How we install a studio in a city we have never visited

A nonprofit in Winnipeg wanted a two-host studio for a monthly community show. No partner installer was free that month. This is how it went anyway.

Week one: the plan

They sent phone photos, a room video and measurements. We returned a layout drawing, an acoustic note and an equipment list at retail prices. Total gear: about $2,100.

Week two: the kit

We bought the gear, unboxed it, configured the console, saved the template, labelled every cable end with the seat number and the socket it belongs in, and repacked it. The box shipped tracked and insured.

Week three: the call

Their office manager opened the box on a video call with our engineer. Arms clamped, cables plugged by label, panels hung where the drawing showed. Two hours. Then a test episode with the engineer listening.

The result

The first episode was published nine days later. Total cost including our fee: under $3,200. When they add a third host, the console already has the channel.

If your city is not on our installer list, this is how we do it. Same plan, same checklist, same calibration.