How to Choose the Right Mobile Production Unit for Your Event

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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.

choosing the right mobile production unit

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: 45' Audio Production & Multitrack mobile unit

  • 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.

The Future of Corporate Event Production: What to Expect in the Next Five Years

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As corporate events become increasingly complex and technology-driven, the expectations for engaging, high-quality production continue to rise. From hybrid events to interactive broadcasts, the corporate event landscape is evolving rapidly. Over the next five years, we can expect groundbreaking trends and technologies to reshape how we approach event production, and Live Media Group is positioned at the forefront of this transformation.

In this article, we’ll explore the key trends and technologies that will define corporate event production in the coming years, offering insights into how companies can leverage these advancements to captivate audiences and enhance brand presence.

Hybrid Events as the New Standard

In the wake of the global shift toward virtual events, hybrid events (those combining in-person and virtual components) are here to stay. Hybrid events allow companies to reach both on-site attendees and remote participants, creating a versatile experience that maximizes audience engagement and expands reach.

  • Enhanced Interactivity for Virtual Audiences: Expect virtual attendees to enjoy immersive experiences with features like live Q&A, real-time polling, and interactive breakout sessions. By using Live Media Group’s advanced production technology, corporate clients can ensure seamless interaction between in-person and online participants.
  • Dual Production Strategies: Live Media Group’s mobile production units and state-of-the-art control rooms will allow simultaneous streaming of high-quality video to online platforms while managing on-site content for in-person audiences. This setup provides an integrated experience that accommodates both audiences without sacrificing quality.

AI and Machine Learning Integration

Artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning (ML) are set to become integral to event production, offering solutions that improve efficiency, personalization, and engagement.

  • AI-Driven Personalization: AI can be used to tailor event content to each attendee’s preferences, delivering personalized schedules, relevant sessions, and targeted content suggestions. This can be particularly impactful for large conferences, where customized experiences help keep attendees engaged.
  • Real-Time Data Analysis and Insights: AI and ML will enable real-time data analysis during events, providing valuable insights into audience engagement. For example, AI can detect when audience interest drops, allowing producers to adjust the content or pacing. Live Media Group’s advanced analytics capabilities can equip clients with actionable insights, helping them refine future events.
  • Automated Production Assistance: AI-powered tools can streamline many production aspects, from camera tracking to automated lighting adjustments, freeing up production crews to focus on more complex tasks.

Augmented Reality (AR) and Virtual Reality (VR) Experiences

As technology advances, AR and VR are expected to play a larger role in corporate events, offering unique, immersive experiences that captivate audiences and deepen engagement.

  • Augmented Reality for In-Person and Virtual Audiences: AR can enhance in-person experiences with interactive displays, allowing attendees to engage with virtual elements through smartphones or wearable tech. For virtual audiences, AR can overlay presentation materials onto the screen, making sessions more interactive and visually engaging.
  • Virtual Reality as a Stand-Alone Experience: VR can offer remote participants a fully immersive event experience, particularly valuable for product launches or company training sessions. Live Media Group is exploring ways to incorporate VR elements into corporate events, allowing audiences to feel as if they’re attending in person, no matter their location.
  • AR/VR Production Requirements: With the integration of AR and VR, production crews will need to manage new aspects such as 3D graphics, spatial audio, and interactive interfaces. Live Media Group’s technical expertise and commitment to state-of-the-art technology can help clients bring these advanced experiences to life.

5G Connectivity and Its Impact on Event Production

The expansion of 5G networks will revolutionize event production, particularly for mobile and remote setups. With faster data speeds and reduced latency, 5G offers numerous benefits for corporate events, from improved streaming quality to enhanced interactivity.

  • High-Quality Live Streaming: 5G will allow for ultra-HD live streaming with minimal delay, even in venues with large audiences. This will enhance the experience for remote attendees and enable real-time interaction without the lag often associated with virtual events.
  • Greater Flexibility for Mobile Production: With 5G, mobile production units will have more flexibility in terms of location, enabling corporate events to be streamed from virtually anywhere. Live Media Group’s mobile units are already equipped to harness this connectivity boost, making them a preferred choice for companies looking to innovate with remote and on-site events.
  • Enhanced Augmented Reality and Real-Time Data Transmission: 5G supports the heavy data demands of AR and VR, allowing production crews to incorporate these elements without compromising quality. This technology also enables real-time data analytics during the event, providing insights that can inform on-the-spot decisions.

Sustainable Event Production

Sustainability is increasingly important to companies and audiences alike. Over the next five years, we can expect to see a push towards more eco-friendly practices in event production.

  • Energy-Efficient Equipment: Advances in energy-efficient production equipment, such as LED lighting and low-power cameras, will reduce the carbon footprint of events. Live Media Group’s commitment to sustainability means they’re continually exploring options to integrate greener technology into their production units.
  • Remote Production to Minimize Travel: Hybrid events and remote production capabilities reduce the need for extensive travel, which is both cost-effective and environmentally friendly. Live Media Group’s Nashville-based control room, for example, can manage productions remotely, allowing teams to coordinate live events without the need for on-site staff at every location.
  • Reducing Waste with Digital Solutions: The use of digital platforms for registration, schedules, and event materials reduces the need for paper, making corporate events more sustainable. Live Media Group’s digital solutions help clients minimize waste and create eco-friendly experiences without sacrificing quality.

Increased Focus on Security and Privacy

With the rise of virtual and hybrid events, ensuring the security and privacy of corporate content has become paramount. In the next five years, we’ll see more robust solutions to address these concerns.

  • Data Encryption and Secure Streaming: As corporate events often involve confidential information, the demand for secure streaming services is expected to grow. Live Media Group is committed to implementing secure encryption protocols to protect sensitive data, allowing companies to broadcast with confidence.
  • Enhanced Access Control: Advanced access control features, such as multi-factor authentication and individual access codes, will become standard to ensure that only authorized attendees can join virtual sessions.
  • Data Privacy Compliance: With increasing regulations surrounding data privacy, corporate event production teams will need to ensure compliance with standards like GDPR. Live Media Group’s digital solutions are designed to meet the latest privacy requirements, allowing companies to produce events in line with global privacy standards.

Conclusion

The future of corporate event production is set to be an exciting one, marked by rapid technological advancements, greater emphasis on hybrid experiences, and an increased focus on sustainability and security. By staying ahead of these trends, Live Media Group is positioned as a leader in corporate event production, equipped to help clients navigate the complexities of an ever-evolving landscape.

Whether it’s through the use of 5G, AR/VR, AI, or sustainable practices, Live Media Group is committed to delivering innovative, high-quality experiences that resonate with both in-person and remote audiences. For companies looking to create memorable events that engage, inspire, and connect, Live Media Group is the partner to watch in the years ahead.