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Case Study: Extensive RTS Deployment Ensures Cohesive Communications at Latin Billboard Awards

Case Study: Extensive RTS Deployment Ensures Cohesive Communications at Latin Billboard Awards

As always, RTS intercoms played a key role behind the scenes. Bill Saltzer and the East Shore Sound team have been on our team since 2000, taking all the stress off my plate, even as the production has grown. It confirms my belief that great intercoms are the best investment you can make to ensure an outstanding live remote like the Latin Billboard Awards.

JC Aguila, Network Technical Manager, Telemundo

Key Highlights

  • Unified Communication System: Integrated RTS ADAM-M frame and TM-10K Trunk Master to connect the arena, OB trucks, and red-carpet coverage into a cohesive communications network.
  • Advanced Equipment Utilization: Deployed approximately 30 RTS Digital Beltpacks (DBPs) for personnel across the production, enhancing mobility and efficiency.
  • Adaptability Under Pressure: Maintained robust communications despite last-minute changes caused by Hurricane Ian.

Background

The 2022 Latin Billboard Awards, broadcast live from the Watsco Center in Coral Gables, Florida, presented complex production challenges, including the unexpected impact of Hurricane Ian, which necessitated moving the red-carpet event indoors. Telemundo enlisted Maryland-based East Shore Sound to ensure seamless communications across all production facets, encompassing the main awards show, OB trucks from Game Creek Video handling the broadcast feed and live music mixing, and the red-carpet coverage.

Goals

  • Establish Unified Communications: Create an integrated intercom system connecting all production areas and personnel.
  • Enhance Mobility and Flexibility: Provide wireless communication solutions to accommodate dynamic production environments.
  • Ensure Reliability Amidst Changes: Maintain consistent communication capabilities despite unforeseen adjustments due to weather conditions.

RTS' Success Story

East Shore Sound implemented an RTS ADAM-M frame and TM-10K Trunk Master to unify the intercom systems across the venue and remote locations, forming a comprehensive communications network. The addition of RTS OMNEO and MADI cards facilitated connectivity via fiber optic and CAT-5 cabling, enabling a Dante network for communications distribution. Approximately 30 RTS Digital Beltpacks were utilized by stage managers, spotlight operators, camera crews, and rigging teams, offering four-channel functionality while using only one matrix crosspoint. This setup allowed personnel to maintain communication seamlessly, even when relocating within the venue.

Lessons Learned

1. System Integration: Utilizing RTS equipment enabled the creation of a unified communications network, essential for complex productions.
2. Operational Flexibility: The portability and functionality of RTS Digital Beltpacks provided critical adaptability in a dynamic production environment.
3. Rapid Issue Resolution: The IPEdit configuration software facilitated swift problem-solving during rehearsals, ensuring minimal disruptions.

Conclusion

The comprehensive deployment of RTS intercom systems by East Shore Sound was instrumental in the success of the 2022 Latin Billboard Awards broadcast. The unified communications network, bolstered by advanced RTS equipment, enabled seamless coordination across all production elements, even amidst last-minute changes due to Hurricane Ian. This case underscores the critical role of reliable and flexible communication solutions in executing large-scale live events.

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