Audacy’s Winning Formula: Detroit Lions + Tieline
Audacy’s partnership with Tieline has become a key component of its Detroit Lions Radio Network broadcasts, ensuring that Lions fans across Michigan never miss a moment of the action. Ryan Sczomak, the engineer responsible for maintaining the network’s operations, discussed how Tieline’s technology supports the broadcast team’s efforts, from Ford Field to the road.
At home games, Audacy uses the Gateway 16 codec at Ford Field to manage multiple stereo streams, including the main program audio, producer communication, a feed to the stadium’s concourse, and another feed to the Audacy suite. This allows for smooth, multi-channel communication, which is especially crucial for the NFL’s complex game-day broadcasts. The ability to use several streams on one device provides flexibility and efficiency, something that Sczomak praises as essential for the high-stakes environment of NFL broadcasting.
When the team hits the road, Tieline’s ViA codec steps in. The ViA is used for remote pregame broadcasts, as well as for live play-by-play coverage. It’s known for its dual internal LTE cards, which provide a reliable backup to the LAN connection typically used in stadiums. The combination of SmartStream Plus redundant streaming and Fuse-IP data bonding ensures that the signal stays strong and steady, even in challenging conditions.
On the technical side, the broadcast team also uses the Cloud Codec Controller, a tool that enables remote monitoring and management of the equipment. This allows Sczomak to check and adjust the codec settings before the game, ensuring that both the send and receive streams are functioning properly. With road engineers often less familiar with the ViA, this remote access gives Sczomak peace of mind, knowing that he can provide support even from afar.
In terms of audio quality, Sczomak notes that Tieline’s solutions provide exceptional sound with very low latency. This is crucial for broadcasts that heavily rely on caller interaction, as any delay could disrupt the flow of the show. The ease of setup and use, paired with Tieline’s reliable customer support, has made these tools indispensable for Audacy’s Lions broadcasts.
Overall, Tieline’s equipment plays a crucial role in maintaining the smooth operation of the Detroit Lions Radio Network, helping Audacy deliver high-quality, reliable coverage to Lions fans across the state, and ensuring that the team’s radio broadcasts remain as professional and efficient as possible.
