GLENSOUND DEAL STRENGTHENS APT CROSS-COMPATIBILITY

SPECIALIST ISDN broadcast equipment manufacturer Glensound Electronics has signed an agreement with Belfast-based APT to license its apt-X™ DSP code, thus allowing the company to implement apt-X™ directly into a new range of mono reporter codecs due to be unveiled later this year.
Glensound Electronics has been using APT’s original apt-X™ DSP16A Lucent part within its product line-up for many years. The company’s decision to license apt-X™ DSP code assures the algorithm a key place within Glensound’s new range and consolidates its position within the broadcast industry.
Key to the new licensing deal, which was signed in December 2001, is the utilisation of APT’s IMUX algorithm, MUCAS, which allows cross compatibility between Glensound’s new range and existing products using the traditional APT portfolio. It will also allow compatibility with the recently released APT WorldNet Milano, as well as being backwardly compatible with APT ISDN units such as BCF, DRT128, DSM Prolink and the Nicral apt-X units – Nicra X and Nica 64, thereby addressing broadcasters’ requirements for low delay, high quality audio end to end.
APT’s commercial director, Jon McClintock, said: “This licensing arrangement represents an exciting development in Reporter codec capabilities and strengthens the link between two tremendously well-respected companies – Glensound Electronics and APT. The assurance of a cross compatibility agreement between codecs allows the broadcaster extensive flexibility in the implementation of the APT algorithm.”
Glensound Electronics has been making professional audio broadcast equipment since 1966. The company manufactures and designs everything 'in house' and, along with an extensive production range, it also offers a custom-built service. The Glensound range includes committee room equipment and commentator equipment for news, sports and current affairs. It also offers a range of ISDN broadcast equipment incorporating a choice of codecs.
Glensound’s managing director Len Davis said: “The BBC uses a different data compression algorithm to that used by commercial radio, so we have developed a range of equipment that seamlessly incorporates both. In this respect we believe the Glensound range is unique because it gives reporters and commentators full access to all radio stations from one piece of equipment.
“We hope to unveil our new range during 2002 and we are convinced that the inclusion of apt-X™ DSP code will help us extend the client base for the range and improve overall sales.”
Glensound Electronic’s client list covers all major UK broadcasters, including the BBC.
In recent years it has also designed and supplied equipment to control the audio and broadcast facilities in some of the main debating chambers in the UK. (SP)