DMC Production's OB vehicles keep live processing on site while operators work remotely. Via Grass Valley's AMPP, Calrec's virtualised DSP and compact console form an agile audio network
DMC Production has been working on a more flexible approach to live production projects by by significantly changing the conventional outside broadcast workflow. The company has developed a proprietary OB framework that their team describes as ‘reverse remote production’. Their two identical remote production vehicles AR 1 and AR 2, designed and delivered by systems integrator Broadcast Solutions, are highly scalable and software-defined.
The vehicles' new software architecture replaces the traditional, hardware-focussed OB model with a guiding principle of simplicity. All production-critical processing happens at the venue – video switching, replay, signal processing, multiviewers, recording and audio mixing. All of these functions run within Grass Valley’s pure cloud-native environment, AMPP, which allows remote operations to be handled from any of DMC Production's broadcast centres.
Local Production Edge
By keeping the raw production feeds at the venue, rather than delivering them via backhaul to a central facility, the remote vehicle becomes the site of the local production edge. The major benefit is bandwidth efficiency – a large multi-camera production can be handled over a lightweight 100 Mbit/s internet connection. Typically, audio is a particular challenge in these environments, but DMC Production and Calrec have worked together to develop an audio network that not only connects everything directly but also delivers low latency control with a familiar interface.
Jens Envall, DMC Production's Chief Innovation Officer, said this is the first step in a larger deployment model for DMC Production. "The aim is not just to build one or two vehicles, but to establish a repeatable, scalable production concept where software, IP connectivity and professionals on broadcast control surfaces work together in a practical live production environment."
Partnership at the Hub
Calrec's technology partnership with Grass Valley's AMPP, announced in April 2026, forms the hub of the installation. In this first phase of the integration, DMC Production is using Calrec's ImPulse1 processing core until the fully integrated ImPulseV Virtualised Audio Mixing Engine/AMPP platform comes online. However, Jens Envall is already planning for more native control integration within the AMPP environment.
DMC Production has also installed a 48-fader Calrec Argo M console at its remote production facility in Munich, Germany. The complete ecosystem is connected and managed using Calrec's remote production functionality, True Control 2.0, establishing direct integration between the Argo M control surface and the OB units across any geographic boundaries.
It means an audio engineer can manage the entire mix remotely across a low-latency connection while processing that is critical to production remains in the remote production vehicles at the venue – accessible through AMPP. Each vehicle includes Calrec Type R mixing systems for local monitor and in-ear mixing, together with the required IP I/O infrastructure.
IP-based, modular and expandable, Type R systems use standard networking hardware and soft panels that are customisable per operator. Type R can also be used with Calrec Assist for mixing in the cloud and has mix facilities for up to three independent mixers feeding off one 5.1 system core. Type R includes fully automated programming with real-time response to external conditions, either via the web or via portable, dedicated hardware.
Physical Control for Live
Jens finds the Argo M surface stands out because it gives the audio engineer the right level of control for complex live productions. Compact and space-saving, Argo M connects to an existing ImPulse core alongside other surfaces to create a multi-console environment. All monitoring and metering tools are placed front and centre without adding ancillary equipment.
Critical for DMC Prodiction, the cores and surfaces can be dispersed to support remote and distributed production, with interoperable networking and stage-box interfacing over ST2110. Jens said, "The physical faders, layout and operational approach are very important for sports and fast-moving live events. True Control 2.0 is also critical because it allows us to operate the audio environment remotely while maintaining a familiar and responsive workflow for the engineer. That is a key part of making this production model practical."
The Argo M's versatility reflects the breadth of content DMC Production is delivering. The company produces a broad mix of live sports, studio, entertainment and event-based coverage. "The demand from the market changes quickly," he commented. "Customers want high-quality production, but they also want more flexibility, shorter setup times and more efficient use of resources.
Flexible Output
"Many rights holders and broadcasters no longer think only in terms of one main programme feed. They want clean feeds, ISO feeds, highlights, digital clips, social-first versions, venue feeds and sometimes additional language or commentary options. Because the vehicle can generate clean programme feeds locally, we can create a more flexible output structure straight from the venue, which then feeds traditional broadcast, OTT, social media, rights holders, venue screens or partner platforms.
"This is not a standard installation where we are simply replacing one traditional audio console with another. We are building a new workflow, and that requires a close dialogue between engineering, product and operational teams. Calrec has been very supportive throughout the project. That ongoing relationship is important because this is the first step in a scalable model. We need partners who are willing to develop with us, not only supply equipment."
Calrec Regional Sales Manager, Anthony Harrison said, " DMC Production's approach to dynamic remote production is highly innovative and a testament to the company's adaptability, in tandem with Calrec's scalable, adaptable audio ecosystem. It is the first step in establishing a repeatable production concept where software, IP connectivity and control work together in a practical live production environment." calrec.com
