CTN Studios in Coon Rapids, MN was among the first beta testers for ZEPLAY, the instant replays platform by Tightrope Media Systems. “We were so impressed with ZEPLAY, we bought two more,” said Eric Strouse, Manager of CTN Studios.
ZEPLAY is a true 4 in / 4 out SD / HD slow motion instant replays platform. Its multi-viewer interface is designed to show all four inputs and all four outputs simultaneously on a single monitor, allowing the replay operator to work at lightening-fast speed. Its dedicated controller has a t-bar, jog shuttle wheel and 42 keys including programmable Macro buttons.
In preparation of upgrading to HD, CTN recently replaced the standard definition model with 2 new ZEPLAY HD units in their 32 foot production truck. Their original ZEPLAY will be upgraded to HD and installed in their 18 foot truck for smaller productions.
CTN has participated in the beta program for almost 2 years. They continue to work with Tightrope on improving the software by providing the right kind of feedback. “We have seen ZEPLAY change into one of the best multi-channel replay systems in the market,” says Josh Udvig, Production Technician at CTN Studios. On working with Tightrope’s development team, “They’re always open to new ideas or new ways of doing things. We would make suggestions, and a week later they would have the problem fixed or a new option for us.”
Editing highlights reels is a big part of the job, and withZEPLAY 2.0 software, a replay operator can edit together a sequence directly in the software interface, similar to an NLE. “Having this capability is critical to our workflow,” said Strouse. With the Sequence Editor, there is no need to export clips and edit offline.
New features, like the Sequence Editor, will be available in the 2.0 software, to be previewed at NAB Show 2011 --Booth N1212. Tightrope will have three demo stations and will be running scheduled presentations at the booth. For anyone who is not attending NAB Show, visit the Live Demo Signup Sheet for webinar info.
About CTN Studios:
Taking an active role in providing viewers with local programming, CTN covers topics important to residents such as local news, political candidates, sporting and performance events. Programming is aired on cable TV in and around Coon Rapids, MN. Their local sports coverage of the Saint Paul Saints and Coon Rapids high school teams can be seen on Cable TV in Coon Rapids and neighboring towns. The studio has won numerous awards including two Upper Midwest Regional Emmy® Awards in 2010.
About Tightrope Media Systems:
Founded in 1997, Tightrope Media Systems is the pioneer of web-centric digital signage and audiovisual head-end automation systems. Tightrope provides station automation, video servers, the Carousel Digital Signage system, and ZEPLAY, a multi-channel instant replay machine for stadiums, arenas and OB vehicles. Tightrope's award winning systems are used across North America in government, hospitals, universities, high schools and local television stations. You can reach Tightrope Media Systems at (866) 866-4118 or visit them on the web athttp://www.trms.com.