MLB Network adds Calrec Alpha audio console

MLB Network is upgrading its operation with the addition of a Calrec Alpha audio console to support all of its studio programming, including the technically demanding signature show, "MLB Tonight."

The cable network has relied on two Calrec Omega consoles linked by the company's Hydra audio networking system since January.

"MLB Tonight" covers every major league baseball team in the country. An average broadcast includes live reports and live look-ins for up to 15 games at 15 ballparks, with as many as 16 audio channels in play per ballpark.

The new 72-fader Calrec Alpha console is capable of up to 480 channel-processing paths and helps to prepare MLB Network for a 5.1 surround-sound future. The console will be added to the Calrec Hydra audio networking system to enable shared I/O resources. Multiple sources can be remapped across the network onto multiple faders.

The Calrec Alpha console's 72 faders have two layers each as well as 5.1 groups and masters that will enable MLB Network to take advantage of surround sound in the future. The console also is equipped with 144 mic inputs, 48 returns and a multitrack system.