France Télévisions has updated and future proofed its audio and video post production capabilities with a digital audio workstation (DAW) solution based on Fairlight from Blackmagic Design.
The broadcaster has implemented 31 Fairlight Advanced Consoles in two bay systems, across 24 regional newsroom hubs throughout France.
“Our requirements for the tender was to guarantee on air continuity for our 24 newsrooms with a solution that would ensure the production of our regional broadcast news in a fluid and rapid manner,” says Gregory Vital, head of engineering and technical services, France Télévisions. “The previous solution was no longer fit for purpose. Furthermore, the amount of time devoted to supporting it was considerable, as was the cost.”
France Télévisions wanted a solution that offered both a future proof audio and video toolset while seamlessly integrating with the broadcasters’ existing media and production asset management (PAM) pipelines across its entire news operation.
“Fairlight met all our immediate requirements while also supporting our need to expand in to 4K workflows in the future,” said Vital. “Access to DaVinci Resolve’s API also ensured we could quickly interface Fairlight with our existing systems and workflow automation, ensuring a smooth transition for our operators.”
According to Vital, the project has been a significant undertaking: “We had less than 18 months to integrate Fairlight into our workflows, train 190 users and make 24 centres operational throughout France, all amid Covid.”
“Critical in this project tender was our ability to deliver Fairlight consoles to a rapid roll out schedule across all 24 regions,” added Tim Siddons, director, Blackmagic Design. “Working closely with Magic Hour, our authorised Fairlight reseller in Paris, we have been able to achieve France Télévisions vision across all regions on time and within budget.”
