Podcasts about twirt

Our guest on This Week in Radio Tech episode 809 is Tim Berry, Chief Engineer at WUOT-FM, the public radio station at the University of Tennessee in Knoxville. WUOT combines NPR news with classical and jazz music, much of it still played live from CDs and occasionally from the station’s enormous collection of LPs. Tim gives us a tour of the control room, performance area, technical center, and an extraordinary music library that also includes thousands of historic 78 RPM records. We’ll see one of Tennessee’s earliest Audio over IP installations, built around Axia Livewire technology and operating for about 15 years. Tim also maintains more than 20 analog and digital amateur radio repeater sites throughout East Tennessee. Join us for a fascinating look at preserving broadcasting’s rich history while planning the technical upgrades that will carry WUOT into the future. Show Notes:Pioneers & Engineers - The WUOT Story Guest:Tim Berry, CBRE, CBT - Chief Engineer at WUOT-FM & WUTK-FM "UT's College of Rock!" Host:Kirk Harnack, The Telos Alliance, Delta Radio, Star94.3, South Seas, & Akamai BroadcastingFollow TWiRT on Twitter and on Facebook - and see all the videos on YouTube.TWiRT is brought to you by:Broadcasters General Store, with outstanding service, saving, and support. Online at BGS.cc. Broadcast Bionics - making radio smarter with Bionic Studio, visual radio, and social media tools at Bionic.radio.Aiir, providing PlayoutONE radio automation, and other advanced solutions for audience engagement.Angry Audio and the new USB Phone Gizmo - Put VoIP callers on-the-air The new MaxxKonnect RMT416 Multi Tuner - 4 to 16 AM/FM/WB/HD web-connected tuners in 1 RU Subscribe to Audio:iTunesRSSStitcherTuneInSubscribe to Video:iTunesRSSYouTube

Our guest on This Week in Radio Tech episode 809 is Tim Berry, Chief Engineer at WUOT-FM, the public radio station at the University of Tennessee in Knoxville. WUOT combines NPR news with classical and jazz music, much of it still played live from CDs and occasionally from the station's enormous collection of LPs. Tim gives us a tour of the control room, performance area, technical center, and an extraordinary music library that also includes thousands of historic 78 RPM records. We'll see one of Tennessee's earliest Audio over IP installations, built around Axia Livewire technology and operating for about 15 years. Tim also maintains more than 20 analog and digital amateur radio repeater sites throughout East Tennessee. Join us for a fascinating look at preserving broadcasting's rich history while planning the technical upgrades that will carry WUOT into the future.

Brett still has one foot firmly planted in the engineering world, even as he steps into the broader leadership responsibilities of running a radio ministry. That gives him a valuable perspective: he understands transmitters, studios, IP links, automation, remote sites, monitoring, redundancy, and after-hours recovery — but now he also has to think about budgets, staff, listeners, board expectations, and the mission of the network. On this episode, Brett joins Kirk Harnack and co-host Chris Tarr, for a practical conversation about what it takes to build and maintain a reliable broadcast operation today. Brett shares how Voice of the Master’s technical plant has evolved over the years, what systems and standards have made the biggest difference, and how deeply IT has become integrated into modern radio engineering. You’ll hear discussion about working at transmitter sites, improving reliability across multiple facilities, using technology wisely, securing remote access, documenting systems, and preparing for the inevitable late-night trouble call. Brett also talks about the transition from engineering leadership into the CEO role, and what broadcast engineers should learn if they want to grow beyond the rack room. It’s a conversation about engineering, leadership, stewardship, and keeping radio stations operating smoothly and reliably — all on This Week in Radio Tech. Show Notes:Chris Tarr likes this Work Platform & Folding Step Stool Guest:Brett Gibson, CBRE/CBNT - CEO at The Voice of the Master Radio Network Hosts:Chris ‘Doc’ Tarr, CPBE, AMD, DRB, CBNE - Field Engineer at K-LOVE and Air1Kirk Harnack, The Telos Alliance, Delta Radio, Star94.3, South Seas, & Akamai BroadcastingFollow TWiRT on Twitter and on Facebook - and see all the videos on YouTube.TWiRT is brought to you by:Broadcasters General Store, with outstanding service, saving, and support. Online at BGS.cc. Broadcast Bionics - making radio smarter with Bionic Studio, visual radio, and social media tools at Bionic.radio.Aiir, providing PlayoutONE radio automation, and other advanced solutions for audience engagement.Angry Audio and the new USB Phone Gizmo - Put VoIP callers on-the-air The new MaxxKonnect RMT416 Multi Tuner - 4 to 16 AM/FM/WB/HD web-connected tuners in 1 RU Subscribe to Audio:iTunesRSSStitcherTuneInSubscribe to Video:iTunesRSSYouTube

On this episode, Brett Gibson joins Kirk Harnack and co-host Chris Tarr, for a practical conversation about what it takes to build and maintain a reliable broadcast operation today. Brett shares how Voice of the Master's technical plant has evolved over the years, what systems and standards have made the biggest difference, and how deeply IT has become integrated into modern radio engineering.

William got his start in public radio in the 1990s at WAMU-FM, where computer work quickly expanded into audio and electronics. Since then, he’s worked with PBS, NPR, The Metropolitan Washington Ear, and a number of FM and TV broadcasters. He also chairs SBE Chapter 37 in D.C., serves on the Virginia SECC, sits on the board of the Association of Public Radio Engineers, and occasionally writes for Radio World. In this episode, we talk about real-world FM engineering, including Capital Concerts fireworks show coordination, HD Radio timing and “ballgame” mode, receiver metadata behavior, liquid-cooled transmitters, HLS streaming for broadcast STL use, and dynamic range control in xHE-AAC. Join us for a practical, wide-ranging conversation about broadcast engineering, public radio operations, and the listener experience on This Week in Radio Tech. Show Notes:SBE Chapter 37 - Washington, DC - ANTENNAFEST! - October 6, 2026Graphics for HD Radio Ballgame Mode William likes the Fluke PRV240 Proving UnitWilliam recommends a radio panel-based comedy series, The Unbelievable Truth Guest:William Harrison - Chief Engineer at WETA-FM, Washington, DC Host:Kirk Harnack, The Telos Alliance, Delta Radio, Star94.3, South Seas, & Akamai BroadcastingFollow TWiRT on Twitter and on Facebook - and see all the videos on YouTube.TWiRT is brought to you by:Broadcasters General Store, with outstanding service, saving, and support. Online at BGS.cc. Broadcast Bionics - making radio smarter with Bionic Studio, visual radio, and social media tools at Bionic.radio.Aiir, providing PlayoutONE radio automation, and other advanced solutions for audience engagement.Angry Audio and the new USB Phone Gizmo - Put VoIP callers on-the-air The new MaxxKonnect RMT416 Multi Tuner - 4 to 16 AM/FM/WB/HD web-connected tuners in 1 RU Subscribe to Audio:iTunesRSSStitcherTuneInSubscribe to Video:iTunesRSSYouTube

This Week in Radio Tech, Episode 807, features William Harrison, Chief Engineer for WETA-FM in Washington, D.C. William got his start in public radio in the 1990s at WAMU-FM, where computer work quickly expanded into audio and electronics. Since then, he's worked with PBS, NPR, The Metropolitan Washington Ear, and a number of FM and TV broadcasters. He also chairs SBE Chapter 37 in D.C., serves on the Virginia SECC, sits on the board of the Association of Public Radio Engineers, and occasionally writes for Radio World. In this episode, we talk about real-world FM engineering, including Capital Concerts fireworks show coordination, HD Radio timing and “ballgame” mode, receiver metadata behavior, liquid-cooled transmitters, HLS streaming for broadcast STL use, and dynamic range control in xHE-AAC. Join us for a practical, wide-ranging conversation about broadcast engineering, public radio operations, and the listener experience on This Week in Radio Tech.

This Week in Radio Tech is on location for episode 806 at the Auburn Marriott Opelika Resort & Spa in Opelika, Alabama, where the Alabama Broadcasters Association is celebrating its 80th anniversary with one of several regional receptions around the state. This episode brings together three conversations that say a lot about where broadcasting has been, where it is now, and where it may be headed. First, we visit with Terry Harper, the ABA’s 2026 Engineer of the Year. Terry’s broadcast career reaches back nearly six decades, beginning in 1967 at WABT in Tuskegee, continuing through years of engineering work at Auburn University, and then into decades of contract engineering service for Alabama broadcasters. We also talk with Lee Perryman, owner of RadioAlabama, about the practical use of artificial intelligence in local radio. Lee is not just speculating about AI; he is putting generative AI and curated synthetic voice tools to work in real station operations, including story writing, announcements, commercial production, and other content workflows — while keeping a broadcaster’s judgment in the process. And we spend a few minutes with Sharon Tinsley, president of the Alabama Broadcasters Association, about the significance of honoring Terry Harper, the value of broadcast engineering to local stations, and the ABA’s decision to take its 80th anniversary celebration on the road to broadcasters across Alabama. It’s a field trip episode, a celebration episode, and a forward-looking conversation all in one. Join us from Opelika, Alabama, for episode 806 of This Week in Radio Tech. Show Notes:ABA Names Terry Harper Its 2026 Engineer of the Year from Radio WorldThe ABA Anniversary Reception Tour is ongoing: Here’s the schedule Guests:Terry Harper - 2026 Alabama Engineer of the YearLee Perryman - President & CEO at RadioAlabamaSharon Tinsley - President at Alabama Broadcasters Association Host:Kirk Harnack, The Telos Alliance, Delta Radio, Star94.3, South Seas, & Akamai BroadcastingFollow TWiRT on Twitter and on Facebook - and see all the videos on YouTube.TWiRT is brought to you by:Broadcasters General Store, with outstanding service, saving, and support. Online at BGS.cc. Broadcast Bionics - making radio smarter with Bionic Studio, visual radio, and social media tools at Bionic.radio.Aiir, providing PlayoutONE radio automation, and other advanced solutions for audience engagement.Angry Audio and the new USB Phone Gizmo - Put VoIP callers on-the-air The new MaxxKonnect RMT416 Multi Tuner - 4 to 16 AM/FM/WB/HD web-connected tuners in 1 RU Subscribe to Audio:iTunesRSSStitcherTuneInSubscribe to Video:iTunesRSSYouTube

This Week in Radio Tech is on location for episode 806 at the Auburn Marriott Opelika Resort & Spa in Opelika, Alabama, where the Alabama Broadcasters Association is celebrating its 80th anniversary with one of several regional receptions around the state.

Cybersecurity is no longer just an IT department concern — it is becoming a broadcast engineering issue, and possibly soon, a regulatory one as well. On episode 805 of This Week in Radio Tech, we’re joined by three experienced broadcast engineers from Georgia and South Carolina: John George, Charles Kinney, and Earl Welsh. We’re talking just ahead of the Georgia-Lina Broadcast Engineering Conference in Augusta, Georgia, and our topic is both timely and practical: the FCC’s proposed cybersecurity rules for broadcasters, especially as they relate to EAS equipment, studio-transmitter links, remote access, and other internet-facing systems that can affect what goes on the air. We’ll discuss what the FCC appears to be concerned about, why default passwords and exposed web interfaces are no longer just “bad practice,” and what station engineers can do now to improve security before a rulemaking turns into a compliance deadline. This is not a theoretical conversation — it is about real broadcast facilities, real equipment, and real operational risks. Join us for episode 805 of This Week in Radio Tech as we look at cybersecurity through the eyes of working broadcast engineers. Show Notes:Radio World: “FCC Set to Require EAS Firewalls and Unique Passwords”Broadcast Law Blog: Summary of the FCC’s proposed rulemaking on this topic GuestsJohn George - Owner at Broadtech ServiceCharles Kinney - Director of Engineering at Cox Media Group, AtlantaEarl Welsh - Owner at Advanced Communications Host:Kirk Harnack, MaxxKonnect, Delta Radio, Star94.3, South Seas, & Akamai BroadcastingFollow TWiRT on Twitter and on Facebook - and see all the videos on YouTube.TWiRT is brought to you by:Broadcasters General Store, with outstanding service, saving, and support. Online at BGS.cc. Broadcast Bionics - making radio smarter with Bionic Studio, visual radio, and social media tools at Bionic.radio.Aiir, providing PlayoutONE radio automation, and other advanced solutions for audience engagement.Angry Audio and the new USB Phone Gizmo - Put VoIP callers on-the-air The new MaxxKonnect RMT416 Multi Tuner - 4 to 16 AM/FM/WB/HD web-connected tuners in 1 RU Subscribe to Audio:iTunesRSSStitcherTuneInSubscribe to Video:iTunesRSSYouTube

Cybersecurity is no longer just an IT department concern—it is becoming a broadcast engineering issue, and possibly soon, a regulatory one as well. On episode 805 of This Week in Radio Tech, we're joined by three experienced broadcast engineers from Georgia and South Carolina: John George, Charles Kinney, and Earl Welsh. We're talking just ahead of the Georgia-Lina Broadcast Engineering Conference in Augusta, Georgia, and our topic is both timely and practical: the FCC's proposed cybersecurity rules for broadcasters, especially as they relate to EAS equipment, studio-transmitter links, remote access, and other internet-facing systems that can affect what goes on the air. We'll discuss what the FCC appears to be concerned about, why default passwords and exposed web interfaces are no longer just “bad practice,” and what station engineers can do now to improve security before a rulemaking turns into a compliance deadline. This is not a theoretical conversation — it is about real broadcast facilities, real equipment, and real operational risks. Join us for episode 805 of This Week in Radio Tech as we look at cybersecurity through the eyes of working broadcast engineers.

RDS may be one of the smallest signals your FM station transmits, but getting it right matters more than ever. On Episode 804 of This Week in Radio Tech, broadcast network engineer and podcast host, Tyler Woodward, explains the technical details behind RDS and its U.S. counterpart, RBDS. We discuss the data fields every FM engineer should understand, including PI codes, program type, alternate frequencies, and the way field repetition rates affect what listeners see on their radios. Tyler also explains why accurate PI codes are increasingly important for connected-car services such as RadioDNS and dts AutoStage—and points broadcasters to a useful online tool for verifying the correct PI code for their call letters. If you are responsible for an FM station, this is a must-listen—or must-watch—conversation. Show Notes:See Tyler’s Presentation - Understanding RDS/RBDS (PDF)NRSC list of PI Code AllocationsThe Tyler Woodward Project Guest:Tyler Woodward - Broadcast Network Engineer and Podcast Host & Producer Host:Kirk Harnack, The Telos Alliance, Delta Radio, Star94.3, South Seas, & Akamai BroadcastingFollow TWiRT on Twitter and on Facebook - and see all the videos on YouTube.TWiRT is brought to you by:Broadcasters General Store, with outstanding service, saving, and support. Online at BGS.cc. Broadcast Bionics - making radio smarter with Bionic Studio, visual radio, and social media tools at Bionic.radio.Aiir, providing PlayoutONE radio automation, and other advanced solutions for audience engagement.Angry Audio and the new USB Phone Gizmo - Put VoIP callers on-the-air The new MaxxKonnect RMT416 Multi Tuner - 4 to 16 AM/FM/WB/HD web-connected tuners in 1 RU Subscribe to Audio:iTunesRSSStitcherTuneInSubscribe to Video:iTunesRSSYouTube

RDS may be one of the smallest signals your FM station transmits, but getting it right matters more than ever. On Episode 804 of *This Week in Radio Tech*, broadcast network engineer and podcast host, Tyler Woodward, explains the technical details behind RDS and its U.S. counterpart, RBDS. We discuss the data fields every FM engineer should understand, including PI codes, program type, alternate frequencies, and the way field repetition rates affect what listeners see on their radios. Tyler also explains why accurate PI codes are increasingly important for connected-car services such as RadioDNS and dts AutoStage—and points broadcasters to a useful online tool for verifying the correct PI code for their call letters. If you are responsible for an FM station, this is a must-listen—or must-watch—conversation.

This Week in Radio Tech is on the road for Episode 803 as we tour the new Radio One broadcast facility near downtown Indianapolis, Indiana. Radio One operates nine radio stations from this facility, with more than 20 studios supporting music, talk, news, and sports programming. It is also home to Network Indiana, which produces and distributes newscasts and long-form programs, along with radio broadcasts for several professional and college sports teams. Mike Hutchens takes us inside the new technical operations center, and Nick Lopez joins us to explain the planning and execution behind the studio build-out. We also visit one of the music-station studios to see how today’s studios can be built for efficiency and human workflow. Join us for a close-up look at how modern audio-over-IP technology, signal routing, metadata, system control, and monitoring all work together across the IP network. It is a practical tour of a large, busy broadcast operation designed for flexibility, reliability, and the demands of today’s radio industry. Show Notes:Nick Lopez is using the Bambu Lab P1S 3D Printer Guests:Nick Lopez - Chief Engineer at Radio ONE, IndianapolisMike Hutchens - Director of Technical Services at MaxxKonnect Host:Kirk Harnack, The Telos Alliance, Delta Radio, Star94.3, South Seas, & Akamai BroadcastingFollow TWiRT on Twitter and on Facebook - and see all the videos on YouTube.TWiRT is brought to you by:Broadcasters General Store, with outstanding service, saving, and support. Online at BGS.cc. Broadcast Bionics - making radio smarter with Bionic Studio, visual radio, and social media tools at Bionic.radio.Aiir, providing PlayoutONE radio automation, and other advanced solutions for audience engagement.Angry Audio and the new USB Phone Gizmo - Put VoIP callers on-the-air The new MaxxKonnect RMT416 Multi Tuner - 4 to 16 AM/FM/WB/HD web-connected tuners in 1 RU Subscribe to Audio:iTunesRSSStitcherTuneInSubscribe to Video:iTunesRSSYouTube

This Week in Radio Tech is on the road for Episode 803 as we tour the new Radio One broadcast facility near downtown Indianapolis, Indiana. Radio One operates nine radio stations from this facility, with more than 20 studios supporting music, talk, news, and sports programming. It is also home to Network Indiana, which produces and distributes newscasts and long-form programs, along with radio broadcasts for several professional and college sports teams. Mike Hutchens takes us inside the new technical operations center, and Nick Lopez joins us to explain the planning and execution behind the studio build-out. We also visit one of the music-station studios to see how today's studios can be built for efficiency and human workflow. Join us for a close-up look at how modern audio-over-IP technology, signal routing, metadata, system control, and monitoring all work together across the IP network. It is a practical tour of a large, busy broadcast operation designed for flexibility, reliability, and the demands of today's radio industry.

Generative AI is showing up everywhere, but what does it really mean for broadcasters and broadcast engineers? On This Week in Radio Tech episode 802, John Pooley, CSTE, joins us to share his SBE presentation, “Human Centered Generative AI for Broadcasting,” and to take questions about the practical, ethical, and operational implications of using AI in our work. John’s message is clear: use AI well or risk being left behind—but use it carelessly and you can lose money, judgment, data security, and trust. We’ll talk about keeping humans in control, verifying AI-generated work, protecting sensitive station and customer data, and using AI as a coworker for research, troubleshooting, planning, and professional learning. Join us for a thoughtful, engineer-to-engineer conversation about where generative AI can help broadcasting—and where it absolutely still needs adult supervision. Show Notes:A PDF file of John’s presentation, Human Centered Generative AI For Broadcasting Guest:John Pooley, CSTE - RF, IT, AI, and Automation Consultant Host:Kirk Harnack, The Telos Alliance, Delta Radio, Star94.3, South Seas, & Akamai BroadcastingFollow TWiRT on Twitter and on Facebook - and see all the videos on YouTube.TWiRT is brought to you by:Broadcasters General Store, with outstanding service, saving, and support. Online at BGS.cc. Broadcast Bionics - making radio smarter with Bionic Studio, visual radio, and social media tools at Bionic.radio.Aiir, providing PlayoutONE radio automation, and other advanced solutions for audience engagement.Angry Audio and the new USB Phone Gizmo - Put VoIP callers on-the-air The new MaxxKonnect RMT416 Multi Tuner - 4 to 16 AM/FM/WB/HD web-connected tuners in 1 RU Subscribe to Audio:iTunesRSSStitcherTuneInSubscribe to Video:iTunesRSSYouTube

Generative AI is showing up everywhere, but what does it really mean for broadcasters and broadcast engineers? On This Week in Radio Tech episode 802, John Pooley, CSTE, joins us to share his SBE presentation, “Human Centered Generative AI for Broadcasting,” and to take questions about the practical, ethical, and operational implications of using AI in our work. John's message is clear: use AI well or risk being left behind—but use it carelessly and you can lose money, judgment, data security, and trust. We'll talk about keeping humans in control, verifying AI-generated work, protecting sensitive station and customer data, and using AI as a coworker for research, troubleshooting, planning, and professional learning. Join us for a thoughtful, engineer-to-engineer conversation about where generative AI can help broadcasting—and where it absolutely still needs adult supervision.

This Week in Radio Tech Episode 801 takes us to Ely, Minnesota, where WELY AM and FM — long known as “End of the Road Radio” — is getting a new birth. Civic Media is now the licensee, and Chief Engineer Erick Burnstad walks us through the real-world work of rebuilding a small-town radio station with new studios, a new transmitter, and a new FM antenna system. WELY’s story includes deep local history, a period of silence, and now a renewed commitment to community radio in Minnesota’s Boundary Waters region. Erick shares what the project has taught him about planning, tower work, transmitter replacement, automation conversion, and keeping local service alive while the rebuild continues. It’s a great conversation about the kind of engineering that blends RF, logistics, patience, and genuine hometown purpose. Join us for TWiRT Episode 801 and hear how WELY is coming back to life. Show Notes:WELY - Hometown Radio for Ely, MinnesotaWhere Have All the Broadcasters Gone? - by Charles B. Persons - narrated by Kirk Harnack - YouTube playlist“End of the Road Radio” Enjoys a New Birth - Radio World article Guest:Erick Burnstad - Chief Engineer at Civic Media Host:Kirk Harnack, The Telos Alliance, Delta Radio, Star94.3, South Seas, & Akamai BroadcastingFollow TWiRT on Twitter and on Facebook - and see all the videos on YouTube.TWiRT is brought to you by:Broadcasters General Store, with outstanding service, saving, and support. Online at BGS.cc. Broadcast Bionics - making radio smarter with Bionic Studio, visual radio, and social media tools at Bionic.radio.Aiir, providing PlayoutONE radio automation, and other advanced solutions for audience engagement.Angry Audio and the new USB Phone Gizmo - Put VoIP callers on-the-air The new MaxxKonnect RMT416 Multi Tuner - 4 to 16 AM/FM/WB/HD web-connected tuners in 1 RU Subscribe to Audio:iTunesRSSStitcherTuneInSubscribe to Video:iTunesRSSYouTube

This Week in Radio Tech Episode 801 takes us to Ely, Minnesota, where WELY AM and FM — long known as "End of the Road Radio" — is getting a new birth. Civic Media is now the licensee, and Chief Engineer Erick Burnstad walks us through the real-world work of rebuilding a small-town radio station with new studios, a new transmitter, and a new FM antenna system. WELY's story includes deep local history, a period of silence, and now a renewed commitment to community radio in Minnesota's Boundary Waters region. Erick shares what the project has taught him about planning, tower work, transmitter replacement, automation conversion, and keeping local service alive while the rebuild continues. It's a great conversation about the kind of engineering that blends RF, logistics, patience, and genuine hometown purpose. Join us for TWiRT Episode 801 and hear how WELY is coming back to life.

For the 800th episode of This Week in Radio Tech, we’re joined by Adrian Berkovits of Adventure33 to take a deeper technical look at the Prism audio program distribution platform. Adrian explains how Prism can serve both as a one-to-many program delivery system for radio networks and as a reliable studio-to-transmitter link solution for individual broadcasters. The discussion covers redundancy strategies, transport concepts, endpoint deployment, and practical implementation considerations for broadcast engineers. Adrian also shares the development philosophy behind Prism and details many of the technical nuances engineers will want to understand before deploying a modern IP-based program distribution system. Join us for Episode 800 of TWiRT for an informative engineering-focused conversation about modern audio distribution for radio broadcasting. Show Notes:Streaming Protocols: Everything You Need to Know (Update)Basic info about HLS streamingThe history of streaming told through protocolsPrism website Guest:Adrian Berkovits - Chief Problem Solver at Adventure33 Host:Kirk Harnack, The Telos Alliance, Delta Radio, Star94.3, South Seas, & Akamai BroadcastingFollow TWiRT on Twitter and on Facebook - and see all the videos on YouTube.TWiRT is brought to you by:Broadcasters General Store, with outstanding service, saving, and support. Online at BGS.cc. Broadcast Bionics - making radio smarter with Bionic Studio, visual radio, and social media tools at Bionic.radio.Aiir, providing PlayoutONE radio automation, and other advanced solutions for audience engagement.Angry Audio and the new USB Phone Gizmo - Put VoIP callers on-the-air The new MaxxKonnect RMT416 Multi Tuner - 4 to 16 AM/FM/WB/HD web-connected tuners in 1 RU Subscribe to Audio:iTunesRSSStitcherTuneInSubscribe to Video:iTunesRSSYouTube

For the 800th episode of This Week in Radio Tech, we're joined by Adrian Berkovits of Adventure33 to take a deeper technical look at the Prism audio program distribution platform. Adrian explains how Prism can serve both as a one-to-many program delivery system for radio networks and as a reliable studio-to-transmitter link solution for individual broadcasters. The discussion covers redundancy strategies, transport concepts, endpoint deployment, and practical implementation considerations for broadcast engineers. Adrian also shares the development philosophy behind Prism and details many of the technical nuances engineers will want to understand before deploying a modern IP-based program distribution system. Join us for Episode 800 of TWiRT for an informative engineering-focused conversation about modern audio distribution for radio broadcasting.

On this episode of This Week in Radio Tech, we talk with Tracy Teagarden, Chief Engineer for Audacy in Las Vegas, Nevada. Tracy shares the story of building an extraordinarily reliable transmitter site that was eventually sold off due to changing business priorities—but this conversation is really about what engineers do next. He explains how that same drive for reliability has led to major improvements in his remaining facilities and to proactive cooperation with chief engineers from competing broadcasters in the Las Vegas market. Tracy also gives us an inside look at his studio and STL infrastructure, including both point-to-point IP links and traditional 950 MHz STL systems, along with his philosophy of designing broadcast systems for maximum reliability. Finally, Tracy talks about hiring and mentoring new engineers and what it takes to prepare the next generation for success in broadcast engineering. Don’t miss episode 799 of This Week in Radio Tech. Guest:Tracy Teagarden - Chief Engineer at Audacy Las VegasHost:Kirk Harnack, The Telos Alliance, Delta Radio, Star94.3, South Seas, & Akamai BroadcastingFollow TWiRT on Twitter and on Facebook - and see all the videos on YouTube.TWiRT is brought to you by:Broadcasters General Store, with outstanding service, saving, and support. Online at BGS.cc. Broadcast Bionics - making radio smarter with Bionic Studio, visual radio, and social media tools at Bionic.radio.Aiir, providing PlayoutONE radio automation, and other advanced solutions for audience engagement.Angry Audio and the new StereoToolBox - delivering FM and HD audio processing, plus streaming, RDS, and microMPX - all for less than half of the other boxes.The new MaxxKonnect RMT416 Multi Tuner - 4 to 16 AM/FM/WB/HD web-connected tuners in 1 RU Subscribe to Audio:iTunesRSSStitcherTuneInSubscribe to Video:iTunesRSSYouTube

On this episode of This Week in Radio Tech, we talk with Tracy Teagarden, Chief Engineer for Audacy in Las Vegas, Nevada. Tracy shares the story of building an extraordinarily reliable transmitter site that was eventually sold off due to changing business priorities—but this conversation is really about what engineers do next. He explains how that same drive for reliability has led to major improvements in his remaining facilities and to proactive cooperation with chief engineers from competing broadcasters in the Las Vegas market. Tracy also gives us an inside look at his studio and STL infrastructure, including both point-to-point IP links and traditional 950 MHz STL systems, along with his philosophy of designing broadcast systems for maximum reliability. Finally, Tracy talks about hiring and mentoring new engineers and what it takes to prepare the next generation for success in broadcast engineering. Don't miss episode 799 of This Week in Radio Tech.

Ever wonder what it takes to keep major-market radio on the air from transmitter sites built at the San Francisco Bay—and studios where space is at a premium? On Episode 798 of This Week in Radio Tech, we’re joined by Shane Toven, Chief Engineer for Cumulus Media in San Francisco, who shares hard-earned insights from some truly unique installations around the Bay. From towers rising out of the bay itself to high-demand remote broadcasts at sporting events, concerts, and local businesses, Shane walks through modern, practical techniques for getting reliable audio back to the studio. He also reveals how Cumulus is rethinking the Technical Operations Center (TOC) with an unconventional design and workflow that maximizes efficiency in tight quarters. It’s a fast-moving, engineer-to-engineer conversation packed with real-world experience—don’t miss Episode 798 of This Week in Radio Tech. Guest:Shane Toven - Chief Engineer at Cumulus Media, San FranciscoHost:Kirk Harnack, The Telos Alliance, Delta Radio, Star94.3, South Seas, & Akamai BroadcastingFollow TWiRT on Twitter and on Facebook - and see all the videos on YouTube.TWiRT is brought to you by:Broadcasters General Store, with outstanding service, saving, and support. Online at BGS.cc. Broadcast Bionics - making radio smarter with Bionic Studio, visual radio, and social media tools at Bionic.radio.Aiir, providing PlayoutONE radio automation, and other advanced solutions for audience engagement.Angry Audio and the new StereoToolBox - delivering FM and HD audio processing, plus streaming, RDS, and microMPX - all for less than half of the other boxes.The new MaxxKonnect RMT416 Multi Tuner - 4 to 16 AM/FM/WB/HD web-connected tuners in 1 RU Subscribe to Audio:iTunesRSSStitcherTuneInSubscribe to Video:iTunesRSSYouTube

Ever wonder what it takes to keep major-market radio on the air from transmitter sites built at the San Francisco Bay—and studios where space is at a premium? On Episode 798 of This Week in Radio Tech, we're joined by Shane Toven, Chief Engineer for Cumulus Media in San Francisco, who shares hard-earned insights from some truly unique installations around the Bay. From towers rising out of the bay itself to high-demand remote broadcasts at sporting events, concerts, and local businesses, Shane walks through modern, practical techniques for getting reliable audio back to the studio. He also reveals how Cumulus is rethinking the Technical Operations Center (TOC) with an unconventional design and workflow that maximizes efficiency in tight quarters. It's a fast-moving, engineer-to-engineer conversation packed with real-world experience—don't miss Episode 798 of This Week in Radio Tech.

We’re live from the Central Hall at NAB 2026 in Las Vegas. It’s one of our biggest shows of the year—and we’re especially glad to welcome back our co-host Chris Tarr, joining us on-site for the conversations and insights that matter to working engineers. This episode is packed with voices from across the broadcast technology landscape—covering AI-driven tools, AoIP infrastructure, remote broadcast solutions, and the business and connectivity strategies that keep stations on the air. We’ve gathered an outstanding lineup of guests from companies like Comrex, AudioScience, Logitek, and MaxxKonnect—all bringing practical, real-world perspectives from the show floor. If you couldn’t make it to NAB this year, this episode brings it to you—with meaningful conversations, fresh ideas, and the technology engineers need right now. Tune in for this special live edition of This Week in Radio Tech. Guests:Lee Price - AI Product Specialist at Audio.coChase Daniels - Senior Support Specialist at Aiir.comJeff Schick - Chief Technology Officer at Sprite Media, Inc.Keith Paglia - Sales & Marketing at Sprite Media, Inc.Tom Hartnett - Technical Director at ComrexChris Crump - Sr. Director of Sales at ComrexAdam Robinson - Director of Sales, Marketing, and Business Development at MaxxKonnectStephen Turner - Vice President at AudioScienceRichard Gross - President at AudioScienceTag Borland - President at LogitekHeather Jeffcoat - Vice President of Finance at MaxxKonnectJosh Bohn - President/CEO at MaxxKonnectHosts:Chris Tarr - Field Engineer at KLOVE / Air1Kirk Harnack, The Telos Alliance, Delta Radio, Star94.3, South Seas, & Akamai BroadcastingFollow TWiRT on Twitter and on Facebook - and see all the videos on YouTube.TWiRT is brought to you by:Broadcasters General Store, with outstanding service, saving, and support. Online at BGS.cc. Broadcast Bionics - making radio smarter with Bionic Studio, visual radio, and social media tools at Bionic.radio.Aiir, providing PlayoutONE radio automation, and other advanced solutions for audience engagement.Angry Audio and the new USB Phone Gizmo - Put VoIP callers on-the-air The new MaxxKonnect RMT416 Multi Tuner - 4 to 16 AM/FM/WB/HD web-connected tuners in 1 RU Subscribe to Audio:iTunesRSSStitcherTuneInSubscribe to Video:iTunesRSSYouTube

We're live from the Central Hall at NAB 2026 in Las Vegas. It's one of our biggest shows of the year—and we're especially glad to welcome back our co-host Chris Tarr, joining us on-site for the conversations and insights that matter to working engineers. This episode is packed with voices from across the broadcast technology landscape—covering AI-driven tools, AoIP infrastructure, remote broadcast solutions, and the business and connectivity strategies that keep stations on the air. We've gathered an outstanding lineup of guests from companies like Comrex, AudioScience, Logitek, and MaxxKonnect—all bringing practical, real-world perspectives from the show floor. If you couldn't make it to NAB this year, this episode brings it to you—with meaningful conversations, fresh ideas, and the technology engineers need right now. Tune in for this special live edition of This Week in Radio Tech.

This week on This Week in Radio Tech, we’re coming to you live from the Public Radio Engineering Conference (PREC) at the Tuscany Hotel in Las Vegas, just ahead of NAB. We’re talking with leading technology suppliers about practical solutions for terrestrial distribution of both long-form and short-form programming—tools that are already making their way into public radio operations. We’ll also explore emerging captioning technologies designed to help stations meet upcoming regulatory requirements for captioning of both live broadcasts and on-demand content like podcasts. Plus, we sit down with the president of the Association of Public Radio Engineers for insight into where the industry is headed. Join us for a fast-moving, on-the-ground look at the ideas and innovations shaping public radio’s future. Guests:Bill Bennett - Product Design & Solutions Manager at ENCO SystemsMike Pilone - Senior Software Architect at NPRScott Fybush - All-Purpose Broadcast ConsultantScott Hanley - President, Association of Public Radio EngineersAlex Hartman - Broadcast Equipment Designer and Partner at OMGDan Merwin - Owner at Broadcast TelecomMichael Chase - SVP, Technology at SpectroteldHost:Kirk Harnack, The Telos Alliance, Delta Radio, Star94.3, South Seas, & Akamai BroadcastingFollow TWiRT on Twitter and on Facebook - and see all the videos on YouTube.TWiRT is brought to you by:Broadcasters General Store, with outstanding service, saving, and support. Online at BGS.cc. Broadcast Bionics - making radio smarter with Bionic Studio, visual radio, and social media tools at Bionic.radio.Aiir, providing PlayoutONE radio automation, and other advanced solutions for audience engagement.Angry Audio and the new USB Phone Gizmo - Put VoIP callers on-the-air The new MaxxKonnect RMT416 Multi Tuner - 4 to 16 AM/FM/WB/HD web-connected tuners in 1 RU Subscribe to Audio:iTunesRSSStitcherTuneInSubscribe to Video:iTunesRSSYouTube

This week on This Week in Radio Tech, we're coming to you live from the Public Radio Engineering Conference (PREC) at the Tuscany Hotel in Las Vegas, just ahead of NAB. We're talking with leading technology suppliers about practical solutions for terrestrial distribution of both long-form and short-form programming—tools that are already making their way into public radio operations. We'll also explore emerging captioning technologies designed to help stations meet upcoming regulatory requirements for captioning of both live broadcasts and on-demand content like podcasts. Plus, we sit down with the president of the Association of Public Radio Engineers for insight into where the industry is headed. Join us for a fast-moving, on-the-ground look at the ideas and innovations shaping public radio's future.

Episode 795 of This Week in Radio Tech—“You Might Need a Data Center”—features Chris Tarr explaining how a smart infrastructure decision transformed operations across an entire station group. As VP of Engineering at Magnum Media, Chris made the case to centralize automation, file servers, and metadata systems into a purpose-built data center with robust backup power and redundant connectivity. The result? Greater efficiency, fewer site visits, and a more resilient, well-controlled technical environment. In this episode, Chris walks us through what a private data center can do for broadcasters—capabilities that often go beyond what cloud solutions can offer—and gives a live tour of the racks, systems, and network design. Join us to see how centralization, done right, can streamline your entire operation. Guest:Chris Tarr - Field Engineer at KLOVE / Air1 Host:Kirk Harnack, The Telos Alliance, Delta Radio, Star94.3, South Seas, & Akamai BroadcastingFollow TWiRT on Twitter and on Facebook - and see all the videos on YouTube.TWiRT is brought to you by:Broadcasters General Store, with outstanding service, saving, and support. Online at BGS.cc. Broadcast Bionics - making radio smarter with Bionic Studio, visual radio, and social media tools at Bionic.radio.Aiir, providing PlayoutONE radio automation, and other advanced solutions for audience engagement.Angry Audio and the new USB Phone Gizmo - Put VoIP callers on-the-air The new MaxxKonnect RMT416 Multi Tuner - 4 to 16 AM/FM/WB/HD web-connected tuners in 1 RU Subscribe to Audio:iTunesRSSStitcherTuneInSubscribe to Video:iTunesRSSYouTube

Episode 795 of This Week in Radio Tech—“You Might Need a Data Center”—features Chris Tarr explaining how a smart infrastructure decision transformed operations across an entire station group. As VP of Engineering at Magnum Media, Chris made the case to centralize automation, file servers, and metadata systems into a purpose-built data center with robust backup power and redundant connectivity. The result? Greater efficiency, fewer site visits, and a more resilient, well-controlled technical environment. In this episode, Chris walks us through what a private data center can do for broadcasters—capabilities that often go beyond what cloud solutions can offer—and gives a live tour of the racks, systems, and network design. Join us to see how centralization, done right, can streamline your entire operation.

Radio broadcasters can’t ignore the shift to on-demand listening—and podcasting is a key part of that evolution. On this episode of This Week in Radio Tech, we hear compelling insights from Mike McVay on why embracing podcasting is no longer optional for stations that want to stay relevant. Craig Bowman from Futuri Media joins us to explain how technology is making it easier than ever to turn broadcast content into compelling digital assets. Together, they outline both the strategic importance and the practical pathways for getting started. If you’re thinking about extending your station’s reach beyond the airwaves, this episode is a must-listen. Show Notes:Why Radio Needs to Embrace Podcasting - by Mike McVayCraig talked about POST, an appliance and workflow to turn broadcasts into podcasts.A Futuri article emphasizing time as being a broadcaster’s most valuable resource. Guests:Mike McVay - President at McVay Media ConsultingCraig Bowman - Senior Vice President at Futuri Host:Kirk Harnack, The Telos Alliance, Delta Radio, Star94.3, South Seas, & Akamai BroadcastingFollow TWiRT on Twitter and on Facebook - and see all the videos on YouTube.TWiRT is brought to you by:Broadcasters General Store, with outstanding service, saving, and support. Online at BGS.cc. Broadcast Bionics - making radio smarter with Bionic Studio, visual radio, and social media tools at Bionic.radio.Aiir, providing PlayoutONE radio automation, and other advanced solutions for audience engagement.Angry Audio and the new USB Phone Gizmo - Put VoIP callers on-the-air The new MaxxKonnect RMT416 Multi Tuner - 4 to 16 AM/FM/WB/HD web-connected tuners in 1 RU Subscribe to Audio:iTunesRSSStitcherTuneInSubscribe to Video:iTunesRSSYouTube

Radio broadcasters can't ignore the shift to on-demand listening—and podcasting is a key part of that evolution. On this episode of This Week in Radio Tech, we hear compelling insights from Mike McVay on why embracing podcasting is no longer optional for stations that want to stay relevant. Craig Bowman from Futuri Media joins us to explain how technology is making it easier than ever to turn broadcast content into compelling digital assets. Together, they outline both the strategic importance and the practical pathways for getting started. If you're thinking about extending your station's reach beyond the airwaves, this episode is a must-listen.

We’re tackling a question every broadcast engineer faces: should you buy new equipment, or can used gear deliver the performance and value you need? We’re on location inside the MaxxKonnect used equipment warehouse in Birmingham, Alabama, where Josh Bohn gives us a firsthand tour of aisles packed with everything from mic preamps to full transmitters. We also hear from Adam Robinson on the financial tradeoffs, and Mike Hutchens on real-world engineering use cases where used equipment makes solid technical and operational sense. Whether you’re planning a new build, a backup system, or a budget-conscious upgrade, this episode offers practical insights you can apply immediately. Join us for a candid, informative look at how smart engineers balance cost, performance, and reliability. Show Notes:Many broadcast equipment dealers stock at least some used or “b-stock” broadcast equipment. Other companies specialize in pre-owned broadcast gear. MaxxKonnect publishes a list of their pre-owned equipment inventory here. Guests:Adam Robinson - Director of Sales, Marketing, and Business Development at MaxxKonnectJosh Bohn - President/CEO at MaxxKonnectMike Hutchens - Director of Technical Services at MaxxKonnect Host:Kirk Harnack, The Telos Alliance, Delta Radio, Star94.3, South Seas, & Akamai BroadcastingFollow TWiRT on Twitter and on Facebook - and see all the videos on YouTube.TWiRT is brought to you by:Broadcasters General Store, with outstanding service, saving, and support. Online at BGS.cc. Broadcast Bionics - making radio smarter with Bionic Studio, visual radio, and social media tools at Bionic.radio.Aiir, providing PlayoutONE radio automation, and other advanced solutions for audience engagement.Angry Audio and the new USB Phone Gizmo - Put VoIP callers on-the-air The new MaxxKonnect RMT416 Multi Tuner - 4 to 16 AM/FM/WB/HD web-connected tuners in 1 RU Subscribe to Audio:iTunesRSSStitcherTuneInSubscribe to Video:iTunesRSSYouTube

We're tackling a question every broadcast engineer faces: should you buy new equipment, or can used gear deliver the performance and value you need? We're on location inside the MaxxKonnect used equipment warehouse in Birmingham, Alabama, where Josh Bohn gives us a firsthand tour of aisles packed with everything from mic preamps to full transmitters. We also hear from Adam Robinson on the financial tradeoffs, and Mike Hutchens on real-world engineering use cases where used equipment makes solid technical and operational sense. Whether you're planning a new build, a backup system, or a budget-conscious upgrade, this episode offers practical insights you can apply immediately. Join us for a candid, informative look at how smart engineers balance cost, performance, and reliability.

On this episode of This Week in Radio Tech, we dive into the practical side of regulatory readiness with Ched Keiler, who joins us to discuss the SBE Self-Inspection Guides. Developed by the Society of Broadcast Engineers in partnership with the NAB and industry experts, these guides are quickly becoming essential tools for ensuring FCC compliance across AM, FM, LPFM, and television facilities. Ched walks us through how to effectively use these guides, what a proper self-inspection process looks like, and how both engineers and station management can benefit from a structured approach to compliance. With strong early adoption and hundreds of downloads right out of the gate, these guides are already making an impact. Join us for a highly useful and timely conversation that can help your station stay inspection-ready. Show Notes:SBE Self-Inspection Guides for AM, FM, TV, and LPFM stations(Must be logged in as an SBE member for download) Guest:Ched Keiler - CPBE, 8-VSB, ATSC3, CBNE; Principal Engineer, E Three Services Host:Kirk Harnack, The Telos Alliance, Delta Radio, Star94.3, South Seas, & Akamai BroadcastingFollow TWiRT on Twitter and on Facebook - and see all the videos on YouTube.TWiRT is brought to you by:Broadcasters General Store, with outstanding service, saving, and support. Online at BGS.cc. Broadcast Bionics - making radio smarter with Bionic Studio, visual radio, and social media tools at Bionic.radio.Aiir, providing PlayoutONE radio automation, and other advanced solutions for audience engagement.Angry Audio and the new USB Phone Gizmo - Put VoIP callers on-the-air The new MaxxKonnect RMT416 Multi Tuner - 4 to 16 AM/FM/WB/HD web-connected tuners in 1 RU Subscribe to Audio:iTunesRSSStitcherTuneInSubscribe to Video:iTunesRSSYouTube

On this episode of This Week in Radio Tech, we dive into the practical side of regulatory readiness with Ched Keiler, who joins us to discuss the SBE Self-Inspection Guides. Developed by the Society of Broadcast Engineers in partnership with the NAB and industry experts, these guides are quickly becoming essential tools for ensuring FCC compliance across AM, FM, LPFM, and television facilities. Ched walks us through how to effectively use these guides, what a proper self-inspection process looks like, and how both engineers and station management can benefit from a structured approach to compliance. With strong early adoption and hundreds of downloads right out of the gate, these guides are already making an impact. Join us for a highly useful and timely conversation that can help your station stay inspection-ready.

Episode 791 of This Week in Radio Tech features broadcast engineer and entrepreneur Matt Lightner, President of Lightner Electronics, Inc. Matt shares practical insights from years of designing and building radio studios for individual stations, clusters, and network facilities, along with lessons learned from transmitter site installations in the field. We also explore how his company has expanded into corporate audio-visual system integration—an area where A-V and broadcast engineering practices often overlap. Finally, Matt talks about applying engineering discipline and business strategy to radio station ownership, now operating nine stations in Central Pennsylvania. It’s a wide-ranging conversation about engineering, integration, and entrepreneurship in modern broadcast. Show Notes:Lightner Electronics, Inc. Guest:Matt Lightner - President at Lightner Electronics, Inc. Host:Kirk Harnack, The Telos Alliance, Delta Radio, Star94.3, South Seas, & Akamai BroadcastingFollow TWiRT on Twitter and on Facebook - and see all the videos on YouTube.TWiRT is brought to you by:Broadcasters General Store, with outstanding service, saving, and support. Online at BGS.cc. Broadcast Bionics - making radio smarter with Bionic Studio, visual radio, and social media tools at Bionic.radio.Aiir, providing PlayoutONE radio automation, and other advanced solutions for audience engagement.Angry Audio and the new USB Phone Gizmo - Put VoIP callers on-the-air The new MaxxKonnect RMT416 Multi Tuner - 4 to 16 AM/FM/WB/HD web-connected tuners in 1 RU Subscribe to Audio:iTunesRSSStitcherTuneInSubscribe to Video:iTunesRSSYouTube

Episode 791 of This Week in Radio Tech features broadcast engineer and entrepreneur Matt Lightner, President of Lightner Electronics, Inc. Matt shares practical insights from years of designing and building radio studios for individual stations, clusters, and network facilities, along with lessons learned from transmitter site installations in the field. We also explore how his company has expanded into corporate audio-visual system integration—an area where A-V and broadcast engineering practices often overlap. Finally, Matt talks about applying engineering discipline and business strategy to radio station ownership, now operating nine stations in Central Pennsylvania. It's a wide-ranging conversation about engineering, integration, and entrepreneurship in modern broadcast.

Chris 'Doc' Tarr joins Kirk Harnack for a fun and practical conversation about “Doc-isms.” These are the short, memorable sayings that Chris has developed over years of troubleshooting transmitters, studio gear, and broadcast workflows under pressure. Each phrase—like “Work the problem,” “Just think in reverse,” and “We’re not going to get any more off the air than we already are!”—comes from real-world engineering situations where clear thinking and good habits make the difference. Whether you’re responding to an off-air emergency or designing systems for long-term reliability, these Doc-isms capture the mindset of experienced broadcast engineers. Tune in for practical wisdom, a few laughs, and lessons learned the hard way. Show Notes:Chris Tarr’s list of “Doc-isms”"We're not going to get any more off the air than we already are!". That's code for slow it down and take your time. "Work the problem!". That means take a break, sit down, and think things through a bit. "Just think in reverse!". My phrase for troubleshooting. The most effective way to troubleshoot is to start at the place the thing isn't working and go backwards. “You know they make those - they’ll even ship them to your door!” Sometimes it’s a better idea to just buy something than to cobble something together to save money. "Failure is not an option!". This isn't as dramatic as it sounds. It's just a reminder that we sometimes don't have the luxury of just walking away when things get tough. It may mean some sort of temporary or hacked together solution until the bigger issue is resolved. "Let's take the victory lap!". Usually said when I leave the site after the problem is fixed and I stop for my iced coffee refill. Guest:Chris ‘Doc’ Tarr, CPBE, AMD, DRB, CBNE - Field Engineer at K-LOVE and Air1 Host:Kirk Harnack, The Telos Alliance, Delta Radio, Star94.3, South Seas, & Akamai BroadcastingFollow TWiRT on Twitter and on Facebook - and see all the videos on YouTube.TWiRT is brought to you by:Broadcasters General Store, with outstanding service, saving, and support. Online at BGS.cc. Broadcast Bionics - making radio smarter with Bionic Studio, visual radio, and social media tools at Bionic.radio.Aiir, providing PlayoutONE radio automation, and other advanced solutions for audience engagement.Angry Audio and the new USB Phone Gizmo - Put VoIP callers on-the-air The new MaxxKonnect RMT416 Multi Tuner - 4 to 16 AM/FM/WB/HD web-connected tuners in 1 RU Subscribe to Audio:iTunesRSSStitcherTuneInSubscribe to Video:iTunesRSSYouTube

Kirk Harnack is joined by frequent co-host and longtime broadcast engineer **Chris ‘Doc' Tarr for a fun and practical conversation about “Doc-isms.” These are the short, memorable sayings that Chris has developed over years of troubleshooting transmitters, studio gear, and broadcast workflows under pressure. Each phrase—like “Work the problem,” “Just think in reverse,” and “We're […]

In this episode, Kirk Harnack is joined by Adrian Berkovits, creator of Prism, a new audio distribution ecosystem designed for modern radio networks. Michael Dosch of Angry Audio also joins the conversation to unpack the hardware and real-world functionality that makes this new model possible. For over 40 years, radio broadcasters have relied on satellite distribution for network audio—news, sports, talk shows, and even full music formats. But today, C-Band spectrum is being squeezed by cellular services, while Internet delivery has become remarkably reliable—especially when used in aggregate. The result is a fundamental shift in how audio and metadata can be delivered from content creators to radio stations. Adrian and Michael walk through the technical and operational details of this emerging distribution model, explaining how reliability, redundancy, hardware integration, and workflow come together in a practical, broadcaster-ready ecosystem. If you’re responsible for network audio delivery—or thinking about what replaces satellite—this is an episode you won’t want to miss. Show Notes:Prism global audio distribution ecosystem to replace satellite Guests:Adrian Berkovits - Founder at Adventure 33Michael Dosch - Founder at Angry Audio Host:Kirk Harnack, The Telos Alliance, Delta Radio, Star94.3, South Seas, & Akamai BroadcastingFollow TWiRT on Twitter and on Facebook - and see all the videos on YouTube.TWiRT is brought to you by:Broadcasters General Store, with outstanding service, saving, and support. Online at BGS.cc. Broadcast Bionics - making radio smarter with Bionic Studio, visual radio, and social media tools at Bionic.radio.Aiir, providing PlayoutONE radio automation, and other advanced solutions for audience engagement.Angry Audio and the new USB Phone Gizmo - Put VoIP callers on-the-air The new MaxxKonnect RMT416 Multi Tuner - 4 to 16 AM/FM/WB/HD web-connected tuners in 1 RU Subscribe to Audio:iTunesRSSStitcherTuneInSubscribe to Video:iTunesRSSYouTube

In this episode, Kirk Harnack is joined by Adrian Berkovits, creator of Prism, a new audio distribution ecosystem designed for modern radio networks. Michael Dosch of Angry Audio also joins the conversation to unpack the hardware and real-world functionality that makes this new model possible. For over 40 years, radio broadcasters have relied on satellite distribution for network audio—news, sports, talk shows, and even full music formats. But today, C-Band spectrum is being squeezed by cellular services, while Internet delivery has become remarkably reliable—especially when used in aggregate. The result is a fundamental shift in how audio and metadata can be delivered from content creators to radio stations. Adrian and Michael walk through the technical and operational details of this emerging distribution model, explaining how reliability, redundancy, hardware integration, and workflow come together in a practical, broadcaster-ready ecosystem. If you're responsible for network audio delivery—or thinking about what replaces satellite—this is an episode you won't want to miss.

Join Kirk Harnack for an informative preview of the SBE Ennes Workshop at NAB 2026! In this episode, "TWiRT 788," we sit down with workshop organizers David Bialik and Fred Willard for an exclusive look at the valuable, career-building sessions planned for broadcast engineers. Learn about the essential topics and technical deep-dives coming to Las Vegas on April 21 & 22. Get all the details on why you need to attend these popular sessions in the North Hall at the Las Vegas Convention Center during the NAB Show. Don't miss this insider's guide to advancing your career in radio technology! In this episode we also make a quick trip to the National Religious Broadcasters Convention at the Opryland Hotel in Nashville. Show Notes:SBE Ennes Workshop @ the 2026 NAB Show - Schedule & Link to RegisterBurk Technologies ARC Plus Touch - Installation Video TutorialIT Security for Broadcast Equipment - White Paper by Kirk A. HarnackIT Security for Broadcast Equipment - EXECUTIVE SUMMARY - by Kirk A Harnack Guests:David Bialik - Director of Engineering for MediaCo, NYFred Willard - Senior Broadcast Engineer at TelevisaUnivision, Washington, DCMatt Leland - Vice President of Sales at Burk Technology Inc.Byron Tyler - Regional Creative Production Director at Bott Radio Network Host:Kirk Harnack, The Telos Alliance, Delta Radio, Star94.3, South Seas, & Akamai BroadcastingFollow TWiRT on Twitter and on Facebook - and see all the videos on YouTube.TWiRT is brought to you by:Broadcasters General Store, with outstanding service, saving, and support. Online at BGS.cc. Broadcast Bionics - making radio smarter with Bionic Studio, visual radio, and social media tools at Bionic.radio.Aiir, providing PlayoutONE radio automation, and other advanced solutions for audience engagement.Angry Audio and the new USB Phone Gizmo - Put VoIP callers on-the-air The new MaxxKonnect RMT416 Multi Tuner - 4 to 16 AM/FM/WB/HD web-connected tuners in 1 RU Subscribe to Audio:iTunesRSSStitcherTuneInSubscribe to Video:iTunesRSSYouTube

Join Kirk Harnack for an informative preview of the SBE Ennes Workshop at NAB 2026! In this episode, "TWiRT 788," we sit down with workshop organizers David Bialik and Fred Willard for an exclusive look at the valuable, career-building sessions planned for broadcast engineers. Learn about the essential topics and technical deep-dives coming to Las Vegas on April 21 & 22. Get all the details on why you need to attend these popular sessions in the North Hall at the Las Vegas Convention Center during the NAB Show. Don't miss this insider's guide to advancing your career in radio technology! In this episode we also make a quick trip to the National Religious Broadcasters Convention at the Opryland Hotel in Nashville.

This Week in Radio Tech, Episode 787 features Ernest Jones, Director of Technical Operations for Audacy’s Atlanta radio stations—one of the largest radio markets in the country. Ernest shares his journey from mix DJ to IT specialist to broadcast engineer, describing how his passion for audio processing, amateur radio, and DXing shaped his technical career. He explains how learning IT and RF engineering evolved in parallel through both his ham radio hobby and hands-on station work. Ernest also recounts returning to a small-town AM station he once co-owned to install a new transmitter, finally retiring a venerable old RCA tube rig. It’s an engaging conversation with a rising engineer whose career is just getting started—and one you won’t want to miss. Guest:Ernest Jones - Director of Technical Operations at Audacy, Atlanta Host:Kirk Harnack, The Telos Alliance, Delta Radio, Star94.3, South Seas, & Akamai BroadcastingFollow TWiRT on Twitter and on Facebook - and see all the videos on YouTube.TWiRT is brought to you by:Broadcasters General Store, with outstanding service, saving, and support. Online at BGS.cc. Broadcast Bionics - making radio smarter with Bionic Studio, visual radio, and social media tools at Bionic.radio.Aiir, providing PlayoutONE radio automation, and other advanced solutions for audience engagement.Angry Audio and the new USB Phone Gizmo - Put VoIP callers on-the-air The new MaxxKonnect RMT416 Multi Tuner - 4 to 16 AM/FM/WB/HD web-connected tuners in 1 RU Subscribe to Audio:iTunesRSSStitcherTuneInSubscribe to Video:iTunesRSSYouTube

This Week in Radio Tech, Episode 787 features Ernest Jones, Director of Technical Operations for Audacy's Atlanta radio stations—one of the largest radio markets in the country. Ernest shares his journey from mix DJ to IT specialist to broadcast engineer, describing how his passion for audio processing, amateur radio, and DXing shaped his technical career. He explains how learning IT and RF engineering evolved in parallel through both his ham radio hobby and hands-on station work. Ernest also recounts returning to a small-town AM station he once co-owned to install a new transmitter, finally retiring a venerable old RCA tube rig. It's an engaging conversation with a rising engineer whose career is just getting started—and one you won't want to miss.

Episode 786 of This Week in Radio Tech dives into the real-world engineering challenges and recoveries following a severe ice storm that slammed Mississippi, Tennessee, and northern Alabama. Host Kirk Harnack is joined by Stan Carter of K-LOVE and Air1 as well as Gibson Pritchard, Director of Engineering at Nashville’s WTVF NewsChannel 5, for a candid discussion of what actually failed—and what held up—when trees, power lines, and ice took their toll. Firsthand reports from transmitter sites that rode through the storm with minimal RF issues, others that relied heavily on generators, and the logistics of keeping fuel flowing day after day. Along the way, the panel shares photos, practical observations, and lessons learned from the field. The episode wraps with concrete tips to help engineers and stations prepare now for the next winter disaster—before it arrives. Show Notes:Photos & Videos of ice storm Fern damage Guests:Stan Carter - Field Engineer at K-LOVE & Air1Gibson Prichard - Director Of Engineering and Technology at WTVF NewsChannel 5 Host:Kirk Harnack, The Telos Alliance, Delta Radio, Star94.3, South Seas, & Akamai BroadcastingFollow TWiRT on Twitter and on Facebook - and see all the videos on YouTube.TWiRT is brought to you by:Broadcasters General Store, with outstanding service, saving, and support. Online at BGS.cc. Broadcast Bionics - making radio smarter with Bionic Studio, visual radio, and social media tools at Bionic.radio.Aiir, providing PlayoutONE radio automation, and other advanced solutions for audience engagement.Angry Audio and the new USB Phone Gizmo - Put VoIP callers on-the-air The new MaxxKonnect RMT416 Multi Tuner - 4 to 16 AM/FM/WB/HD web-connected tuners in 1 RU Subscribe to Audio:iTunesRSSStitcherTuneInSubscribe to Video:iTunesRSSYouTube

Episode 786 of This Week in Radio Tech dives into the real-world engineering challenges and recoveries following a severe ice storm that slammed Mississippi, Tennessee, and northern Alabama. Host Kirk Harnack is joined by Stan Carter of K-LOVE and Air1 as well as Gibson Pritchard, Director of Engineering at Nashville's WTVF NewsChannel 5, for a candid discussion of what actually failed—and what held up—when trees, power lines, and ice took their toll. Firsthand reports from transmitter sites that rode through the storm with minimal RF issues, others that relied heavily on generators, and the logistics of keeping fuel flowing day after day. Along the way, the panel shares photos, practical observations, and lessons learned from the field. The episode wraps with concrete tips to help engineers and stations prepare now for the next winter disaster—before it arrives.

Episode 785 of This Week in Radio Tech tackles the very real challenges broadcasters are facing as severe winter weather sweeps across the Southeast and pushes toward the Northeast. In this episode, a panel of seasoned engineers from MaxxKonnect share hard-won lessons on preparing transmitter sites—and recovering them—when ice, snow, and extreme cold take stations off the air. Drawing on firsthand, boots-on-the-ground experiences, they discuss what worked, what failed, and what they’d do differently next time. While the focus is largely on transmitter facilities, much of the guidance applies just as well to studios and supporting infrastructure. If you want practical, experience-based advice to help your station survive and recover from winter weather disasters, this is an episode you’ll want to hear. Show Notes:Best Battery-Powered Chainsaws for Pros and Homeowners in 2025 Guests:Josh Bohn - President/CEO at MaxxKonnectMike Hutchens - Director of Technical Services at The MaxxKonnect GroupMark Borchert - Owner at Borchert Broadcast and Project Manager at the MaxxKonnect GroupJosh Jones - Chief Technician at The MaxxKonnect Group Host:Kirk Harnack, The Telos Alliance, Delta Radio, Star94.3, South Seas, & Akamai BroadcastingFollow TWiRT on Twitter and on Facebook - and see all the videos on YouTube.TWiRT is brought to you by:Broadcasters General Store, with outstanding service, saving, and support. Online at BGS.cc. Broadcast Bionics - making radio smarter with Bionic Studio, visual radio, and social media tools at Bionic.radio.Aiir, providing PlayoutONE radio automation, and other advanced solutions for audience engagement.Angry Audio and the new USB Phone Gizmo - Put VoIP callers on-the-air The new MaxxKonnect RMT416 Multi Tuner - 4 to 16 AM/FM/WB/HD web-connected tuners in 1 RU Subscribe to Audio:iTunesRSSStitcherTuneInSubscribe to Video:iTunesRSSYouTube

On this episode of This Week in Radio Tech, Kirk Harnack is joined by broadcast engineer Aaron Read of L and R Broadcast Services, formerly with Rhode Island Public Radio. Aaron shares thoughtful, experience-based insights on how broadcast engineers play a direct role in establishing—and sometimes unintentionally eroding—listener trust, and why that trust remains one of radio’s greatest strengths. The conversation also dives into Aaron’s practical “Tip of the Week,” focusing on securing Barix codecs and other IP audio devices, including why built-in security features and proper password discipline matter. Aaron strongly advocates for using site-to-site VPNs to protect studio-to-transmitter IP links, explaining how this approach improves both security and reliability. Throughout the episode, Aaron emphasizes the importance of remaining open-minded and committed to continuous learning as technology and workflows evolve. This is a valuable listen for engineers who care about protecting the craft, the signal, and the audience relationship. Show Notes:Aaron mentioned SAF Techinca as a manufacturer of microwave IP radio linksAaron like MaxxKonnect Wireless for prioritized IP connections over 4G & 5G networks Guest:Aaron Read - Engineer Extraordinaire at L and R Broadcast Services Host:Kirk Harnack, The Telos Alliance, Delta Radio, Star94.3, South Seas, & Akamai BroadcastingFollow TWiRT on Twitter and on Facebook - and see all the videos on YouTube.TWiRT is brought to you by:Broadcasters General Store, with outstanding service, saving, and support. Online at BGS.cc. Broadcast Bionics - making radio smarter with Bionic Studio, visual radio, and social media tools at Bionic.radio.Aiir, providing PlayoutONE radio automation, and other advanced solutions for audience engagement.Angry Audio and the new USB Phone Gizmo - Put VoIP callers on-the-air The new MaxxKonnect RMT416 Multi Tuner - 4 to 16 AM/FM/WB/HD web-connected tuners in 1 RU Subscribe to Audio:iTunesRSSStitcherTuneInSubscribe to Video:iTunesRSSYouTube