(click thumbnail)Art ConstantineQ. What new products or services does DaySequerra plan to promote?
A. DaySequerra will introduce the first HD Radio-ready analog modulation monitor. Our new M2A will give AM and FM analog broadcasters the cutting-edge accuracy, features and benefits of DaySequerra HD Radio monitors at an affordable price now, then allow them to upgrade their units to measure and alarm all HD Radio parameters when they’re ready to go HD.
We’ll also show the new M3 Multi-Monitor, with three independent AM/FM/HD receivers and alarms complete in a 2U chassis, and a newly updated Market Area Monitor, complete with remote scanning of 50 AM and 50 FM stations, plus HD.
Q. Your company took a much higher industry profile thanks to your new products for monitoring HD Radio. How many have you sold? How will you keep up that business momentum in the future?
A. DaySequerra was first to ship HD Radio mod monitors and precision tuners. To date, we’ve shipped over 1,400 units, quite a feat considering that there are just slightly more than 1,400 HD Radio stations on the air at present. While our worthy competitors are just shipping their first releases, or not yet shipping HD product at all, DaySequerra is shipping its third generation of HD Radio products. Our introduction of HD Radio-ready analog monitors moves DaySequerra out of the “niche-but-growing” HD market into the larger worldwide market.
Q. What are the most common concerns you hear from your radio clients these days?
A. HD Radio stations are concerned about every aspect of running a physical plant with multiple broadcast streams, with each of those streams carrying both audio and related data. We get questions every day about audio-quality measurement, PAD and RBDS data accuracy and alarms and how to monitor and alarm multiple broadcasts efficiently.
One particular issue of concern is the need for accurate spectrum measurement, especially with regard to FCC mask compliance. Broadcasters are finding that a separate, standalone spectrum analyzer is essential for these measurements. We’ll show a low-cost spectrum analyzer that’s up to the task in our exhibit booth.
Q. What are new directions are ahead for DaySequerra?
A. Now that the major groups have implemented HD, the emphasis for us shifts to satisfying the needs of smaller-market stations, many of whom may not go HD. That’s why our HD Radio-ready monitor makes sense. Now stations can buy a new monitor, complete with up-to-date features at a competitive price, and preserve 100 percent of their investment if and when they move to HD.
Q. Does the old ATI brand still exist, and if so, in what way?
A. We really need to advertise more! The ATI brand is not only alive and well, it’s growing. ATI is the number one provider of digital-audio distribution amplifiers. We’re also the largest supplier of analog distribution systems for major stadiums and venues. Do you need one “gazin” and 60 “gazouts”? That’s ATI.
We’ve recently introduced some new ATI products under the name ATI Digital Audio, including the ADAC-2, an A/D, D/A and sample rate converter with superior performance and features. More upscale products are on the way.
Q. What’s the most exciting or unusual project you’ve been involved with lately?
A. ATI’s digital distribution amps are popular with touring sound companies. I recently visited Maryland Sound, one of the largest, to help them with their digital distribution system. I ran a sound reinforcement company right out of high school, but working with the big guys really blew me away.
