CTN Studios Offers Rave Reviews for Tightrope’s ZEPLAY System

CTN Studios in Coon Rapids, MN was among the first beta testers for ZEPLAY, the instant replays platform by Tightrope Media Systems. “We were so impressed with ZEPLAY, we bought two more,” says Eric Strouse, Manager of CTN Studios.

ZEPLAY is a 4 in/4 out SD/HD slow motion instant replay platform. Its multi-viewer interface is designed to show all four inputs and all four outputs simultaneously on a single monitor, allowing the replay operator to work at fast speeds. Its dedicated controller has a t-bar, jog shuttle wheel and 42 keys including programmable Macro buttons.

CTN provides local programming to residents in Coon Rapids, including local news, political candidates, performance events, and sports. Their local sports coverage of the Saint Paul Saints and Coon Rapids high school teams can be seen on Cable TV in Coon Rapids and neighboring towns.

In preparation of upgrading to HD, CTN recently replaced the SD model with 2 new ZEPLAY HD units in their 32-foot production truck. Their original ZEPLAY will be upgraded to HD and installed in their 18-foot truck for smaller productions.

CTN has participated in the beta program for almost two years. They continue to work with Tightrope on improving the software by providing feedback. “We have seen ZEPLAY change into one of the best multi-channel replay systems in the market,” says Josh Udvig, Production Technician at CTN Studios. On working with Tightrope’s development team, “They’re always open to new ideas or new ways of doing things. We would make suggestions, and a week later they would have the problem fixed or a new option for us.”

With ZEPLAY 2.0 software, a replay operator can edit together a sequence directly in the software interface, similar to an NLE. “Having this capability is critical to our workflow,” says Strouse.

With the Sequence Editor, there is no need to export clips and edit offline. New features, like the Sequence Editor, will be available in the 2.0 software, which will be previewed at NAB Show 2011 (Booth N1212). Tightrope will have three demo stations and will be running scheduled presentations at the booth. For those not attending NAB, visit the Live Demo Signup Sheet for webinar info.

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