The purchase also includes Lawo HOME IP infrastructure management and VSM (Virtual Studio Manager) IP broadcast control systems. For audio production at their Christchurch Hub, Entain will utilise a Lawo mc²36xp audio production console, with the DSP provided by Lawo’s new DSP Home App. Lawo Power Cores will handle all remote audio processing for their remote OB (Outside Broadcast) fleet. In addition, Entain selected a Meinberg M1000 PTP Grand Master to synchronise their SMPTE 2110 broadcast network.

This marks the initial phase of a long-term collaboration between Entain New Zealand and Professional Audio & Television’s manufacturers. Ultimately, the project will see the establishment of a new broadcast hub in Christchurch, along with the remote enablement of four OB trucks and upgrade of four OB vans. The hub will leverage SMPTE 2110 media standards, with ARISTA media fabric supporting video and audio processing powered by Lawo’s HOME Apps, running on COTS (Commercial Off-The-Shelf) Dell servers.

Lawo’s .edge technology forms the backbone of baseband video routing for both hub and OB vans, offering ultra-high-density SDI/IP conversion gateways and a robust routing platform. Lawo’s HOME Apps MultiViewer and JPEG XS apps will be used to drive video processing and contribution around New Zealand in and out of OB's and for remote production, bringing the vision to life. The audio in the hub will be managed by a 32-fader mc²36xp console, connected to the Lawo mc² DSP HOME App. In OB vans, Power Core RP v2 nodes, with touchscreen-optimized control via the VisTool RP interface, will enable streamlined on-site and remote access to all audio parameters, allowing for easy setup prior to connection with the hub mc² console.

With the necessary stream connections in place, operators can control device parameters directly through Lawo HOME’s intuitive user interface, eliminating the need for a separate controller. This integration accelerates operations and improves overall efficiency. While Lawo HOME complements, rather than replaces, Entain’s existing VSM broadcast controller, it significantly speeds up configuration and operational workflows.

In recent years, most broadcast innovations have been incremental, but with the rapid pace of change in the media industry, driven by new delivery channels, diverse formats, and tighter budgets, it’s clear that traditional, hardware-based solutions are becoming less viable. Recognizing this, Entain opted for Lawo Flex—a groundbreaking commercial offering that combines the flexibility of Lawo’s software-licensable infrastructure with subscription-based access to future apps. With Lawo Flex, Entain is assured of immediate access to future technology developments, enabling them to avoid costly investments in bespoke hardware that could quickly become obsolete.