Among the priorities for the system design was to enable flexible signal processing and distribution throughout the Comcast store, which incorporates three 'studio' spaces devised to showcase Comcast services including cable TV and OTT (over-the-top) content. "The client was very specific about being able to switch sources quickly and easily, and as a long-time Symetrix user we were aware that their DSPs could provide the basis of a sufficiently robust system," says DMG senior systems engineer Shawn Thul, who took the lead on the Comcast installation.
The desire to implement Audinate's Dante media networking technology led to the specific selection of a single Symetrix SymNet Edge open architecture Dante-scalable DSP, deployed in conjunction with six SymNet xIn & xOut expanders. A Savant user interface was chosen for overall control of the audio set-up, but Thul has made use of Symetrix' SymVue Windows-based GUI application for straightforward control by staff of parameters including volume and source selection.
The Symetrix DSP takes its place in a notably high-end set-up that includes 7.1 audio in each of the studios and an equipment roll-call featuring a sizeable contingent of SpeakerCraft AIM8 and Sunfire SubRosa loudspeakers. "It makes for a really great way to showcase some of the content delivered by Comcast, which in the last few weeks has included trailers for many of the summer's big blockbuster movies," says Thul.
For Diversified Media Group, the project represents the latest in a long line of successful Symetrix deployments. "We have used Symetrix' equipment for so many commissions over the last few years, and keep coming back to them for their reliability and flexibility," he says. "Their built-in sup-port for Dante in SymNet products also makes them a logical choice as we are using Dante in more and more venues these days."
(Jim Evans)
