Experience Unmatched Sound Quality at the NBA All-Star Game
The NBA All-Star Game in San Francisco will showcase an innovative tournament-style format, but the familiar sounds of basketball will remain intact. The game's unique structure, involving four teams and three matches, does not compromise the quality of audio capture. Instead, it highlights the prowess of Dave Grundtvig, Turner Sports' seasoned audio supervisor, who has been instrumental in delivering pristine basketball audio for TNT Sports since its inception as the NBA's TV home 35 years ago.
Mastering Basketball Sounds with Advanced Microphones
Grundtvig's team utilizes a sophisticated array of microphones to ensure every squeak, thump, and cheer is captured with precision. Standard long and short shotguns are employed to pick up crowd reactions and on-court action. However, it's the specialized microphones that truly set this broadcast apart. Custom-made contact mics, developed during the NBA's COVID "bubble" era, are strategically placed under floor openings near each basket. These mics provide unparalleled clarity of court effects, ensuring viewers feel like they're right in the middle of the action.
Another standout innovation is the Shure MXA901 planar microphone array. Originally designed for corporate conference rooms, these arrays have been repurposed for sports broadcasting. Positioned 9 feet above the goal area, they offer extensive coverage of the court, capturing even the most subtle sounds. With eight separate lobes, the MXA901 can designate specific areas for focused audio capture, such as the three-point arc. This technology ensures a smoother, more dynamic mix compared to conventional microphones, which are limited by their narrower focus.
Enhancing Player Safety with Advanced Audio Gear
Safety remains a top priority for Grundtvig and his team. The MXA901 arrays' elevated position means no intrusive hardware is placed near players, reducing the risk of injury. Similarly, Q5X's PlayerMics, worn by eight players throughout the games, are designed with padded form factors to minimize harm in case of falls. Officials and coaches will also wear RefMics and CoachMics, ensuring clear communication without compromising player safety.
This approach not only enhances the listening experience for viewers but also prioritizes the well-being of athletes. By eliminating potential hazards, Grundtvig's team ensures that the focus remains on the game itself, allowing fans to enjoy every moment without distraction.
Integrating Entertainment into the Broadcast
The All-Star Weekend is more than just basketball; it's a celebration of entertainment. This year's event features performances by renowned artists like Too $hort, Saweetie, En Vogue, H.E.R., and LiAngelo Ball, among others. Managing the audio for these performances, alongside the game's main broadcast, requires meticulous coordination.
Grundtvig and his team, including A1s Jason Blood and Jeff Walker, submixer Alex Rohr, and audio guarantee Dave Bjornson, work tirelessly to integrate music and commentary seamlessly. The challenge lies in maintaining fluidity amidst the evolving format. New architecture has been built to facilitate interactions between broadcast hosts and arena hosts, ensuring a cohesive experience for both in-arena and TV audiences.
Courtside reporters' voices may now be heard through the PA system, adding another layer of immersion for spectators. While the exact details remain fluid, Grundtvig and his team are prepared for any scenario, ready to deliver an unforgettable audio experience.