Entain New Zealand, via Professional Audio & Television, has announced the procurement of ARISTA switch fabric and Lawo COTS-based HOME processing apps, alongside Lawo .edge hyper-density SDI/IP conversion and routing hardware.
Auckland, 21stof October 2024
The purchase also includes Lawo HOME IP infrastructure management and VSM (Virtual Studio Manager) IP broadcast control systems. For audio production at their Christchurch Hub, Entain will utilise a Lawo mc²36xp audio production console, with the DSP provided by Lawo’s new DSP Home App. Lawo Power Cores will handle all remote audio processing for their remote OB (Outside Broadcast) fleet. In addition, Entain selected a Meinberg M1000 PTP Grand Master to synchronise their SMPTE 2110 broadcast network.
This marks the initial phase of a long-term collaboration between Entain New Zealand and Professional Audio & Television’s manufacturers. Ultimately, the project will see the establishment of a new broadcast hub in Christchurch, along with the remote enablement of four OB trucks and upgrade of four OB vans. The hub will leverage SMPTE 2110 media standards, with ARISTA media fabric supporting video and audio processing powered by Lawo’s HOME Apps, running on COTS (Commercial Off-The-Shelf) Dell servers.
Lawo’s .edge technology forms the backbone of baseband video routing for both hub and OB vans, offering ultra-high-density SDI/IP conversion gateways and a robust routing platform. Lawo’s HOME Apps MultiViewer and JPEG XS apps will be used to drive video processing and contribution around New Zealand in and out of OB’s and for remote production, bringing the vision to life. The audio in the hub will be managed by a 32-fader mc²36xp console, connected to the Lawo mc² DSP HOME App. In OB vans, Power Core RP v2 nodes, with touchscreen-optimized control via the VisTool RP interface, will enable streamlined on-site and remote access to all audio parameters, allowing for easy setup prior to connection with the hub mc² console.
With the necessary stream connections in place, operators can control device parameters directly through Lawo HOME’s intuitive user interface, eliminating the need for a separate controller. This integration accelerates operations and improves overall efficiency. While Lawo HOME complements, rather than replaces, Entain’s existing VSM broadcast controller, it significantly speeds up configuration and operational workflows.
In recent years, most broadcast innovations have been incremental, but with the rapid pace of change in the media industry, driven by new delivery channels, diverse formats, and tighter budgets, it’s clear that traditional, hardware-based solutions are becoming less viable. Recognizing this, Entain opted for Lawo Flex—a groundbreaking commercial offering that combines the flexibility of Lawo’s software-licensable infrastructure with subscription-based access to future apps. With Lawo Flex, Entain is assured of immediate access to future technology developments, enabling them to avoid costly investments in bespoke hardware that could quickly become obsolete.
Michael Tompkins, National Manager of Broadcast Engineering at Entain Australia & New Zealand (right)
Michael Tompkins, National Manager of Broadcast Engineering at Entain Australia & New Zealand, commented, “When evaluating the technology offerings from various manufacturers, it made perfect sense to entrust our rapidly evolving business needs to Lawo, a technology trailblazer with versatile, future-proofed solutions. We have a long-standing relationship with both Lawo and their local partner, PAT, and we look forward to continuing this successful collaboration throughout the rollout of this project.”
Professional Audio & Television’s Managing Director, Patrick Salloch, added, “We are honored to continue our relationship with Entain and look forward to working with Michael and his team of engineers on this exciting project.”
Entain New Zealand will be the first Lawo customer in the country to implement Lawo’s .edge and HOME App technology, which has been successfully deployed at major international sporting events over the past 12 months. The project is set to commence straight away with an On-Air date scheduled for the February 2025.
About Entain Australia & New Zealand
Entain Australia & New Zealand is a leading sports betting and gaming operator, offering a wide range of entertainment and wagering services. With a focus on innovation and customer experience, the company operates major brands like TAB NZ, Betcha, Ladbrokes and Neds providing cutting-edge digital platforms for sports betting and online gaming. Entain is committed to responsible gambling and is continuously expanding its technology and infrastructure to meet the evolving demands of the gaming industry across Australia and New Zealand.
About Professional Audio & Television (PAT)
Professional Audio & Television (PAT) is an Australian-based company specialising in the supply, integration, and support of high-end broadcast and professional AV equipment. With over three decades of experience, PAT serves a wide range of clients across Australia and New Zealand, offering tailored solutions that meet the specific needs of broadcasters, production companies, and corporate clients. Their product portfolio includes leading brands in audio, video, and control systems, and they are known for their expertise in delivering reliable, innovative technology solutions. PAT’s commitment to excellence and customer service has established them as a trusted partner in the industry.
About Lawo
Lawo is a global technology partner with a long history of delivering innovative solutions for live media production workflows. With a unified approach that combines workflow management and control, physical I/O, processing, and human interfaces, Lawo creates optimized solutions for productions including television broadcast and on-air radio, performing arts, houses of worship, and professional AV. Customer value is driven through simplicity, agility, technical and commercial flexibility, and through its team of experts who are passionate about enabling the creation of world-class content. Lawo products are manufactured to highest quality standards in Rastatt, Germany.
Original press release: PAT
