ASIA

As the climate is changing and power prices are rising, cost and sustainability are on every broadcasters mind.Transmission company GatesAir is responding to the needs of broadcasters with new innovations in its range of transmitters that increase efficiency, bring down costs and are better for the environment.At IBC, GatesAir displayed a range of transmitters hat integrate the new innovations for more efficient transmission.

GatesAir’s VP and General Manager of the Radio and Product Group Ted Lance told Steve Ahern about the product range.The AM transmitter range uses Modulation-Dependent Carrier Level (MDCL), which “helps lower operating expenses by 15% to 20%.” MDCL works by lowering the carrier wave power during the different types of modulation, without reducing coverage. The technology can also be  deployed on Shortwave transmitters.For FM transmitters in GatesAir’s GX series, the company has “helped lower the transmitter site footprint of the product as well as increase the efficiency… we try to lower the operating expenses for the end user by having the highest efficiency as well as with the hardware footprint [at the transmitter site being smaller].”GatesAir also makes Digital Radio transmitters, servicing DAB+ and HD Radio, which can reduce costs and power usage by 30-50% when shared in a multiplex.[embedded content]
Ted: What we have on display here at IBC this year is our new series, the GX series. With the GX series, what we’ve done is we’ve helped lower the footprint of the product as well as increase the efficiency. So we try to lower the operating expenses for the end user by having the highest efficiency as well as with the footprint being lower, it helps in some of those where you have a rental space that you’re using in a particular facility. Now we take up a lot less space, so helping with the cost for the end user.Steve: Broadcasters are now more than ever interested in saving money, reducing efficient emissions, making the equipment more sustainable. So is that the approach that you’ve taken in this FM range?Ted: Yes, anything that we can do, and we show that usually in the ROIs back to the stations. You know, you’re saving in also your HVAC, so we’re trying to help with the whole footprint for the operators and for our end users with our product designs and what we look at. That’s really what is always a focus in every design that we have.Steve: Now let’s turn to AM. There’s much more scope for efficiency there because of the way they carry away the modulation and all those things are handled. Tell me about it.Ted: Okay. One of the things that is used to help with the operating expenses is MDCL, which will help lower your operating expenses by 15%, 20% in a way it works with lowering the power during the different type of modulation and audio envelope. So we use the MPG-CL to help the broadcasters and that type of thing in an AM environment.Steve: What are your transmitter products that have that available?Ted: It’s in all the series in the 3DX. So those are 50 kilowatt and below and in our DX series, which again, when you can put that onto a DX, which is very high powered, it definitely makes a big, big impact on the operating expenses.Steve: And thirdly, let’s talk about digital radio. All broadcasters are interested in their downstream suppliers called Scope 3 in terms of measuring emissions. DAB is automatically more efficient because you’re sharing costs and running costs with others. So what kind of transmitters or services do you offer?Ted:  Yeah, again, we work on having the highest efficiency in a DAB operation from the equipment itself at the equipment, but taking that further and being able to provide more programs within a single box at a lower power giving you the same type of coverage level, area. Now, with that, you’re able to you save, 30 to 50 percent of your overall operating expenses just by going to a DAB type of solution.In over-the-air analog and digital broadcasting, GatesAir empowers radio/TV stations and networks worldwide with the industry’s most operationally efficient transmitters. The company continues to innovate new design efficiencies with each product generation that reduce size, energy use and more to establish the industry’s lowest total cost of ownership.GatesAir’s forward-looking philosophy extends to innovations in media transport, where both broadcasters and public safety/emergency response teams utilize our solutions to reliably move voice, data, audio and video between locations using traditional and emerging connections, from RF to IP.GatesAir is investing in the future and staying on the cutting edge as new technologies emerge, helping customers monetize new opportunities while serving the audiences that depend on their content. The company also supplies codecs and tv transmitters.The company is currently celebrating its 100th year of operation.Related report: Sustainability activities deliver cost savings and transmitter efficiency […]

GMA Network’s flagship radio stations, Super Radyo DZBB 594 kHz and Barangay LS 97.1 Forever!, continue their dominance of Mega Manila airwaves in September with increased audience shares.Super Radyo DZBB, the Kapuso Network’s flagship AM station, breached the 50 percent mark in audience share in September, according to Nielsen Radio Audience Measurement (RAM) data. This marks a significant leap from its 42.3 percent audience share in August.Meanwhile, based on the same data, competitors DZRH and DWWW tallied 31.1 percent and 10.2 percent, respectively.

The Kapuso Network’s stellar performance in Mega Manila airwaves continued with its flagship FM radio station, Barangay LS 97.1 Forever!, also recording an increased audience share of 51.6 percent in September.Barangay LS 97.1’s performance further widens its lead against competitors 90.7 Love Radio and Wish 107.5, which registered 12.1 percent and 7.4 percent, respectively. […]

Dubai Media Incorporated (DMI) has revealed details of a comprehensive plan to realise its new strategy to further develop the media sector in Dubai and support the growth of the media and creative sectors in the Arab world.The CEO of DMI announced the launch of the Dubai Media Academy (DMA) at a press conference held at the 21st Arab Media Forum in Dubai. Aimed at fostering skills and guiding the youth towards fulfilling media careers, the academy and 7awi Media Group have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to collaborate on promoting responsible content creation and nurturing the next generation of content creators. This partnership aims to support the development of the new digital economy by focusing on the latest trends, social media platforms, and ethical content creation.7awi Media Group is a premier digital media company that operates a diverse portfolio of online platforms and content channels for audiences across the Middle East and beyond.

The MoU was signed by Anas Abbar, CEO of 7awi Media Group and Mona Bou Samra, Director of DMA. Its key objectives include:
Promote Responsible Content Creation: Both organizations will work together to raise awareness about the importance of creating ethical and responsible content. This includes educating content creators on best practices, guidelines, and the impact of their content on society.
Nurture Emerging Content Creators: The partnership will provide training and development programs for aspiring content creators, equipping them with the necessary skills and knowledge to succeed in the digital landscape. This includes workshops, masterclasses, and mentorship opportunities.
Focus on Latest Trends and Platforms: The collaboration will emphasize staying up to date with the latest trends in digital media and social media platforms. This ensures that content creators are well-informed and can effectively engage with their audiences.
Support the New Digital Economy: By fostering responsible content creation and supporting new talent, the partnership aims to contribute to the growth and sustainability of the digital economy in the UAE.
Bou Samra said: “Our cooperation with 7awi Media Group represents an important step in the framework of the efforts made by the Dubai Media Academy to develop the media sector for everyone working within it like content creators, influencers and students, and enhancing the power of digital content,” noting that the digital content industry in the UAE and the region is witnessing rapid growth.Abbar added: “Our partnership with Dubai Media Academy is a testament to our commitment to fostering a positive and ethical digital content ecosystem. By working together, we can provide valuable resources and opportunities for emerging content creators, ensuring they are well-equipped to navigate the digital landscape responsibly and innovatively.” […]

Analysis by James Duvall, Principal Entertainment Analyst, Futuresource Consulting.Vinyl records have experienced an astonishing comeback, with sales figures reaching levels not seen since the 1980s.

Once considered a relic of the past, vinyl has become a must-have item for music lovers of all ages. While Generation X has long been associated with this nostalgic medium, the real surprise lies in the enthusiasm for vinyl among younger groups, particularly Generation Z.This vinyl resurgence has evolved into a cultural phenomenon, with a new wave of listeners embracing the tactile and aesthetic appeal of the format. But what’s behind this trend, and why are people from different generations gravitating towards vinyl?Gen X: A nostalgic connectionFor Generation X, vinyl represents a powerful sense of nostalgia. Born between 1965 and 1980, this generation grew up during the golden age of physical music formats, including LPs, cassettes, and CDs. Vinyl offers a tangible link to their past, when listening to music was a hands-on activity that involved carefully handling records and admiring detailed album artwork.In a world dominated by digital consumption, Gen Xers are rediscovering the warmth of analogue sound, and the immersive experience vinyl offers. Beyond superior sound quality, it’s the ritual of playing a record that appeals to them—something that streaming platforms, with their convenience, often lack.Gen Z: A desire for authenticityAged 16 to 25, Generation Z grew up in a world where music was instantly accessible via streaming platforms. Yet, despite the ease of digital access, many in this group report feeling disconnected from the music they consume online. Vinyl offers a way to build a more meaningful relationship with the music they love, allowing them to physically own and engage with their favourite albums.For these younger listeners, vinyl is more than just a medium for music — it’s a form of self-expression. Limited-edition releases, coloured vinyl, and exclusive albums provide a sense of individuality. The retro appeal of vinyl also resonates with their love for vintage culture, blending old-school style with modern sensibilities.The vinyl experience: A cross-generational appealWhat unites Gen X and Z is their shared appreciation for the vinyl experience. Whether it’s Gen X reliving the nostalgia of their youth or Gen Z seeking authenticity, vinyl transforms passive listening into an immersive, physical experience.With its distinctive artwork, liner notes, and the tactile nature of playing a record, vinyl offers more than just sound—it’s a complete sensory experience. The hands-on interaction and richer sound quality allow listeners to connect with the music on a deeper level.The future of vinylThe vinyl resurgence shows no signs of slowing down. Sales have been steadily increasing for more than a decade, and both physical and online record stores are thriving. Major artists continue to release albums on vinyl, and independent musicians see it as a way to establish a deeper connection with their audiences.For Gen X, vinyl remains a nostalgic reminder of earlier days, but for younger listeners, it’s becoming an integral part of their music experience. As more people discover the unique qualities of vinyl, its appeal is poised to grow further, bridging generations and changing the way music is consumed.The next generation: Where does vinyl go from here?While Gen X and Z have played significant roles in driving the vinyl revival, time will soon tell if Generation Alpha will embrace the format with the same enthusiasm. Will they continue to value physical engagement with music, or will newer technologies redefine how music is experienced?James Duvall (main picture) explained these trends at the Making Vinyl Europe Conference last month, where he also shared the results of a survey collaboration with Making Vinyl and the Vinyl Record Manufacturers Association.Futuresource Consulting’s Audio Tech Lifestyles Consumer Survey is available here.  It covers: Ownership and usage; Purchase triggers; Audio tech wireless/headphones and earbuds products;  Audio technology and quality awareness; Audio consumption habits; Speakers and TV audio.Futuresource Consulting is a UK based market research consulting company that provides a range of specialist intelligence reports and ongoing personal debriefs to support with business decision-making. Stay tuned for more insights into the audio industry from Futuresource in our publications. […]

This is the third in Steve Ahern’s series on new trends at IBC24 in Amsterdam.Content detection has come ahead in leaps and bounds over the past 12 months, with bigger data sets and better AI functionality allowing editing and publishing tools to do more with the content, faster than ever before.

For video this means that AI can analyse all the scenes in a film or tv show to identify the actors, match them with their IMDB profile, tag them on socials, add their biography to the movie’s synopsis or save their details in the movie metadata for future royalty payments.
Using speech to text tools, editing and playout software can automatically transcribe the lines spoken for subtitles, then use an embedded translation tool to offer subtitles in other languages. Subtitling and language tools are not new, but now they are faster and more accurate, and embedded into your professional software.
For audio the same speech to text tools can be used to clean up the audio, produce program synopses, compile podcast episode summaries and identify content types. My preferred program for this is Cleanvoice.ai.

Your live radio program can be automatically bookmarked by your audio editing software to create chapter markers at the point where each interview took place and to insert the name of the guest and the topic discussed. This is currently done manually after the program airs, but can now be done on the fly as a program is being broadcast using AI tools that scan the rundown and cross reference to the words spoken by the presenter using speech to text detection. For commercial stations, related advertisements can be inserted at suitable points if required to give better proximity to content for advertisers.  This will make catchup radio faster and more efficient as well as making post production podcast creation easier.
Add voice cloning to the speech to text tools and the radio program can be available in any language very quickly after broadcast.
Visual software company VIDA has integrated AI into its storage and playout systems, making it easy to identify content in movies and archival audio. VIDA’s Symon Roue demonstrated how it works.
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Previous articles in this series:
IBC Trends 1: Artificial Intelligence
IBC Trends 2: The Cloud […]

ENCO will showcase the latest advances for its two generative AI solutions at NAB New York this week, including a new lead gen tool for SPECai that automatically creates a spec spot as part of an email pitch to a current or potential advertiser. ENCO has also added a new twist on instant spec spot creation to SPECai, while empowering aiTrack users with a variety of new voicing opportunities that expand the possibilities of the AI DJ.SPECai and aiTrack share similar performance qualities and achieve the same professional results for two different production needs. Their qualities are largely similar in performance and results thanks to their use of generative AI models to create compelling multi-lingual scripts, and the use of synthetic voice engines to produce natural sounding voiceovers in many languages.ENCO’s approach to AI modeling has ensured that the company can quickly and consistently add valuable new features over time. SPECai’s ad creation workflow, which allows account managers and other users in broadcast radio sales to create compelling, localized spec ads within seconds, is evidence of this approach. At IBC2024 in Amsterdam, ENCO, in collaboration with SPECai partners Benztown and Compass Media Networks, introduced a first-of-its-kind voice cloning feature that invites more freedom to customize ads. Customers can now bring recognizable voices they have the authority to use into new ads using this technology.

Just one month after IBC, ENCO will unveil LeadGenie, a new lead gen feature specifically developed to help radio sales teams win new business. Upon using SPECai’s responsive workflow and software toolset to create scripts, add voiceovers and select music beds from Benztown’s libraries, users can select a new option to email an example to a current or prospective client. Upon choosing this option, SPECai produces an email from a template with a link to the ad that the user can adjust and customize for each client.ENCO has also added a second new feature to SPECai that allows users to create a spot by simply entering a URL for a website or webpage. InstaSpot immediately analyzes the landing site for information relevant to the spec spot and presents the user with three script options for the spec ad. InstaSpot’s instant magic takes a new approach to SPECai’s proven spec spot creation formula that saves the user even more time.ENCO has also added a second new feature to SPECai that allows users to create a spot by simply entering a URL for a website or webpage. InstaSpot immediately analyzes the landing site for information relevant to the spec spot and presents the user with three script options for the spec ad. InstaSpot’s instant magic takes a new approach to SPECai’s proven spec spot creation formula that saves the user even more time.While SPECai represents a standalone solution accessible on any web browser or mobile device, ENCO has developed aiTrack as an AI production toolset built into its DAD automation workflow. Now available for DAD customers, aiTrack’s dynamic content insertion capabilities leverages generative AI models and synthetic speech engines to provide engaging content for listeners in diverse ways. As an authentic part of the DAD automation workflow broadcasters can deliver engaging content at any time, with instant turnaround and insertions of breaking news, weather, sports and more into live broadcasts. Users can pre-schedule and customize automated voice tracks for the AI DJ role.New for NAB New York, ENCO has added dozens of voices to aiTrack that will allow broadcasters greater freedom to develop unique voices for their broadcast shows and overall brand. ENCO has also added SPECai’s proven voice cloning feature to aiTrack, allowing on-air and production teams to replicate the voice of the client, on-air talent or another known presenter upon analyzing a short user-uploaded audio sample.“We will continue to aggressively develop our AI solutions in thoughtful ways that help our customers win more business and operate more efficiently,” said Ken Frommert, President, ENCO. “That means striking the right balance between producing high-quality content that delivers meaningful business results to broadcasters.” […]