What do these have in common? They've all been subject to the attention of an increasingly dynamic and technically developing media circus. As a result there is also a very good chance they've been audibly recorded using equipment supplied by Raycom.
Since 1984, Raycom has used its close working relationship with the UK's premier broadcasters and location sound engineers to secure distribution rights with some of the world's most innovative manufactures of professional broadcast quality audio solutions. The radio microphone and IEM ranges from Wisycom of Italy and US based Lectrosonics are recognised as the top of their field for performance and reliability. Phonak of Switzerland also chose Raycom to launch and develop sales for their unique RF based virtually invisible in ear monitor, the invisity.
Raycom is however not simply a distributor. Their own UK manufactured RTB radio talkback base station has long been recognised as the product of choice by production teams needing flexible communication with engineers and talent in the field or studio. The latest fourth generation unit, the RTB6211D has been developed in conjunction with Kenwood of Japan and features their Nexedge radios to offer excellent digital performance whilst still retaining analogue operation when required.
Through its 30 year history Raycom has always considered a high level of customer support and long term after care service as pivotal. Guidance in product choice and a full repair service is offered by the company either from its own workshop or those of its manufacturer partners. In all cases the customer is kept informed of progress and highly experienced RF engineers admirably deal with even the most unusual issues.
Pyers Easton, managing director, comments, "From an early age I've enjoyed a passion for everything radio, I'd built my own improved design transmitter at the age of nine. A continued interest in this niche area of electronics led me to working with the infamous radio Caroline in its twilight years and my first real commercial venture building broadcast RF link systems and transmitter stations for a number of independent and national Radio services in the 90's.
"Pushing the boundaries of product development to provide real world useful solutions has made all the study of RF theory worthwhile. I still smile when I see one of my products from the 90's, the Garwood stereo IEM system, still being used today."
When the opportunity to continue the legacy of Raycom's founder, Ray Withers by acquisition of the company from Ray's family after his sad passing in 2002 was eagerly taken.
Recent success in winning new large system contracts in the RF challenging field of F1 motorsport has encouraged Raycom to continue to explore other markets. 2014 sees the company enter the live sound market where it sees great possibilities for its growing product range.
The next 30 years will surely bring many complex challenges for everyone working in the RF field. Raycom certainly has the history to ensure the experience will be as painless and enjoyable as possible for its loyal customers.
(Jim Evans)
