Questions Answered: An Overview of the MU-3 45’ 3G Single Expando

The MU-3 45’ 3G Single Expando is a cutting-edge mobile production unit that delivers high performance, versatility, and reliability. Designed to meet the needs of modern live productions, including sports broadcasts, concerts, corporate events, and award shows, the MU-3 combines advanced video, audio, and routing technology in a compact yet expandable design to create a seamless workflow for event producers.

Below we answer your common questions about this video production truck.

What are the Dimensions & Configuration of the MU-3 45’?

With a base length of 43 feet and a width of 8.5 feet, the MU-3 provides a functional workspace that expands to 36 feet long and 5 feet wide. This creates ample interior room for production crews while maintaining mobility and efficiency. The unit has a total length of 78 feet when expanded and a gross vehicle weight of 80,000 pounds, making it both sturdy and maneuverable for diverse venue setups.

What Video Production Technology Does it Offer?

The MU-3 is equipped with a Grass Valley K-Frame 3G Switcher, a powerful tool for live production. This system features a 4-stripe Kayenne panel with 35 buttons, 64 inputs, and 36 outputs, providing extensive flexibility for managing multiple video feeds. Advanced capabilities such as FlexiKey, Double Take, and Chroma Key allow for dynamic visual effects, while DPM effects like IDPM, EDPM, and 2D DPM enhance broadcast visuals. Its integrated image store supports seamless playback of pre-recorded elements, making it an invaluable asset for high-stakes live events.

For replay and playback, the MU-3 relies on industry-leading EVS systems, including a 12-channel LSM Dual User Server, two 8-channel LSM Servers, and a 6-channel Spotbox with a Lance Controller. Additional tools like the EVS X-File3 with a 10G File Network and EVS X-Hub3 streamline file management and operator workflows, ensuring smooth, high-quality playback for events requiring instant replays or highlights.

What is the Camera System Like?

The MU-3 features ten Grass Valley LDX 86 WorldCam cameras, offering versatile options for capturing every detail with precision. These cameras are paired with an extensive range of Fujinon lenses, including 107×8.4 HD, 101×8.9 HD, 80×8.9 HD, and wide-angle lenses such as the 13×4.5 and 18×5.5. This variety ensures flexibility for different types of shots, from extreme close-ups to expansive wide angles. Supported by Vinten Vector 70 and Cartoni Gamma ENG pan heads with tripods, the system delivers stability and precision for high-pressure shoots.

What are the Audio Capabilities of the MU-3 45’?

The MU-3’s Calrec Artemis Light Bluefin 2 console ensures unmatched audio quality. With 56 faders and support for 64×64 analog, 64×64 AES, and 256×256 mono MADI channels, this console provides extensive flexibility for audio mixing and management. Hydra 2 Fiber Audio Field Boxes (24 x 8 configurations) and an optional Dante Fiber Audio Booth system enhance the unit’s audio capabilities, making it ideal for complex sound environments. A robust inventory of audio cables and mults further supports the diverse needs of live event production.

About the Routing and Multiview Systems

Signal management is handled by the Evertz EQX 3G Video Router, which offers a 280×474 matrix with embedding and de-embedding options, along with 33 3G frame syncs for seamless processing. The multiview system, with its 246×32 capacity, allows production crews to monitor multiple video feeds in real time, ensuring precise oversight during complex live productions.

What Communication Infrastructure is in Place?

Clear communication is critical in live productions, and the MU-3 is equipped with an RTS Adam Matrix Intercom system. This system supports 208×208 channels, with Rvon, MADI, and Omneo connectivity. It also features eight powered PL channels and six powered IFB channels, ensuring reliable communication between crew members. Dual-listen belt packs, IFB boxes, and high-quality single and dual-muff headsets further enhance the system, allowing seamless coordination across teams.

Does it Have A/V Support?

The MU-3 comes with an array of A/V tools to meet diverse production needs. These include high-quality microphones such as MD46 stick mics, MKH416 and MKH807 shotgun mics, and MKH418 stereo shotgun mics. For visual monitoring, the unit includes four 15-inch SDI monitors and four 21-inch SDI monitors. LED light kits are also available, providing adaptable lighting solutions for any production scenario.

What is the Cable Inventory Like?

The MU-3 features an extensive cable inventory to ensure adaptability to various venue layouts and production demands. This includes 7,000 feet of triax cable, over 3,000 feet of single coax, and multiple TAC 12 cable configurations ranging from 100 to 1,000 feet. This flexibility ensures the unit can handle even the most complex setups.

Applications for the MU-3

The MU-3 is ideally suited for a range of live productions, including sports events, concerts, award shows, corporate events, and live broadcasts. Its track record of delivering seamless performance makes it an essential tool for high-profile productions.

Technical Specifications

• Switcher: Grass Valley K-Frame 3G
• Replay and Playback: EVS XT3 Servers, X-Hub3
• Cameras: Grass Valley LDX 86 WorldCam
• Audio Console: Calrec Artemis Light Bluefin 2
• Routing: Evertz EQX 3G (280×474 matrix)
• Intercom: RTS Adam Matrix (208×208 channels)
• Monitors: 15-inch and 21-inch SDI monitors

Final Thoughts

The MU-3 45’ 3G Single Expando represents the pinnacle of mobile production technology. Its advanced systems, versatile design, and proven performance empower production teams to create world-class broadcasts. For event producers seeking reliability, adaptability, and quality, the MU-3 is a leading choice that ensures success in every live production scenario.

The MU-3 is more than a mobile production unit; it is a comprehensive solution designed for versatility and performance. Its advanced video and audio systems, robust routing infrastructure, and reliable communication capabilities make it a trusted choice for producers across the industry. Whether capturing the intensity of live sports, the energy of a concert, or the polish of a corporate broadcast, the MU-3 consistently exceeds expectations.