Revolutionizing the way we experience live sports, Wales’s first-ever dedicated remote production hub, Whisper Cymru’s Cymru Broadcast Centre (CBC), is boldly stepping into the future. But here’s where it gets groundbreaking: by integrating Calrec’s cutting-edge audio technology, CBC isn’t just keeping up with the times—it’s setting the pace. With a 36-fader Argo S console in its flagship PCR 1 control room and a compact Calrec Brio in PCR 2, this facility is designed to handle today’s demands while being ready for tomorrow’s challenges. And this is the part most people miss: it’s not just about the tech—it’s about accessibility. CBC is poised to become one of Europe’s most accessible remote production hubs, already covering over 1,400 hours of live sports in its first few weeks, including high-profile events like the Women’s World Super League and the Women’s Rugby World Cup.
Owned by global production giant Whisper and managed by Timeline Television, CBC was initially built for Channel 4 and More 4’s 2024 Paralympics coverage. But its ambitions go far beyond that. Here’s the controversial bit: while many facilities focus on current needs, CBC is betting big on scalability and future-proofing. Stuart Frayne, Head of Technical Operations, explains, ‘We’ve chosen technology that allows us to scale as we grow. While we’re currently a baseband facility, we’re eyeing a hybrid or total IP infrastructure for compact, scalable solutions.’ This forward-thinking approach ensures CBC is ready for ST2110 implementations and any future shifts in broadcast technology.
Sound supervisors are raving about the Argo’s functionality, but it’s the console’s flexibility that truly stands out. It integrates seamlessly with other vendors and works effortlessly with EVS Cerebrum as an orchestrator. Its native IP core simplifies IP workflows, making it a practical choice for modern production needs. But here’s the question: as the industry moves toward IP-based systems, are facilities like CBC ahead of the curve, or are they simply meeting a future that’s already here?
Timeline Television’s Sound Guarantee, Michael Gerrard, highlights specific features that made Calrec the go-to choice. ‘The IP-native Argo S console was the obvious pick for future-proofing,’ he says. Redundant Impulse1 cores in separate racks and IO units on the Argo S surface simplify wiring, while the Calrec Assist remote application allows for full console access and on-the-fly changes. Plus, the ability to do submixes during live shows is a game-changer.
On the production side, Gerrard points out the power of accessing full DSP facilities on every bus, especially for ISO recording. Customizable buttons for quick channel routing and touchscreens that display digital scripts directly on the console surface streamline workflows in fast-paced environments. But here’s where it gets thought-provoking: as technology evolves, will these innovations become the norm, or will they remain the domain of industry leaders like CBC?
Anthony Harrison, Calrec’s Regional Sales Manager, sums it up: ‘This installation showcases how Calrec’s scalable solutions empower broadcasters to deliver top-quality content while adapting to evolving demands.’ With Whisper’s creative vision, Timeline’s technical expertise, and Calrec’s future-focused infrastructure, CBC isn’t just a production hub—it’s a glimpse into the future of broadcasting.
Now, we want to hear from you: Do you think facilities like CBC are setting a new standard, or are they simply responding to inevitable industry shifts? Share your thoughts in the comments—let’s spark a conversation!
