Glasgow’s ID.TV invests in NewTek system for multi-platform SPFL coverage

ID.TV, the Glasgow-based media company, has purchased a NewTek 3Play 4800 slow motion and instant replay system to enhance multi-camera, multi-platform coverage of Scottish Professional Football League (SPFL) matches from its new production truck. The 3Play system was supplied and installed by systems integrator Sat-Comm Broadcast, which is also supplying and building the compact production SNG (satellite news gathering) vehicle for the SPFL.

David McNeil, managing director of ID.TV, says: “We looked at many of the popular instant replay systems out there but none offered the incredible price-performance of 3Play. Plus, space is at a premium in the truck and the streamlined nature of the 3Play system and controller make it an ergonomic as well as economic fit.”

The SPFL is improving its viewer experience in anticipation of acquiring a significantly larger audience, following the relegation of one of Scotland’s biggest clubs, Glasgow Rangers, to League One this season. ID.TV was contracted to provide streaming output such as goal montages, highlights and viral clips for the SPFL’s popular YouTube channel; it has also supplied footage from some Rangers League One matches to STV and BT Sport for football preview packages.

McNeil adds: “Historically ID.TV produced a lot of football coverage but largely with single camera shoots. Now we are shooting multi-camera, and we can bring up to eight camera feeds into the 3Play which gives us great choices to replay the goals from several angles. It instantly gives the coverage a high quality look.”