Tools of the trade: Equipment essentials for sports broadcasters
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Sports broadcasting are an exciting and dynamic field that requires passion, knowledge of the game, and the right tools and equipment. Whether calling the action from the press box or providing colour commentary from the sidelines, having the proper gear is essential for delivering a high-quality broadcast.
Microphones
At the heart of any sports broadcast is the commentator’s voice and capturing that voice clearly and crisply requires a good microphone.
- Handheld microphones– These versatile mics are great for sideline reporting and interviews. Look for models with good off-axis rejection to minimize background noise. Popular options include the Shure SM58 and Electro-Voice RE50.
- Headset microphones– A headset mic is necessary for play-by-play announcers who must keep their hands free. The Audio-Technica BPHS1 is a popular choice, combining a boom mic with comfortable headphones.
- Lavalier microphones– These small, clip-on mics are perfect for studio segments or when a commentator needs to be more discreet. Popular lavs include the Sennheiser ME2 and the Countryman B6.
Headphones
Just as important as a good microphone is a quality pair of headphones. Broadcasters rely on headphones to monitor their voice, hear cues from the production team, and listen to audio playback. Over-ear headphones are generally preferred for their comfort and sound isolation.
- Sony MDR-7506– These sturdy, reliable headphones are broadcasting staple. They offer clear sound and a comfortable fit at a reasonable price point Click here for more info.
- Sennheiser HD 280 Pro– These durable headphones are another industry favourite, as they have excellent noise isolation and accurate sound reproduction.
Broadcast software
With audio hardware sorted, broadcast software is the critical piece of the puzzle. You’ll use this program to mix audio sources, add graphics and overlays, and stream or record the final output. For beginners, open-source software like OBS Studio or Streamlabs OBS provides a solid starting point. These programs are free, relatively easy to use, and handle basic broadcasting tasks like mixing audio and video, adding text overlays, and streaming to platforms like YouTube or Twitch.
For more advanced users, professional software like vMix or Wirecast offers expanded feature sets and more excellent customization options. These programs support multiple camera inputs, complex graphics and animations, instant replay, and more. When choosing broadcast software, consider factors like ease of use, compatibility with your hardware and streaming platforms, and scalability as your needs grow.
Cameras and lenses
While optional, having a good camera affects the visual quality of your sports broadcast. Whether you’re filming pre-game interviews, capturing sideline action, or providing close-ups of key plays, a capable camera and lens combination is a valuable asset. For most sports broadcasting needs, a versatile camcorder like the Sony PXW-Z190 or the Panasonic AG-CX350 can cover much ground. These cameras offer professional features like 4K recording, excellent zoom ranges, and XLR audio inputs in a compact package. For lenses, look for models with good zoom capabilities and wide apertures for low-light performance. The Canon HJ40x10B and the Fujinon XA20sx8.5 are popular sports broadcasting choices, offering 40x and 20x zoom ranges, respectively.
Finally, consider the importance of lighting and accessories in your sports broadcasting toolkit. Good lighting makes a massive difference in the look of your videos, especially when filming indoors or in low-light conditions. LED light panels like the Neewer Dimmable Bi-Color or the Aputure Amaran AL-528 are versatile options with adjustable colour temperature and brightness. Softbox lighting kits also create a flattering, even light on interview subjects.
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