*Parabolic Mics are essential for capturing the sounds of the sidelines.*

Introduction

Broadcasting NFL games involves intricate audio mixing processes to ensure that the viewers at home experience the excitement and atmosphere of being in the stadium. This post delves into the detailed aspects of audio mixing for NFL games, including the various audio channels, the required equipment, the coordination among crew members, and the evolution of audio broadcasting over the past two decades.

Evolution Over 20 Years: From Mono, Stereo to Surround Sound

Twenty years ago, NFL broadcasts were primarily in stereo with analog equipment. Stereo is even a bit of a streatch since most broascast audio mixers and networks were worried about mono compatability. Most TV sets featured a single 4” speaker, thus, without a home theater system, most people were listening to their TV’s in mono up until the early 2010’s. Thus, those who were working in broadcast, mixing in stereo would limit the stereo sound stage to a very minimal spread, with announcers in the middle for mono compatablility and music and natural sound fx being mostly 10% left and right at most. The transition to digital broadcasting and the introduction of 5.1 surround sound significantly improved the audio quality, providing a more immersive experience. Dolby became a standard through the 5.1 transition and the idea of a folded down mix. Basicly, the audio mixer could mix in 5.1 surround sound and the dolby encoder would fold it down to a stereo mix. The move from analog to digital also allowed for more precise audio processing and better integration with video feeds (TVTechnology) (Sports Video Group).

Key Developments

*5.1 surround sound was a game changer for home theater set ups*

Digital Mixing Consoles: The advent of digital mixing consoles allowed for more sophisticated audio processing and greater flexibility in mixing.
5.1 Surround Sound: This format introduced multiple audio channels, providing a more immersive audio experience by placing sounds around the listener in a three-dimensional space.
Advanced Microphone Technology: Improvements in microphone technology, such as the development of highly directional and wireless microphones, enhanced the quality and reliability of audio capture. Also, the advent of 5.1 microphones are able to creative an immersive experience with less cabling and individual microphones. (TVU Networks).

Impact of HD and 4K Video

The shift to HD and 4K video has led to a need for more precise and higher-quality audio. With clearer video, any discrepancies in audio become more noticeable. Consequently, audio engineers must ensure that the sound quality matches the high-definition visuals. This includes using more sophisticated audio processing tools and ensuring that the audio is synced perfectly with the video (TVTechnology) (TVU Networks).

Enhanced Audio Formats

Dolby Atmos: This audio format adds height channels to the traditional surround sound setup, creating a more immersive and three-dimensional audio experience. It is being explored for use in sports broadcasting to enhance the viewer's experience further (TVTechnology).
Object-Based Audio: This technology allows for more precise placement of audio elements within the soundscape, providing a more realistic and immersive experience (Sports Video Group).

Broadcast Trucks and Crew Members

Broadcasting an NFL game is a complex operation that involves multiple broadcast trucks, each equipped with specialized gear for different aspects of the production. Here's a detailed look at the different types of trucks used in an NFL broadcast and the roles of the crew members involved.

Types of Broadcast Trucks

A typical NFL broadcast might involve several broadcast trucks, each equipped with its own set of technical gear for different aspects of the production, such as audio mixing, video playback, and camera control.

Audio Trucks

Purpose: These trucks have state-of-the-art mixing consoles, audio processors, and communication systems. They serve as the hub for all audio-related activities during the broadcast.

Equipment: Audio trucks typically feature digital audio consoles (e.g., Calrec, Studer), audio routers, multitrack recording systems, intercom systems (e.g., Clear-Com, RTS), and various audio effects processors. These tools allow the audio team to manage the complex mix of crowd noise, announcer commentary, player sounds, and other audio elements in real time.

Video Trucks:

Purpose: Video trucks handle the video feeds from multiple cameras around the stadium. They are equipped with switchers, replay systems, and video monitors.

Equipment: These trucks house video switchers (e.g., Grass Valley, Sony), replay systems (e.g., EVS, NewTek), video routers, and multiviewer systems. The video team uses these tools to select camera angles, manage instant replays, and ensure that the broadcast feed is visually engaging and coherent.

Transmission Trucks

*Transmission truck with a C-Band transmission antenna.*

Purpose: The sole purpose of these trucks is to manage the signals going back to the network or distribution network. They can either hook directly to the telephone or cable transmission network or have satellite transmission dishes to beam signals up to space-borne satellites.
Equipment: Transmission trucks are equipped with satellite uplink/downlink equipment, fiber optic transmission gear, signal encoders/decoders, and redundancy systems to ensure a reliable and uninterrupted signal transmission. These trucks play a critical role in delivering the broadcast feed from the stadium to the viewers' screens (TVU Networks) (Sports Video Group).

Crew Members and Their Roles

An NFL broadcast involves a large and diverse crew, each with specific roles and responsibilities. Here are some of the key positions:

Audio Team

A1 (Lead Audio Mixer): The A1 is responsible for the overall audio mix. This includes balancing crowd noise, announcer commentary, and on-field sounds to create an immersive audio experience for viewers. The A1 operates the mixing console and coordinates with other audio personnel.
A2 (Audio Assistants): A2s assist with the setup, maintenance, and operation of audio equipment. They are responsible for placing microphones, troubleshooting technical issues, and ensuring that all audio feeds are functioning correctly.
Submixers: Submixers handle specific audio sources, such as crowd noise or field effects, and feed these elements into the main mix. This role requires a keen ear and the ability to manage multiple audio channels simultaneously (TVTechnology) (TVTechnology).

Video Team

Director: The director oversees the entire broadcast, making real-time decisions about which camera angles to use and coordinating with the audio team. The director ensures that the broadcast is visually compelling and maintains a smooth flow.
Producers: Producers plan and execute the broadcast, coordinating with all departments to ensure a cohesive production. They manage the overall content and are responsible for the storytelling aspect of the broadcast.
Camera Operators: Camera operators capture the video footage from various angles around the stadium. They must be skilled at following the action and framing shots that enhance the viewing experience.
Replay Operators: Replay operators handle instant replays, ensuring that key moments are captured and broadcast effectively. They use replay systems to manage slow-motion footage and highlight critical plays (TVTechnology) (Sports Video Group).

Engineering Team

The engineering team plays a crucial role in ensuring the technical success of an NFL broadcast. This team is responsible for setting up, maintaining, and troubleshooting the complex array of equipment used during the game.

Key Roles and Responsibilities

Broadcast Engineers: Broadcast engineers oversee the technical operations of the broadcast. They are responsible for the setup and maintenance of all broadcasting equipment, including cameras, audio systems, and transmission equipment. They ensure that all technical aspects of the broadcast run smoothly and address any issues that arise during the game.
RF Technicians: RF (Radio Frequency) technicians manage the wireless communication systems used during the broadcast. This includes microphones, intercoms, and wireless cameras. RF technicians ensure that these systems operate without interference and maintain a clear signal throughout the game. They also handle frequency coordination to avoid conflicts with other wireless devices in the vicinity (Sports Video Group).
Video Engineers: Video engineers are responsible for the quality and integrity of the video signal. They calibrate cameras, adjust color balances, and ensure that the video feed is of the highest quality. Video engineers also manage video routers and switchers, coordinating with the director to ensure seamless transitions between camera angles (TVU Networks).
Audio Engineers: Audio engineers work closely with the A1 and A2 to manage the audio aspects of the broadcast. They ensure that all audio signals are clear and properly balanced. Audio engineers also handle audio processing equipment, such as equalizers and compressors, to enhance the sound quality (TVTechnology).
IT Specialists: With the increasing reliance on digital technology, IT specialists are essential for managing the network infrastructure used during broadcasts. They ensure that all computer systems, networking equipment, and software applications function correctly and are secure from cyber threats.

Graphics and Statistics Team

The graphics and statistics team is essential for enhancing the visual appeal and informational depth of an NFL broadcast. This team works closely with the producers and directors to integrate real-time data and visual elements into the broadcast, providing viewers with a richer and more engaging experience.

Key Roles and Responsibilities

Graphics Operators: Graphics operators are responsible for creating and managing the visual elements that appear on screen, such as scoreboards, player stats, and other graphical overlays. They use specialized software to design and animate these elements in real-time. Graphics operators must ensure that the graphics are clear, accurate, and seamlessly integrated into the broadcast.
Statisticians: Statisticians track the game’s progress in real-time, recording every play, player statistic, and game event. They provide the data needed for graphics and analysis segments. Statisticians work closely with graphics operators and commentators to ensure that the most relevant and up-to-date information is displayed to viewers.
Data Analysts: Data analysts process and interpret the statistical data collected during the game. They provide insights and trends that can be used to enhance the broadcast. Data analysts might highlight key player performances, identify significant game trends, and provide context for the statistics being presented.

Audio Channels and Equipment

There is a demand to capture the action on an NFL field from multiple different angles by multiple different networks and entities. For example, each team wants to capture each play for performance purposes. The home team wants to capture each angle for scoreboard replays and marketing purposes. The NFL wants to capture each angle of every play for archival and marketing purposes. The broadcast facility obviously wants to capture each angle in order to provide the consumer with the best at-home experience possible. The home and away radio stations need every angle and every microphone in order to tell the story accurately. As you can see, there are a lot of entities interested in capturing the sound and video of the game and a lot of workers competing for RF bandwidth, microphone real estate, and boom and parabola positioning.

Field Microphones

Depending on the importance of the game, there could be anywhere from 10 field microphones all the way up to 50 for a game like the Super Bowl. Field microphones are a cornerstone of NFL game broadcasts. They are placed strategically around the field to capture the raw sounds of the game, such as the impact of player collisions, the crunch of footsteps, and the roar of the crowd. Parabolic microphones are frequently used for this purpose due to their directional capabilities and ability to capture sound from a distance with high clarity (Sports Video Group).

Types of Microphones

Some commonly used microphones in NFL broadcasts include:

Sennheiser MKH 416: Known for its highly directional capabilities, the MKH 416 is perfect for capturing clear audio from specific points on the field without picking up unwanted noise.
Shure Axient Digital Wireless System: This system is favored for its reliability and the ability to operate efficiently even in crowded RF environments. It ensures that audio signals are transmitted without dropouts, which is crucial in a live broadcast setting (TVTechnology).

Announcers and Commentators

Separate microphones are dedicated to the play-by-play announcers and color commentators. These microphones are designed to capture their voices clearly and eliminate background noise. Noise-canceling microphones are often used to ensure that the commentary is not overshadowed by the stadium's ambient sounds.

Equipment Used

Electro-Voice RE20: This dynamic cardioid microphone is a staple in broadcasting due to its ability to handle loud sound sources and its consistent tonal quality. It provides clear, high-fidelity sound, making it a favorite among sports commentators.
Sennheiser HMD 26-II: This headset combines a high-quality dynamic microphone with headphones, providing commentators with the ability to hear the broadcast mix while speaking clearly into the microphone (TVTechnology) (TVTechnology).

Player Microphones

Player microphones provide a unique, real-time audio perspective from the field. These microphones capture the interactions between players, the sounds of the game, and the raw emotion of the sport. However, their use is regulated to prevent the broadcast of inappropriate language. The NFL has been at the forefront of implementing on-player microphones, enhancing the viewing experience by bringing the audience closer to the action (Sports Video Group).

Referee Microphones

Referee microphones communicate penalties and other on-field decisions to the audience. They must be reliable and clear to ensure that viewers can understand the calls being made on the field.

Specific Equipment

Shure Axient Digital Wireless Microphones: These microphones are often used for referees due to their reliability and ability to operate in crowded RF environments. They ensure clear communication of referee decisions without interference (TVU Networks) (Sports Video Group).

Crowd and Ambient Noise Microphones

Crowd microphones are essential for creating an immersive viewing experience in NFL broadcasts. These microphones capture the ambient noise of the stadium, including the cheers, reactions of the fans, and overall stadium atmosphere. Proper placement and use of these microphones are crucial to balance the crowd noise with the commentary and other audio elements, ensuring that the broadcast is both engaging and clear.

Techniques and Equipment

Parabolic Microphones:

Purpose: Parabolic microphones are designed to capture focused sound from a specific area. They are highly directional, which makes them perfect for picking up crowd noise and on-field sounds without interference from unwanted noise.
Placement: These microphones are strategically placed around the stadium, including near the sidelines and end zones, to capture different aspects of the ambient noise. Their placement helps in creating a realistic and immersive soundscape by ensuring that the sounds of the game and the crowd are well-represented in the broadcast.
Example: A commonly used parabolic microphone is the Klover MiK 26, which is known for its ability to capture clear and focused audio from a distance (TVTechnology) (Sports Video Group).

Ambisonic Microphones:

Purpose: Ambisonic microphones capture sound in a spherical pattern, allowing for a more immersive audio experience. They can record audio from all directions, which helps in creating a comprehensive soundscape that enhances the realism of the broadcast.
Usage: These microphones are often used in combination with other types of microphones to capture a full 360-degree audio environment. This combination ensures that the broadcast captures the dynamic nature of the stadium's sound environment.
Example: The Sennheiser AMBEO VR Mic is an example of an ambisonic microphone that is widely used in sports broadcasting for its ability to capture immersive audio (TVTechnology) (Sports Video Group).

Replay Machines

Replay machines are another critical component in NFL broadcasts. Every replay machine needs to have audio going in and audio coming out, ensuring that the audio captured during live action is synchronized with the replay footage.

Importance of Audio in Replay Machines

Synchronization: Audio synchronization is crucial in replay machines to ensure that the replayed footage matches the live audio perfectly. This synchronization helps in maintaining the continuity and realism of the broadcast.
Audio Channels: Replay machines handle multiple audio channels, including crowd noise, commentator audio, and on-field sounds. Managing these audio channels effectively is essential to avoid overwhelming a small-format audio console (TVTechnology) (TVTechnology).

The use of multiple microphones and the integration of replay machines illustrate the complexity of audio management in NFL broadcasts. The goal is to create an immersive and engaging audio experience that complements the high-definition visuals of modern broadcasts.

The complexity of audio mixing for NFL broadcasts cannot be understated. The sheer number of microphones used, including field, player, crowd, and ambient noise microphones, can quickly overwhelm a small format audio console.

Transition to Digital Consoles

*Yamaha PM3500 was a staple in broadcast audio throughout the 90’s and early 2000’s.*

To manage this complexity, the industry has largely transitioned to digital consoles, which offer several advantages:

Rackmountable Input and Output: Most of the input and output components in digital consoles are rackmountable, allowing for a more organized and space-efficient setup. This modular design makes it easier to handle the numerous audio sources used in an NFL broadcast.
Human User Interface (HUI): The console itself functions more as a Human User Interface (HUI), providing intuitive control over the audio mix. Digital consoles often feature touchscreens, programmable buttons, and automated faders, which streamline the process of managing complex audio mixes.
Advanced Processing Capabilities: Digital consoles come equipped with powerful audio processing capabilities, including built-in effects, dynamics processing, and equalization. This allows audio engineers to enhance the sound quality in real-time, ensuring that the broadcast audio is clear and balanced.
Flexible Routing: Digital consoles offer flexible routing options, making it easier to direct audio signals to various destinations within the broadcast setup. This flexibility is crucial for managing the multiple audio feeds that need to be synchronized and mixed during a live NFL game.
Recall and Presets: Digital consoles allow engineers to save and recall presets, which can be extremely helpful in live broadcasting environments. This feature enables quick adjustments and consistency across different broadcasts.

As you can see, the transition to digital consoles has been a game-changer for NFL broadcasts. The ability to manage a large number of microphones and audio sources with precision and efficiency has significantly enhanced the quality of the audio experience for viewers. Advanced features of digital consoles, such as rackmountable components, intuitive interfaces, and powerful processing capabilities, have made it possible to deliver a seamless and immersive audio experience that complements the high-definition visuals of modern broadcasts (TVTechnology) (TVTechnology) (Sports Video Group).

Intercom and Coordination

Intercom Systems

Intercom systems are essential for communication among the production team during an NFL broadcast. These systems ensure that all crew members can coordinate effectively, allowing for seamless integration of various elements of the broadcast. Multiple intercom channels are used to connect the director, producers, audio engineers, and other crew members, facilitating real-time communication and quick decision-making.

Types of Intercoms

Party Line (PL) Intercoms:

*Courtesy of handbook of intercom systems engineering*

Purpose: Party line intercoms allow multiple users to communicate simultaneously on the same channel. This type of system is ideal for groups that need to coordinate closely and frequently during the broadcast.

Usage: Party line intercoms are often used by camera operators, floor managers, and other on-field personnel who need to stay in constant communication with each other and the director. This ensures that everyone is aware of changes and can respond quickly.
Example: The Clear-Com Encore Partyline system is widely used in sports broadcasting for its reliability and ease of use (TVTechnology) (Sports Video Group).

Point to Point (P2P) Intercoms:

Purpose: Point to point intercoms allow direct communication between two specific users. This type of system is useful for private conversations that do not need to be heard by the entire team.

Usage: P2P intercoms are typically used by the director, producers, and key technical staff. For example, the director might use a P2P intercom to give specific instructions to the graphics operator or audio engineer without broadcasting the message to the entire crew.
Example: RTS Adam intercom systems are known for their advanced point to point communication capabilities and are commonly used in complex broadcasting environments (TVTechnology) (Sports Video Group).

Interruptible Foldback (IFB):

Purpose: IFB systems allow producers and directors to communicate directly with on-air talent. The key feature of IFB is the ability to interrupt the talent's monitor feed to give instructions or updates.
Usage: IFB systems are crucial for commentators and reporters, allowing them to receive real-time instructions from the control room while they are live on air. This ensures that they are always informed and can adjust their commentary as needed.
Example: Systems like the Telex BTR-800 are popular for their robust IFB capabilities, providing clear and reliable communication with on-air talent (TVTechnology) (Sports Video Group).

Coordination Among Crew Members

Effective coordination is crucial for a smooth broadcast. The audio team must work closely with the video team to ensure that audio and video are perfectly synchronized. This involves constant communication and quick decision-making to handle any issues that arise during the live broadcast.

Director and Producers: The director and producers use intercom systems to relay instructions and make real-time decisions about camera angles, replays, and other visual elements. This coordination ensures that the broadcast flows smoothly and maintains viewer engagement.
Audio Engineers and Submixers: Audio engineers and submixers need to stay in constant communication to manage the various audio feeds, including crowd noise, commentary, and on-field sounds. This coordination helps maintain a balanced and immersive audio experience for viewers.
Camera Operators and Graphics Team: Camera operators and the graphics team use intercom systems to receive instructions about which shots to capture and when to display specific graphics or statistics. This ensures that all visual elements are seamlessly integrated into the broadcast (TVTechnology) (TVTechnology) (Sports Video Group).

Importance of Intercom Systems

Intercom systems play a vital role in the overall efficiency and effectiveness of an NFL broadcast. By providing clear and reliable communication channels, these systems help the production team coordinate their efforts and respond to any challenges that arise during the live event. This coordination is essential for delivering a high-quality broadcast that captures the excitement and atmosphere of the game.

Conclusion

The art of mixing audio for NFL games is a sophisticated and evolving field that requires a blend of advanced technology, skilled personnel, and effective communication. Over the past two decades, the transition from analog to digital, the introduction of 5.1 surround sound, and the development of advanced microphone technology have significantly enhanced the quality and immersiveness of NFL broadcasts.

Key Takeaways

Technological Advancements:

Digital Mixing Consoles: These consoles have revolutionized the way audio is managed during broadcasts. With features like rackmountable input/output, Human User Interface (HUI), advanced processing capabilities, flexible routing, and preset recall, digital consoles allow for precise and efficient audio management.
Enhanced Audio Formats: Formats like Dolby Atmos and object-based audio have further improved the auditory experience by adding height channels and allowing for more precise placement of audio elements.

Role of Broadcast Trucks:

Different types of trucks, such as audio, video, and transmission trucks, play crucial roles in the overall broadcast operation. Each truck is equipped with specialized gear to handle specific aspects of the production, ensuring a seamless and high-quality broadcast.

Crew Members and Their Roles:

A diverse and specialized team, including the audio team (A1, A2, submixers), video team (director, producers, camera operators, replay operators), engineering team (broadcast engineers, RF technicians, video engineers, audio engineers, IT specialists), and graphics and statistics team (graphics operators, statisticians, data analysts), is essential for the success of the broadcast.

Importance of Intercom Systems:

Effective communication is facilitated by intercom systems, including party line (PL) intercoms, point to point (P2P) intercoms, and interruptible foldback (IFB). These systems ensure that all crew members can coordinate their efforts and respond to challenges in real-time.

Leadership and Coordination:

The A1 (Lead Audio Mixer) plays a crucial role in leading the audio team. Good leadership abilities, the ability to delegate, and promoting decentralized decision-making within the crew are essential for managing the complex audio requirements of an NFL broadcast. The A1 must ensure that the audio mix is balanced and immersive, coordinating closely with other team members to achieve this goal.

The evolution of NFL broadcasts over the past two decades has been driven by technological advancements and the continuous efforts of skilled professionals. By integrating cutting-edge audio and video technologies, ensuring effective communication among the crew, and fostering strong leadership within the team, NFL broadcasts have become more immersive and engaging than ever before. The result is a high-quality viewing experience that captures the excitement and atmosphere of the game, bringing it to life for viewers at home.

How NFL Game Audio is Produced: Equipment, Crew Roles, and Technological Evolution