Just like in prior incarnations of Eurovision Song Contest, Barco’s projection and image processing technology was used to turn the three live shows into a spectacular audiovisual experience. This year’s edition featured several Barco solutions chosen by Faber Audiovisuals, the official video partner for the 2020 and 2021 Eurovision Song Contest.
Following a European tender, Faber Audiovisuals was selected in 2020 as the video partner for the 2020 Eurovision Song Contest. Following the cancelation due to the pandemic, Faber remained the technical supplier for the 65th edition, taking place in 2021. Faber Audiovisuals provided all LED screens, video projections, media servers, image processing and supporting technicians for the three live shows.
“The Eurovision Song Contest is a mega production equaled by very few worldwide,” said Project Manager, Ben Augenbroe. “You can only be successful in this production with so many viewers and so many organisers and participants, by applying the highest quality standards, and Barco was able to meet these standards hands down.”
The Barco equipment used to present the brightest images on the audience screens included two Barco E2 image processors, with 4K60 Tri-Combo input cards, two Barco PDS-4K presentation switchers and five Barco ImagePro-4K image scalers/converters. Barco’s UDX-4K32 laser phosphor projector also ensured reliable image quality during the live shows and in the press room.
“For Eurovision, only quality technology is good enough, and that’s exactly what we found with Barco,” said Augenbroe. “Barco’s PDS-4K presentation switcher is the only solution in its class which allows us to monitor all media server feeds in 4K. Also, Barco’s ImagePro-4K image processors have proven to be true lifesavers during the live shows when it comes to scaling, scan converting and switching images.
Belgian company Visual Solutions was also subcontracted by Faber Audiovisuals to program and operate the media servers for the Eurovision Song Contest. “The stage of the Rotterdam Ahoy arena was filled with a wide variety of large screens. Every country and song had its own visuals, which needed to be displayed with accurate timing and with millimeter perfection,” said Visual Solutions Manager, Jo Pauly. “Barco’s image processing products have enabled my team to make this possible.”
