The choice between the Calrec Argo M and the Type R for radio ultimately depends on the specific needs of your studio. While the Argo M is a powerful, compact version of a large-scale broadcast console, the Type R is a more specialized, modular system built from the ground up for the unique demands of radio workflows.
Here is a breakdown of the specific advantages of each to help you decide:
Calrec Argo M: Compact Powerhouse
The Argo M brings the power of Calrec's large-scale Argo platform to a smaller, space-saving frame without sacrificing features. It is an excellent choice for radio stations that also handle demanding TV or online production, or those wanting a future-proof console with immersive audio support.
- Space-Saving Design: Available in 24, 36, and 48-fader models, it maximizes desk space with full-sized fader strips.
- High Channel Count: Features up to 356 channels of internal DSP, capable of handling the most complex productions.
- Future-Ready Audio: Natively supports immersive formats up to 7.1.4, a significant advantage for stations producing content for cinema or advanced streaming platforms.
- All-in-One" Capability: It's a plug-and-play solution with built-in I/O that can operate independently or connect to a larger ST2110 IP network.
Calrec Type R: The Radio Specialist
The Type R is a modular IP mixing system designed specifically for the fast-paced, multi-studio world of radio. Its key strengths, highlighted by a real-world user case study from WNED in Buffalo, make it ideal for 24/7 radio operations.
- Built-in Redundancy: As WNED’s VP of Engineering noted, their facility uses main and backup Type R consoles with duplicate cores. If the primary control room fails, the backup runs on a different core, ensuring on-air reliability.
- Exceptional Flexibility: The system is highly modular. The same WNED case study shows that because modules are PoE (Power over Ethernet), you can literally "unplug in one room and plug into another" if needed.
- Robust Remote Broadcasts (Calrec Assist): This is a standout feature for radio. Using Calrec Assist, the system allows for full remote broadcast capabilities. WNED chose Type R specifically to keep their two million listeners connected during severe snowstorms, allowing staff to broadcast from home.
- Simple Automation Integration: Type R uses a non-proprietary IP system (AES67), making it easy to interface directly with radio automation systems like ENCO DAD. WNED is programming their Type R to handle routing under the automation system's control, removing the need for external switchers.
- Operator-Friendly Presets: Engineers can set up the console with presets for complex events (like election night), so all routing and mix-minuses are configured instantly, simplifying the operator's job.
| Feature | Calrec Argo M | Calrec Type R |
|---|---|---|
| Best For | TV, live events, or radio/TV hybrid studios needing immersive audio & high channel counts | 24/7 radio stations, schools, and networks needing reliability, flexibility, and remote broadcast capabilities |
| Key Advantage | Massive power and immersive support in a compact, familiar broadcast console | Ultimate flexibility and redundancy designed specifically for radio workflows |
| Redundancy | Optional (via external ImPulse cores) | Built-in core and console redundancy for mission-critical reliability |
| Remote Production | Excellent (via True Control 2.0 and cloud connectivity) | Excellent (via Calrec Assist web browser control) |
| IP Standard | SMPTE ST 2110 | AES67 / SMPTE ST 2110 |
The Secret Weapon: True Control 2.0
A major benefit of choosing either console is Calrec's True Control 2.0 ecosystem. This software allows any Calrec console (including Argo M and Type R) to control any other. For a radio group, this is incredibly powerful—a producer at a Type R in a small studio could take control of an Argo M in a master control room if needed, allowing you to scale your production ecosystem without extra hardware.
