The new compact IP unit is ideal whatever the situation: studio or remote
AETA Audio Systems is proud to announce the release of Scoop6 double IP mono codec, the latest product in a lineup of recent innovations from the audio and IP codec specialists.
Scoop6 follows in the footsteps of the Scoop5s rackmount audio codec. The new unit is, however, more compact and allows users to combine many codecs into just one 19-inch rack unit, even squeezing into crowded MCRs as well as facilitating remote broadcast in OB vans, for example.
Like Scoop5s, Scoop6 supports multiple network interfaces such as two Ethernet ports as well as 4G and 5G connections, so it’s also adaptable for all types of broadcast applications.
Just half the size of a 19-inch rack unit, the Scoop6 codec offers redundant power supply for safety as well as any kind of audio I/Os with AES67 (Dante or Ravenna) as analog or AES3.
“Just like we’ve upgraded Scoopy+S into Scoopy Flex, we have now modernized Scoop5s with Scoop6. Our job is to offer top-quality technology that lets users benefit from the most advanced features and versatility on the market may it be in remote connections or in the studio,” said Yann Vonarburg, general manager of AETA Audio Systems.
Scoop6 will be available in October 2022.
AETA Audio Systems will be exhibiting at the IBC2022 show in Amsterdam, Sept. 9–12 in Hall 8, Stand F83.
Will also highlight a host of new products and upgrades
AETA Audio Systems will showcase a host of new products and upgrades at IBC2022 (booth 8.F83).
The company has added 5G and enhanced stereo capabilities to the lengthy list of innovative ScoopTeam features. ScoopTeam offers a future-proof solution for both large and small stations and means they can now seamlessly cover events, while guaranteeing their audience enjoys impeccable audio quality. Flexible ScoopTeam commentary unit also offers Ethernet, 4G, Wi-Fi, VoLTE ISDN and AES67 connections together with “AETA remote access” technology so technicians in the master control room can take control of one or more units wherever they are.
In addition, AETA Audio Systems has also enhanced its ScoopFone audio codec with 5G technology. ScoopFone5G is based on the ScoopFone4G audio codec, sporting the same look and feel as its predecessor, but now offering the ability to connect to 5G, 4G and 3G networks.
ScoopFone is the smallest broadcast-grade contribution device on the market. Like ScoopFone4G, its 5G successor offers high-quality audio, adjustable bit rates and HD Voice. The unit also features AETA Audio System’s latest developments like auto jitter buffer, auto bit rate OPUS and remote access, making it even easier for operators to use. With its intuitive interface and simplified configuration, ScoopFone5G offers optimal transmission performance — a perfect balance between mobility, sound quality and functionality. It comes in a sturdy bag and offers more than five hours of autonomy with rechargeable batteries.
Also, at IBC2022, AETA Audio Systems will demonstrate its ScoopyFlex ultra-portable codec, a compact codec that comes with a docking station to let users quickly and easily turn the device into a full-fledged commentary unit. Evolving from AETA’s historical product, Scoopy, new modular ScoopyFlex is designed to meet broadcasters’ present and future needs by offering flexibility and advanced functionalities, such as 5G capability, embedded Bluetooth and Wi-Fi, as well as two mobile network connections. With an autonomy of up to eight hours, the unit can house three SIM cards and manages recording, editing and video tasks. It uses two stereo streams and supports HD voice.
In addition, the company will exhibit the MultiScoop during the international convention. This unit is useful for broadcasters who require multiple connections. The modular unit features fully redundant multi-connectivity, AES67, IP security, reliability as well as legacy ISDN connection.
Finally, AETA will also be displaying ScoopFoneHD, eScoopFone and µSCOOP.
Summer is here but before we dig into our summer beach books, we wanted to reach out to you with our latest news.
Despite all the global volatility over the last couple years, AETA Audio Systems is beginning to see an increase in business on many levels. In particular, we’ve recently delivered 20 ScoopTeam units to Algeria for the 2022 Mediterranean Games in Oran and signed a contract in Qatar for 20 ScoopFone4G units. This is hopefully the sign of an uptick in momentum for all our friends in the broadcast industry.
In anticipation of IBC2022, we’ve been pushing the throttle on the innovation side of things. We’ve made major upgrades to many of our units and are also in the process of releasing new products as well. Keep reading to learn about all we’ve been up to since our last newsletter.
TECHNOLOGY
ScoopFone5G
We’ve added 5G capability to our ScoopFone audio codec. ScoopFone5G is based on the ScoopFone4G codec, sporting the same look and feel as its predecessor, but now offering the ability to connect to state-of-the-art 5G networks as well as existing 4G and 3G networks.
ScoopTeam
TV broadcasters have been using ScoopTeam for years but now we’ve fine-tuned the unit – including feature such as enhanced stereo functionalities — making it an ideal solution for radio broadcasters too! This, while maintaining its appraised ease of use.
PRODUCTION
AETA has been able to keep a standard lead time in production despite global shortages. This point was essential for us toward our valued customers to show that AETA not only offers reliable products but also spotless service.
EXHIBITIONS
AETA strives to stay as close to its customers as possible. In addition to attending MPTS in May and Hamburg Open in June, we also plan to be on site at the following events:
IBC2022
Come and visit us at the IBC exhibition in Amsterdam, Sept. 9–12 in Hall 8, Stand F83. There, for the first time, we’ll be demonstrating ScoopyFlex in action. We’ll also be unveiling a special new product. We look forward to highlighting all this at the show and meeting with you.
Feature-packed audio codec can connect to 5G, 4G and 3G networks
Audio and IP codec specialists AETA Audio Systems is excited to announce that it has added 5G capability to its ScoopFone audio codec.
The company continues to take the lead in innovation by offering a simple and safe user experience. This latest advance is designed to simplify the job of broadcasters both in the studio and in the field, while ensuring high audio quality.
The future of wireless communications is 5G, which is 100 times faster than 4G, and will help save remote reporters valuable time on connection setups, such as network bonding, even when working in crowded surroundings.
ScoopFone5G is based on the ScoopFone4G audio codec, sporting the same look and feel as its predecessor, but now offering the ability to connect to 5G, 4G and 3G networks.
ScoopFone is the smallest broadcast-grade contribution device on the market. Like ScoopFone4G, its 5G successor offers high-quality audio, adjustable bit rates and HD Voice. The unit also features AETA’s latest developments like auto jitter buffer, auto bit rate OPUS and remote access, making it even easier for operators to use.
With its intuitive interface and simplified configuration, ScoopFone5G offers optimal transmission performance — a perfect balance between mobility, sound quality and functionality. It comes in a sturdy bag and offers more than five hours of autonomy with rechargeable batteries.
“In 2021 we announced the addition of 5G to our ScoopTeam unit,” said Yann Vonarburg, general manager of AETA Audio Systems. “Now, considering the commercial success of our ScoopFone, we decided it was time to upgrade this product with the most advanced communication technology available today that offers broadcast journalists the best communication experience possible.”
ScoopFone 5G is available now.
AETA Audio Systems will be exhibiting at the IBC show in Amsterdam, Sept. 9–12 in Hall 8, Stand F83.
Delivered 144 ScoopTeam codecs to Cameroon to ensure the successful coverage of CHAN and CAN 21
Audio and IP codec specialists AETA Audio Systems delivered a winning combination of commentary codecs to the recent African Nations Championship (CHAN) and 2021 Africa Cup of Nations (CAN)
The African Nations Championship takes place every two years and the 2021 edition was held from Jan. 16–Feb. 7. The 2021 Africa Cup of Nations was originally slated to take place in June and July 2021. However, the Confederation of African Football postponed the event due to harsh climatic conditions and rescheduled it for Jan. 9–Feb. 6, 2022, while retaining the name 2021 Africa Cup of Nations for sponsorship purposes.
At the request of Loca Images, a systems integrator based in Paris, AETA’s technical team adapted the ScoopTeam commentary codec to meet specifications for these events. In total, AETA provided 144 ScoopTeam units, which were used in five locations throughout Cameroon during both occasions.
Specifically, to meet the technical requirements defined for these competitions, AETA had to fine-tune its flagship product by, among other things, reducing the number of commentator positions from the regular four to just three. It also had to include a “power-over-Ethernet” feature, which eliminated the need for a main power supply at the stadium.
While ScoopTeam is mainly an audio over IP device, station staff made use of the DANTE interface for the internal networks of each stadium and the ISDN interface for the remote links, benefiting from the fact that AETA still also delivers this technology
Imed Ben Ameur, technical director at Loca Images, designed and managed the installation and stayed on site in Cameroon during both competitions to accompany ScoopTeam users and ensure streamlined operations of all equipment.
Ben Ameur explains that Loca Images chose AETA’s ScoopTeam based on many parameters. One of the main factors was compliance to the defined specifications, including ISDN. But in addition, says Ben Ameur, the product’s versatility, future-proofness and ergonomics also added solid advantages. Finally, the responsiveness and partnership spirit of AETA team clearly helped in making turning this project into a success story.
“Beyond the technical respect of the specifications, the ergonomics of the ScoopTeam user interface was decisive in our choice,” said ben Ameur. “We don’t regret our decision for a split second, especially since during the various broadcasts, all the local technicians were able to operate the products with almost no help from us.”
He specifically stated that Loca Images particularly appreciated the fact that the units were easy to use and they experienced no equipment failure during any of the competitions. This, he adds, despite particularly sweltering weather conditions, sometimes up to 50° C in the stands.
“We are very proud to have collaborated with Loca Images on this large-scale project, which clearly demonstrates the versatility of our ScoopTeam codecs,” added Yann Vonarburg, AETA general manager.
Codec specialist AETA has donated four Scoop5 S codec units to the Institut National de l’Audiovisuel
As part of its ongoing effort to support the broadcast industry, audio and IP codec specialists AETA Audio Systems, has recently donated four Scoop5 codecs to the Institut national de l’audiovisuel (INA), located in Bry-sur-Marne, France.
INA boasts 80 years of history. With more than 1 billion of its videos watched yearly, it archives, restores, digitizes and broadcasts one of the largest audiovisual and digital databases in the country.
The organization also produces and airs original work, supplies content to journalists as well as producers and trains students and professionals, also sustaining an ambitious activity in research and innovation.
With its dedicated training and research center, INA provides initial and continuing education courses for those interested in starting a career in the audiovisual communication sectors, as well as for those seasoned professionals, looking to expand their expertise in the fields of audiovisual, media and digital.
Professional training at INA includes a comprehensive range of courses in 13 different specializations, led by 22 instructors and nearly 350 professional expert lecturers in their field.
With some 300 students each year, in addition to the continuing-ed scholars, the facility provides both theoretical and practical learning, including workshops, which offer hands-on experience for participants. This is where AETA Audio System’s Scoop5 units come into play. The four Scoop5 codecs at INA allow students to gain practical experience in a professional setting.
Two of the units will be designated for the practice of in-house liaisons between two internal studios, a typical procedure at major broadcasting stations, while the other two will be positioned in the “lab” to simulate live contributions.
Thanks to its multiple network interfaces, the flexible Scoop5, will let students prepare for any type of broadcast scenario. Thanks to its wide range of coding algorithms including the standard MPEG2, AAC and G722, commonly used in the industry, along with its AES and analog audio inputs/outputs, the unit will allow INA to set up specific use cases for the students, even using other gear already present in the INA tech park.
The Scoop5 units aren’t the only AETA products in use at INA. In fact, the institution is in the process of setting up a special training program for a national television channel and will utilize AETA’s MultiScoop modular system with ScoopManager supervision software for this task.
Christian Valera, sound engineer at INA, is delighted to be able to train his students on equipment made in France. “We thank AETA for their generous donation. This equipment helps us demonstrate various applications and configurations,” he said. AETA’s General Manager Yann Vonarburg adds: “It’s a pleasure for AETA to contribute to the formation of young people who will one day become the lifeblood of tomorrow’s broadcasting industry.”
It’s been an eventful year for everyone across the globe as we approach the end of 2021. We unfortunately couldn’t meet up at IBC, but we’re keeping the momentum going and continue to invest in research and development to offer you the best in remote audio transmission technology.
While we’re waiting for many international in-person events to return, AETA Audio Systems continues to develop its expertise and solutions to offer you ever-advancing technology that simplifies your job and ensures easy and safe remote audio connections. We hold steady to our committed approach and motto — simple and safe audio links — and are excited to highlight our various milestones for this year.
ADDED FEATURES
In 2021, we announced several upgrades to our ScoopTeam, including embedded dual mobile network connectivity and bonding functionalities.
These upgrades mean broadcasters benefit from safer audio connections that help them deliver clear and concise information to their audience whatever the field situation.
We even received a RedTech Award for “Reliability” for ScoopTeam, which recognizes some of the most innovative and impactful technologies available today in the industry.
WEBINARS
| This year we also introduced a series of free online tutorials to help keep our partners abreast with all the recent developments at AETA. Hosted by Thomas Fengel, AETA’s sales manager for Europe, the first event focused on how to increase link safety using security features of audio codec hardware. It offered insight into topics including channel bonding, double streaming, forward error correction, audio bit rate auto adjustment, auto jitter buffer and more. The series, designed for technical staff at broadcast houses, took place live between Jan. 26 to Feb. 5. The videos are now available on our YouTube channel. |
TOKYO OLYMPICS
Through our customer base, our flagship product ScoopTeam along with other AETA field units made the trip to Tokyo to cover the Olympic Games. In the unique context of the 2021 edition, AETA is especially proud to have helped broadcasters play a key role in the coverage of this top sporting event.
5G
We know that 5G is the way forward, representing the future of wireless communications with improved speeds up to 100 Gbps — 100 times faster than 4G. After carrying out some in-depth R&D work, AETA announced earlier this year that its ScoopTeam can now embed a 5G network connection, ensuring an ever safer audio link even through wireless networks.
SCOOPYFLEX
In addition, we unveiled ScoopyFlex, a portable codec that comes with a docking station to let users quickly and easily turn the device into a full-fledged commentary unit.
Evolving from AETA’s historical product, Scoopy, the new modular ScoopyFlex is designed to meet broadcasters’ present and futureneeds by offering flexibility and advanced functionalities, such as 5G capability, embedded Bluetooth and Wi-Fi, as well as two mobile network connections.
HAPPY HOLIDAYS
The AETA Audio team wishes you a peaceful holiday season and a safe and prosperous new year!
To whom it may concern,
Following the announcement of the Log4j2 security flaw (reference CVE-2021-44228), as providing secure solutions to our customers is key, our R&D team evaluated, back in December, all AETA systems and services.
None of our solutions are affected by this security flaw.
No corrective measure is therefore required on any AETA systems and services.
Reference of the security flaw in question:
https://nvd.nist.gov/vuln/detail/CVE-2021-44228
Is using AETA’s mobile IP connections to keep audience informed
French commercial radio station Sud Radio is relying on AETA Audio Systems to help deliver timely news and information to its audience. The predominately talk radio station with a focus on news, social, political, economics and sports, has been making use of AETA’s ScoopTeam, Scoopy +S and Scoop 5S codecs for coverage of various remote events since 2014.
The station, which covers topical information such as national elections or the country’s Yellow Vest movement, opted for AETA products because of their flexibility and versatility. Over time, Sud Radio continues to depend on the numerous advantages the units provide, including that of offering artifact-free remote mobile IP broadcasts.
During the Yellow Vest protests, which began in 2018, for example, the station turned to AETA ScoopTeam when it needed a multipurpose device that was able to operate as a portable studio. The unit’s embedded mobile 4G capability and reliable IP performance played a fundamental role in the success of the station’s coverage of these ongoing demonstrations. The reliability and ease of operation allowed the station to seamlessly broadcast live for up to three hours, without the burden of having to worry about managing IP or ISDN lines.
After witnessing the flawless operation of their colleagues during the Yellow Vest protests, and despite originally being slightly skeptical about the dependability of mobile IP connections, the rest of the station’s team decided it was time to broaden their use of AETA’s mobile IP links.
Since then, Sud Radio has multiplied its remote programs and now features regular live broadcasts from across the nation. Even during lock down, Sud radio technicians distributed Scoopy and ScoopTeam units to all station contributors so they could broadcast from home. According to Misha Agard, system administrator for Sud Radio, for these WFH broadcasts, the use of SIP service eased the migration greatly.
“We use AETA products every day and they continue to demonstrate their reliability in any situation,” said Agard. “We’ve also been creative in making the most of the units to maximize their benefits. What’s more, thanks to their stability and quality connections, we no longer have to rent ISDN or IP lines and save a lot in time and money using wireless connections through SIM cards housed in ScoopTeam devices.”
One example of the station’s creativity is that, while ScoopTeam was originally designed as a commentator station for sports events, to help facilitate coverage of the Yellow Vest demonstrations, the Sud Radio team began using the unit to simultaneously connect four microphones/headsets and transmit outdoor broadcasts and use the codec as a complete mobile mini studio. “This allows us to report from virtually anywhere and, thanks to ScoopTeam’s ability to communicate with codecs, to keep our listeners up to date with the latest news.”
For Yann Vonarburg, general manager of AETA Audio Systems, Sud Radio’s creativity with ScoopTeam and all AETA’s units illustrate the vast potential the products offer to the broadcast market. “Ease of use and dependable connections under any circumstances are key and ensure station staff can successfully do their job and deliver important information to their audience. This is exactly what AETA wants to offer to its valued customers.”
Originally based in Andorra, Sud Radio, which broadcasts to the south of France and the Paris region, is a subsidiary of Fiducial Medias and is a member of Indés Radios and the Independent Radio Union (SIRTI).
When paired with a docking station the unit transforms into a full commentary unit
AETA Audio Systems, manufacturer of innovative audio and IP codecs, has introduced ScoopyFlex, a portable codec that comes with a docking station to let users quickly and easily turn the device into a full-fledged commentary unit.
Evolving from AETA’s historical product, Scoopy, the new modular ScoopyFlex is designed to meet broadcasters’ present and future needs by offering flexibility and advanced functionalities, such as 5G capability, embedded Bluetooth and Wi-Fi, as well as two mobile network connections.
With an autonomy of up to eight hours, the unit can house three SIM cards and manages recording, editing and video tasks. It uses two stereo streams and supports HD voice.
ScoopyFlex is suitable for multiple applications. The ultra-portable device is ideal for reporters on the go or spot interviews, ensuring dependable, high-quality audio broadcasts. What’s more, ScoopyFlex lets users connect a second mic to the unit to help ensure optimal sanitary conditions that protect both reporters and guests during interviews.
For sports commentaries or remotes from more complex infrastructures, presenters can pair ScoopyFlex with a docking station, turning it into a complete commentary unit. With this configuration, ScoopyFlex offers up to three mics, additional audio I/Os and a redundant AES67 connection on top of a second ethernet port, battery recharge, intercom buttons, and of course easy access to level knobs.
This means ScoopyFlex and the docking system afford users the versatility and ability to carry a complete compact commentary unit in their suitcase and to use ScoopyFlex alone as a broadcast-proof portable device, or together with the docking station to create a complete commentary unit, depending on the job at hand.
“With ScoopyFlex, we offer the quality and tradition of our flagship product, Scoopy, in a new modular version that enables users to benefit from the unit’s advanced features and versatility, allowing them to craft timely and compelling remote broadcasts,” said Yann Vonarburg, general manager of AETA Audio Systems. “In the past, to achieve this, station staff would have to have two units: one light device for mobile use and another one for commentary applications. That’s now changed with ScoopyFlex and its docking station, and this significantly lowers the cost of gear for broadcaster.”
AETA will showcase ScoopyFlex on at IBC2021 on booth 8.D75.
AETA Audio Systems has added 5G capability to the lengthy list of innovative ScoopTeam features, ensuring users enjoy an even simpler and safer user experience.
This latest upgrade to the commentary unit represents a significant leap forward in the world of audio transport for outside broadcast applications. It offers a future-proof solution for both large and small stations and means they can now seamlessly cover events, while guaranteeing their audience enjoys impeccable audio quality.
Representing the future of wireless communications with improved speeds up to 100 Gbps — theoretically 100 times faster than 4G — 5G is set to not only ease the task of the broadcaster but also enhance the user experience. Practically speaking, for the broadcast journalist, this technology eliminates the risk of losing precious time on connection setups, such as network bonding, even when working in crowded environments.
“After carrying out some in-depth R&D work, we’re happy to be able to offer our clients the most advanced network connectivity available today,” said Yann Vonarburg, general manager of AETA Audio Systems. “The fact that ScoopTeam can now embed a 5G network connection will result in safer audio links, even via wireless networks that should not be saturated anymore, greatly reducing obstacles inherent to AoIP connections.”
The flexible ScoopTeam commentary unit also offers Ethernet, 4G, Wi-Fi, VoLTE ISDN and AES67 connections together with “AETA remote access” technology so technicians in the master control room can take control of one or more units wherever they are.
ScoopTeam’s 5G upgrade comes after AETA’s announcement that the unit can now embed two wireless modules. With these upgrades, ScoopTeam will be able to connect to both 4G and 5G networks simultaneously, as well as offering bonding and double streaming options, if still necessary.
Summer is here! As we flip the page to the next chapter, we take with us what we’ve learned over the last months and transform these lessons into practical responses. Remote technology in all sectors has never held such an important role. And as the broadcast industry searches for a cozy spot between the social distancing and remote office scenarios, to which we’ve become accustomed, and a new normality, it’s faced with many questions regarding the best way to move forward.
How stations need to adjust their daily operations is just one of the many questions at hand. We know this may seem daunting. That’s why AETA Audio Systems continues to refine its solutions so that they offer even more flexibility, whether you choose to go live from the studio, the field, or from home. To that end — and always thinking about how to simplify the broadcaster’s journey — we recently held a series of webinars covering the ins and outs of AoIP deployment and considerations to keep in mind when selecting the right gear for your outside contribution requirements. Watch them on demand here.
Up next for us is IBC in December, as organizers have announced they’ll hold a hybrid (physical and digital) event from Dec. 3–6. We’ll have a booth there and look forward to meeting up with you again in person. In fact, by the time the event rolls around, we’ll have been working almost two years in anticipation of this precise moment, so we plan to unleash lots of new and innovative solutions you won’t want to miss!
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Here’s some details about what we’ve been up to lately.PRODUCT RELEASE 
ScoopFone-IP Rackmount
As the need for remote contribution has increased through the stages of the pandemic, AETA ScoopFone has been the product of choice for many of our clients.
To respond to the numerous requests, AETA has turned ScoopFone-IP into a new rackmountable version, Scoopfone IP/R. This means our customers can now choose to have this product to put in the MCR!UPGRADES AAC LD – ELD
AETA understands that some customers don’t always realize that working with OPUS algorithm may not suitable for their workflow, and also that AAC LC and HE can create too much latency. AETA has therefore decided to embed AAC LD-ELD coding algorithms into all its products in production as of September to yet again simplify the communication game.CONNECTIONS
| Encouraging the Conversation in Africa We know how important it is for populations around the world to have access to reliable information, and also the possibility to voice their opinions, concerns and questions. Broadcasters play an important role in encouraging this conversation, but to do so successfully, they also need to be able to depend on quality products and technical support to ensure there is no failure in the communication chain. Easy access to broadcast gear and technical support is an important part of the process. Find out how we’re working with industry partners to facilitate this task. |
| YouTube To give our partners easy access to videos, we’ve started our own YouTube channel! The channel already features videos of the webinars we held in the spring. And we’ll soon be uploading more content, including product overviews, tutorials, and other useful information. Watch here! |
| BUSINESS |
AETA Helps Morocco’s MAP Cover the News We’re helping Maghreb Arab Press (MAP) deliver timely information to its audience through the press agency’s newly launched radio service, Radio de l’Information Marocaine (RIM). In fact, we recently delivered Scoopy+ S codecs and one Scoop5 codec to the station. |
