Real-time networking with Calrec's Hydra and Zeta systems

At SBES 2003, to be held in London from November 26-27, Calrec Audio (Stand #29) are to introduce the Hydra audio network, enabling I/O resources to be shared throughout the entire family of Calrec digital consoles.
The Hydra is built on gigabit Ethernet technology to provide a highly reliable and user-friendly system with a very high bandwidth.
Connections can be over fibre (MTRJ) or copper (RJ45), and the connection between the digital I/O rack and the Gigabit Interface Unit allows up to 128 bi-directional channels.
Based on Calrec’s renowned Alpha architecture, the Zeta 100 also makes its SBES debut. Specifically designed for local television and radio production, the Zeta provides the same broadcast-specific features, high levels of redundancy and hot-swappability as the Alpha and Sigma 100 consoles.
Also on show is the Sigma 100, which features four band EQ, separate filters, compressor/limiter/expander gate, surround and stereo panning and Mix-Minus outputs on all channels.
Both consoles will be networked by the Hydra system.
“Gigabit Ethernet networking provides broadcast facilities with a very cost-efficient and user-friendly infrastructure for sharing I/O resources throughout the station and across a network of digital consoles.” said John Gluck, Sales and Marketing Director.
“This level of flexibility and control is unsurpassed and gives operators and station managers more flexibility to justify any number of I/O resources on any given broadcast.”
Calrec now offers a range of digital audio consoles with a cheap and reliable networking system providing solutions for a variety of broadcast environments.
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