Volume 14, Issue 17 — September 6, 2017
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Industry News TVs Audio Control & Signal Processing Projection Cables, Furniture, Mounts, Racks, Screens and Accessories
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Going Your Own Way
By Lee Distad rAVe Columnist
It’s not uncommon after years working for other people to decide that now is the time to strike out on your own. In fact, it’s extremely common, part of the circle of life.
And not everyone who goes out and sets up shop for themselves is a born entrepreneur, either. I can think of people I’ve known who were hustlers practically from birth, as well as people who spent most of their life as an employee, and were happy about it, until they decided that they had a vision of their own they wanted to pursue.
So what motivates some people to change gears, and go into business for themselves? Sometimes it’s a case of just getting tired of being an employee. One friend of mine joked, “I don’t have enough stress in my life, so I decided to start my own company!”
Behind the jokes, there’s a kernel of truth. After years of working for other people, your skills, experience and — most importantly — your confidence reach a tipping point where you realize, “Hey, I know enough to do this on my own.”
For readers who are thinking this through on their own, and determining what they want to do next with their lives, it helps to know that you’re not the only one. Regardless of whether you just need a nudge or a shove in the right direction, there are a few things you can do to be prepared to go out on your own.
You have to have a plan. What do you want to accomplish? Ask: Who? What? When? Where? Why? How? Those are all essential elements of knowing what shape your new venture is going to take.
Marketing yourself is crucial, and central to that is a portfolio of your work, showing off what you’ve done.
Whether you’re going to roll install trucks, build a showroom or freelance your skills as a contract programmer, wire monkey or just telling other people how to run their you need a portfolio as a sales tool.
Assemble examples of your work that you are proud of, case studies of projects you have completed and referrals from people who’ve had a professional relationship with you who can speak to the quality of your work.
The first two points I made about having a business plan and a portfolio are important not just for attracting new clients, but getting funding. Obviously, for many new businesses you’re going to need to seek financing.
Whether or not you need to take on debt to start your venture, it’s imperative that you quickly learn to manage your cash flow.
When I went off on my own, friends congratulated me on the “courage” it took to make that decision. I’ll be honest, it’s easier to become a freelancer when your spouse has a well-paid career with full benefits. If you’re able to make that part of your plans I strongly recommend it.
That said, no matter how much you love what you do, you still need to get paid. If you’re used to cashing your paycheck every month, and until now receivables have been someone else’s responsibility, you’ll learn very quickly to stay on top of your cash flow, especially if you’re not a sole proprietorship and have employees depending on you.
Selling your work is easy. Keeping your receivables current takes a little more work.
Your business plan shapes the outline of your venture. Setting goals is the next step.
Set milestones, things you want to achieve and the timeframe you need to reach them. Think of goals as the map to guide you on your journey. Leave a Comment
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Voting Opens for CEDIA 2018-2019 Board of Directors — Vote for Heather L. Sidorowicz!
By Gary Kayye rAVe Founder
CEDIA has announced the seven candidates on the ballot for the 2018-2018 board of directors and is calling upon all global members to cast their vote. And, like it always is, it’s mostly men. Only one nominee, Heather L. Sidorowicz, is a woman. So, we NEED you to vote her on the board. Please do not vote for anyone else but her to ensure that she gets elected. Please!
The CEDIA board of directors, according to the organization, governs the association’s activities and is dedicated to furthering the CEDIA mission of building prosperity for its members and ensuring the growth of the industry through its programs and initiatives. The 2018-2019 board, including existing (all-male) and new directors (hopefully one female), will reflect one-third EMEA directors and the remaining directors representing members across the globe. The vacancies this election cycle will be filled by CEDIA home technology professional members outside the EMEA region.
After an in-depth evaluation process by the CEDIA Governance Committee, there are seven home technology professionals who have met the competencies required to be included on the ballot and are in contention for the three open elected positions. They are:
After an in-depth evaluation process by the CEDIA Governance Committee, there are seven home technology professionals who have met the competencies required to be included on the ballot and are in contention for the three open elected positions. They are:
Ken Erdmann
Erdmann Electric
Springville, UT, USA
Ric Johnson
Right at Home Technologies, Ltd.
Ada, Ohio, USA
Scott McAllister
Electronic Systems Architects
Gold River (Sacramento), CA, USA
Craig Gradus Samson
Look & Listen
Morningside, QLD, Australia
Matt D. Scott
OMEGA Audio Video
London, Ontario, Canada
Heather L. Sidorowicz
Southtown Audio Video
Hamburg, NY, USA
Ted Sprague
Lavish Theaters Corp.
Healdsburg, CA, USA
Key details on each candidate can be found here.
Voting opens today and will remain accessible until Oct. 16, 2017. Each member company may cast one ballot. As CEDIA has transitioned to a single board representing the global CEDIA membership, it is important to note that all member companies are eligible to vote, regardless of where they are located. Those listed as company administrators in the CEDIA database were sent the voting link, and if there is more than one ballot submitted by a company, the first ballot cast will be the one counted. Members who are visiting CEDIA 2017 in San Diego may vote in the CEDIA booth #3635.
Elected directors will be announced immediately after voting closes and will be seated on January 1, 2018.
In parallel to the election process, the CEDIA Governance Committee is reviewing applications and conducting interviews with the 28 potential appointed candidates. Appointed directors are chosen from among all member types (manufacturers, service providers, home technology professionals, etc.)
Dave Humphries, CEDIA Governance Committee chairperson, said, “From diversity outreach efforts by CEDIA and our members, we are happy to report that we’ve seen a big increase in the number of women nominees for the 2018-2019 election cycle — one on the ballot for an elected director position and six who will go through the interview process to be considered for an appointed position.” This was an initiative of rAVe. What is unfortunate is that although seven females were nominated, only one was deemed eligible by the nearly all-male CEDIA Governance Committee to put forth for a director nomination.
There are two open appointed positions for the 2018-2019 term — one to be filled from the EMEA region and the other from the entire global membership. These two positions will be voted on by the newly seated board at the first board meeting in January 2018.
The board election process is governed and outlined by CEDIA’s bylaws. Leave a Comment
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The Best of Integrate 2017 Awards
Here they are…the Best of Integrate 2017 Awards!
It was a great show in Melbourne, Australia last week and we saw a number of new and impressive products. We had reporters covering show floor, going to every stand and shooting videos of every single product announced at the show.
So, we saw everything. Thus, we feel 100 percent confident that our Best of Integrate 2017 Awards represent the best products on the show floor.
Congratulations to all the award winners! Here is the full list and a videos explaining the award-winning products direct from the manufacturers.
See you all next year at the ICC in Sydney for Integrate 2018!
The Best of Integrate 2017 Awards:
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Integrate Racks Up Biggest Show on Record – and rAVe was there!Integrate has come to a close for another year and 2017 saw record numbers of attendees visiting the largest show floor ever.
Integrate 2017 was a celebration of new ideas, an exciting meeting place for industry peers and a first-hand look at what’s next for the industry. The show was held at the Melbourne Convention & Exhibition Centre this week.
Event director, Soren Norgaard, said Integrate is now undoubtedly the premiere annual event for the AV industry in the region attracting the very best exhibitors, industry associations, media and attendees.
The level of professionalism rose to new heights this year with the show floor abuzz with state-of-the-art displays, new product launches and Australian debuts.
“The wow factor produced on stands this year is testament to exhibitor’s faith in the Integrate brand and our ability to gain attendance from the people that matter,” he said.
“I’d like to thank everyone involved with the show for making this such an exceptional experience for visitors.
“It takes effort and commitment from so many people – our exhibitors, partners, media and our team, to deliver a show of such high calibre,” said Soren.
Feedback from exhibitors highlighted a next generation of attendees with both AV professionals and end users visiting the show.
“Exhibitors really focussed on the end user markets with big brands such as Samsung, Ricoh, Sony, LG, Crestron and many more highlighting technical expertise displayed within vertical solutions such as Education, Healthcare, Retail and Hospitality,” said Soren.
The Integrate Speaker Series was well attended covering the latest developments and applications in digital content, unified communications and the very latest in AV innovation.
Integrate also partnered this year with both InfoComm and CEDIA further enhancing the prestige of the event.
After a four-year absence from Darling Harbour, the show returns to the new Sydney International Convention Centre in 2018.
“2018 is a milestone for the show with Integrate celebrating its tenth anniversary. The Integrate team will be working hard to raise the bar once again to ensure the show provides an amazing experience for both exhibitors and visitors,” said Soren.
All the rAVe coverage of Integrate — including 400+ videos we shot there, is here. Leave a Comment
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Séura Intros Next Generation of Storm and Storm Ultra Bright Outdoor DisplaysSéura is introducing its next generation of Storm and Storm Ultra Bright Outdoor Displays. The full product line features 4K UHD displays and panels up to 55 percent brighter than previous designs, providing up to 1000 nits depending on the intended application. All Séura Outdoor Displays have Séura’s exclusive Adaptive Picture Technology, a patent-pending technology that continuously optimizes multiple picture settings as outdoor lighting conditions change.
These displays were designed for easy installation and integration. Inputs and outputs have been optimized for integration flexibility and relocated for easy access, even when mounted, via a large weatherproof back compartment. The internal HDBaseT and industry-first internal IP control eliminates the need for external baluns. Other features include the discreetly built-in ergonomic handles that allow for easy lifting and safe maneuvering, improved RS232 connection and three 2.0a HDMI ports.
Users can see the next generation of Séura Outdoor Displays at CEDIA booth 5148. The new Séura Outdoor Displays will be available in both the Séura Storm and Séura Storm Ultra Bright models and in 49”, 55”, 65” and 86” display sizes. The new displays will be available in 2018.
More information on Séura’s new outdoor TVs is here. Leave a Comment
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Digital Projection Expands Radiance LED With 1.2-Millimeter Pixel-Pitch for Home Cinema Digital Projection International (DPI) expands its Radiance LED platform to now include a 1.2-millimeter pixel-pitch solution. The Radiance 1.2 is an indoor display that allows architects and AV designers to imagine and implement seamless displays in nearly limitless shapes, sizes and resolutions. Because each panel is based on a standard 16:9 aspect ratio, systems can easily be designed to present HD, UHD and even 8K+ resolutions.
For elite home living areas, Radiance LED offers limitless custom solutions such as the Radiance Infinity Wall. This concept is being unveiled at CEDIA 2017, and is designed to provide a powerfully engaging experience beyond entertainment. The seamless panels form an interactive display designed to integrate with home automation and entertainment systems. From incredibly detailed live art and designer textures to sports, web surfing and traditional broadcast events, Radiance Infinity Walls immaculately present the information, entertainment and art that serves our lifestyles.
Here are the details. Leave a Comment
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Jamo Adds New Outdoor Speaker Collection Jamo is pleased to announce a collection of all-weather speakers designed to provide balanced, natural sound to any outdoor living environment. The collection is comprised of landscape and rock speakers, wall-mounted speakers and amplifiers — all with 70/100-volt compatibility and low impedance capability for maximum installation flexibility in residential or commercial spaces.
The new Jamo Landscape speakers provide dynamic audio performances with low impedance and 70-volt installation options, making them an ideal solution for residential or commercial outdoor environments. The JL-4 full-range landscape satellites offer an ultra-compact design and all-weather construction for maximum durability and impact resistance. The accompanying JL-10SW half-burial subwoofer installs easily and delivers low frequency extension and output. Their unique charcoal gray finish allows them to become nearly invisible in modern landscapes.
New Jamo rock speakers and rock subwoofer are voice matched to the landscape system and offer alternate ways for high-quality, stealth audio in outdoor living spaces. The rock speakers and rock subwoofer (JR-4, JR-5, JR-6 and JR-8SW) are available in two finishes — granite and sandstone.
The new Jamo surface mount Indoor/Outdoor (I/O) two-way speakers are voiced to match their box home theater and architectural counterparts but ready for use outdoors with weatherproof cabinets and drivers. The I/O speakers are available in black or white.
The JDA-500 Jamo Amplifier is designed with the Jamo outdoor speaker collection in mind to optimize performance, as well as provide DSP presets for any Jamo speaker system. The powerful DSP suite provides full customization of I/O routing, EQ, limiting and system tuning. The 500W JDA-500 can be configured to support 70-volt or low impedance installations and offers 2/3/4 channel configurations.
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Klipsch Debuts 50 New Speaker Solutions at CEDIA 2017 Klipsch today announces the addition of more than 50 new high-performance custom speaker solutions for residential and commercial applications that feature new installation technologies, designed to save integrators time and money.
Four new series of architectural speakers offer high-performance audio at various price points and are exclusive to integrators. The Klipsch Professional Reference Premiere Architectural speakers and Professional Reference combines the aesthetics of an architectural speaker with the same award-winning horn-loaded acoustics and core components of their home theater component speaker counterparts. The series uses a new proprietary SecureFit two-piece modular installation system creates a more robust, stable acoustic platform for the speakers. It enables a quick and easy one-person installation solution and is designed to reduce baffle vibration by up to 40 percent.
Two Professional series subwoofers offer additional solutions to the existing subwoofer lineup including a hidden bandpass model for ceiling or floor use and a full stud bay 12” model for maximum theater performance in the wall.
The Klipsch Designer and Custom Architectural speakers are high-quality and value lines that are equipped with Sky Hook by Swarm technology for a tool-free installation in less than one minute. Exclusively licensed to Klipsch, patent-pending Sky Hook technology, a tool-free, fully automatic, self-adjusting installation system is designed to simplify and reduce installation times by up to 75 percent. Simply cut a hole, attach wires, press the speaker into the hole, while Sky Hook adapts to the surface thickness with a preset clamping force that virtually eliminates the possibility of breaking the dog leg or cracking drywall. Removals are also fast and easy with a quarter turn of a screwdriver.
Klipsch will also showcase its weather resistant outdoor speaker solutions that are easy to install without tools, and can be tailored to any residential or commercial outdoor living environment. Klipsch Professional Series Landscape speakers are the only horn-loaded outdoor satellite and rock speaker solutions on the market. Klipsch says these all-weather, durable, low-distortion, high-efficiency systems deliver dynamic, powerful detailed sound. The speakers emit an ultra-wide 105° dispersion for powerful, balanced sound, while the landscape and rock subwoofers produce low frequency extension and output.
Klipsch KDA Amplifiers compliment any speaker system by offering a one-rack solution for any type of installation. The KDA Amplifiers claim to be among the most flexible on the market with 70v and low impedance capability, fully configurable DSP menus and I/O routing as well as 2/3/4 channel configurations.
Additionally, Klipsch is developing a new online experience specifically for integrators that focuses on its robust line of custom installation speakers and accessories. Go here for features on the latest architectural product offerings, installation tips, detailed product information and a free system design service. The website will be available on September 7th.
In the meantime, everything available is here. Leave a Comment
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New Valet Amplifier by Origin Acoustics Links Music Sources Through Alexa Voice Control Origin Acoustics has announced its foray into the world of voice controlled audio systems. The Valet amplifier integrates seamlessly with the Amazon Echo Dot to create a simple, interactive four-zone system. Featuring eight 75-watt channels, the Valet amp can be connected to a broad range of speakers and provide the power necessary to drive them to substantial volume levels.
Each of the four stereo zones sports an RJ45 connection that sends power to the Dot over a standard CAT5 cable and also returns the audio signal to the amplifier via a proprietary balun. Taking advantage of the Dot’s audio output allows both music and Alexa’s voice to play through the room’s loudspeakers.
Amazon Music, Spotify, Pandora, iHeartRadio and TuneIn libraries can all be accessed and played through the system directly from the Dot. External sources can also be played through the system and the Valet’s Patent Pending muting circuit will mute the source when Alexa is addressed and unmute when the appropriate action is completed. There is also a twelve-volt trigger for each zone that will allow for additional activation of third party devices upon Alexa being addressed.
Aesthetically blending the Dot into the room is made easy utilizing Origin’s patented Tool-less mounting system. The Dot can be ceiling mounted behind a perforated 3-inch speaker grille making it virtually invisible in the room but easily voice activated. Up to four Dot’s can be incorporated and since the Dots communicate with each other the entire home becomes an interactive playground.
The Valet amplifier will retail for $1,500 and will include the baluns necessary to integrate with the Echo Dot. Here are all the specs. Leave a Comment
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Neets Introduces the Neets Sound Bar, the SB1 Neets today announced the forthcoming release of its Neets Sound Bar – SB1. Featuring a 2.0 full-range active stereo sound bar. This latest addition to the Neets line of AV control systems is a new sound bar that greatly enhances the meeting and conference room audio experience.
The Neets Sound Bar SB1was designed with developing a sound bar that combines an aesthetically pleasing design with high-quality audio and works out-of-the-box. Additionally, when combined with a control system, presenters can experience an even better sound performance by choosing between “Presentation,” “Unified Communication,” and “Music” modes.
The Neets Sound Bar – SB1 can be connected directly to a display or sound source. It works out-of-the-box via the wake-on-signal, or it can be seamlessly connected to a control system through the RS232 port. The all-black Neets Sound Bar comes with a vinyl-covered cabinet and a fabric-covered grill. With the built-in amplifier and the two sets of 4” woofers and 1” tweeters, there’s no need for an external sub.
The Neets Sound Bar – SB1 will begin shipping in the beginning of Q4, 2017. Here are the tech specs. Leave a Comment
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Leon’s All-New Flagship SEVEN Series Debuts at CEDIA Leon Speakers celebrates its 20th anniversary during CEDIA 2017 with the introduction of their new flagship SEVEN Series loudspeakers. With a distinctive design, the all-new SEVEN Series was developed in collaboration with recording artists, producers and acoustic engineers and uses what LEON claims is “world-class components” and “exquisite materials” to elicit the soul of any recording — yes, that’s what their press release actually said. Ugh!
The SEVEN series will begin shipping in September and offers a number of models, including the all-new Timbre SEVEN bookshelf speakers, the Horizon SEVEN soundbar, the Profile SEVEN sidemount speakers, and the Detail SEVEN on-wall speakers.
- Timbre SEVEN — Brand new to the line and the first of its kind, the Timbre SEVEN is constructed from 1-inch solid hardwood butcher-block and features striking accents of copper and aluminum. With handmade 7” aluminum cone woofers and 25mm cloth-dome tweeters mounted in a solid billet aluminum baffle, the Timbre SEVEN is available in two models, the MT with a single woofer configuration, and the MTM with double woofers, offering flexibility for any setup.
- Horizon SEVEN Soundbar — Custom built to match the exact width of any display, the redesigned Horizon SEVEN soundbar brings style and superior sound into media rooms, home theaters, and anywhere else audiophile-grade quality and aesthetics are important.
- Profile SEVEN — Custom built to match the exact height of any display, the updated Profile SEVEN provides an accurate, wide soundstage for the ultimate audio experience.
- Detail SEVEN — In surround sound applications, the newly upgraded Detail SEVEN is perfectly tuned to perform in harmony with any of the other speakers in the SEVEN Series to create a fully immersive environment and add new dimensions to the in-home audio experience.
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AudioControl Unveils the Director Model M4840 Multi-Zone Amplifier AudioControl has introduced The Director M4840 amplifier for whole-house entertainment, engineered into a new form factor that is over 30 percent shallower than traditional rack-mounted amplifiers. The Director Model M4840 delivers an unmatched combination of features, superb sound quality and fine-tuning capability all within a compact form factor that is a scant 11.5-inches deep, elevating it far above all other solutions in the multi-zone amplifier marketplace.
The AudioControl Director Model M4840 utilizes technology from the company’s Director M-Series amplifier lineup and though its shallow chassis saves valuable rack space, it does not compromise on performance. The M4840 delivers 100 watts/8 ohms, 200 watts/4 ohms per channel into an 8×10 stereo matrix that delivers the highest quality entertainment programming to any zone. Integrators can tailor the sound based on DSP (digital signal processing) profiles of leading speaker brands as part of AudioControl’s Sound Partners Program, and then fine-tune these DSP profiles by individual zones based on environment. The M4840 can be used as a standalone matrix-amplifier or as part of a complete smart home environment with drivers available for popular third-party control systems including Crestron, Savant, RTI or Control 4. AudioControl has provided integrators with the flexibility to deliver eight channels of premium performance from a 1U (M4800) or a 2U shallow (M4840) chassis to accommodate nearly any system configuration. Two 2U 16-channel amplifiers (M6400, M6800) round out the Director M Series lineup.
The M4840’s powerful DSP engine includes graphic and parametric equalization by zone, network monitoring/programming plus the addition of zone and global volume control with individual channel/zone grouping via standard TCIP and zone audio presets. Director Series amplifiers can be controlled onsite or remotely through their DCHP/fixed IP control. The M4840 also allows for the ability to bridge channels, giving integrators configuration flexibility for system setup. No other multi-zone amplifier offers this combination of functionality and performance.
The Director Model M4840 is available now in brushed aluminum and Black Espresso finish and lists for $2,700 US. Here are more detailed specs. Leave a Comment
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NEAR Intros Two New NEARSCAPES Landscape Audio SystemsToday NEAR, a manufacturer of outdoor loudspeakers and electronics for residential use, introduced two new satellite/subwoofer landscape speaker systems of exceptional performance, beauty and flexibility – the NEARSCAPES IG44.1 and the NEARSCAPES IG44.1DSP. The new models are expected to join the existing NEARSCAPES landscape systems in Q1 2018.
The NEARSCAPES IG44.1 system (MSRP $3,739) features four IG4M two-way satellite bollard style speakers, one IGS100M in-ground subwoofer, and five IE1 direct burial junction boxes. The NEARSCAPES IG44.1DSP (MSRP $4,739) adds one NEAR 3XL power amplifier to the same 4.1 speaker package.
The system covers a 3,000-square-foot area with NEAR’s signature audiophile-grade sound. The extraordinary area coverage of these systems is due to the wide 120-degree dispersion of the IG4M satellite speakers. Fewer NEARSCAPES speakers are needed to cover a given area with high clarity sound than with competing systems with 60-degree dispersion. With NEARSCAPES systems, every listener in the coverage area will hear full performance sound without overly loud “hot” and low-fidelity “dead” zones.
Integrators will appreciate the installation simplicity and flexibility afforded by the IG4M’s design. The bollard-style speaker can be partially buried for maximum security and minimal visual profile or ground mounted with its included ground stake. The five IE1 direct burial junction boxes simplify wiring hookup and ensure long-term signal connection integrity.
On the underside of the satellite enclosures are two IP68-rated connectors that allow convenient daisy chain wiring of multiple IG4M speakers on a single line. Integrators can choose to power the speaker with a 70-volt line (power taps: 64W, 32W, 16W, 8W and 4W) or with a 16-ohm operation via a rotary switch located under a protective cover.
The driver complement of one 4.5-inch driver with a coincident 1-inch bridge-mounted tweeter is mounted on a 25-degree upward-angled baffle to ensure well-balanced sound at ear level. The components feature NEAR technologies, such as ultra low mass Metal Diaphragm Technology (MDT) cones. Both woofer and tweeter are Magnetic Liquid Suspension (MLS) “spiderless” designs, resulting in longer cone excursion for low distortion high output and consistent behavior from arctic cold to desert hot (-20 to +160 degrees F; -29 – +71 C).
The IG4M enclosure is 7-3/4 inches diameter at the base and 19-1/2 inches high. When partially buried in the ground, the exposed part of the speaker is merely 6 inches diameter and as little as 10 inches high.
The IGS100M subwoofer can be used freestanding or in-ground for minimum visibility and maximum bass performance. It features a 10-inch woofer in a bandpass enclosure. The woofer driver employs an ultra low mass Metal Diaphragm Technology (MDT) for best-in-class sound quality and durability. The driver is an Magnetic Liquid Suspension (MLS) “spiderless” design resulting in longer cone excursion for superior bass output and lower distortion.
The two-channel NEAR 3XL amplifier supplies 350 WPC — more than enough to power the IG44.1 speaker system to concert-level volumes over a 3000 square foot area. The amp’s DSP is preconfigured to bring out the best performance from the IG44.1 speakers. Crossovers, equalization, power limiting and other parameters are preset perfectly at the factory. More advanced users can access the full array of DSP controls through a GUI accessed via a laptop connected to the Ethernet port.
NEAR will demonstrate the NEARSCAPES IG44.1DSP system in booth 4250 at CEDIA Expo 2017. The new NEARSCAPES speaker systems are expected to ship to U.S. dealers in Q1 2018. Leave a Comment
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Marquee Cinema Collection by Origin Acoustics Debuts at CEDIA Origin Acoustics will announce their new Marquee Cinema Collection this week at CEDIA. The front LCR speakers reside in braced, extruded aluminum enclosures that can be mounted in or on the wall depending on the specific installation. Dual 8-inch woofers and dual 5 1/4-inch mids flank a titanium compression driver. Each pair of mids and woofers is independently powered by a dedicated 700-watt amplifier channel with extensive DSP. The compression driver also benefits from its own digitally processed amplifier channel as well.
A three-way system that is tri-amplified does not depend on passive x-over networks that limit system flexibility and reduce efficiency. Each driver can be individually tuned to provide the perfect sonic profile for the specific room in which it is being asked to operate. It offers a total of 2,100 watts per speaker or 6,300 watts pushing the front three channels, efficiency of 97dB and a max SPL of 123 dB. The same speaker/amplifier combination can be employed for the side and rear channels or a client may prefer in-ceiling speakers like the Director D109, Origins flagship, 10-inch speaker for these locations. The low frequency duties are performed by a pair of 15-inch subwoofers in ported cabinets powered by two, individual 1,500-watt mono-block amplifiers.
List for each of the front speakers and their accompanying amplifier will be $5,000. The individual sub/amp combination will be $3,500 each. The entire system will be shipping in the fourth quarter of this year.
Here are more details. Leave a Comment
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Parasound Reprises Five-Channel Amplifier With 44 Percent More PowerParasound introduced this week its new Halo A 52+ five-channel amplifier. The A 52+ is based on the company’s A 52 and features significant upgrades in power output, circuitry refinements and the latest Halo styling.
The new model increases available power from 125 to 180 watts per channel into 8 ohms and 255 watts into 4 ohms, with all channels driven. As with its predecessor, the Parasound Halo A 52+ is the work of audio legend John Curl, using high-bias Class A/AB and direct-coupled circuit topology.
The Parasound Halo A 52+ features a larger custom-made toroid power transformer to support its higher power output. It has five RCA unbalanced and five balanced XLR inputs, a separate module for each channel, DC Servos and relays to protect the amp and speakers. Features include automatic turn-on, a 3U chassis with rear carry handles which is rack mountable with optional adaptors.
The Parasound Halo A 52+ has a black anodized extruded front panel with new solid aluminum end-caps that are milled and hand-polished. The Parasound Halo A 52+ will be available in Q4 of 2017 with a retail price of $2,995.
For more information on Parasound products is here. Leave a Comment
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Wisdom Audio Adds Second Generation of System ControllersWisdom Audio, designer and manufacturer of loudspeaker systems, will unveil its new SC-2 and SC-3 system controllers in booth 4849 at CEDIA 2017, Sept. 7-9 at the San Diego Convention Center. The second-generation controllers are designed to help installers overcome acoustic problems with calibration tools that solve unpredictable and complex audio distortions in any installation.
The SC-2 is a 2RU system controller offering eight-channel in to 16-channel out, while the SC-3 is a 3RU platform providing 16-channel in to 32-channel out. Both units operate at 24-bit 96 kHz and provide the necessary digital active crossover and digital EQ profiles for all Wisdom Audio loudspeakers. Now featuring Dirac Live, a platform that Wisdom Audio says is optimized for sound enhancement technology, both controllers are designed to perfect sound in any listening room by removing resonances and acoustic problems in sound reproduction — creating a natural, realistic and transparent sound with tighter bass, reducing early reflections and room coloration — without the need for room treatments. Expert Mode provides installers with an additional layer of live tuning features, equalization tools and the ability to override delays and trim EQ to optimize system performance in the most difficult acoustic scenarios. With four preset slots to store up to four complete and independent calibrations, installers have plenty of space to perform multiple room correction setups for up to 16 zones or rooms.
Dirac Research is a global leader in platform-optimized sound enhancement technology. In addition to serving home theater companies, their solutions are also used by blue chip technology companies in the mobile, automotive and professional audio industries.
These controllers weren’t on Wisdom Audio’s website at press time, but when they are, they will be here. Leave a Comment
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Basalte Presents Auro Motion Sensor for Crestron and LutronAt CEDIA 2017, Basalte introduces Auro: a small, fast and almost invisible motion sensor for Crestron and Lutron HomeWorks QS systems. With its flat design, Auro blends in any interior, while it boasts more functionalities then you would expect from a motion sensor.
Since coming to the U.S., the Belgian manufacturer Basalte has definitely pushed the boundaries with its beautiful control solutions for the high-end smart home, including minimalist iPad mounts and touch-sensitive keypads made of aluminum, bronze, glass…
At CEDIA 2017, Basalte introduced its Auro motion sensor, which combines a very subtle design with additional temperature and light sensors. The integrated LEDs can be used to show feed — back or as a night orientation light.
Auro natively integrates with Crestron systems, directly connecting to the Cresnet bus cable and programmed in SIMPL Windows. Auro also integrates with Lutron HomeWorks QS systems over RS485 through the Serial.link integration module.
Auro has a visible diameter of 2″ with an innovative flat design. Only requiring an opening of 1.7″, it is very easy to install. With a vertical detection angle of 90 degrees, it has a detection circle with a diameter of 16″ when installed at a height of 8″, making it perfect for hallways, bathrooms, dressings…
Here are the specs. Leave a Comment
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Arista Corporation Debuts ARD-1008A 4K HDBaseT Wallplate ReceiverArista Corporation, a manufacturer of video wall LCD displays, AV extenders, matrix switchers, AV MultiViewers and related products for the AV installation and industrial markets, introduced the ARD-1008A 4K HDBaseT Wallplate Receiver. Designed as a single Cat6 cable in-wall two-gang Decora style wall plate, the ARD-1008A serves as a dual purpose KVM (keyboard, video, mouse) extender receiver and HDMI extender receiver — making it easy to receive a 4K UHD video signal, control information and power from a remote HDBaseT transmitter up to 330 feet away. The ARD-1008A is ideal for environments such as sports bars, digital signage, residential AV and similar applications.
The complete specs are here. Leave a Comment
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New Release of Crestron Pyng Software Adds Support for Sonos and Amazon AlexaCrestron announced today that a new Crestron Pyng software update is now available. Version 1.010.0038 elevates the user experience to a new level while making integration even easier for Crestron Technology Professionals (CTPs). Highlights of the Crestron Pyng update include:
Native Sonos sound system support: Integrating Sonos with Crestron Pyng as a multi-room audio source is now effortless. Simply pair Crestron Pyng with Sonos Connects and you can immediately select and control Sonos favorites with gorgeous Crestron touch screens, including the elegant new TSW-560P 5″ portrait model.
Native Amazon Alexa software support: Now, CTPs can integrate Amazon Alexa software with home systems without any programming. All that’s required is to follow some simple configuration steps. Once connected, Alexa automatically recognizes rooms and scene names from Crestron Pyng for immediate voice control, such as “Alexa, tell Crestron it’s too hot in the kitchen.”
Remote configuration: CTPs can now pre-configure customer rooms, lighting loads, and modules off-site and then retrieve them from the cloud on-site. No more double work planning and documenting systems for electricians and then having to recreate that entire process in the Crestron Pyng app while on-site. Now, you can document and configure remotely in just one step
Client customization and scheduling: Clients can now easily create their own scenes and schedules for lighting and shades through user interfaces other than Crestron Pyng, such as mobile projects and touch screens generated by the residential version of Crestron Studio®software
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TechLogix Launches 18G 4:4:4 HDMI Over Fiber Extender TechLogix Networx is expanding its media-over-fiber-optics line with the launch of the TL-FO2-HDC, a compact extender set which transmits HDMI and bi-directional control up to 300 meters over duplex multimode fiber.
The TL-FO2-HDC leverages VLC technology to transmits 18G 4K@60 4:4:4 HDMI and bi-directional RS232 or IR up to 300 meters (984 feet) over duplex multimode fiber. A built-in swappable SFP+ module allows the integration of single mode cable and transmission distances of 10km (6.2 miles).
The unit supports HDMI 2.0, HDR, multi-channel audio and HDCP 2.2 signals, and performance over even the longest of distances at the highest of resolutions is completely immune to EM and RF interference, an issue which limits traditional twisted pair products.
The TL-FO2-HDC lists for $799 U.S. per set and specs are here. Leave a Comment
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Epson Home Cinema LS100 Laser Display Reinvents the Home High Definition Viewing Experience for Movies, Video, TV and GamingEpson just debuted the Home Cinema LS100 Full HD 3LCD Ultra Short-Throw Laser Display – bringing bright, big-screen projection in a smart ultra-short throw design to living rooms for under $3,000 list. A compact solution, the Home Cinema LS100 sits just inches from the wall without any long cables, shadows or glare to disrupt the viewing experience or detract from decor. Powered by Epson’s laser technology, the Home Cinema LS100 features 4,000 lumens of equal color and white brightness, and a contrast ratio up to 2,500,000:1 for incredibly deep blacks. Offering an immersive, Full HD picture up to 10 feet diagonal, the Home Cinema LS100 delivers with or without a screen.
Featuring “No Shadow” projection and simple cable management, users don’t have to worry about interruptions when viewing content ifpeople walk in front of the projected image. The Home Cinema LS100 also enables today’s connected home to stream Full HD content from a range of devices including cable/satellite boxes, gaming consoles and streaming devices like Amazon FireTV, Apple TV, Chromecast and Roku.
With Instant Off performance, experience almost no lag time for warm-up or cool down with the projector reaching maximum brightness orturning off within 5 seconds. Designed for both the mass consumer and custom installer markets, the Home Cinema LS100 will be available for $2,999.
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BenQ Launches LK970 4K Laser ProjectorBenQ America Corp today announced the availability of the LK970 4K UHD BlueCore laser projector. spec’d at 4K UHD (3840×2160) resolution, with 5,000 ANSI-lumen brightness, it’s aimed at large-venue applications, home cinemas and living rooms with high-ambient lighting conditions.
Featuring BenQ’s BlueCore Laser technology with Texas Instruments’ latest DLP chip, it has a dual color wheel specifically engineered to project rich, saturated color with superior accuracy that’s capable of meeting the hefty color and reliability requirements of large-venue settings such as boardrooms, classrooms, immersive public spaces, museums, retail stores, simulation setups and more.
For integrators and IT managers, the LK970 is compatible with Creston, AMX and Extron control systems for convenient system integration with various third-party devices. Combined with BenQ’s Multiple Display Administrator (MDA) software, administrators can efficiently perform day-to-day scheduling, operations and maintenance from a centralized location and across an entire public display network, reducing the cost for managing multiple projectors.
Additionally, the LK970 offers HDBaseT connectivity for uncompressed transmissions up to 100 meters. HDBaseT connectivity combines video, audio and device control signals from multiple sources including PCs, laptops, document cameras, Blu-rays and DVDs onto a single CAT5 cable for seamless long-distance transmissions.
Here are all the detailed specs. Leave a Comment
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Salamander Designs Intros a New Style to the C-Frame SystemSalamander Designs, Ltd., a manufacturer of residential and commercial audio/video furniture, announced today the introduction of a new custom cabinet style, Milan. Milan is an addition to the C-Frame System, which includes A/V cabinets that blend art and technology and will fit any decor.
Milan offers a future forward geometric three-dimensional, diamond pattern. It’s finished in gleaming white and complemented by a variety of tops: black or white solid surface top or black or brown glass tops.
As with all Salamander Designs products, the Milan is built from eco-friendly materials, engineered to perform and is available in a variety of configurations, including 12” deep in Low Profile Wall Mount Cabinets or 22” deep Credenzas ranging from single bay cabinets to four bays. Milan doors can also be purchased separately and swapped into an existing system. Pricing starts at $999.
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Savant Intros New Line of Motorized, Fascia-Free ShadesSavant announced today the introduction of Savant Shades, a line of motorized shades available in blackout, translucent and sheer fabrics. Unlike conventional shading solutions, Savant Shades are a fascia-free design — meaning that window boxes concealing unsightly wires, screws or fasteners are no longer required resulting in the cleanest look possible.
Savant Shades offer features such as a single motor system capable of driving multiple shades and a two-phase installation process that enables integrators to test mount the assemblies before fabric is ordered. Once installed, the shades are intuitively configured using Savant’s Blueprint software, enabling integrators to easily synchronize timing, set stop limits and other parameters. Shades can be easily included in any Savant Scene, configurable by the integrator or the homeowner. Additionally, Savant has designed a modern eCommerce platform called The Savant Shade Designer, which makes it simple for integrators to plan and price each job. An intuitive online store eliminates the unexpected costs that plague other shade solutions and simplifies the ordering of standard and custom fabrics, reducing delivery time to as little as three weeks.
Savant says its control platform will continue to support third-party shading solutions as it does currently.
Savant Shades are available immediately. More information on Savant products is here. Leave a Comment
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RoseWater Energy Group to Debut HUB 120 at CEDIA 2017 Rosewater Energy Group, a provider of next-generation integrated energy management hubs, will debut at CEDIA Expo 2017 the HUB 120, a single-box, feature-rich energy management solution.
The panel-level HUB 120 features power conditioning, battery backup, surge protection and up to 28.8 kilowatts of storage for fully uninterruptible power with zero transfer time. Designed as a more simplified and compact solution than the powerful RoseWater Energy Management HUB, the HUB 120 is ideal for residential power management. The HUB 120, unlike anything else on the market, will be showcased in RoseWater’s booth, alongside the Energy Management HUB, at CEDIA 2017.
RoseWater Energy Group is here. Leave a Comment
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Stewart Filmscreen to Intro Dual Roller Screen Gemini During CEDIA 2017Stewart Filmscreen announced this week the introduction and CEDIA debut of a new dual-roller projection screen system called Gemini. This new screen system includes a contemporary new case designed with dual aspect ratios to accommodate both HDTV (16:9) and Widescreen Cinema Scope (2:35:1) viewing experiences. CEDIA attendees can stop by booth #5329 and view the Gemini projector screen system during CEDIA from September 7 – 9, 2017 in the San Diego Convention Center.
Users can automatically change the screen material and aspect ratio from 16:9 HDTV to 2.35:1 Cinemascope with the push of a button or via voice control when paired with third party options like the wildly popular Amazon Echo and others. Both screens roll up into Gemini’s unobtrusive casing when not in use, ensuring that home technology professionals can maintain the desired design aesthetics of any room.
Gemini is available in a variety of flexible, front projection configurations. Acoustically transparent options are also available using Stewart Filmscreen’s woven Harmony fabric or proprietary Cinemaperf or Microperf X2 THX Ultra perforated material options.
The lightweight screen housing comes in a choice of black or white case color to match any décor, and a four-corner mounting system for ceiling recessed installations. Optional wall-mount brackets are available for applications where wall mounting is preferred. The unit ships fully-assembled with a three-prong power connection. The Gemini Screen System uses a dual IMC control, which can include a 12-volt trigger on the IMC or add the optional IBT 100 for RS-232 connection. Gemini is also compatible with many home automation and control systems, including Crestron, AMX and Savant.
More information about Gemini is here. Leave a Comment
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For all you REGULAR readers of rAVe HomeAV Edition out there, hopefully you enjoyed another opinion-packed issue!
For those of you NEW to rAVe, you just read how we are — we are 100% opinionated. We not only report the news and new product stories of the high-end HomeAV industry, but we stuff the articles full of our opinions. That may include (but is not limited to) whether or not the product is even worth looking at, challenging the manufacturers on their specifications, calling a marketing-spec bluff and suggesting ways integrators market their products better. But, one thing is for sure, we are NOT a trade publication that gets paid for running editorial or product stories. Traditional trade publications get paid to run product stories — that’s why you see what you see in most of the pubs out there. We are different: we run what we want to run and NO ONE is going to pay us to write anything good (or bad).
Don’t like us, then go away — unsubscribe! Just use the link below.
To send me feedback, don’t reply to this newsletter – instead, write directly to me at gary@ravepubs.com or for editorial ideas: Editor-in-Chief Sara Abrons at sara@ravepubs.com
A little about me: I graduated from Journalism School at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill (where I am adjunct faculty). I’ve been in the AV-industry since 1987 where I started with Extron and eventually moved to AMX. So, I guess I am an industry veteran (although I don’t think I am that old). I have been an opinionated columnist for a number of industry publications and in the late 1990s I started the widely read KNews eNewsletter (the first in the AV market) and also created the model for and was co-founder of AV Avenue – which is now known as InfoComm IQ. rAVe Publications has been around since 2003, when we launched our original newsletter, rAVe ProAV Edition.
rAVe HomeAV Edition, co-published with CEDIA, launched in February, 2004.
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Copyright 2017 – rAVe [Publications] – All rights reserved. For reprint policies, contact rAVe [Publications], 210 Old Barn Ln. – Chapel Hill, NC 27517 – 919/969-7501. Email: sara@ravepubs.com
rAVe HomeAV Edition contains the opinions of the author only and does not necessarily reflect the opinions of other persons or companies or its sponsors. |
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