How to Choose the Right Mobile Production Unit for Your Event

Selecting the right mobile production unit can make or break the success of a live event. From sports broadcasts to concerts, award shows to corporate gatherings, having the correct setup is essential for capturing every moment with clarity, professionalism, and style. With options ranging from large 53′ double expando UHD mobile units to compact 20′ production/uplink hybrids, Live Media Group’s mobile unit companies – Live Media and TNDV – offer a diverse fleet that caters to event requirements of any scope or complexity.

In this guide, we’ll walk through how to choose the best mobile production unit based on your event type, budget, and specific production needs.

1. Understand Your Event Type and Scale

The type of event and its scale play a crucial role in determining the ideal mobile production unit. For instance, a stadium sporting event, high-profile concert or award show with multiple camera angles and intricate lighting setups demands a more comprehensive unit (or units) than a small corporate meeting.

• Large-Scale Events, Concerts and Festivals: These events benefit from large double expando mobile units, such as Live Media’s MU-16 and MU-18 or TNDV’s Exclamation. These units offer spacious control rooms and ample workspace, accommodating large production crews and advanced equipment for multi-camera setups and intricate lighting.
• Corporate Events and Conferences: A 20′ production/uplink hybrid, like Modulation or Constellation, is often more suitable for corporate events where space may be limited. Compact yet powerful, these units are equipped to handle live streaming, switching, and high-quality audio, making them ideal for conference broadcasting or smaller live events. TNDV also has a wide selection of mobile fly packs for smaller productions that may not require the full complement of equipment that comes with a mobile unit. 
• Sporting Events: Sports broadcasts typically demand units with high video format capabilities, such as MU-14 and MU-29, which support 1080P / 3G and UHD / 4K. These formats ensure high-resolution footage that captures fast action with minimal delay.
• Award Shows and Red Carpet Events: These high-profile events call for visually rich, multi-angle shots. Units like Aspiration and Collaboration offer the space and power needed for multiple cameras, live streaming, and custom graphics.

By aligning the mobile unit selection with the event type, you’re ensuring that each detail will be captured perfectly, regardless of complexity.

2. Consider the Body Style

The body style of the mobile unit impacts not only the available space but also the types of events it’s suited for. Here’s a breakdown of common styles and their strengths:

• Double Expando: These units, such as Exclamation, MU-3 and MU-6, expand on both sides, offering a large interior space for crew members and equipment. They’re ideal for multi-camera productions and larger crews, providing the flexibility to handle dynamic and intricate events.
• Single Expando: Mobile units with a single expansion, like MU-10, offer a balance of space and mobility. They’re more compact than double expandos but still offer ample room for mid-sized events and moderate crew sizes. A majority of the mobile units of Live Media and TNDV fall into this category. 
• Straight Trailer and Straight Truck: Compact and maneuverable, these units are suitable for smaller events where space is limited, such as on-location interviews or intimate gatherings. Live Media’s B-1 and B-3 units and TNDV’s Inspiration fall into this category, providing essential functionality without the bulk of an expando.

Each body style has unique benefits, so it’s essential to assess the logistical constraints and space requirements of your event venue before deciding.

3. Select the Appropriate Video Format

High-definition quality is increasingly essential for live events, particularly when broadcasting to larger audiences. Live Media Group’s fleet supports various video formats, from 1080i / 720p HD to UHD / 4K:

• 1080i / 720p HD: Ideal for smaller events or internal corporate streaming, this format is cost-effective while still delivering clear visuals.
• 1080P / 3G: For events that demand crisp visuals and minimal lag, 1080P / 3G is a solid middle ground. It’s suitable for medium-to-large events where high-definition is required but where full UHD may be unnecessary.
• UHD / 4K: For the highest quality broadcast, UHD / 4K units are ideal. This format is perfect for high-profile concerts, sports events, or award shows where every detail matters, and viewers expect the highest clarity.

Choosing the correct video format ensures that your audience experiences the event at the level of quality it deserves, so align this choice with both the event’s scale and the visual expectations of your viewers.

4. Assess Audio Production Needs

Audio quality is crucial, especially for events with live performances or speeches. Different mobile units cater to varying audio needs:

• Audio Production-Specific Units: Units such as Vibration are tailored for audio production, equipped with high-quality mixers, soundproofing, and specialized crew workspaces. These units are ideal for concerts or live performances where sound quality is paramount.
• General Production Units: For events where audio is important but secondary to video, standard production units will suffice. Many of Live Media’s units, including MU-11 and MU-21, offer robust audio capabilities suitable for most event types.

When selecting your mobile unit, make sure it includes the necessary audio features, especially if clear sound is critical to the event experience.

5. Budget Considerations

The range of mobile units at Live Media Group allows for flexibility across different budget levels:

• Premium Units: Units such as MU-14, MU-30 and Exclamation offer top-of-the-line features for large-scale, high-profile events. These units come with larger crews, advanced technology, and increased capacity, which may come at a higher cost.
• Mid-Range Options: Units like MU-8, Aspiration and MU-10 provide a balance between cost and functionality, suitable for mid-sized events requiring solid production capabilities without the need for extensive crew or equipment.
• Cost-Effective Choices: For smaller events or budget-conscious productions, units such as B-5 and B-8 provide essential functionality at a lower cost. These units are ideal for simpler events, interviews, or internal corporate functions. Fly packs often are a great option for events of a smaller scope. 

Selecting a mobile unit that aligns with your budget ensures that your production is both high-quality and financially feasible.

6. Evaluate Special Requirements for Your Event

Each event has unique requirements that may necessitate specialized features. Here are a few examples:

• Streaming and Uplink Capabilities: For events that require live streaming or remote broadcast, a unit with uplink capabilities, like MU-22, is essential.
• Multi-Camera Support: If you’re capturing complex angles, such as for sports events or concerts, choose a unit with ample multi-camera support. Units like MU-16 can handle extensive camera setups, ensuring dynamic, multi-angle footage.
• Customization: Some events may require additional customization, such as specific branding for corporate events. Discuss any unique requirements with Live Media Group to ensure that your unit meets all production needs.

Conclusion

Choosing the right mobile production unit for your event is a multi-faceted decision. By considering factors like event type, body style, video format, audio needs, budget, and any special requirements, you can select a mobile unit that meets your production goals while staying within budget.

The diverse fleet of Live Media and TNDV, from expansive double expandos to compact hybrids, offers options for every type of event. And, if you need crew and logistical expertise, our GameTime division provides comprehensive crew and staffing at all levels of live event productions. 

By working with an experienced provider and carefully assessing your needs, you can ensure that your event is a memorable and professionally produced experience for all involved.