ESPN is upgrading its NHL broadcast production by integrating Dolby Atmos for select tentpole events and increasing microphone density on the ice. The network is also transitioning to a new Studio W facility and a SMPTE ST 2110-based remote production workflow to maintain broadcast continuity.
The integration of Dolby Atmos and high-density miking signals a shift toward premium, immersive audio as a differentiator for live sports streaming. By moving to a SMPTE ST 2110 backbone in Studio W, ESPN is modernizing its infrastructure to handle complex remote workflows more efficiently than traditional hardware-heavy setups. This technical evolution allows the broadcaster to maintain high production values even as the regional sports network landscape remains fragmented. As the league takes more ownership of local broadcasts, watch for whether these high-end audio standards become the baseline for all NHL games across Disney's digital platforms.
For the 2026-27 NHL season, ESPN is upgrading its audio production by integrating Dolby Atmos for major events and increasing microphone density on the ice. By transitioning to a SMPTE ST 2110 remote workflow at Studio W, the broadcaster aims to deliver immersive, high-fidelity sound while modernizing its technical infrastructure.
Dolby Atmos will be utilized for major tentpole events, including the All-Star Game, the Stadium Series, and the Conference Finals.
Production teams are deploying glass-mounted PZMs and in-goal RF microphones to capture high-fidelity ambient sounds from the rink.
ESPN is transitioning to a SMPTE ST 2110-based remote workflow, which operates out of the new Studio W facility in Bristol.
ESPN is airing 100 national regular-season games, with 47 of those being exclusive to ESPN+, Disney+, and Hulu.
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