MAJOR GERMAN BROADCASTER CHOOSES AVANT

GERMAN public service broadcaster ZDF are to install an Avant digital film and post-production console in Synchron Regie 1, a fully refurbished dubbing studio, at the broadcaster's production headquarters in Mainz.
The 24-fader, 48-channel Avant is scheduled for delivery in November when the console will be used on a wide range of post-production projects from high-end television drama in stereo and 5.1, to routine daily operation.
According to SSL's Regional Sales Manager Andy Duffield the sale to ZDF is particularly significant as it represents the first SSL console to be ordered by the broadcaster. He said: "In replacing their Neumann analogue console, the broadcaster looked carefully at all available options. They concluded that the Avant offered a number of key advantages, especially in the area of machine control and automation. Avant's robust and proven architecture - and the high level of support both from SSL and our German partner digital/audio gmbh - were also key factors in the decision."
The choice of console was also influenced by the positive experience enjoyed by Studio Tonmeister, which uses two Avants and two MT multitrack consoles in Medienhaus Mainz, their all-digital new media facility on the outskirts of the city.
A post-production facilities supplier to ZDF, Studio Tonmeister have had considerable experience with Avant and were happy to demonstrate the strengths of the console to their broadcast customer.
A major European broadcaster, ZDF employs more than 3500 staff at their centre in Mainz and, with 17 national and 19 international studios, are the most comprehensive news provider in Germany. The broadcaster were also one of the first in Europe to supplement traditional programming with web-based information through their portal, established more than four years ago.
(GB)