Jacaranda FM Launches Next-Generation Broadcast Studio
South African radio enters a new chapter as Jacaranda FM officially unveils its brand-new, state-of-the-art flagship studio. The cutting-edge facility marks a major leap forward in broadcasting technology and positions the station at the forefront of modern radio production.
Designed as a fully digital, future-ready environment, the new studio enhances the station’s ability to deliver its signature feel-good content across multiple platforms including audio, video and social media.
As one of South Africa’s leading commercial radio stations, Jacaranda FM continues to invest in technology that strengthens both the listener experience and the way content is created and shared.
Built by Industry Expertise
The project was led by Andrew Pike, Technical and IT Manager at Jacaranda FM and a Hall of Fame inductee of the Telkom Radio Awards. With more than four decades of experience in broadcast engineering and technology, Pike’s expertise played a key role in ensuring the studio delivers world-class performance and reliability.
A First for South African Radio
Jacaranda FM has become the first radio station in the country to introduce a fully virtual mixing desk, a system commonly referred to in the industry as “mixing on glass.”
The studio features a completely digital audio chain that runs seamlessly from the microphone through to the transmitter site. This technology not only enhances audio quality but also ensures the station remains adaptable to future innovations.
With firmware updates enabling upgrades and new features, the system reduces the need for costly hardware replacements and ensures the station remains technologically competitive for years to come.
Broadcasting Without Boundaries
The studio was designed for a hybrid broadcasting world. Its systems are fully online and remotely accessible, allowing every aspect of the broadcast chain to be monitored and controlled from outside the studio.
This flexibility means presenters can manage broadcasts from home, on location during outside broadcasts, or from anywhere in the world without compromising the station’s quality or reliability.
Built for the Visual Era of Radio
Recognising that radio today extends beyond sound, the new flagship studio also prioritises visual production.
The space is equipped with six cameras, including three remote-controlled 4K cameras and three individual POV miniature cameras focused on presenters. A powerful computer system allows the video team to record all camera feeds simultaneously for post-production while streaming live across up to three social media platforms.
Lighting has also been carefully designed with five individually controlled sections and dynamic multicolour washes illuminating the main stage area, ensuring every performance and broadcast moment looks as good as it sounds.
Designed for Presenter Comfort
The studio places a strong focus on presenter comfort and functionality. Both the main presenter and co-presenter desks feature electrically powered height adjustments, allowing broadcasters to easily switch between sitting and standing positions during live shows.
A permanently installed front-of-house digital mixer has also been added for live band performances, enabling the studio to host in-house music sessions and special performances that bring additional feel-good moments to listeners.
A New Era for Feel-Good Radio
According to Vuyani Dombo, the new studio represents far more than a technical upgrade.
“This studio is a bold investment in the future of feel-good broadcasting. Our audiences engage with us across multiple platforms, on air, online and on social media, and this space allows us to create content that matches the energy, quality and innovation they expect from Jacaranda FM,”.
he said
With its fully digital infrastructure, virtual mixing technology and integrated video capabilities, Jacaranda FM’s new flagship studio sets a new benchmark for radio in South Africa. It demonstrates how modern broadcasting is evolving into a multi-platform experience where content is not only heard but also seen and shared.
For more information, visit the official website of Jacaranda FM.
