CAPRICORN STUDIOS - MACON, GA
Project Details
Historic Studios A & B
Versatile Design
Streaming/Recording
Project Overview: Capricorn Studios, a historic recording facility in Macon, Georgia, aimed to enhance its live streaming and recording capabilities by introducing a streamlined, versatile production system. The goal was to implement an efficient and user-friendly system that minimized the need for excessive manpower while maintaining top-tier production quality. The design focused on incorporating both Studio A and Studio B, allowing seamless production feeds from multiple locations, all controlled centrally from the main control room.
Project Objective: The primary objective was to create an in-house production system that enabled easy streaming and recording of sessions or events with as little manual involvement as possible. The system had to support multiple locations across both studios, facilitating smooth, scalable production with minimal setup time.
Design and Implementation:
Centralized Control System: The cornerstone of the new system was a centralized control position, allowing Capricorn Studios to manage all video feeds from both Studio A and Studio B. This design kept operations efficient and streamlined by enabling the team to manage multiple production sources without needing to physically intervene in each room. The solution was created to simplify both day-to-day operations and larger-scale production efforts.
Permanent Wiring Infrastructure: A permanent wiring infrastructure was installed throughout the facility to support seamless integration across both studios. The wiring was designed to handle video feeds from key production points in each studio and route them back to the main control room. This setup ensured that each production location could be accessed and managed remotely, reducing setup times and the need for complex temporary cable runs for every session.
Custom SDI Patch Panel: To simplify routing and switching of video signals, a custom SDI patch panel was designed for the control room. This solution allowed the Capricorn team to easily patch in live video feeds from any active location within the studios into the video switcher. The user-friendly nature of this patch panel made it intuitive for the team to quickly change sources and manage video feeds, allowing the facility to scale production without relying on complex configurations or technical expertise.
Seamless Integration with External Production Teams: The new system was designed with external production teams in mind, enabling visiting artists and their crews to bring their own equipment and quickly plug into the existing infrastructure. The simple connection process reduced setup time, making it easy for external teams to tap into Capricorn’s high-quality resources without requiring extensive coordination or technical setup. This feature enhanced the flexibility of the studio and made it an attractive option for artists with their own production setups.
In-House System: We provided 4 Datavideo PTZ cameras to ensure that the on-site team had the ability to stream and/or record sessions and events. These are entry level production grade cameras and were a great budget friendly option to provide an in-house system.
Results and Impact:
Increased Efficiency: By eliminating the need for manual cable runs and reducing the number of staff required to operate the system, the production process at Capricorn Studios has become more efficient. Video feeds can be routed and switched with ease, allowing the team to focus on creative aspects rather than logistics.
Flexibility for Artists: Artists and their external production teams can now quickly integrate their equipment into the studio's infrastructure, saving valuable setup time and ensuring smooth collaboration between artists and production crews. This has enhanced the overall artist experience at Capricorn Studios.
Cost Savings: With fewer personnel required to manage video production and a streamlined setup process, the project has resulted in cost savings for Capricorn Studios. The studio now has the ability to handle more events without requiring significant additional investment in staffing or equipment.
Future-Proofing Capricorn Studios: The design of the permanent wiring and custom patch panel ensures that Capricorn Studios is well-equipped to handle future upgrades and changes in technology. The system's modular nature allows it to evolve as the needs of artists and production teams evolve, guaranteeing long-term usability and adaptability.
Conclusion: The installation of the innovative production system at Capricorn Studios has modernized the facility’s capabilities without sacrificing its historical charm. By integrating both studios into a flexible and easy-to-use system, Capricorn can now provide a highly efficient, scalable production environment that meets the demands of both in-house and external production teams. The streamlined approach has reduced setup times, increased flexibility for visiting artists, and ensured that Capricorn Studios remains a leader in the recording industry for years to come.
