University of Staffordshire Launches Advanced Esports Broadcast Course

The University of Staffordshire has unveiled a cutting-edge esports broadcast course at its Stoke-on-Trent campus, making it the first UK higher education institution to do so. This initiative features a state-of-the-art esports arena with seating for 60, two broadcast galleries, and a fully equipped studio, all part of a multimillion-pound expansion project that aims to enhance students’ educational experiences in this rapidly growing field.

As part of the new facilities, UK-based integrator and supplier Digital Garage collaborated with Audio-Technica to provide advanced audio solutions. The facilities include eight channels of Audio-Technica 3000 Series Digital wireless microphones and two Allen & Heath Avantis digital mixers, all interconnected through network solutions. This setup allows for operational flexibility, enabling the galleries and studio to function independently or as a comprehensive production suite.

Tom Gill, design manager at Digital Garage, emphasized the importance of versatility in the arena’s design. “There are so many use cases for the arena that we needed to design a very versatile space. We couldn’t have one piece of audio kit connected to a single other piece of kit – everything needed to be able to ‘dial in’ to any input or output across the facility,” he explained. Integrating Dante-enabled solutions was crucial to achieving this flexibility.

The Audio-Technica system and Avantis mixers were selected not just for their networking capabilities, but also for their specific features. For instance, presenters can use handheld microphones, and the interchangeable capsules on the 3000 Series transmitters allow for the selection of the C6100 hypercardioid option, minimizing background noise.

Gill further noted the advantages of the Avantis mixers: “They have certain broadcast-friendly features – things like tie-lines that many desks don’t have – which made them the perfect choice for this project. They have everything built in, so each console can stand alone, without involving a ‘surface-and-brain’ setup.”

In addition to the Avantis consoles, the setup includes additional Allen & Heath components, featuring a trio of DT168 Dante-enabled 16-input/eight-output expanders and two SQ-5 48-channel digital mixers. Enhanced control across the studio and other spaces is facilitated by six IP1 rotary controllers and an IP8 8-fader controller.

Richard Mortimer, the university’s technical services manager, highlighted the importance of preparing students for the workforce. “Our students need to be industry-ready, particularly in a fast-moving industry like esports broadcasting. We’ve invested in equipment that our students will experience in the world of work, ensuring they’re immediately employable post-university.”

The launch of this esports broadcast course positions the University of Staffordshire as a leader in esports education in the UK, offering students a chance to gain hands-on experience with professional-grade equipment in a dynamic and evolving industry.