Reliable connections are the backbone of successful broadcasting. Whether you’re transmitting audio from a remote studio, connecting with a guest across the country, or sending live video from a breaking news scene, maintaining a stable and high-quality signal is essential. Comrex specializes in providing broadcast solutions that prioritize reliability and performance. In this post, we’ll explore the world of Comrex, examining their range of audio and video codecs, IP-based solutions, and the innovative technologies that set them apart. We’ll delve into the popular BRIC-Link series, the versatile Access series, and the LiveShot system for video transmission. We’ll also discuss the key features that make Comrex a trusted name in broadcasting, including their BRIC technology, CrossLock VPN, and commitment to user-friendly design. Join us as we uncover the power of Comrex and how it can enhance your broadcast workflow.
Key Takeaways
- Comrex makes hardware and software for remote broadcasting. They focus on clear audio and video, especially for live situations. If you’re broadcasting from outside the studio, Comrex products are worth checking out.
- Their CrossLock technology helps keep your broadcast going, even with internet hiccups. It creates backup connections, so you’re less likely to experience drops during crucial moments. This is a big plus for live broadcasts.
- Comrex offers different products at different price points. Whether you need just audio or audio and video, they have options. Do some research to see what fits your budget and technical needs.
What is Comrex?
Comrex designs and manufactures broadcast products, from audio and video codecs to IP-based solutions. These tools help connect remote guests and callers for live broadcasts. Essentially, Comrex makes the technology that helps radio and television stations get clear audio and video from outside the studio.
Audio Codecs
Comrex has a long history of developing audio transmission technology. Their early Hotline codec became an industry standard for POTS (Plain Old Telephone Service) broadcasting. Today, they continue to innovate with products like the BRIC-Link III, designed for reliable IP transmission of high-quality, low-delay audio. This is crucial for live broadcasts where sound clarity and timing are everything. For more on the BRIC-Link III, check out the product page.
Video Codecs
Comrex isn’t just about audio. They’ve also moved into video transmission with products like LiveShot, a system that sends both audio and video over IP networks with low delay. This allows broadcasters to incorporate live video from remote locations seamlessly. You can learn more about Comrex’s history with video transmission on their Wikipedia page. The BRIC-Link III also plays a role here, ensuring a dependable connection for high-quality audio alongside the video feed.
IP-Based Solutions for Remote Broadcasting
Comrex focuses on simplifying remote connections for broadcasters using IP technology. They offer a variety of professional-grade equipment and services to achieve this. One example is their CrossLock technology, which creates backup data streams between codecs. This redundancy ensures a reliable connection even if the primary network experiences issues. For a deeper look at CrossLock, read this Comrex blog post. Comrex codecs can even connect to multiple networks simultaneously for added security. This allows broadcasters to maintain a consistent broadcast even in challenging network conditions.
Explore Comrex Products
Comrex offers a range of hardware and software solutions designed for remote broadcasting and IP audio transport. Whether you’re a seasoned broadcaster or setting up your first studio, understanding the different product lines can help you find the right tools.
BRIC-Link Series
The Comrex BRIC-Link series is known for its reliability and low-latency audio transmission over IP networks. The BRIC-Link III, for example, is a popular choice for studio-to-transmitter links, remote broadcasts from stadiums, and even home studio setups. Its compact design and simple operation make it versatile for various applications. Comrex’s proprietary CrossLock VPN technology ensures a stable connection, even in challenging network conditions.
Access Series
The Comrex Access series provides another option for IP audio transport, offering flexibility and robust performance. These codecs are designed to handle various connection types and prioritize audio quality. This makes them suitable for remote broadcasts, studio backhaul, and other situations where a reliable connection is crucial.
LiveShot
For situations requiring both audio and video transmission, Comrex LiveShot offers a portable and affordable solution. This system sends high-quality audio and video over IP networks, making it practical for live broadcasts, newsgathering, and other field productions. Its compact size and ease of use make it particularly well-suited for smaller stations and organizations.
Opal
Comrex Opal is a telephone hybrid that bridges the gap between traditional phone lines and modern IP-based audio workflows. It allows broadcasters to seamlessly integrate phone calls into their productions with excellent audio quality. Opal is a valuable tool for talk shows, interviews, and any scenario where bringing in callers is essential.
Key Features of Popular Comrex Products
Comrex has earned a reputation for producing reliable broadcast equipment. Let’s look at some features that make their products stand out.
BRIC Technology
BRIC (Broadcast Reliable Internet Codec) technology is at the heart of many Comrex products. This technology excels in situations where low-latency, high-quality audio is critical, such as live sports broadcasts from stadiums or sending audio from a home studio to a radio station. The BRIC-Link III, for example, uses BRIC technology to establish a rock-solid connection, ensuring your audio arrives clearly and on time.
CrossLock VPN Technology
Comrex’s proprietary CrossLock VPN technology adds another layer of reliability to their IP audio codecs. CrossLock creates redundant data streams, constantly monitoring and adjusting the connection to maintain a stable link. This helps ensure a smooth broadcast, even with less-than-ideal internet connections. Learn more about how CrossLock maintains audio quality over unpredictable networks.
User-Friendly Design
Setting up and managing broadcast equipment shouldn’t be complicated. Comrex understands this, and their products feature intuitive interfaces. The BRIC-Link III, for instance, uses an HTML-5 based interface accessible from any web browser. This allows you to easily configure settings, manage connections, and monitor your broadcast from a computer or tablet.
Reliable Performance in Challenging Conditions
Broadcasters often face unpredictable network conditions. Comrex codecs are designed to handle these challenges, prioritizing reliable connections and high-quality audio, even with spotty internet access. Lumina Broadcast Services Australia discusses Comrex’s commitment to maintaining broadcast quality even with unreliable networks.
High-Quality Audio and Video Transmission
Comrex uses advanced audio and video transmission technology in their codecs. This ensures clear, high-fidelity audio and video, even over challenging IP networks. Whether broadcasting live audio or sending video from a remote location, Comrex products deliver professional-quality results. ProFM Broadcast offers further information on the technology behind Comrex’s reliable broadcasts.
What Makes Comrex Different?
Comrex stands out in the broadcast technology world for several reasons, from its commitment to innovation to its dedication to customer support. Let’s take a closer look.
Continuous Innovation
Comrex has a long history of adapting to changes in broadcast technology. They consistently develop high-quality, user-friendly equipment for broadcasters. From their early work with phone lines to their current focus on IP-based solutions, Comrex continues to refine remote broadcasting technology.
Made in USA with Local Materials
Comrex manufactures all its products in the USA. They use local materials and employ local workers, including veterans and individuals from diverse backgrounds. This commitment to American manufacturing supports local communities and ensures a high level of quality control.
Strong Customer Support
Comrex understands the importance of reliable support in broadcasting. They promise direct access to knowledgeable support staff who can help with your equipment questions. This commitment to customer service sets Comrex apart.
Employee Ownership
Comrex is employee-owned. This structure allows them to focus on long-term goals, like building high-quality products and providing excellent customer support. This ownership model fosters a sense of pride and responsibility, resulting in better products and service.
Comrex vs. Competitors
When choosing broadcast equipment, it helps to understand the competitive landscape. This section compares Comrex with other prominent players in the industry, giving you a clearer picture of their relative strengths.
Tieline
Tieline is known for codecs like the BridgeIT, which some users report offers a full duplex stereo connection, a feature not universally available on all Comrex devices. Discussions also suggest Tieline’s iPhone app may offer advanced error correction compared to Comrex. This feature is important for maintaining audio quality, especially in challenging conditions.
Telos Alliance
Both Comrex and Telos Alliance are considered reliable choices for complex IP-based broadcasts, indicating a competitive edge in technology for both companies. Users looking for sophisticated tech for challenging IP links often consider both providers.
AEQ
AEQ, like Comrex, offers robust audio solutions for broadcasting. They are a well-established player in the industry, focusing on providing reliable equipment for various broadcast needs.
Prodys
Prodys, similar to Comrex, specializes in audio over IP solutions. They prioritize reliable broadcasting solutions, making them a relevant competitor in the market.
Comrex Pricing and Purchasing
Product Line Price Ranges
Comrex offers a range of products for broadcast needs, and prices vary depending on the equipment. Rack kits cost between $166.50 and $175.00, while cases run from $23.75 to $270.75. The BRIC-Link III Codec is available for $1,805.00, and the VH2 Dual line VoIP Studio Telephone Interface costs $1,425.00. The ACCESS Series codecs range from $1,045.00 to $4,940.00 depending on the model, and the LiveShot Series costs between $475.00 and $6,650.00. Cables and accessories range from $23.75 to $420.00. These price points reflect the quality Comrex offers the broadcasting industry. You can explore Comrex products at Broadcasters General Store.
Find Authorized Dealers
To buy Comrex products or learn more about pricing, it’s best to go through an authorized dealer. Comrex can help you find dealers for both their audio and video products. This ensures you’re getting authentic products and reliable support.
Current Deals
Many Comrex products are available at discounted prices, often lower than their original MSRP. Check the Comrex product page at Broadcasters General Store or with authorized dealers for the most up-to-date pricing and current deals, as these can change.
What Customers Say About Comrex
Comrex has a solid reputation among broadcasters for reliable equipment. But don’t just take our word for it—let’s see what users have to say.
Audio Quality and Reliability
Customers consistently praise Comrex codecs for their high-quality audio and dependable performance, even under challenging network conditions. Lumina BSA, a broadcast solutions provider, notes that Comrex “builds codecs that connect easily and deliver high-quality audio over IP networks with low delay.” This reliability is crucial for live broadcasts, ensuring a consistent signal even when networks falter. Comrex emphasizes the reliability of their BRIC-Link III, highlighting its “ultra-reliable IP transmission of high-quality, low-delay audio” due to their CrossLock VPN technology. This commitment to quality audio ensures professional broadcasts every time.
Ease of Use
Beyond audio quality, Comrex products are known for their user-friendly design. The BRIC-Link III is praised for its simplicity and broad applicability. This ease of use makes Comrex equipment accessible, simplifying setup and operation, and allowing broadcasters to focus on their content rather than technical complexities.
Connectivity and Stability
Comrex’s CrossLock technology plays a significant role in the connectivity and stability of their codecs. Described as the “special sauce,” CrossLock creates redundant data streams, providing backup pathways for audio transmission and enhancing reliability. This technology allows Comrex codecs to connect to multiple networks simultaneously, effectively increasing bandwidth and ensuring a stable connection. This multi-network connectivity offers a major advantage for broadcasters working in locations with unpredictable internet access. Lumina BSA explains how this multi-network approach strengthens the overall connection.
Equipment Durability
Comrex prides itself on building durable equipment and providing excellent customer support. The company offers continued support for older products, even discontinued models, demonstrating their commitment to their customers. Comrex notes that some products over 20 years old are still in use, a testament to their long-lasting build quality. This longevity represents a smart investment for broadcasters and underscores Comrex’s dedication to quality and customer satisfaction. You can learn more about their commitment to customer relationships on their Core Values page.
Comrex Customer Support
Customer support is a core value at Comrex. They strive to provide assistance beyond the industry standard, building trust with their users. This commitment to customer satisfaction extends through several key areas:
Technical Support
Comrex offers robust technical support to help users troubleshoot issues and get the most from their equipment. Their team understands that reliable equipment is crucial for broadcasters, and they work diligently to resolve technical challenges. This dedication to reliability stems from Comrex’s mission to create user-friendly tools that professionals can depend on, even during complex broadcasts. You can learn more about their commitment to reliability.
Warranty Information
Comrex’s commitment to customer support continues beyond the initial purchase. Their repair services are available whether or not you’re the original owner. If you can provide the serial number, their tech support team can access the product’s records and offer assistance. This policy demonstrates their long-term dedication to their products and customers.
Training and Documentation
Comrex provides training and documentation to help users effectively use their products. Their codecs are known for their ease of connection and high-quality audio over IP networks, thanks to CrossLock, their suite of reliability tools. These resources empower users to confidently operate their equipment and achieve optimal performance.
Choose the Right Comrex Product
Picking the right Comrex product depends on your specific broadcasting setup and how you plan to use it. Think about your typical broadcast environment, how important rock-solid reliability is, and your budget. These factors will help narrow down the choices.
Factors to Consider
Comrex has a long history of developing broadcast technology. They’ve adapted to changes in how we communicate and offer well-made equipment for broadcasters of all sizes. Their focus on IP-based solutions is key. When audio streams over the internet, it’s broken into packets of data and sent to a specific IP address. Comrex codecs can often connect to multiple networks at once, effectively increasing your available bandwidth. This approach to IP audio codecs is a big part of what makes their products so reliable. Another factor is their commitment to quality and customer service, likely influenced by their employee ownership model.
Match Products to Broadcasting Needs
If you need ultra-reliable IP transmission with high-quality, low-delay audio, the BRIC-Link III is worth a look. It uses something called CrossLock VPN technology, which makes the connection more stable and improves performance. The BRIC-Link III is particularly well-suited for direct, point-to-point connections—a dependable way to get your audio from point A to point B. Consider what kind of connection you need most often when choosing the right product for your broadcasts.
Frequently Asked Questions
What exactly does a Comrex codec do? Think of a Comrex codec as a translator for different types of audio and video signals, allowing them to travel over the internet. It takes your broadcast audio or video, converts it into a format suitable for IP transmission, and then sends it to another codec at the receiving end, which converts it back. This lets you send high-quality audio and video from remote locations back to your studio.
How does Comrex CrossLock improve connection stability? CrossLock creates backup data streams across multiple internet connections. If your primary connection weakens or drops, CrossLock automatically switches to the backup, preventing interruptions in your broadcast. It’s like having a spare tire for your internet connection.
What’s the difference between the Comrex BRIC-Link and Access series? Both the BRIC-Link and Access series transmit audio over IP, but they cater to different needs. The BRIC-Link series, particularly the BRIC-Link III, focuses on rock-solid reliability and low latency, making it ideal for live broadcasts. The Access series offers more flexibility in terms of connection types and features, making it suitable for a wider range of applications.
Is Comrex equipment only for large broadcasting stations? Not at all! While Comrex is used by many large stations, their products are also suitable for smaller setups, including home studios and remote podcasting. Products like the Opal are designed for smaller operations and offer professional-grade quality at a more accessible price point.
Where can I purchase Comrex equipment? Comrex products are sold through authorized dealers. You can find a list of dealers on the Comrex website. Buying from an authorized dealer ensures you’re getting authentic equipment and can access reliable support if needed.
