Wisconsin Public Television Upgrade with Zeta
Wisconsin Public Television (WPT) has installed a Zeta console and a Hydra networking system as part of a digital upgrade of its facilities in Madison, Wis.
The installation exemplifies the benefits afforded to a regional broadcaster by the Zeta, a cost-effective, powerful, and resilient audio desk.
“We know we are not a large purchaser in the scheme of things,” said Curt Sorensen, audio engineer at WPT. “In fact, our budget was too small for a couple of companies. But the Zeta does everything we hoped for and more. For a reasonable investment, we are getting Calrec’s renowned quality, the same as the large commercial broadcasters enjoy.”
Sorensen added that beyond Calrec’s reputation and the Zeta’s features, what clinched the deal for him was “the quality of the people at Calrec and their New York distributor, Studio Consultants Inc.”
WPT also values its new 32-fader Zeta for the resilience afforded by an operating system in which all hardware components are backed by redundant spares while the control surface functions independently of the PC once setup has been accomplished.
The console will be used in two HD studios linked by the Hydra network, which also adds I/O capacity. The capabilities of the Zeta will simplify production of locally produced digital programming, including “The 30-Minute Music Hour” on the broadcaster’s new digital Wisconsin Channel. WPT receives some government support and also boasts among the highest per-viewer fundraising success of any PBS affiliate. Nonetheless, pennies count, and the durability of the Zeta desk, as well as Calrec’s ongoing support for its products, will be critical to operational success.
Besides music, WPT produces weekly news and public affairs programs, documentaries, sports, and political and community events.
Wisconsin Public Television (WPT) is a service of the Wisconsin Educational Communications Board and University of Wisconsin-Extension. WPT operates six full-power transmitters and six translators that serve four markets. WPT produces a wide range of content for local, regional, and national audiences.
