Selecting equipment for a Radio Station can be difficult, especially if you are new to the industry. I have compiled a list of equipment found commonly in radio stations and radio studios to help you navigate the options.
This is by no means a complete list of all broadcast equipment, but does consist of what I believe to be fairly popular broadcast products (at least in the circles I frequent). I do not endorse any of these products, and haven’t necessarily used them myself before. If you think I’ve missed something notable, please share it in the comments.
Radio Audio Consoles
- Axia Element (large console), iQ (mid-size), Radius (smaller)
These are all digital consoles, networkable, and also have local I/O options. The iQ in particular is very popular at the moment in Australian community radio, with the Element slowly making it’s way into the larger stations. I love these consoles. Distributed by AVC Group. - Logitek Mosiac, Pilot (smaller)
These are digital consoles, networkable and also have local I/O options. Distributed in Australia by On Air Solutions. - Sonifex
Sonifex manufactures three console ranges. They are all analog, but the S2 also contains some digital I/O in the way of AES/EBU. Distributed locally by EAV. - Elan
Elan manufacture analog audio consoles right here in Australia. Their Kestrel and Merlin consoles have been quite popular in the past with Australian community broadcasters, proving to be quite the work horse. - Klotz
Klotz have produced a range of popular digital audio consoles for a number of years – many commercial broadcasters across this country have them installed as I write this. However, they have had a bit of an unfortunate history lately. Their product range is still being manufactured, but not by the original company. - Wheatstone
Wheatstone produce a range of Wheatnet digital consoles, based on a competing protocol to those of Axia, Logitek, and other manufactures. I can’t speak about them as I have no experience and know no one who does.
Audio Processor
- Omnia
Models such as the 11, 9, One, and 6 are popular FM broadcast processors and stereo generators. - Orban
Models such as the 8600 and 5500 are popular FM broadcast processors and stereo generators.
Profanity Delay / Seven Second Delay
Phone Hybrids and Phone Systems
Microphones
On Air Lights
Headphone Amps
FM Transmitters – Small
Anthony Eden is a technologist. He's been developing software and websites and working in broadcast media for over 8 years now. He works full time for Hope Media, and provides contract services through Media Realm.
Follow Anthony on Twitter: @anthony_eden or Google+
But Wait... There's More!
Sign up for the email newsletter about media and technology.
