IBC2024 Tech Papers: Live Production using the Audio Definition Model at the Eurovision Song Contest 2023

Abstract

The Audio Definition Model (ADM) is a metadata standard (ITU-R BS.2076) for describing the technical properties of audio and is particularly relevant for Next Generation Audio (NGA) experiences. Whilst support for file-based ADM metadata in software is increasing and production workflows are becoming well established, live ADM production is far less developed. There are many problems to solve in order to deploy live ADM workflows as a regular method of producing content. There are two methods of utilising ADM in live or real-time applications. These are Serial ADM (S-ADM) and ADM-OSC (ADM Open Sound Control). To investigate the implementation of these technologies and the suitability and limitations of live ADM workflows in a broadcast scenario, a trial was proposed. This took place during the Eurovision Song Contest 2023 with the aim of implementing a live end-to-end Next Generation Audio broadcast chain using ADM.

Introduction

This paper discusses workflows and processes to produce, distribute and deliver Next Generation Audio (NGA) experiences in live production scenarios. These were explored as part of an internal trial to implement and test an end-to-end NGA broadcast chain using the Audio Definition Model (ADM) [1] during the 2023 Eurovision Song Contest.

ABSTRACT The Audio Definition Model (ADM) is a metadata standard (ITU-R BS.2076) for describing the technical properties of audio and is particularly relevant for Next Generation Audio (NGA) experiences. Whilst support for file-based ADM metadata in software is increasing and production workflows are becoming well established, live ADM production is far less developed. There are many problems to solve in order to deploy live ADM workflows as a regular method of producing content. There are two methods of utilising ADM in live or real-time applications. These are Serial ADM (S-ADM) and ADM-OSC (ADM Open Sound Control). To investigate the implementation of these technologies and the suitability and limitations of live ADM workflows in a broadcast scenario, a trial was proposed. This took place during the Eurovision Song Contest 2023 with the aim of implementing a live end-to-end Next Generation Audio broadcast chain using ADM. INTRODUCTION This paper discusses workflows and processes to produce, distribute and deliver Next Generation Audio (NGA) experiences in live production scenarios. These were explored as part of an internal trial to implement and test an end-to-end NGA broadcast chain using the Audio Definition Model (ADM) [1] during the 2023 Eurovision Song Contest.