TVN Live Production has unveiled, at this year’s edition of IBC Show, its most advanced OB van yet, the TVN-Ü8UHD. Positioned as the most powerful mobile production unit in Europe, this state-of-the-art vehicle showcases the future of live broadcasting, with a special emphasis on handling complex UHD/HDR video and immersive 3D audio productions. Central to the TVN-Ü8UHD’s capabilities is its integration of Lawo’s cutting-edge AoIP (Audio over IP) technology, setting a new benchmark for flexibility, scalability, and performance in outside broadcasting.

Lawo infrastructure

The backbone of TVN-Ü8UHD’s broadcast power lies in Lawo’s IP-based systems, including the Virtual Studio Manager (VSM), Lawo’s IP Broadcast Control and Workflow Solution. This technology ensures the seamless orchestration of every aspect of the production process. The OB truck is equipped with two Lawo mc² series audio consoles: the mc²56 MkIII, which boasts a redundantly designed A__UHD core audio engine, and the mc²36 MkII, a compact yet powerful console featuring an internal A__UHD core. These consoles guarantee smooth, fail-safe operation during high-pressure broadcasts, ensuring audio integrity for even the most demanding live productions.

Audio for large-scale productions

TVN’s choice to deploy the mc²56 MkIII and mc²36 MkII consoles reflects its commitment to delivering high-quality audio for large-scale productions. The mc²56 MkIII, with its remarkable 1,024 DSP channels and ultra-low latency routing, offers precise control over 3D audio, Dolby Atmos, and other advanced formats. Paired with the mc²36 MkII, the system allows for unprecedented flexibility, making it ideal for high-profile sports and entertainment events that demand flawless audio quality throughout the production chain.

Lawo’s AoIP infrastructure further enhances production workflows by allowing the simultaneous processing of multiple independent audio signals. This capability is critical for events requiring parallel production streams, as it enables seamless HD and UHD workflows. Lawo’s robust IP technology also ensures full redundancy, a non-negotiable in live broadcast environments where reliability is paramount.

Optimized workspaces and maximum flexibility

One of the TVN-Ü8UHD’s standout features is its multi-functional workspace, designed for maximum flexibility in handling large, complex productions. The van houses 39 workstations spread over 120 m², making it well-suited for the coordination of today’s highly intricate broadcasts. Lawo’s networked systems are at the heart of the OB truck’s workflow, enabling efficient signal acquisition, processing, and distribution. This integration—coupled with Lawo’s vendor-agnostic VSM control system—optimizes every aspect of the production process, from setup to the final broadcast, improving operational efficiency and minimizing downtime.

Immersive 3D audio and Dolby Atmos integration

With the industry moving towards more immersive audio experiences, the TVN-Ü8UHD is specifically designed to meet these new standards. The mc²56 MkIII is fully optimized for Dolby Atmos and 3D audio workflows, including support for the 5.1.4 monitoring setup employed in the OB truck. This, combined with Lawo’s superior audio processing and acoustically calibrated audio spaces, ensures that TVN’s production teams can deliver immersive soundscapes for sports, concerts, and large-scale live events, enriching the audience experience worldwide.

Future-proof solutions for high-profile broadcasts

The TVN-Ü8UHD made its production debut at one of Europe’s most prestigious football tournaments, effortlessly managing multiple independent signal streams and delivering UHD/HDR content to audiences across the globe. This mobile production unit, driven by Lawo’s advanced IP and audio technology, is poised to become the go-to solution for high-profile broadcasts in the years to come.

Markus Osthaus, CEO of TVN Live Production, emphasized the significance of this innovation: “The TVN-Ü8UHD represents a new milestone in outside broadcasting. Thanks to our partnership with Lawo, we can offer a solution that delivers unparalleled flexibility and scalability while maintaining the highest standards in UHD/HDR video and 3D audio production. Lawo’s IP technology is central to our ability to meet the growing demands of complex, large-scale productions.”