Channel 5 Belize, a privately owned television station, has undergone a significant studio upgrade to modernize its audio production capabilities. The project includes a complete studio refurbishment featuring new forums, redesigned spaces and upgraded broadcast equipment. The aim is to create a fully interconnected audio and video network across two studios, ensuring seamless operations.
Key components of the audio project
Caritech, a Barbados-based AEQ distributor, presented a comprehensive solution, implementing AEQ technology and Dante protocol, including the following:
- Two Forum Split consoles with 24 faders and 16-channel Dante modules. These modular consoles allow audio control from any booth, regardless of where production occurs. The AEQ Forum IP Split console includes the FR Core modular engine housed in three rack units and supports up to six quad-fader modules with a control and monitoring unit.
- Xpeak intercom system, configured with four Xpeak D desktop panels — two for audio booths, one for master control and one for Studio 1, six Xpeak BP beltpacks for camera operators, three Xplorer units for general use, and two Xpeak IF interfaces providing Dante-level audio integration. The Xpeak system incorporates virtual network technology with an automatic global interconnection wizard, simplifying setup and configuration.
- Hybrid system with 16 IP lines (eight per studio) connected via Dante Protocol. The hybrid system operates from the Control Room, enabling telephone audio to be transmitted via IP. AEQ’s Systel IP telephony system supports broadcast and multi-conference calls, reducing communication costs while improving quality and flexibility.
- Netbox4 MH for newsroom recordings via Dante. The Netbox 4MH interface provides high-quality microphone inputs and headphone outputs over an IP network.
Collaboration and implementation
Channel 5’s technical team, led by Luis Sosa and Korey Gooding, worked with Caritech to configure Dante devices and establish an integrated audio network. The new setup allows all connected devices to share content seamlessly, ensuring efficiency across operations.
The project, coordinated by César Reyna, the manager of AEQ’s Mexico and Central America office, marks AEQ’s entry into the Caribbean market. The company hopes this collaboration with Channel 5 Belize will serve as a model for future regional projects.
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