Large-scale deployment of AEQ Technology at australian Radio STA
Radio STA is an Australian regional radio station founded in 2009 and based in the town of Inverell. It broadcasts on 91.9 FM throughout the area and, through its website https://stafm.com.au, offers online programming for the rest of the country and the world. As a regional station, its programming is strongly focused on local content, with a lineup that features Australian music and public service information. Many of its most popular segments are directed and produced by volunteers or local public institutions.
One of the key guidelines followed by Radio STA’s technical management during its most recent technological upgrade was the search for robust, easy-to-operate equipment that would simply offer high audio quality for the end listener. The entire upgrade project was led by Broadcast Components, AEQ’s Australian partner.
As a central part of the project, two AEQ FORUM LITE 12-fader digital audio consoles were incorporated into the two main programming studios, along with an AEQ SYSTEL IP multi-conference system. AoIP over Dante protocol was chosen as the base interconnection technology due to the simplicity of the cabling. In addition, a compact AEQ NETBOX32 MX digital matrix was installed in the MCR. For outside broadcasts or STL links to the plant, AEQ Phoenix audio encoders were used, in their ALIO, MERCURY, and TALENT models.
AEQ SYSTEL IP is a telephone system for broadcasts and multi-conferences that drastically reduces communication costs, significantly improves audio quality, and increases flexibility and integration with each broadcaster or company’s own telephone system. It represents a low investment with a quick return on investment. As business telephone systems rapidly migrate to VoIP technology, with IP, distributed, or virtual switchboards, access to new alternative telecommunications service providers is expanding. Until now, broadcasting telephony had remained an isolated system, with high operating costs and obsolete technology. SYSTEL IP allows broadcasting telephony to be connected to current IP-based corporate switchboards, eliminating the need to maintain conventional lines exclusively for this purpose.
On the other hand, the AEQ ALIO is a portable dual-channel stereo IP audio encoder, designed specifically for sports broadcasts, although optimized for easy use in a wide variety of scenarios, including music events. Its compact and rugged design—capable of withstanding pressure, shocks, and even liquids—is intended for outdoor use, where conditions do not always allow for careful handling. AEQ ALIO can connect to base equipment from most manufacturers using the SIP communication protocol, complying with the EBU’s ACIP Tech 3326 standard. However, when connected to an AEQ codec, it allows the use of a unique set of tools to facilitate communication and control of the equipment. In addition, the AEQ ControlPhoenix audio codec management software provides a centralized control system for the units.
For more information about Radio STA, visit stafm.com.au
