Team BCC’s Ultimate Gear Guide: The Best Equipment of 2024

Sony FX3

New BCC Gear Day 1

Here at BCC Live… We pride ourselves on being able to tackle any task to make a production its absolute best. And when you’re tackling sports broadcasts, live music, conferences and festivals, interviews, video production, live graphics, and event production all under one roof, you need a lot of gear to execute everything to its peak! We do our best to utilize both cutting-edge and tried-and-true tech on the job. Which means we always have new things coming in to link up to our proven equipment and team. Let’s take a look at some of the new additions to our equipment shelf… And find out what we think about them!

Blackmagic ATEM Video Switchers: Highs and Lows

While we’ve always loved our Vizrt TriCasters for running live broadcasts, in the past year we’ve really fallen for the Blackmagic ATEM line of video switchers. We picked up an ATEM Mini SDI Pro ISO to support our onsite coverage of the 2023 men’s IRONMAN World Championships in Nice, France. It immediately astounded us with its impressive video-production power packed into such a small device. Keyers, media players, full ISO recording, and built-in streaming all from a package half the size of a laptop? Count us in on this piece of equipment!

ATEM Mini SDI Pro ISO Equipment
ATEM Mini SDI Pro ISO

That device left such a good impression on us that we added more products from the ATEM family to our setup. Nowadays, nearly all remote video sources coming into our studio go through an ATEM Television Studio HD8 ISO before moving on to other hardware… And we’ve been just as pleased with it as its smaller cousin. When we needed another switcher for an event, we went for the compact and affordable ATEM SDI Switcher. This one, however, was a miss.

At just $345, the ATEM SDI Switcher looks at first glance to be an even lighter and simpler version of the Mini SDI Pro ISO we know and love. It gives up media players, ISO recording, and direct streaming for the sake of a halved price, which sounds like a great trade… until you find out that it has no multiview output. When switching video, seeing all your sources and the program output is as crucial as working cameras. Without this, you’d need costly extra hardware to make it usable. So, we returned this one and opted for a higher-performing switcher.

Coming in at $995, the ATEM 1 M/E Constellation HD is a fairly significant jump up in cost over the two smaller switchers. However, this device has all the features of a fully-fledged production video switcher (including a multiview!) while handling 10 inputs and seven outputs smoothly and efficiently. It can be mounted in a rack and controlled remotely, or used directly on a table, thanks to its essential face controls. Which is what we did!

Dave Switching
Dave Switching During Live Performance

Any concerns we had about Blackmagic switchers vanished after using the Constellation in a live event. In common with all of the devices in the family, this piece of equipment is as close to “plug and play” as you can get in a video-production environment. You never find yourself struggling with configuration menus or managing inputs or outputs… it just works the second it gets power.

Software video switchers like TriCaster and Livestream Studio are easy to learn because they’re based on desktop hardware everyone knows well, but they come with the baggage of desktop hardware, like extended boot times and disruptive updates. A hardware switcher like the ATEM series turns on in seconds and is ready to go, rain or shine. We’re thrilled with the ones we have and are already planning to get more!

Focusrite Clarett: Loved Equipment Back in Action

We’ve noted before Finding the Best Way to Record Your Own Podcast that the Focusrite family of USB audio interfaces are a must-have in our production handbook. We’ve spent more time recording audio through Focusrite Scarlett Solos on the job than just about any other piece of hardware… And we love them. However, the Scarletts in our repertoire only record one or two channels of audio at a time. During our 2023 studio reconfiguration, we needed a rack-mounted encoder to handle four audio channels from an external source. Drawing on our Focusrite experience, we chose the Clarett+ 4Pre. It offers four XLR inputs plus analog and digital options, totaling 18 inputs and 8 outputs.

Clarett+ 4Pre
Clarett+ 4Pre

It worked like a dream… but unfortunately, the Clarett wasn’t ready for its time in the limelight. A change to operational requirements meant the broadcast setup was reconfigured again… and there was no longer a need to take in XLR audio to the broadcast encoder. So we pulled it from the rack, boxed it up, and put it on the gear shelf. And it sat there for over a year, waiting for the chance to be used.

Fortunately, our wide portfolio of events came to the Clarett’s rescue in November, when we livestreamed the Resonance Women’s Chorus… A very special performance here in Boulder. While we could have brought along a full-size mixer and interfaced that with our production computer separately, space was of the essence. We wanted to pull in four channels of high-quality audio to record separately to other feeds… Without sacrificing space or adding too much work for our operator. The Clarett+ 4Pre was the right tool for the job.

It’s rare for us to take microphone feeds directly into a computer without running them through a mixer first. But the Clarett made that task easy. The exceptional sound quality, easy controls, direct monitoring, and classic Focusrite reliability meant it took just a minor amount of adjustment during the sound check, and then it was good to go throughout the concert.

Unfortunately, there’s not a lot more to say, because the interface just does its job well! It’s as easy to mix the audio using the dials on the face of the Clarett as it is on a compact mixer. With the added bonus of sending audio to a PC or Mac for added processing and effects. When it comes to livestreaming live performances involving multiple microphones… Whether that’s music or conferences, this equipment proved itself to be a no-frills no-stress solution. It certainly won’t be languishing on the gear shelf any longer!

Sony FX3: New Equipment to Us

We’re a Sony house here at BCC Live. They’re some of our favorite pieces of equipment. Early on, we used Canon camcorders, but once we shifted to high-quality video, the Sony Alpha line quickly became our go-to. Though all of the high-end camera manufacturers make great gear, sticking with one of them means you can mix and match parts and accessories easily to fit any job. Which is what drove us to pick up an FX3 off of a friend—and boy, are we happy we did!

The Sony a7S III is our main “workhorse” camera for video, thanks to its 4K recording, great autofocus, stabilization, and compatibility with our E-mount lenses. A huge portion of the videos you’ve seen from us at events were shot on an a7S III… Even though it’s marketed primarily as a camera for stills.

Sony FX3
Sony FX3

The FX3, on the other hand, is part of Sony’s Cine Camera line. What does that mean? Well, it uses the same sensor and internals as the a7S III… But with a camera body better designed for shooting video. What does it gain over the a7S III that makes it better for shooting video? Have a look:

  • Indicator lights that show the operator and the subject when they’re recording, for added confidence
  • Internal fans to keep the sensor cool—the a7S III can easily overheat during long recording sessions without airflow
  • An included top handle with built-in audio controls and two XLR jacks to add external mics… Just like on the PXW-X90 camcorder we love using
  • Additional mounting points for more accessories to make the camera more ergonomic
  • Support for high-capacity external batteries to increase shooting time
  • Power and shooting mode controls are on the back of the camera and are designed to be harder to accidentally hit while recording
  • Overall control layout geared towards buttons used for video shooting, rather than stills

Each feature enhances the a7S we love, but together they create a far more comprehensive package. Perhaps most critical is the internal fans: if you’re recording for a long time with the a7S III, especially in the sun, it will shut itself down due to overheating in less than an hour. For long shoots, we have to open every door on the camera—including the battery door—just to vent heat. That’s not ideal if you’re shooting on the move! The FX3 circumvents this, and with an external battery fitted, it’s got the power to stay recording for long durations as well.

Sony FX3
Sony FX3

We’ve only used our new-to-us FX3 on a couple events so far, but it’s been a delight. Our team can get great video on an a7S III or similar. And with the FX3 they just have more versatility and more options to get the perfect shot. Plus, since the internals and software are the same as the a7S III, all of the menus and the best shooting practices are the same as the cameras we’re used to.

The external controls will take some getting used to. As will the lack of a typical camera viewfinder in favor of the rear display. But these are minor teething problems given the fact that the camera operator can trust their camera to get the right shot.

This piece of equipment just amplifies our abilities to make great videos… So if you’re shooting on a Sony mirrorless camera for video, consider picking one up! It’s worth every penny. But if you’re mostly a stills photographer, you’re definitely better off sticking with the original for its control layout and lower price.

In the time it took to write out this post, we’ve already had new gear come into the office to amp up our productions. Keep an eye out here for more info and reviews on what we pick up!

The Art And Technology Of Sports Broadcast Graphics

Screenshot of custom designed graphics showing key athlete information

Here We Go…

In the fast-paced world of live sports broadcasting, every second counts. From triathlon, to soccer or gravel racing… Our studio team must always be on our toes, ready for anything. For events as large and dynamic as IRONMAN races, a critical role behind the scenes is that of the Graphics Operator. At BCC Live, the Graphics Operator is responsible for creating and managing all the visual data that viewers see on their screens… From leaderboards to race analytics, sponsor integrations, and more. These elements don’t just enhance the broadcast; they help tell the story of the race.

From Signage to Screens: How Broadcasting Began

My journey into the world of graphics operation began in a place you might not expect… Designing and producing signage for large corporations. Working with national brands, I learned the importance of adhering to design criteria, brand guidelines, and local regulations. This experience, combined with my passion for endurance sports, ultimately led me to BCC Live, where I now oversee the visual elements of our IRONMAN broadcasts and other live broadcasts we produce.

Just like in signage, precision is key in broadcast graphics. I’ve come to rely heavily on tools like Adobe Illustrator for initial designs and asset management. This allows me to scale graphics seamlessly across resolutions and devices. Beyond the technical skills, what drew me to this role was the opportunity to use graphics as a storytelling tool—especially in long-form broadcasts like IRONMAN events and Gravel Worlds.

Behind the scenes view of the Graphics Operator Workspace
Graphics Operator Workspace

Designing the Broadcast for the Ultimate Race Day

The process of designing graphics for a broadcast starts with the client’s brand identity. At IRONMAN, we work closely with event organizers to make sure every element—from logos to color schemes—resonates with their audience. Whether it’s the Roka Swim Course or the Hoka Run Course, each branded segment not only reflects the larger IRONMAN identity but also provides sponsorship opportunities that sustain the broadcast. This methodology is applicable no matter the event. Whether it’s sports or a live conference broadcast, we ensure every element of the show helps us tell the story of the event.

Creating a graphics package involves more than just slapping logos on the screen. We design visual elements that guide viewers through the race—clocks, scrolling tickers, leaderboard updates, and even athlete bios and headshots. We carefully craft every element to engage viewers and keep them informed about race developments in real-time.

Screenshot of custom designed graphics showing key athlete information
Design Process for Custom Graphics

Engineering Systems for Precision and Efficiency

One of the most exciting aspects of my role is building the technical systems that make race-day graphics possible. Behind every graphic on screen is a network of software and hardware working in harmony. At BCC Live, we’ve developed a seamless system that allows us to pull real-time data from race timing platforms like RTRT, which gives us the ability to display timing splits, leaderboards, and estimated finish times with millisecond precision.

To make things even more efficient, we also use cloud-based tools like Viz Flowics. This HTML5 graphics solution allows us to render native elements directly on our NewTek Tricaster 2 Elite over the web as a buffer source, minimizing the need for imported assets. We’ve also integrated automation into our system with devices like the Elgato Stream Deck, enabling operators to trigger graphics at the press of a button.

TThis focus on simplicity and scalability ensures that, even in the heat of a live broadcast, any operator—whether a seasoned expert or a first-timer—can manage our intuitive system.

Operating Graphics During the Broadcast on Event Day

On race week, the real work begins. In the days leading up to the race, I prepare by loading all the pre-set libraries specific to the event. This includes setting the race or event name, location, athlete information including start lists, speaker information, bib numbers, country codes and flags, swim cap colors, and any sponsorship obligations. Once the event begins, my job is to ensure that all graphics are synced with the live action, and to ensure a seamless viewing experience.

Some elements, like the scrolling ticker of leaderboard results, are automated, pulling data directly from platforms like RTRT. We manually trigger other elements, like athlete IDs or sponsor spots, based on what’s happening on the course. With IRONMAN events lasting upwards of 10 hours, the graphics need to be updated constantly to reflect the action.

One of the biggest challenges we face is managing the story-telling when traditional timing systems may not update as often as we like. While timing mats are reliable, they only update at specific points on the course… Meaning that a lot can happen between checkpoints. We’re constantly working to improve how we display these live updates, and aim to give viewers the best sense of where the athletes are in real-time.

Gravel cycling race with graphics showing distance, elevation, and weather
Gravel Cycling Race Graphics

Why Graphics Matter in Live Sports Broadcasts

At the end of the day, the graphics aren’t just there to look good… They’re there to help tell the story of the race. In an IRONMAN or long distance cycling broadcast, where viewers might tune in and out throughout the day, it’s crucial that the on-screen information provides a clear snapshot of the race’s progress at any given moment.

Graphics are also key to maintaining the broadcast’s commercial viability. We integrate sponsors into the race narrative to create value for both the viewers and the brands involved. Whether it’s displaying the “First Out of the Water presented by Wahoo” or the “Hoka Run Course,” our graphics packages create a cohesive, branded experience that resonates with both the athlete community and corporate partners.

Looking Ahead: The Future of Graphics in Live Broadcasting

As we look to the future, the role of the Graphics Operator will continue to evolve alongside advancements in technology. At BCC Live, we’re already pioneering new tools like AI-powered race analytics and enhanced GPS tracking systems to deliver even richer data to viewers. We’re also constantly refining our systems to be more intuitive and efficient… Making it easier than ever to produce high-quality broadcasts.

What keeps me passionate about this work is the constant drive to innovate and push the boundaries of what’s possible. Every race presents a new challenge… And with it, a new opportunity to create graphics that enhance the viewer experience in fresh and exciting ways.

Want To Learn More About BCC Live’s Broadcast Roles?

Exclusive Glimpse Behind The Broadcast Desk – Master Of Multitasking

Switching Up the Game: Live Broadcast Technical Director

Gravel Cycling Race with Graphics in the Lower Portion of the Screen
Custom Graphics for Gravel Cycling Race

2024 Has Been Awesome! Let’s Do A Mid-Year Review!

BCC Live in high-visibility vests working at an event

Wow! It’s hard to believe we’ve already reached the midpoint of 2024; it’s the perfect time to reflect on the exciting projects and milestones we’ve achieved at BCC Live. This year has been one of our busiest yet; a whirlwind of creativity, innovation, and collaboration. We’re thrilled to share some of the highlights with you.

Expanding Our Horizons

So far in 2024, we’ve expanded our capabilities and services to better serve our clients’ diverse needs. Our goal has always been to elevate our clients’ creative visions, and this year, we’ve taken significant steps to ensure every project is a seamless and enjoyable experience from start to finish.

Memorable Projects

People practicing Yoga, watching their instructor teach virtually
Kaiut Yoga – 7 Day Practice Intensive

We kicked off the year with the Kaiut Yoga – 7 Day Practice Intensive. During this event each year, we provide the technology for Kaiut Yoga to bring in a remote instructor who leads the courses during the event. It’s an inspiring event that brings practitioners together physically, mentally, and emotionally.

Stage set up for a panel of speakers with an LED screen behind it.
ETH Denver
Auditorium set up with audience chairs and projectors.
Running USA Conference
Back of House set up
Running USA Conference

February brought us a few great events! We sent our team to Orlando, FL for the Running USA Conference and then moved straight into ETH Denver. During ETH Denver’s breakout events, our team managed multiple live streams and offered on-demand video services to share insights from the blockchain community.

As we moved into March our crew traveled to the Chattanooga Marathon, the Skyway 10k, and the Portland Shamrock run. These are all events where we provide comprehensive video coverage and event production services. Dave even announces the race at the Portland Shamrock run! Each one is unique and so much fun!

Videographer from behind while he shoots video on a cruise ship
Shooting Video on a Cruise

April brought the team an entirely new experience… shooting video on a cruise. BCC took on the challenge of filming on a moving vessel while still delivering stunning visuals. This trip was full of sunshine and scenic views that we were able to capture behind the lens.

Cameras shooting video at a soccer game
Broadcasting the Colorado Storm
Capturing video of women's soccer
Colorado Storm Women’s Soccer Broadcast

In May we began broadcasting soccer for the first time! We partnered with the Colorado Storm and were able to livestream all of their home games throughout the season. It was an opportunity to provide real-time updates and live coverage to keep fans engaged and involved in the sport.

Back of House setup at a corporate conference.
The Business of Running Events Conference
Corporate Photography
Corporate Photography

June had a few more corporate conferences in store for us. We provided livestreaming and video production for the US Heat Pump Summit and The Business of Running Events Conference. We had a blast capturing keynotes, panels, and networking sessions.

Camera showing logo through view screen
Live Broadcast of IRONMAN 70.3 Boulder
Dave wearing goggles while flying a drone
Flying Drones & Having Fun!
Flying a drone in the desert of St. George, UT.
Live Broadcast of IRONMAN 70.3 St. George North American Championship

And we can’t forget IRONMAN and Rock ‘n’ Roll Marathon. We continue to travel all around North America for these events, as well as broadcasting races worldwide. This year we took on a new challenge with our long-term partners. We produced the entire broadcast for IRONMAN 70.3 St. George and IRONMAN 70.3 Boulder. This means we weren’t just the team in the studio… We were also the team in the field. We were the team running the cameras and providing on course commentary. It was an incredible learning opportunity and we’re so grateful for all our partners who made the whole thing possible!

Livestream Innovations

Broadcast hosts sitting at the broadcast desk.
BCC Live Studios
BCC broadcasting
BCC Live Studios

Livestreaming and broadcasting continue to be a cornerstone of our offerings. This year, we introduced new technologies and techniques to enhance the viewer experience. Our team successfully broadcasted a variety of events, including corporate conferences, sporting events, and live performances. Each broadcast was tailored to meet the unique needs of our clients, ensuring high engagement and seamless execution. We’ve made great progress in our live graphic development, enhancing the viewing experience for anyone who tunes in. We’ve enjoyed collaborating as a team to learn and master new skills and then show them off to the world!

Engaging Digital Media

Our social media presence has grown significantly in 2024. We’ve been actively sharing behind-the-scenes content, project highlights, and client testimonials on our Facebook, Instagram, YouTube, and LinkedIn. These platforms have become valuable spaces for us to connect with our audience, showcase our work, and share industry insights. If you don’t yet follow us, please do! We promise to deliver funny & engaging content and love connecting with new people.

Looking Ahead

As we move into the second half of 2024, we’re excited to continue pushing the boundaries of what’s possible in event production and digital media. We have several exciting projects on the horizon and look forward to sharing more incredible stories with you.

Thank you for being part of our journey. Stay tuned for more updates, and as always, if you have a vision, we’re here to bring it to life.

AVNetwork.com Press

In a recent press release, AVNetwork’s details how AJA Video System’s technology supports the demanding encoding and decoding needs of live productions, illustrating the vital role it plays in ensuring smooth, high-quality broadcasts. This support is crucial for live event producers who rely on seamless delivery of content to viewers, reinforcing AJA’s position as a key player in live production technology. For the full article, click on the link below.

“While its roots may be in IT, Boulder, CO-based BCC Live has quickly evolved into a live production powerhouse, helping organizations like IRONMAN, Rock n Roll Marathon, and others deliver broadcast quality coverage of niche sporting events and conferences to global audiences.”

Article by avnetwork.com
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Digital Media World Press

In a recent press highlight by Digital Media World, BCC Live’s integration of AJA BRIDGE LIVE into their live event production toolkit was showcased. This cutting-edge technology has significantly enhanced our capabilities in complex production encoding and decoding, enabling us to handle virtually any feed and deliver it in the required format. This advancement has streamlined our operations, allowing us to offer even more reliable and high-quality live broadcasts for events like IRONMAN and Rock n Roll Marathon. For more details on how AJA BRIDGE LIVE is revolutionizing our workflows and offering, visit Digital Media World’s full article at the link below.

“With BRIDGE LIVE, we can take in nearly any type of feed and send out whatever end format is required… After only a 15-minute demo of the device, we were sold. It has solved a lot of problems for us.”
– Dave Downey, BCC Live

Interview by Digital Media WOrld
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Creative Cow Press

In a recent press release, Creative COW dives into how BCC Live leverages AJA BRIDGE LIVE to meet the encoding and decoding needs of their diverse production portfolio, from sports events like the IRONMAN series to various conferences. The article emphasizes BCC Live’s innovative solutions to live production challenges, highlighting the crucial role of AJA BRIDGE LIVE in enhancing broadcast quality and workflow efficiency. For more insights into their process and the impact of this technology, check out the full article

“With BRIDGE LIVE, BCC Live has cut its encoding/decoding technology needs in half, according to Downey. The device enables the team to easily grab NDI off the network regardless of the source.”

Article by Creative Cow
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StreamingMedia.com Press

Streaming Media featured a press article on BCC Live’s utilization of AJA BRIDGE LIVE, highlighting its crucial role in meeting diverse encoding and decoding requirements for various productions. The technology has been instrumental in facilitating BCC Live’s delivery of high-quality coverage for events like the IRONMAN and Rock n Roll Marathon, demonstrating its capability to handle complex live broadcasting challenges with ease. For more insights into BCC Live’s innovative approach, read the full article.

“With BRIDGE LIVE, BCC Live has cut its encoding/decoding technology needs in half, according to Downey. The device enables the team to easily grab NDI off the network regardless of the source.”

Article by StreamingMedia.com
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Digital Studio India Press

BCC Live has successfully tackled the complexities of live event broadcasting by integrating AJA BRIDGE LIVE into their workflow. This technological partnership enhances BCC Live’s ability to navigate the intricate challenges of live production, ensuring flawless encoding and decoding across diverse events. The move underscores BCC Live’s commitment to delivering high-quality live content, leveraging AJA’s robust solutions to elevate viewer experience.

For an in-depth look, you’d need to visit Digital Studio India’s website directly.

“[BCC Live] utilizes BRIDGE LIVE for IRONMAN 70.3 competitions, employing SCTE markers to trigger ad breaks during partner-led broadcasts. Offering end-to-end services, from production to post-production, BCC Live ensures customized event graphics and content delivery, with the Boulder studio serving as a hub for all content before distribution across platforms.”

Article by DigitalStudioIndia.com
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Live-Production.tv Press

Man working in broadcast desk at tricaster
Man working in broadcast desk at tricaster

In an insightful feature by Live-Production.TV, the spotlight is on BCC Live’s strategic adoption of AJA BRIDGE LIVE to meet the encoding and decoding demands of their diverse live production projects. This integration has empowered us to address the myriad of technical challenges that arise in live event production, from IRONMAN to Rock n Roll Marathon broadcasts. AJA BRIDGE LIVE’s flexibility and efficiency have notably streamlined our workflow, ensuring high-quality delivery across platforms. Dive into the full story on Live-Production.TV

“Whether broadcasting or running tests, BCC Live deploys BRIDGE LIVE nearly every weekend to support a range of production demands (i.e., 1080i or 1080p, 50 or 60 frames, Secure Reliable Transport, etc.).”

AJA BRIDGE LIVE Helps BCC Live Meet Encoding/Decoding Demands Across Productions by Live-Production.TV
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Infowest Press

In a recent press release, InfoWest, renowned for its top-tier internet solutions in Southern Utah, acknowledged its pivotal role in ensuring seamless connectivity for BCC Live’s broadcast of the world’s largest triathlon. Their unparalleled expertise in providing event internet service demonstrates a rare and valued ability to meet complex event demands, emphasizing their commitment to “just getting it done” for event planners. For more details on how InfoWest powers BCC Live’s events with reliable internet, visit their website.

“When the largest triathlon in the world comes into town, it’s no surprise that there is only one company that Boulder County Communications calls to connect the event to the world.”

Article by Infowest
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