Zephyr Connect propels ARN's studios in Sydney into augmented reality territory.
Australian Radio Network Embraces Future-Proof Virtual Codec Solution
In the rapidly evolving world of broadcasting, the Australian Radio Network (ARN) has taken a significant step forward by adopting the Telos Zephyr Connect virtual codec. This innovative technology, tailored to the specific needs of ARN, has proven to be a flexible, high-quality, and cost-effective solution for remote broadcast audio.
Key Features of the Telos Zephyr Connect
- Virtual Codec Functionality: The Zephyr Connect operates as a fully virtual codec, eliminating the need for dedicated hardware, and can be installed on any standard computer or laptop.
- High-Quality Audio: It delivers broadcast-grade audio quality suitable for live radio and professional audio contributions over IP networks.
- Low Latency and Reliable Connectivity: The codec uses IP-based transport optimized for minimal delay and stable transmission even over varying network conditions.
- Flexible Deployment: Broadcasters can connect reporters and remote talent from anywhere with an internet connection, supporting both Windows and Mac platforms.
- Easy Integration: The Zephyr Connect works seamlessly with existing Telos Alliance codecs and infrastructure, allowing easy integration into current broadcast workflows.
- User-Friendly Interface: Designed for ease of use, allowing remote contributors to connect with minimal training.
- Encrypted and Secure Audio Stream: The codec provides secure transmission to protect content from interception.
Benefits Demonstrated by ARN's Implementation
- Remote Broadcasting Agility: ARN was able to deploy remote talent and reporters efficiently without relying on costly or bulky hardware codecs.
- Cost Efficiency: Reduced the need for physical codec hardware and onsite technical support, leading to operational savings.
- Enhanced Production Flexibility: Remote contributors could join live broadcasts from various locations quickly and reliably.
- Improved Workflow: Simplified remote audio contribution enabled smoother integrations with ARN’s existing broadcast and digital platforms.
- Scalability: ARN could scale up their remote contribution capabilities easily, adapting quickly to changing production needs, especially important during the increased remote work seen during pandemic conditions.
The Zephyr Connect in Action
In 2023, ARN relocated its head office and flagship studio operations to a new facility in Sydney. The move presented an engineering challenge to deliver a reliable, scalable audio infrastructure for its modern media network. With the Zephyr Connect, the ecosystem requires just three units of rack space, a significant reduction compared to a conventional setup.
Greg Hateley, the broadcast technology architect for ARN, stated that the Zephyr Connect has simplified a complex setup that would have required a large amount of hardware. The Zephyr Connect's architecture allows the network to deploy its services across the newly completed Sydney studio complex.
The Zephyr Connect offers a variety of codec options, including AAC-LD, AAC-HE, AAC-HEv2, MPEG AAC Fraunhofer, MP3, and MP2 formats, as well as enhanced aptX coding. Each virtual mixer in the new Sydney facility requires custom channel manipulation and codecs. However, the Zephyr Connect offers backwards compatibility for MP3 and MP2 formats, ensuring seamless integration with existing equipment.
In conclusion, the Telos Zephyr Connect virtual codec offers a flexible, high-quality, and cost-effective solution for remote broadcast audio, aligning well with modern broadcasting’s move toward IP and virtualized workflows.
- The Australian Radio Network (ARN) embraced the Telos Zephyr Connect, a future-proof virtual codec solution, tailored for their specific needs in the evolving world of media.
- The Zephyr Connect, with its virtual codec functionality, offers a flexible and cost-effective alternative to traditional hardware-based codecs, as demonstrated by ARN's efficient deployment of remote talent.
- Equipped with high-quality audio capabilities and low latency connectivity, the Zephyr Connect enables broadcasters like ARN to stream broadcast-grade audio over IP networks, facilitating seamless integration with existing workflows.
- With data-and-cloud-computing integration, the Telos Zephyr Connect empowers broadcasters to connect with remote talent from around the world, with support for various gadgets, accessories, and diverse audio formats.
