Savannah Bananas standardize REMI audio infrastructure for 75-stadium 2026 tour
Banana Ball TV has deployed Calrec Argo M audio consoles and Type R systems to manage remote production (REMI) audio workflows across 75 stadiums. The infrastructure supports live streaming on YouTube, ESPN, and Disney+ platforms.
Key Takeaways
- Installed three Calrec Argo M 36-fader consoles and three Type R systems to manage 75 stadium broadcasts across 45 states.
- Integrated True Control 2.0 and Calrec Assist GUI to allow engineers to adjust mixes and fix issues remotely via a web interface.
- Deployed hybrid field units using Type R frames to manage technical requirements for legacy analog, MADI, and Dante audio formats.
- Centralized high-level mixing at BTV’s Savannah facility while maintaining technical site-specific tasks like lip-sync correction in the field.
Why It Matters
Banana Ball TV is shifting from a novelty content creator to a high-scale Tier 1 broadcast operation. By decentralizing the audio mix via REMI, the organization reduces the travel overhead of elite production staff while maintaining professional standards across non-standard venues. This deployment reflects a broader industry trend where sports properties increasingly act as their own production houses, delivering ready-to-air feeds to major rights holders like Disney. The move effectively future-proofs their internal workflow for the multi-partner distribution model they have adopted for the 2026 season. Watch for similar nimble, tech-heavy production deployments as independent leagues seek to lower regional broadcast barriers.
Additional Context
The Savannah Bananas' technical upgrade follows a significant expansion of their media footprint. In February 2026, ESPN and the Bananas signed a 25-game exclusive agreement for the 2026 season, more than doubling their previous 12-game package. According to ESPN, these games are distributed across ABC, ESPN, and Disney+, with every contest streaming live on the Disney+ and ESPN apps. Bananas owner Jesse Cole noted in early 2026 that the organization has invested approximately $13 million in its internal broadcast team to produce these games in-house rather than relying on external network trucks. Distribution for the 2026 tour has become increasingly fragmented to maximize reach. Per Media Play News, The Roku Channel began live-streaming select games in April 2026, featuring interactive experiences alongside the live play. Additionally, Nexstar Media Group’s The CW Network announced in March 2026 that it would serve as the exclusive broadcast home for six specific games. This multi-platform strategy relies on a unified production standard to ensure quality remains consistent whether content is viewed on a free ad-supported streaming television (FAST) channel or a premium subscription service like Disney+. Technologically, Calrec has been positioning the Argo M and Type R systems specifically for these high-mobility, IP-native environments. At NAB 2026, the company highlighted the Argo M’s US debut, emphasizing its SMPTE 2110 connectivity and suitability for flypacks. According to Calrec’s 2026 technical briefings, the system's ability to run on COTS hardware and scale via the ImPulseV virtual engine is designed for properties that lack the fixed infrastructure of traditional MLB or NFL stadiums.
Read full article at sportsvideo.org
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