APT's WorldNet Oslo Selected For ARD's Multi-Channel Audio Transmission

ARD, the consortium of German Public Broadcasters, has selected APT’s WorldNet Oslo as the standard platform for 5.1 audio contribution and distribution between its member states.
The ARD’s decision will establish a new overlay framework based on the existing E1 network to enable the sharing of high-quality, phase-locked, surround sound content throughout the country.
A total of 12 WorldNet Oslo units will be deployed in eight member states by Broadcasting Corporations WDR, BR, HR, RBB, NDR, MDR and SWR. Many of these broadcasters have been pioneers in the field of surround sound broadcasting and are already utilising the WorldNet Oslo to deliver 5.1 Audio Content to their studios from various concert venues and OB vans throughout the country.
The ARD’s backing of the WorldNet Oslo follows the decision of the European Broadcasting Union (EBU) to deploy over 20 WorldNet Oslos throughout the continent enabling Surround Sound audio contribution on a European-wide basis.
Commenting on the order, Michael Carter of ARD’s Technical Centre in Frankfurt said: "Through early pilot projects, our participation in the EBU working group and on-going discussions with APT, we have been consistently impressed with the performance and flexible operation of the WorldNet Oslo platform. The decision to standardise on the units was based both on the results of extensive laboratory tests against other manufacturers’ solutions and the previous experience of many ARD member broadcasters who were already using the unit. Utilising the unit’s Enhanced apt-X coding, we can deliver both a 5.1 mix and a stereo programme on a single E1 link and we don’t have to worry about any negative effects from cascading algorithms."
While the audio performance was critical to the ARD’s decision, there were several other key factors which played a key role. Designed to be both transport and algorithm agnostic, the WorldNet Oslo is able to support E1/T1 and IP as well as several coding standards - Linear, Enhanced apt-X and J.57 with MPEG Layer II, G.722 and J.41 due for release. The modular architecture enables easy upgrade or expansion and also offers multiple layers of redundancy for mission-critical applications.
Jon McClintock, Commercial Director with APT added: "We are delighted at the recognition that the WorldNet Oslo is gaining in the industry with high profile backing from organisations such as the ARD and the EBU. The unit has proved itself as a robust, innovative and high-performance solution and we continue to develop it further to meet the needs of these pioneering broadcasters."
(SP)