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. |
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.
For AETA Audio Systems, it’s essential that station staff has access to safe and reliable remote broadcasting gear, no matter which corner of the world they are located, and whether they are broadcasting from the studio or the field.
Take, for example, Africa. For many years, AETA has been working with local partners to facilitate the fair flow of information from both the authorities and the population. It’s vital for radio broadcasters (public or private, large or small) to be covered when it comes to having the right tools that allow them to create and air timely — and often life-saving — programs to their audiences.
The Power of Radio
In Africa, radio still has the broadest geographical reach and the largest audiences compared to the internet, television and newspapers. It’s cheap for those who can’t afford expensive smartphone and mobile data plans and can provide information, education, entertainment, and more.
We believe communication is fundamental in the political and economic development of any country, and broadcasting is certainly an important form of communication. The Oxford English Dictionary defines communication as, “The imparting or exchanging of information by speaking, writing, or using some other medium.”
The key here for AETA is “exchanging of information,” as in collaboration or discussion. And our goal, through providing trustworthy broadcasting equipment in the form of simple and safe audio links, is to enable both large stations, as well as the single reporter, to easily connect with their audiences, encouraging a two-way and democratic dialog.
As part of this mission, we continue to work closely with Africa. At a continental level, for example, AETA has over the years supplied many Scoop5S-IP units to the Bank of Africa. This has allowed the organization to share simultaneous multi-language translations from its meeting rooms to many other institutions around the world.
At a regional level, AETA has been very active in Southern Africa in collaboration with our local distributor SoundFusion. In that area, we offer extensive technical support to many community radios as well as to larger institutions, such as parliament and the ministry of international affairs.
Local Projects
In French-speaking western Africa, we’ve participated in many seminars in collaboration with our local partner AVS solution, and on those occasions took the opportunity to visit various radio organizations, such as the national public broadcaster RTI and Radio Alpha Blondy.
In addition, we’ve donated many of our Scoopy codec to city halls around Abidjan to help in their local radio projects and to facilitate communication at a local level for all citizens, again with the goal of facilitating exchange and conversation.
We’re also present in Morocco through systems integrator PHF COM. In fact, we recently delivered AETA Scoopy+ S codecs, one Scoop5 to help Maghreb Arabe Press provide timely information to its audience through the press agency’s newly launched radio service, Radio de l’Information Marocaine.
Finally, in Nigeria our partner Ecalpemos Technologies has delivered many Scoopfone and Scoopy+ units to the community, and we also have a presence in Tanzania, through our local partner Energy and Telecom, as well as Rwanda, Senegal, Angola and Mozambique.
Nelson Mandela stated in in 2003 during a speech at the University of the Witwatersrand South Africa, “Education is the most powerful weapon which you can use to change the world.” We know we can’t change the world overnight but we’re proud of our success stories and contribution thus far to this vast and varied continent and the relationships we’ve built with our local partners and customers.
We see this as just the beginning of a very long path. One that will facilitate, even if in some minor way, the of exchange of information, education, and more — encouraging the conversation.
AETA Audio Systems, a leading manufacturer of audio and IP codecs, is helping Maghreb Arabe Press (MAP) deliver timely information to its audience through the press agency’s newly launched radio service, Radio de l’Information Marocaine (RIM).
Founded in 1959 and based in Rabat, Morocco, MAP provides official news services in Arabic, English, French, Spanish and Tamazight. In addition to providing news, the agency cofounded a national charter for the improvement of women’s images in the media with the ministry of social development and family and solidarity and the ministry of communication and culture in 2005.
As part of an expansion plan, the information agency also recently added RIM to its offerings. The radio station broadcasts news and information 24 hours a day, nationwide and online.
In order to offer RIM listeners a constant flow of up-to-the-minute information, MAP shopped for a reliable system that could record and deliver live stream audio programs in broadcast quality. After issuing a tender in November, the organization selected AETA equipment because of its ability to deliver RTC, ISDN, ADSL and 3G/4G connectivity at a competitive price. Casablanca-based systems integrator PHF COM Morocco managed the sale and is providing staff training to RIM.
PHF’s Managing Director Younes Yamouni explains that the station was searching for an easy-to-use mobile solution for its roving reporters, and AETA, a reference in the remote broadcast world, was the obvious choice. In January, PHF delivered two AETA Scoopy+ S codecs and one Scoop5 S codec in addition to five D021B LEM mics to MAP for use for coverage of remote events.
AETA’s General Manager Yann Vonarburg adds that both Scoopy+ S and Scoop5 S codecs offer trustworthiness in the field in terms of connections and also regarding staff safety. “Our entire Scoop range of audio and IP codecs are adaptable to fit broadcasters’ various needs,” he said. “Thanks to a simple and intuitive interface, reporters can focus on on their broadcast without having to fuss over configuring the unit.”
AETA recently introduced dual mobile connectivity for the Scoopy+S codec, and also enhanced the unit’s double streaming capabilities and bonding functionalities. Dual mobile network connectivity with double streaming and bonding options gives presenters full mobility and audio reliability so they can concentrate on the broadcast and contribute from almost anywhere. This makes remotes easier in terms of logistics and streamlines the tech crew’s task of preparing the system for its presenters.
Welcome to 2021 and the AETA Audio Systems quarterly newsletter! As we enter the New Year we look to the future with hope and anticipation.
For AETA, evolution is all part of the game and 2021 combined with the omnipresence of our changed reality offers a fresh start, a new beginning of sort. We see this as a perfect time to take a step beyond, to reflect on our past experiences of course. But also to move forward with ambition and the objective of crafting ever more clever technologies for the broadcast industry. All this while never losing sight of our continued goal to protect future generations through long-term development and sustainability.
In addition to the transitions taking place in the greater universe, AETA has been busy evolving in its own galaxy. In December, for example, we said goodbye to our good friend and coworker Serge De Jaham — who after a quarter of a century with AETA — decided to take on new challenges. As with any change, we adapted accordingly and thus have begun writing a new chapter with the entry of Quentin Richard as company CTO.
We look forward to the day we can share all the details in person but for now we’ll continue to exchange information with you through our virtual tools. The entire AETA team takes this opportunity to thank you for being our business partner and wish you a safe, prosperous and, above all, healthy 2021.
EVOLUTION
With Quentin Richard’s entry as CTO comes new possibilities, and we’re planning some exciting milestones in 2021!
In addition, we continue to innovate and invest in R&D, transforming our internal process so that we’re increasingly agile and able to respond even quicker to evolving market requirements.
Innovation and efficiency has always been key for AETA, and this year we’ll unveil a host of new products and upgrades, which reflect our long heritage and expertise and that are able to swiftly respond to our customers’ needs.
eSCOOPFONE DEVELOPMENTS
| We officially launched eScoopFone in 2020 and we’re happy to report it has been very well received. In an effort to continually respond to our clients’ developing requirements, we are constantly adding new features and enhancements. Most recently we upgraded the eScoopFone iOS version so that it also works when connected to iRig and Focusrite devices. |
FREE WEBCAST SERIES
| We’re introducing a series of free online tutorials to help keep our business partners abreast with all the recent developments at AETA. Hosted by Thomas Fengel, AETA’s European sales manager, the first event focuses on how to increase link safety using security features of audio codec hardware. It will offer insight into topics including channel bonding, double streaming, forward error correction, audio bit rate adjustment, and more. Designed for technical staff at broadcast houses, this session will take place live on six different dates and times from Jan. 26 to Feb. 5. Sign up for free so you can apply this useful information to help ensure your link safety during broadcasts! Register here! |
WE WANT YOUR INPUT
| As mentioned above, we have a lot on tap for 2021 so stay tuned for more exiting information. In the meantime, we’d really like to hear from you, to get your input on market trends in your area, as well as feedback from your customers who are using our products. We’d also love to hear your suggestions about our solutions. Contact us! |
“Stay Safe” (or the equivalent in many languages) has become a common expression over the last nine months. It’s not like the term was invented in 2020. But it has perhaps taken on a more significant meaning since the health crisis came to dominate our nearly every action.
But “stay safe” has various layers and when we begin to peel them away, we see that it’s not only used to bid farewell and take care of yourself, but it also implies that the person should try to avoid danger and not get into trouble. While we obviously can’t control everything, we can certainly take preventive measures to try to minimize any type of risk. This is true for both our personal and professional lives.
Automated Features
At AETA Audio Systems we put safety first both in terms of operation and functionality but also regarding staff safety. We continue to integrate new and innovative features into our products. Most recently, for example, we released two automated parameters. These are the “auto jitter buffer” and the automatic management of OPUS bitrates on AETA devices.
The new auto jitter buffer allows users to set the button to “auto” and the codec will then automatically adapt to changes in the network’s delay. This will prevent audio link problems when the quality of the network varies during transmission.
In addition, the automatic management of OPUS bitrates on AETA units adapts the bandwidth that’s used to the network’s capacity by either upgrading or downgrading the audio. So audio is never interrupted and, where possible, it’s even improved.
As part of our continued mission to provide secure and dependable solutions, AETA now also offers embedded dual mobile network connectivity for its ScoopTeam and Scoopy+S codecs.
Available as an option for both units, this means users can quickly and easily connect to two mobile networks simultaneously. They also now have the added flexibility to manage remote broadcasts either through double streaming or bonding (splitting the stream over two networks), depending on network quality and congestion.
Concentrate on the show
Dual mobile network connectivity together with double streaming and bonding features give presenters full mobility so they can concentrate on the broadcast and contribute from almost anywhere. It makes remotes easier in terms of logistics, and streamlines the tech crew’s task of preparing the system for its roving reporter.
For us, safety both in terms of audio links and personnel is paramount. With the many enhancements to our products, we aim to ease the entire workflow, so broadcasters can focus on their programs and — also — their surroundings.
After all, our philosophy at AETA is “Safe and Simple Audio Links!”
Welcome to the AETA Audio Systems quarterly newsletter!
Each quarter we send directly to your inbox information on AETA’s latest developments, product upgrades and more. Despite the challenges we’ve all been facing this year, we’re determined to serve you more efficiently than ever.
Even though we couldn’t get together at NAB in Las Vegas, LLB in Stockholm, ARD/ZDF Medien Akademie in Heimbuchenthal or IBC in Amsterdam, out of sight doesn’t mean out of mind!
In fact, we’ve used this time constructively to carefully evaluate our entire product offering and integrate new features where needed. After all, at the end of the day, our goal is to help you stay at the forefront of your business. For AETA that means not only having access to the most advanced technologies, but doing so in a safe working environment.
Read on to discover in detail how AETA products offer you both simplicity and security through innovative, reliable solutions and a safe user experience.
SIMPLICITY
To further facilitate the use of its devices by reporters and technicians, AETA has released two automated parameters:
These two new functionalities simplify connection safety, perfectly reflecting AETA’s tagline — “Safe and Simple Audio Links.”
SECURITY
At the end of 2018, AETA released its double streaming feature that allows audio streaming through a redundant network. The company has now unveiled a bonding feature.
With this new functionality it’s still possible for users to use two IP networks simultaneously. But instead of making use of a full redundant stream (that may cause problems when bandwidth is limited), it permits operators to divide the audio stream between the two networks, allowing the audio to flow where it was previously impossible.
Discover all the benefits of dual mobile connectivity with double streaming capabilities and bonding functionalities for ScoopTeam and Scoopy+S.
In other exciting news, AETA’s eScoopfone is now available on Android! Since the beginning of 2020 eScoopfone has been is available on iOS (iPhone). And as of June it’s available on Android too! You can download it at the Google Play store.
Finally, AETA has also released an Application note giving all the tricks available to cope audio on IP networks. Find out all about it!
AETA Audio Systems now offers embedded dual mobile network connectivity for its ScoopTeam and Scoopy+S codecs.
Available as an option for both units, the new technology allows users to quickly and easily connect to two mobile networks simultaneously.
Previously, AETA ScoopTeam and Scoopy+S customers were able to double stream through two different mobile networks using one built-in modem plus an external dongle. With the new dual mobile network connectivity option, there are two wireless on-board modems. Thus external devices are no longer necessary.
This makes connections easier and faster to set up. It also allows users to benefit from cost savings thanks to its use of SIM cards, meaning ISDN or wired IP connections aren’t a prerequisite in the quest for quality remote broadcasts anymore.
In addition, users now have the added flexibility to choose to manage remote broadcasts either through double streaming or bonding (splitting the stream over two networks), depending on network quality and congestion.
“At locations where wired connections aren’t possible, difficult or expensive, broadcasters need to rely on mobile networks,” said Yann Vonarburg, general manager, AETA Audio Systems. “In some cases a mobile network can be unstable, so being able to depend on two mobile networks secures the live feed either through double streaming or our newly released bonding functionality.”
Dual mobile network connectivity with double streaming and bonding options gives presenters full mobility so they can concentrate on the broadcast and contribute from almost anywhere. Simply put, it makes remotes easier in terms of logistics, and streamlines the tech crew’s task of preparing the system for its roving reporter.
For the audience this translates into no hick-ups during the live contribution. They get the information in due time and can enjoy the highest possible audio quality.
“AETA places the utmost importance on safety, both in terms of audio links and personnel,” added Vonarburg. “With the new embedded dual mobile network connectivity for ScoopTeam and Scoopy+S, we simplify the process so reporters can focus on their programs and — also — their surroundings, instead of on the unit.”
Embedded dual mobile network connectivity is available as an option for Scoopy+S or ScoopTeam codecs. When ordering this feature, customers receive the unit with two SIM card slots and a set of antennas.
eScoopFone is now available on Android through Google Play Store!
We are very pleased to announce that, due to the effort of the global AETA team, we will be able to carry on our operations as usual while compmlying to government’s regulations in order to participate, also, to the joint effort against the virus spread. This means: technical support, deliveries and so on will be functional. Do not hesitate to contact us like you have always done.
