
After a decade of 24/7 use, Miracle Channel is upgrading its existing system with two single-channel AirBox Neo systems from PlayBox Neo in its Lethbridge, Alberta headquarters. The playouts will be used for playout of the broadcaster’s two linear channels - Miracle Channel and Corco Channel – as well as its streaming service, with Corco+. Miracle Channel is Canada's first and only all-Christian TV station, reaching over 7 million people across Canada, with its second channel Corco, reaching 1.6 million homes. Corco+ is available to monthly Miracle Channel donors.
Miracle Channel began broadcasting in 1996 and has grown dramatically since then. The channel is owned by the Miracle Channel Association (MCA), which is the umbrella company for other initiatives, including the MCA Media Group. With increased programming needs and the inclusion of high-profile pastors such as Joel Osteen and Joyce Meyer, the station needed a robust platform to broadcast its talk shows, documentaries, news programs, kids shows, and movies. In 2014, Miracle Channel replaced its larger master control system with the PlayBox Neo Suite automation platform.
“We have always had confidence in our systems lasting since we began working with Playbox Neo,” said Tom Lister, Director of Operations, MCA Media Group. “PlayBox Neo gives us the flexibility to take on opportunities that come our way. The ease of integration to work with our other systems has been key in working with PlayBox over the years. We finally replaced our systems to take advantage of the new processing power that we’ll need as our programming content and distribution channels continue to grow. It will give our overall operation greater stability.”
PlayBox Neo has enhanced the religious broadcaster’s operations with the latest versions of its AirBox Neo, TitleBox Neo, and Capture Suite - delivering comprehensive content control and 24/7 reliability.
“The durability of our technology is apparent when looking at the 24/7 use of the PlayBox Neo solutions by The Miracle Channel,” said Van Duke, U.S. Director of Operations, PlayBox Neo. “They’re not replacing their existing system because it’s not working, they’re upgrading for new features, as well as increased power and speed. This is a much less expensive upgrade than replacing an entire system. Because we have such an upgrade path available, it’s a very easy plug and play scenario.”
Lister adds that another reason for staying with PlayBox Neo through the years is the team’s responsiveness: “It’s reassuring to know that we have the entire team in our corner. That along with the quality of the technology and price point made this upgrade an easy decision for us.”