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Radio Eswatini Upgrades to IP broadcasting with Lawo consoles

Eswatini Broadcasting and Information Services (EBIS), the national broadcaster of the Kingdom of Eswatini, has initiated a technology upgrade by installing Lawo’s Diamond Modular Broadcast Consoles. This transition to IP-based broadcasting aims to enhance operational efficiency, flexibility, and scalability within the station's infrastructure.

The installation, managed by South African systems integrator B&I Engineering, includes two Lawo diamond consoles that support RAVENNA/AES67 audio-over-IP standards and are compatible with ST2110-30/-31 protocols. This modular solution allows for customisation to meet EBIS’s specific needs.

Mr. Sabelo Dlamini, director of broadcasting and information services, highlighted the intuitive interface and modular design of the diamond console, noting that it has inspired new creative possibilities for the team. Presenter Mr Mabandla Bhembe praised its user-friendly controls, stating that the console’s design allows for quick and comfortable operation.

“The diamond console’s intuitive interface and modular design have made it easy for our team to adapt,” Dlamini said. “This upgrade brings new creative possibilities and fresh motivation for our team.”

This upgrade brings new creative possibilities and fresh motivation for our team.

B&I Engineering, based in Johannesburg, was awarded the tender for the installation and staff training. Some EBIS team members received training at Lawo’s headquarters in Germany. Gunther Becker, CEO of B&I, reported positive feedback from the EBIS team regarding the console’s streamlined interface and high-quality build.

Mr. Mabandla Bhembe, a presenter at EBIS, had this to say of the console’s ease of use: “The diamond is incredibly intuitive. You can work quickly and comfortably—it becomes second nature in no time. The quality of the controls is obvious, from the smooth faders to the responsive buttons.”

Equipped with Lawo’s Power Core mixing engines, the diamond consoles provide expandable I/O connectivity options, including AES67, MADI, analogue, AES3, and Dante. The next phase of EBIS's modernisation will involve installing a centralized IP router to unify workflows and enable seamless content sharing across its network.