Bayerischer Rundfunk (Bavarian State Broadcast), one of Germany’s largest state broadcasters, has chosen Riedel’s Artist digital intercom platform for their new broadcast centre in Munich/Freimann. The system is comprised of four Artist M mainframes which are connected by a redundant dual fibre ring to form a matrix of 312×312 ports. The project is being handled by MCI Studio Hamburg.
Photo caption: The installation of Bayerischer Rundfunk features four Artist M Frames and about 100 of Riedel’s 1000 series LED control panels.
The installation will benefit from the Artist platform’s decentralized system architecture by significantly reducing the facility’s cabling requirements. Two Artist M frames will reside in the central equipment room of the centre. Another frame will support FM1, 2 and 3 studios, and the fourth frame will serve the MCR / master control room. The intercom configuration includes approximately 100 Artist 1000 series LED control key panels, integration of external 4-wire systems, and digital connectivity to the audio router.
Automation simplifies production processes
Optimized production and broadcast workflow was at the top of the list of Bayerischer Rundfunk’s goals for the new BR broadcasting center. Regarding the communications infrastructure Riedel’s intuitive and user-friendly Artist intercom system will be key in achieving maximum productivity. The system’s “Master Control Room” software add-on allows seamless integration of analogue 4-wire conference systems in the main intercom. The software provides easy editing of conferences containing panels and 4-wire ports via drag & drop. An integrated scheduler allows for preprogramming the start of regular conferences (i.e. the daily editorial conference at 9:00 am).
“We have had positive experiences with smaller Riedel installations previously, and have confidence in the product’s reliability”, said Herbert Gerstmayr, project manager of Bayerischer Rundfunk for the new broadcast centre.
Working within a tight time-frame was another main consideration in the selection process. Only eight weeks separated the first conceptual discussions and the trial operations of the broadcasting center. “Riedel’s fast reaction and their ability to deliver the system so quickly was a further factor in our decision”, adds Gerstmayr.
About Riedel
Riedel – one of the major suppliers to games of the 2004 Olympic Games in Athens – designs, manufactures and distributes the most sophisticated intercom and radio technology for customers worldwide in the broadcast, pro-audio, event, sports and theatre industries. The products reflect today’s leading-edge technologies that expand conventional concepts into tomorrow’s applications. The Riedel group of companies also includes a European based large rental operation that provides radio, intercom services, event accreditation & ticketing systems as well as fibre-based audio and video transmission systems. The Company was founded in 1987 and today employs over 100 people located within 5 locations in Europe and North America.