Yamaha DM2000 console proves worth at BBC Interactive

HHB Communications recently supplied a Yamaha DM2000 Digital Production Console to the BBC's new Interactive Production Area (IPA) at Wood Lane.
Halfway between a network control suite and a direct to air studio, the IPA is a multi-streaming environment that places high demands on operators and technology alike, to deliver the essence of digital TV, viewer choice.
The BBC’s Sound Supervisor Dave Lee contacted HHB to discuss his requirement for a versatile control desk that would give him the tools needed to finesse and marshal multiple sources - live and effectively in real time - direct to broadcast.
Following a detailed analysis of the available options, Yamaha's new DM2000 quickly emerged as the perfect choice. “For me there was no alternative in the price range, this is the only desk that handles stereo channels in the way that suited our demands,” said Lee.
The option to create vertical stereo pairs instead of the more typical horizontal pairing proved critical for Lee: “Being able to treat all 24 faders as stereo faders was key, along with the comprehensive facilities, EQ, dynamic control and the screen channel display. The general feedback from the desk is pretty damn good. I particularly like the dedicated user panel for dynamic control and routing, instead of the usual dual-purpose knobs and buttons. Compared to other equivalents, the Yamaha presentation is that of a more professional, assignable desk.”
The DM2000 was first used in anger for the World Cup where six alternative presentations were created and broadcast simultaneously. “The viewer could chose between combinations like watching the BBC1 picture stream with Radio 5 commentary; or split screen with the match in main screen, and rolling highlights in the other, which meant a rolling live sound and looping audio commentary to match the highlights.” Other options were equally complex; not least live tactical analysis where viewers could ‘text’ in questions to the experts. This facility in particular provided valuable feedback, Lee reports, “for those with access the take-up was massive.”
Pleased with his decision, Lee reports the desk is, “performing very well. HHB and Yamaha have been very supportive throughout, and as I learn more about it I’ve effectively doubled its usability.”
HHB Communications, www.hhb.co.uk
(SP)