Stingray Deploys First GBS MaxxCasting Systems in Canada

RADIO ONLINE | Wednesday, April 20, 2022 | 11:45am CT

GEO Broadcast Solutions and Stringray

Stingray, and its over 100 radio outlets, is partnering with U.S.-based GeoBroadcast Solutions (GBS) to launch the first Canadian deployments of its MaxxCasting system to increase the signal quality and audience reach of its stations by delivering an increase in population coverage. With the roll out of MaxxCasting, signal enhancements can reach neighborhoods in the country's largest cities and smallest towns from Vancouver to St. John's.

"Our biggest challenge has been broadcasting into areas within the predicted contour that the signal wasn't covering," said Stingray Engineering Director Chris Maclaurin. "Our engineering consultants, Octave Communications, introduced us to the MaxxCasting solution and we are excited to strike this partnership and be able to be the first in Canada to deploy the system and address coverage improvements in the cities we serve."

Octave's President Francois Guathier added, "Our long-term relationship with Stingray and understanding of what they needed to reach more listeners led to our recommendation that MaxxCasting would be the best solution to further its signal to the outlying suburbs of the city."

"Most FM radio stations have areas their signal can't cover due to terrain, urban buildings, and adjacent channel interference; and Stingray's stations are no exception," said GeoBroadcast Solutions Director of Spectrum Design Paul Littleton. "MaxxCasting enables broadcasters to overcome many signal limitations, expand the populations served, improve ratings, and increase revenues. We are honored to work with Stingray and Octave to help extend their reach and improve the listening experience throughout Canada."

GBS says MaxxCasting combines radio and cellular technology that enable FM Broadcasters to enhance their signals with the deployment of a strategically located cluster of low to the ground, directionalized synchronized booster sites. This allows broadcasters to deliver signals that reach a broader portion of their service area and supports the decoding of the Nielsen PPM watermark to aid in audience measurement.