A new TV studio, control room, screening room, and podcast studio integrated by Key Code Media
Key Code Media recently completed the Emmy award-winning installation of a state-of-the-art video production studio for Kentucky Farm Bureau Insurance in Louisville, Kentucky. The new facility empowers the production team to handle a range of video content, from corporate messaging and commercials to live broadcasts and podcasts.
The $2.3 million investment included the construction of multiple production spaces, including a video master control room, a Pro Tools 5.1 post-production audio control room, an audio podcast room, a 5.1 editorial and screening room space. All systems and equipment were designed to operate seamlessly and efficiently, allowing the entire facility to be run by just three people if needed.
Key Code Media worked closely with brand agency/set-design company, Pinnacle, provided a complete turnkey solution, including consultation, system design, procurement, installation, and training for the Kentucky Farm Bureau team. The project won an Emmy for Set Design in 2024.
Control Room: Ross Carbonite Switcher, Ultrix Router, and AJA FS4 Frame Sync
The video control room has been equipped with a Ross Carbonite switcher and an Ultrix 64×64 router, providing robust capabilities for video switching and routing. The integration of Ross Dashboard software allows for streamlined management of the entire video ecosystem, supporting a single operator’s ability to handle complex productions.
The studio is also equipped with an AJA FS4 Frame Sync and two AJA KiPro four-channel recorders, allowing for multi-channel recording and seamless synchronization of video sources. The AJA FS4 provides support for 4K/UltraHD workflows, making the system future-proof as video production standards evolve.
For streaming, a four-channel HDR bridge is installed, facilitating the delivery of multiple feeds to various content delivery networks (CDNs). This setup is designed to accommodate a range of streaming needs, from live events to regular content distribution.
“This new studio gives us the flexibility to produce high-quality content in-house,” said a Matt Hilton from Kentucky Farm Bureau’s production team. “We can now manage everything from live broadcasts to podcasts and post-production, all in one space.”
Lighting and Camera Innovations
A major focus of the studio redesign was on achieving optimal lighting and camera setups. The studio now features over 60 lights installed in the ceiling, supplemented by a full light deck that allows for precise control of different zones. This extensive lighting array minimizes the need for manual adjustments and provides a versatile environment for various productions. The integration of a DMX (IP-based lighting control) system enables seamless control of lighting and other equipment through apps on iPad, streamlining operations and enhancing flexibility.
The studio’s cameras standardized on multiple Canon C300 Mark III, combined with Canon 25-250mm Cine-Servo lenses. The choice of cameras and lighting was driven by the need for rapid deployment and adaptability, ensuring that the studio can handle both live broadcasts and recorded content with ease.
MRMC PTA-1 Robotic Studio Heads offer a slick and modern pan, tilt movement that elevates the types of motion and shots that can be programmed into any given production.
Video Wall & Processing
The production studio is outfitted with four on-set video panels, controlled by a TVOne CurioMaster2 video wall processor. These panels give the team maximum flexibility to create dynamic and engaging video backdrops for any production. The ability to customize these backgrounds with ease significantly enhances the visual impact of each video, whether it’s for internal communications or public-facing content.
The lighting setup, paired with the video panels, further enhances the professional quality of the studio’s output. Custom lighting configurations can be tailored to each shoot, ensuring that the final product is visually stunning.
Full ProTools 5.1 Audio Post-Production and Podcast Capabilities
Audio setup includes a Yamaha CL3 board for production and an Avid S4 for post-production, with Dante network technology facilitating flexible audio routing. The design also incorporates multi-purpose spaces, accommodating various functions such as live audio, recording, and editing. Acoustic treatment, including angled windows and soundproofing measures, has been implemented to enhance audio quality in the multiple environments.
The ProTools S4 5.1 post-production audio control room is equipped to handle everything from sound design to audio editing for video content, giving the team complete control over the audio production process. A dedicated podcast production space, with microphones, headphones and I/O ready for interviews sits adjacent to the audio control room. Offering the flexibility to create high-quality audio content for Kentucky Farm Bureau’s communications.
The 5.1 audio screening room allows the team to review their content in full surround sound, ensuring the highest quality before content is distributed.
Systems Integration by Key Code Media
Key Code Media’s technical team collaborated closely with Kentucky Farm Bureau to ensure the integration of all the studio’s systems was seamless. The installation team faced several challenges, including the coordination of complex signal paths between the video and audio control rooms, the integration of advanced video and audio technologies, and ensuring the system could be operated efficiently by a small team.
The result is a highly efficient production environment where advanced technology and usability come together. By automating many production workflows and integrating top-of-the-line equipment, Key Code Media delivered a space where a small production team can produce professional-level content with minimal effort.
“We worked closely with Key Code Media to ensure the studio met all of our needs,” Matt Hilton of the Kentucky Farm Bureau production team. “Their expertise allowed us to build a studio that is not only cutting-edge but also easy for our team to operate.”
Summary
Kentucky Farm Bureau Insurance is a major insurance carrier in the Commonwealth of Kentucky. The current production team was internally moved from non-profit Kentucky Farm Bureau Federation to the Kentucky Farm Bureau Mutual Insurance company. This production team, of three, had already won a number of Emmy’s for previous work. The Executive Management team made the commitment to provide this extremely talented team with a state-of-the-art production environment. This included the construction of a studio space, video master control room, production audio control room (which is also a full ProTools 5.1 post production room, audio podcast room, 5.1 audio screening room, and dedicated editorial room. All the production equipment is state of the art leveraging Ross Video technology like Carbonite switcher, Ultrix router. In addition, an AJA FS4 Frame sync, two KiPro four channel recorders, one Bridge Live streaming appliance. Plus, four on-set video panels/wall run by a TVOne CurioMaster2. This entire production environment can be run with a minimum of three people.
