LTN Global, an industry leader in transformative media technology and video transport network solutions, has announced the acquisition of DTAGS. The acquisition strengthens the LTN Ecosystem with a portfolio of scalable 4K remote production, post-production, and transmission workflows for major shows and events. Together, DTAGS’ and LTN’s expert teams and industry-leading technologies will power large-scale sports, entertainment, political, news, and corporate events. LTN’s next major 4K transmission and production project will be daily live coverage of The French Open from Roland-Garros.
DTAGS, an early pioneer in 4K remote production and broadcast transmission, has played a pivotal role in delivering highly rated live events, including Thursday Night Football and the NFL Draft, as well as innovative solutions, including America’s Got Talent’s virtual audience. DTAGS president, Mike Burk, joins the LTN Global management team with a record of excellence and reliable service to Tier 1 customers, including Fox Sports, DIRECTV, and the NFL Network. DTAGS customer Bruce Goldfeder, VP broadcast engineering, NFL Media, said: "Mike Burk is a go-to in the broadcast industry who takes complete ownership of mission-critical projects."
Mike Burk’s accolades include multiple Sports Emmy nominations and the George Wensel Technical Achievement Award for MLB Network Showcase 4K/HD Dualcast. DTAGS customer John Ward, EVP and CTO, inDEMAND, said: "Mike Burk and DTAGS provided a strong engineering presence in the field for our 4K efforts at DIRECTV/AT&T, laying the groundwork with what would become a Technical Achievement Emmy in 2016. Mike's preparation for all things at an event is unprecedented in this industry."
Now an LTN Global company, DTAGS solutions and video equipment rental services will integrate into the LTN production portfolio. The combined offering will bring best-in-class on-site and remote production solutions, including 4K production and distribution, closed captioning services, standards conversion, advertising insertion, and graphics insertion. “The DTAGS acquisition is the latest initiative in LTN’s continued commitment to providing customers with cutting-edge solutions that enable the ultimate viewer experiences,” added Malik Khan, co-founder and executive chairman, LTN Global. “DTAGS’ track record of flawless delivery, always-on customer service, and innovative solutions to some of the world’s largest media companies aligns with LTN operations and values. I am delighted to welcome Mike Burk and his team to the LTN family.”
Mike Burk, co-general manager, LTN Create, said: “I am excited by the opportunities I see for both sets of customers to utilize an expanded pool of capabilities, technologies, and personnel to meet their specific needs. With the increased demand for remote production support to bring high-profile live events to the screen, being part of the LTN Ecosystem will extend existing DTAGS customer operations and strengthen the production standards both companies are renowned for.”
DTAGS will continue to operate out of Tulsa, Oklahoma, and, in 2021, DTAGS’ 4K remote production will migrate to LTN’s state-of-the-art centralized production facility in Kansas City, Missouri. Mike Burk will continue to lead DTAGS in addition to LTN’s on-site and remote production services.
