Broadcast Consoles and Podcasting …
I just stumbled upon a very interesting new product that I will be keeping a close eye on. I realize that what I am about to discuss is most likely something that the typical podcast producer would not have the slightest bit of interest in.
Many people continue to suggest that a podcast is nothing more than a shared personal recording, captured with a $50 USB microphone, and distributed over the internet with very little fuss. I find myself helping many people who require nothing more than one of these USB mics and some free audio editing software to make them happy. This is good, and I’m happy to help in any way I can.
On the other hand, it is no secret that many producers are extremely concerned about the quality of their produced content. Podcasting has evolved into a diverse mechanism of media distribution at various levels of cost and complexity.
As a result, there is a major interest in expensive, high-end, professional gear. Typically components of this nature are coveted by those who have in one way or another succeeded in transforming New Media Distribution form a hobby into a business endeavor. It’s no secret that I fit into this category. I’m doing the best that I can to make it work.
Back to this exciting new product … What if I was to inform you that very soon, a single component would offer: 3 mic preamps with 48v phantom power, 3 internal Telephone Hybrids, 2 USB I/O buses - [I'm not kidding], 16 stereo Inputs … 5 stereo outputs, 4 band mic equalization, on-board mic compressor for all mic channels, and extensive [5 bus] monitoring options?
Solidyne is the company, and the component is the D816 Digital On-Air Console.
Additional features include: 4 electronic VU meters with compression gain reduction metering, balanced stereo inputs [three DIN-5], external device triggering, cellular telephone input support, and telephone hybrid conferencing.
To the best of my knowledge, Solidyne is a professional broadcast supply manufacturer located in Argentina. In my opinion, they have created a product that will break the barrier between those who seek the benefits and features of a professional radio console, and the high cost of what is currently available in the marketplace. In the end, this has delayed the possibility of upgrading. I’m hearing that the Solidyne D816 console will sell for less than $1400 US, and will be available in the early Spring.
If you have a second, build a spreadsheet and tally up a bottom line estimate for: a high quality mixer, a few compressors, a few digital hybrids, and a meter bridge. Let me know what you come up with.
To be continued …
As a former radio pro, I can’t wait to get my hands on something like this!
It does look interesting.
I failed to elaborate on the diversity of the USB I/O option.
From the site:
-ptfigg.
Great catch Paul! Let’s hope it’s not like some of the “Swiss Army Knives” of electronics.. doing everything, but not doing anything well. Have you had any experience with this company before? Have they been able to put together several technologies in one unit and make it work well in the past?
Hi Tim,
I was aware of this company. They were referenced in an ad that I came across some time ago. I spend a good amount of time researching what radio stations use for various aspects of production. Many of these products can be applied to podcasting in one way or another.
Keep in mind that this console lacks a few important features. For example: external processor integration. It can be done, however it would require some ingenuity. It would have been cool if they included inserts on the mic channels.
I think that we will begin to see similar devices hit the market offered by competing manufacturers.
-ptfigg.
Before I forget, here is a similar device that is offered by a US based company:
http://www.broadcasttools.com/view_product.php?pid=155
I tried contacting them numerous times in order to request information, and to apply for a loan piece. I thought I’d check things out and post a review.
Zero response. No big deal.
-ptfigg.
I couldn’t understand some parts of this article cast Consoles and Podcasting … at Podcast Academy, but I guess I just need to check some more resources regarding this, because it sounds interesting.