Professional Audio & Television (PAT) is proud to announce that RNZ (Radio New Zealand) has chosen Lawo mc²36 MKII audio consoles, associated I/O devices and Arista switch fabric for its prestigious recording locations at Auckland’s Town Hall and Wellington’s Michael Fowler Centre.
Following a rigorous tender process that included A/B testing and careful evaluation of various console manufacturers, RNZ awarded the contract to PAT’s Auckland office, recognizing Lawo’s and PAT’s expertise in delivering high-quality broadcast solutions.
RNZ Upgrades Broadcast Technology for Future-Proof High-Quality Audio Production
RNZ’s decision to upgrade its broadcast technology was motivated by the need for a robust, future-proof system to support its role as a producer of high-quality recordings and live broadcasts. The replacement project’s primary goal was to identify a solution capable of delivering exceptional audio quality across the entire audio signal chain, from stage connectivity and preamplification to digital encoding, processing, and final recording for production.
RNZ Enhances Audio Infrastructure with Lawo mc²36 MKII Consoles and Arista Switches
The chosen Lawo setup includes a pair of 32-fader mc²36 MKII consoles, one for each location, equipped with Lawo A__stage64, A__mic8, and Lawo Power Core devices, which serve as I/O extensions. The Lawo Power Cores also serve as MADI and DANTE converters, providing RNZ with a versatile, high-performance networked audio infrastructure that supports the latest in AoIP technology. To enable these systems to scale with RNZ’s future requirements, PAT will also configure and install a set of Arista 710P compact, fanless, cognitive PoE switches into both locations. These Arista switches will be responsible for the transport of SMPTE 2110-30, low-latency audio on the red and blue ST2022-7 redundant media networks.
Mike Heard, Senior Solutions Architect of Professional Audio & Television, commented: “We are thrilled to partner with RNZ on this pivotal project. The Lawo mc²36 MKII consoles and accompanying I/O extensions provide RNZ with an advanced, modular platform that supports their commitment to producing live recordings of the highest quality. We are confident that this technology will play a vital role in RNZ’s continued success as a leading broadcaster.”
Jamie Annan, Operations Manager at RNZ said “We are looking forward to installing these new Lawo consoles at our live recording venues, enabling our audio engineers to continue to deliver the high-quality RNZ listeners expect. This upgrade will allow us significantly to increase the number and types of audio sources, providing our audiences with a rich audio experience.”
Why RNZ Chose Lawo mc²36 MKII Consoles for Live Recording Excellence
RNZ’s selection process focused on assessing each system’s audio fidelity, intuitive operation, and flexibility to adapt to the fast-paced demands of live recording environments. Lawo’s mc²36 MKII consoles were chosen not only for their stellar sound quality and robust build but also for their compatibility with cutting-edge technologies like AES67, MADI and DANTE, ensuring a seamless connection between legacy systems and new digital workflows.
David Houston (Senior Concert Producer/Audio Engineer), John Neill (Audio legend), Adrian Hollay (Senior Audio Engineer), Darryl Stack (Senior Audio Engineer), Steve Burridge (Production Team Lead, Senior Audio Engineer), Mike Heard (PAT) / Left to right
The Lawo mc² series has gained a stellar reputation within the broadcast industry, with its state-of-the-art DSP engine, intuitive touchscreen control, and precision preamplification offering an unparalleled level of performance. The integration of Lawo’sA__line and Power Core technology provides RNZ with extensive routing and connectivity options, ideal for live recording and broadcast applications.
PAT and RNZ Partner to Deliver Cutting-Edge Audio Solutions with Lawo Technology
This partnership between Professional Audio & Television and RNZ underscores PAT’s ongoing commitment to delivering high-caliber, tailored audio solutions that meet the unique requirements of its clients. With over a decade of experience in the industry, PAT continues to leverage its close relationships with manufacturers like Lawo to provide New Zealand’s broadcast community with industry-leading products and support.
About Professional Audio & Television (PAT)
Professional Audio & Television (PAT) is an Australian-based company specializing 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 RNZ
RNZ (Radio New Zealand) is New Zealand’s independent public service multimedia organisation and is a Crown entity established under the Radio New Zealand Act 1995. RNZ has a specific role under the Civil Defence Emergency Management Act as the designated Lifeline Utility radio broadcaster in the event of a Civil Defence emergency. RNZ provides audiences with trusted and independent news and current affairs, a range of diverse programmes, podcasts and series both on-air and online in accordance with the Radio New Zealand Charter. RNZ broadcasts over three nationwide networks; RNZ National, RNZ Concert and the AM network which relays Parliamentary proceedings. RNZ Pacific (formerly Radio New Zealand International or RNZI) is our overseas shortwave service, broadcasting to the South Pacific and beyond, and our News team provides comprehensive, up-to-the-minute news and current affairs information. RNZ’s digital properties include rnz.co.nz, tahi.fm, ldr.co.nz an iOS and Android application. As Aotearoa’s public broadcaster RNZ are focused on delivering their Charter more effectively and building public trust with high quality news, information and entertainment.
RNZ has 300+ staff spread across the motu (country), including in their main studios and offices in Auckland and Wellington, the press gallery at Parliament in Wellington and eight smaller regional offices. RNZ is primarily funded by New Zealand On Air. The Ministry for Culture and Heritage funds the production, content, and broadcast of RNZ Pacific.
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.
For additional information, visit www.lawo.com.
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