ERR launches new mobile radio broadcast station

ERR, Estonia’s public broadcaster, has begun using a new mobile radio broadcast station for live coverage of concerts, song festivals and other events. Called Hõbehall, it is larger, quieter and more capable than the previous radio bus, ERR reported.

The name Hõbehall continues a tradition dating back nearly 90 years, when it was given to the first radio reportage bus. Several subsequent radio buses also carried the same name.

The new station is designed to make radio broadcasts from concerts and large events more convenient and to allow programmes for several channels to be produced simultaneously. Chief sound director Kaspar Karner said it is larger than the previous bus, has better sound insulation and is technically more advanced.

It includes a separate control room for sound directors and a studio for the editor and presenter. In the old bus, presenters and sound directors worked in the same room.

Karner said the station will mainly be used for broadcasts by radio editorial teams. It has also been designed as a backup system for the radio building, allowing radio operations to continue from another location if necessary.

The old radio bus, which served ERR for more than 20 years, was originally built for Radio 2 summer tours and was later adapted for radio broadcasts. It is expected to remain in use for about another month before its equipment is removed. A recently installed mixing console will then be moved to the Estonia Concert Hall, replacing a console dating from 2009.

Before entering regular service, the new station will be presented at a large international technology fair. Built in Lithuania on ERR’s order, it is considered modern enough to be showcased elsewhere as well.