”

Pliant Technologies is a new division of CoachComm that will focus specifically on the professional market. This will include broadcast and live production, as well as other markets like nuclear power plants, hospitals, board rooms, etc. The flagship product for Pliant Technologies is Tempest wireless intercom.

Tempest came about as a result of CoachComm’s CEO and Founder Peter Amos recognizing the FCC’s adjustment of frequencies and rules regarding UHF spectrum about 10 years ago could become a big issue for all RF devices. As a result, the company began to develop a new product that would fit with these new regulations. During the process, Amos realized the same RF technology being used for the sports market could be applicable to the professional market.

When Tempest was first released in 2009 for the professional market, CoachComm distributed the product on a non-direct basis. While Rosen described it as a successful relationship, he said “we decided this summer [2015] it was time for us to take back the management of our own distribution for Tempest.” One of the reasons he says contributed to this decision was the preparation of a launch for a new set of products that are set to premiere at the 2016 NAB Show.

While Pliant Technologies will have its own products and target audience, the company still falls under the larger CoachComm umbrella. It will operate out of CoachComm’s office in Auburn, Ala., and is made up of the same leadership, including Amos as CEO and founder, Rosen as global sales manager, Mark Rehfuss as regional sales manager, and Debbie Hamby as marketing director.

“People are familiar with the Tempest name much more than the corporations behind it,” said Rosen. So whether it is known as CoachComm or Pliant, Rosen stresses the goal of the company is to make sure customers “are getting the same support they’re used to getting from CoachComm and Tempest.”

Pliant Technologies will be located at booth C12719 during the 2016 NAB Show, which takes place in Las Vegas from April 16-21. 

ALAMEDA, CALIF.—Clear-Com has announced that its integrated FreeSpeak II wireless intercom system was recently installed at CNBC’s studios in Englewood Cliffs, N.J. Made up of an Eclipse HX-Medium system frame and two E-Que HX cards, the FreeSpeak II system allows for the operation of four FreeSpeak II splitters, 25 wireless beltpacks and 20 transceiver modules.

CNBC is using the FreeSpeak II in the 1.9 GHz band, which according to the press release provides a clear, low interference intercom service, as well as avoids traffic issues that occur in the UHF band. This reportedly saves the studio’s spectrum for wireless microphones and in-ear monitors.

The FreeSpeak II’s design allows its coverage area to be increased with additional transceivers on its edge.

Clear-Com also reports that CNBC has purchased another FreeSpeak II system for its studios at the New York Stock Exchange.

ALAMEDA, CALIF.—The DX410, Clear-Com’s two-channel 2.4 GHz digital wireless intercom system, is now shipping.

DX410

With a 7 kHz wideband audio, the DX410 expands audio range and increases intelligibility in high RF environments. An upgraded radio and a lost packet concealment capability are also featured to deliver improvements in range, performance and sound.

The intercom system also features 2-wire and 4-wire bridging and 2-wire auto-nulling. Bridging allows the option for combining the 2-wire and 4-wire ports together on either channel A or B, which allows operators to use a 4-wire out to send all audio to a mixer, matrix intercom or other audio source. The 2-wire auto-nulling enables integration with Clear-Com or TW wired partyline systems.

In addition, a frequency hopping system is utilized by the DX410 to offer spectrum-friendly and Adaptive Frequency Hopping modes to avoid interference with Wi-Fi, while operating in the 2.4 GHz band does not require radio licensing for use.

WUPPERTAL, GERMANY—As part of an upgrade to Yomiuri Telecasting Corporation (YTV) control rooms, Riedel Communications’ Artist digital matrix intercom system has been added at the broadcaster’s Osaka facilities. The new system helps to manage internal signals and audio contribution from a variety of external sources.

YTV Intercom Coordinator desk

YTV installed both Artist 64 and Artist 128 units after previously deploying the Riedel system into the YTV OB van and news studio control room. The new equipment is compatible with the existing Artist systems to ensure fluid communication across production areas. With Riedel’s Director software, the Artist system can be configured to meet the demands of any program.

Additional abilities of the Artist installation by YTV, according to Koji Fukuda, owner at integrator Crescent Co., is the ability to monitor both the mix-minus feed and external four-wire circuit inputs.

Riedel Communications is a developer of real-time video, audio, data and communications networks.

WASHINGTON—The NBC Studio in Washington has added a pair of new Radio Active Design UV-1G wireless intercom systems, courtesy of Jetwave Wireless. A third unit will be used for remote broadcasts.

Jim Dugan, owner of Jetwave Wireless in Alexandria, Virginia.

The UV-1G wireless intercom system base station operates in a small footprint in the UHF band, while bodypacks operate in the VHF band, minimizing the problems of finding available bandwidth. The bodypack systems also work anywhere in a studio facility. Each unit features up to six RAD packs.

Radio Active Designs is a manufacturer of spectrally efficient wireless audio products. The company is based in Lincoln, Neb. Jetwave Wireless is a dealer of Radio Active Design and is located in Alexandria, Va.

ALAMEDA, CALIF.—TV broadcasters at the Video Call Center are now utilizing new intercom systems from Clear-Com to bring live video calls through webcams directly on-air. Using the Eclipse HX system and Agent-IC mobile app, VCC lets broadcasters screen and engage with real-time video callers without control room support.

VCC uses IP technology, broadcast studio design and proprietary production/automation software to connect with viewers who have video chat capable devices, like smart phones, tablets or webcams. The Eclipse HX matrix intercom system serves as the production team’s communications backbone and integrates audio from inbound video calls into the studio intercom system. It also enables screeners and producers to communicate with each other and callers before they go on live. Callers do not any additional technology to communicate with the production team because the Eclipse HX is linked to the VCC’s mix-minus return audio.

In addition, the Agent-IC mobile app provides a mobile intercom system for both the remote and mobile production staff. Staffers can connect with anyone on the Eclipse HX intercom network via iOS devices with the Agent-IC app as long as there is Internet access.