Matrix Solutions Turns to Ross Video for Custom-Built Portable Production Units

Matrix Solutions specializes in all aspects of live event management, from project and site management to equipment supply and technical support. From conferences to rock concerts, Matrix can design and manage any kind of event on a turnkey basis. Following increased demand from customers for more portable AV production solutions, Matrix has worked with Ross Video Diamond Partners WTS to custom-build a number of Portable Production Units (PPU) that feature the Carbonite production switcher at their core. The Carbonite is a compact switcher that is increasingly appearing in PPUs and flyaway kits.

When it comes to the live event market, the technical team at Matrix point to operational efficiency as a key factor for success. Oscar Juste, Ross Video’s Director of Sales for EMEA, sees a trend forming. “The live events market is incredibly challenging; we have to deliver big-box performance in a small form factor with all of the connectivity and interoperability needed in that environment. Products like Carbonite, Graphite and our Ultrix router were all designed with flight cases in mind and its no surprise that they’ve become extremely popular with live events/music and touring companies.”

“Customers often have clear opinions on production values when we are discussing the AV side of their events, and we need to help deliver while also considering equipment issues such as size, portability, ease of set-up and use,” says Juste. “Previous generations of the systems we use have been housed in a number of bulky flight cases; this has caused problems in terms of space on a truck, carnet issues, a difficult load-in and the challenges of finding everything needed during the build.”

In order to tackle these problems, Matrix’s technical team collaborated with WTS and Ross Video to create PPU specifications that balance space with performance. “We’re extremely pleased with the results. We’re now able to offer our customers professional broadcast-quality results with none of the operational headaches that have plagued us in the past. These kits are easy to set up, easy to use and deliver every time,” says Juste.