Hong Kong:
The Hong Kong Jockey Club (HKJC) has upgraded its communications infrastructure with a Riedel Artist-1024 intercom system and 1200 Series SmartPanels across its Sha Tin and Happy Valley racecourses, as well as the Sha Tin Communications & Technology Centre (SCTC) studio.
Delivered by systems integrator New Digital Technology Holdings (NDT), the project builds on HKJC’s use of Riedel’s Bolero wireless intercom since 2018, creating a unified platform for wired and wireless communications. According to the manufacturer, it also marks the first deployment of a SMPTE ST 2022-7 redundant Artist structure in Hong Kong, integrating Artist-1024 with the venue’s existing Artist G2 infrastructure.
“Reliable, flexible communication is essential for our operations,” said Mazy Li, manager – broadcasting operations at HKJC. “With Artist-1024 and 1200 Series SmartPanels, we can configure key functions quickly, mute or alarm panels individually, and maintain seamless connectivity across all venues. Riedel’s support throughout this process was exceptional – from responsive customer service to software development assistance that helped us resolve configuration challenges and go live smoothly. This upgrade gives us the stability and scalability we need for future expansion.”
The installation comprises two Artist-1024 frames and more than 30 1200 Series SmartPanels, serving nine operational areas including audio server rooms, audio control rooms, DV rooms and three production control rooms at SCTC. Designed for live race day broadcasts that can run for up to eight hours, the network uses SMPTE ST 2022-7 redundancy and AES67 AoIP, while Dante integration enables routing of programme audio, IFB and commentary signals between the intercom system, audio mixers and third-party equipment.
The upgrade also migrates HKJC’s existing Bolero wireless intercom onto the new Artist-1024 backbone. The 1200 Series SmartPanels provide features including individual key muting and alarm functions, while the brand’s Director software allows operators to configure the system through a drag and drop interface.
The project also involved integrating legacy Artist G2 panels, VoIP trunks and existing call and conference functions while addressing AES67 audio loss during stress testing and Dante clock synchronisation issues.
“This deployment demonstrates how Riedel technology can meet the most demanding requirements of live production environments,” stated Ryan Lau, regional sales manager Southeast Asia, Riedel Communications. “Integrating Artist-1024 with legacy systems under tight timelines required precision engineering and close collaboration. Beyond delivering redundancy and IP flexibility, this solution provides HKJC with a platform that is ready for future growth and evolving workflows.”