SportsNet New York deploys 90 Plura monitors for 24/7 color consistency

The modernization of Regional Sports Network (RSN) infrastructure comes at a volatile time for the sector. Per Sportico in March 2024, the bankruptcy proceedings of Diamond Sports Group have accelerated a shift toward team-owned or network-owned production facilities that prioritize tech-forward, centralized operations. SNY’s investment in its World Trade Center facility aligns with this trend of RSNs reclaiming control over their technical stacks to ensure high-quality delivery as they navigate shifting carriage agreements and potential direct-to-consumer transitions.

Technologically, the shift toward Ethernet-based monitoring, such as Plura’s MTDoE, mirrors wider adoption of SMPTE ST 2110 standards across professional sports media. According to a 2023 report from Devoncroft Partners, the transition to IP-based workflows is no longer exclusive to national broadcasters, with regional players now seeking the flexibility to handle multiple formats and resolutions from a single control point. This capability is vital for RSNs like SNY that must simultaneously feed 4K-capable set-top boxes and lower-bandwidth mobile applications with consistent color grading.

Furthermore, the focus on 'monitor standardization' specifically addresses the operational challenges of 24/7 live environments. In late 2023, SVG News reported that several high-profile RSNs are prioritizing display consistency to reduce 'eye fatigue' for operators during long production shifts. By using a single manufacturer like Plura across multiple sizes, SNY simplifies its parts inventory and training requirements, which is a key priority for engineering teams managing the high-pressure environment of New York sports broadcasting.