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Volume 9, Issue 11 — June 20, 2012
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Whose Warranty Is It Anyway?
By Lee Distad
rAVe Columnist For the clients of HomeAV systems dealers, a huge factor in the kind of satisfaction that leads to repeat and referral business is post-install service. The happiest clients know that their calls will still be returned after the dealer has cashed the Upon Completion check. And veteran dealers know that taking care of their clients pays in the long run. That said, no matter how philosophically a dealer principal may feel about client service, nobody likes eating costs. While every device in an integrated system has its own warranty, and while AV dealers typically offer a warranty on system function, sometimes there are gaps. Here are a few examples. A few years ago, my scaler croaked. While the manufacturer cheerfully sent me a new one, the settings made during calibration of my system were gone, and I had to start from scratch. The same thing is inevitable when a video display, whether flat panel or projector needs to be either serviced or replaced — having to recalibrate the video. While we’re on the topic of TVs — while video manufacturers have authorized repair centers who fix their TVs, and who even make house calls, and will take it back to the shop, none of the ones I’ve ever known will dismount a TV from an on-wall installation: that’s the homeowner’s responsibility. In addition, gear swaps inevitably necessitate changes to the control programming. Back to my old scaler, even the replacement vexed me, so I ended up getting rid of it and changing brands. So that meant bribing my programmer friend to do it for me. For dealers, having to switch units and brands, unlike a voluntary upgrade or addition by the customer is a gray area where clients will just expect you to cover the labor to do it. Related to that, not long ago my remote died. The distributor gladly replaced it, but obviously, the new unit needed to be programmed. Unlike the prior scenarios, this was relatively simple: my programmer friend emailed my system’s control file to the service manager at the distributor, who loaded it before FedEx’ing me the remote, so that was easy. Ultimately though, the issue of “who’s paying for this?” is not always an easy question to answer. When a client has paid huge dollars for a system, their expectation is going to be “you are.” There are ways around that, of course. In the initial scope of work documents and contract you can specify exactly what you are and are not responsible for. That doesn’t mean you and your client won’t fight about it later, but it is a start. To a certain degree your conscience as not just a business person but as a reasonable human being will factor into those decisions. Lee Distad is a rAVe columnist and freelance writer covering topics from CE to global business and finance in both print and online. Reach him at lee@ravepubs.
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Energy Subsidy Program in China Could Ignite a TV Price War
By Bing Zhang
DisplaySearch China’s National Development and Reform Commission (NDRC) has announced details of the new energy-saving subsidy on home appliances. China’s State Council proposed an RMB26.5 billion ($4.1B) subsidy to promote energy-saving home appliances for one year, mainly covering five home appliance categories: TVs, refrigerators, air conditioners, washing machines and water heaters.
The new energy subsidy program will be take effect on June 1st and last for one year. Industry sources estimate that more than 25 million LCD and plasma TVs will be covered, and that approximately RMB6 billion of the total 26.5 billion will be for TVs. The subsidy program is based upon a special energy saving index which assigns subsidies to different screen size ranges as follows:
China Energy Saving Subsidy (Unit: RMB)
| LCD TV | PDP | Energy Saving Index | ≥ 1.7 | ≥ 1.9 | ≥ 1.4 | ≥ 1.7 | 19” to 31” | 100 | 150 | — | — |
32” to 41” | 250 | 300 | 250 | 300 | 42” and above | 350 | 400 | 350 | 400 |
We see the following potential impacts of this program on the TV supply chain:
- Sales of FPD TVs could be boosted by about 9-10 percent Y/Y in 2012. In particular, LED-backlit LCD TV is expected to benefit, while CCFL-backlit sets may decline much faster as they will not typically qualify for the Energy Saving Subsidy program.
- LCD and PDP TV makers might try to promote sales of energy-saving products in the second half of 2012 through a 5-20 percent reduction in retail prices. The smallest size or the cheapest LCD TV models in each size category (19’’-31’’, 32’’-41’’ and 42” and larger) may have higher reductions. We expect that 32’’ might have the highest price reduction (perhaps 15-20 percent), followed by 19’’ and 42’’.
- As Chinese panel makers are focusing on production of 32”W and smaller TV panels, the subsidy program could benefit Chinese panel makers.
- Currently, no CCFL-backlit LCD TV models meet the efficiency standard, which means there will be no subsidy for them. However, not all LED-backlit LCD TVs can benefit either, as only about 60 percent can achieve an energy saving index of 1.7, and less than 20 percent can achieve an index of 1.9.
- About 50 percent of current plasma TV models can achieve energy saving index 1.4 to qualify for a subsidy.
- Any FPD TVs that do not meet the energy saving index will become excess inventory. Chinese TV makers will have to cut prices over the next few months, which could result in a price war at retail.
- Some entry level and lower end LED-backlit panel modules from Taiwanese and Chinese makers will not meet the Energy Saving Index (our understanding is that most Korea LCD modules will qualify). Thus panel and module makers will have to re-design backlights, such as by adding brightness enhancement films, to improve energy performance in the near term. This could stimulate optical film demand, but also increase backlight unit costs.
- For FPD TVs that qualify, the subsidy will roughly be equivalent to a 10 percent price cut and could therefore boost sales and production. At the company level, beneficiaries should include Skyworth, Hisense, TCL, Haier, Changhong, Konka, and major TV stores such as Gome, Suning and Wuxing.
Overall, this program could result in about 2 million additional TV purchases in China in 2012, and is likely to accelerate replacement of CCFL-backlit LCD TVs by LED-backlit sets.
This article was reprinted with permission from DisplaySearch and originally appeared here.
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Share Article Back to Top LCD TV Panel Shortage In June Pave The Way For Q3’12 Tightness
By David Hsieh
DisplaySearch As analyzed in the Monthly Large LCD and PDP Pricing Report, the LCD TV panel supply tightened in late March. This was due to a downstream inventory buildup, as well as supply constraints from new processes and adjustments in production strategy by TFT LCD panel makers. LCD TV panel prices increased in April and May to reflect the tighter supply.
June will be a critical time to see if the increased panel prices can be sustained in Q3’12. In general, price negotiations will not necessarily be favorable for all panel makers. This is especially true now that some TV makers, particularly those with a greater presence in the European market, have become alert to the panel inventory built up over the past few months. Meanwhile, after the modest sell-through results for May Labor Day in China, and given that the cloudy global economic situation is likely to limit the confidence of TV brands, it is possible that panel orders will be adjusted downward and market will be shaky again from June.
However, in the first week of June, we observed the panel supply is tighter than expected, and in line with what we stated in the latest MarketWise – LCD Industry Dynamics: “Overall, panel price increase momentum will be stagnant after May/June and stay mostly flat throughout the forecast months with the exception of some sizes, particularly 40”/42”, in which prices may have another hike in June and Q3.”
Currently, five sizes of panel are particularly tight: 32”W, 39”W, 40”W, 42”W and 50”W. There are several factors in play here. From the supply side:
- Panel makers are continuously implementing new processes, and the learning curve impacts supply. The new processes include COA (color filter on array), copper array process, GOA (gate-on-array), and oxide TFT, which uses 7-8 photomask steps compared to 4-5 mask steps for a-Si TFT. As several panel makers are shifting some capacity to oxide TFT, the effective capacity is down.
- Production strategy shifts are also limiting supply. Korean and Japanese panel makers are utilizing Gen 8 to produce tablet PC panels. Taiwanese panel makers are deemphasizing 32” and 40”/42” to put more resources in new sizes like 29”W, 39”W and 50”W. This explains why the 40”/42” are in the tightest supply.
- The shifts to new LCD TV sizes and new product designs – like direct type LED backlight models – are giving some panel makers room to adjust their product mix, instead of allocating mainstream sizes which risks oversupply.
- Due to poor financial conditions, Taiwanese, Korean and Japanese panel makers have been very cautious and rational about capacity utilization. In May, some capacity utilizations were down from April, even though there were more orders. As panel makers are still selling panels under the total cost, they are likely to continue to be cautious about loading.
From the demand side: - As analyzed in the Monthly Large LCD and PDP Pricing Report, demand for new sizes like 39”W and 50”W continues to grow fast, and brands are seeking further allocation.
- Although direct type LED backlight models have thicker form factors, they are seeing good sales results in markets like North America and China. This encourages TV brands to demand more open cell or direct-LED modules.
- Despite worries about on the worldwide economic situation, LCD TV brands are looking to achieve good growth this year, in particular Samsung, LG, Toshiba, Panasonic, Vizio as well as emerging makers like TCL, Hisense, Vestel, and Beko.
- As we noted previously, Chinese TV makers intend to continue panel purchase activities from April to August like in the past, in order to build sufficient inventory for the coming Q4 heavy promotion and selling season. On the other hand, the recently announced Energy Subsidy Program in China is stimulating China TV makers’ business plan. As we analyzed, this program could result in about 2 million additional TV purchases in China in 2012, and is likely to accelerate replacement of CCFL-backlit LCD TVs by LED-backlit models.
- As these supply constrains and demand factors will continue for several months, it is likely that the panel shortage in June will pave the way for tightness in Q3’12.
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This Week from rAVe's BlogSquad Back to Top SmartGlass: Microsoft's War for the Living Room Microsoft’s SmartGlass promises to unite all screens in the house (including mobile devices) via the Xbox. Microsoft plans to turn the Xbox 360 into more than a games console/online media player, with a strategy clearly aimed at usurping Apple's AirPlay strategy in the home. Xbox SmartGlass is a Wi-Fi remote app that allows users to control both video and game content with tablets or smartphones, using the Xbox 360 console as a player. Shown at the recent E3, the app also acts as a second screen — showing extra video content related to the content on screen. (One interesting E3 demo uses HBO TV series Game of Thrones, with an interactive map on the tablet while the console plays an episode.) The app will be available for both iDevices and Androids, as well as (obviously) Windows 8 tablets/laptops and Windows Phone. According to Microsoft, more American customers are using the console to consume media through Xbox Live apps for services such as Netflix and Hulu than playing online video games, for which the console was originally designed.
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Extron Starts XTP System Certification Program Extron has launched the XTP System Certification program for AV system designers and integrators. The program consists of online and instructor-led training for design and implementation of enterprise-wide digital systems based on Extron’s XTP CrossPoint Systems. XTP CrossPoint is a flexible signal switching and distribution system for local and remote devices that provides a completely integrated solution for multiple digital and analog formats. Achieving this manufacturer certification is an industry-recognized way to demonstrate acquired expertise related to digital AV applications.
"Since the introduction of digital AV technology, there’s been a need for in-depth training and instruction,” says Casey Hall, Vice President of Sales and Marketing for Extron. “The XTP System Certification program provides a clear pathway for AV professionals to gain knowledge and experience with Extron digital AV products, and validates that understanding through testing and certification."
Once enrolled in the XTP System Certification program, an individual is required to successfully earn a passing score on an online exam for Digital AV Technologies. Study materials are available online to assist with test preparation. Then, the student attends concentrated instructor-led training and, depending on discipline, sits for one of two final exams: XTP Systems for Technicians – XTP-T or XTP Systems for Design Engineers – XTP-E.
For more information, go to http://www.extron.com/certification
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Share Article Back to Top Vizio Licenses to ON/RCA VIZIO announced that ON Corporation, which sells digital televisions in the United States under the RCA brand, has become a licensee under VIZIO’s QAM patent portfolio. VIZIO, a manufacturer in the American LCD HDTV market, owns a substantial worldwide patent portfolio directed to digital television technology. The parties have not disclosed financial terms of the agreement under which ON Corporation has agreed to make royalty payments to VIZIO for sales of licensed products. The signing of the QAM License with ON Corporation also concludes actions brought against ON Corporation by VIZIO in the International Trade Commission and in U.S. District Court.
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Share Article Back to Top CEDIA Future Technology Pavilion to Showcase Next Generation of the Smart Home CEDIA has unveiled key details surrounding the CEDIA EXPO 2012 Future Technology Pavilion. This future home environment will feature technology solutions that will be integrated to create the next generation of the smart home, the fully intuitive home, set to arrive in the next four years. This year’s Future Technology Pavilion will showcase four distinct areas representing health, work, eat and play.
“We will provide attendees a glimpse at the day in the life of the home of 2016,” said Dave Pedigo, CEDIA Senior Director of Technology. “As attendees move through the home environment they will see first-hand how the home interacts and reacts to the needs of the user.”
Attendees will have the opportunity to experience an interactive kitchen in the ‘eat’ area of the Future Technology Pavilion. Integration and control provided by Savant will tell the homeowner when water is boiling on the stove, or when the dishwasher has completed its cycle. In addition, Mosaiqq and 3M will showcase an embedded touch screen video wall that doubles as a kitchen backsplash.
The ‘play’ area of the Future Technology Pavilion will feature a fully immersive video room brought to life by Audio Design Associates, Auralex Acoustics, Digital Projection, Purdue University, Stewart Filmscreen, and Triad. In addition to the immersive video room, the ‘play’ area will feature an entertainment room that will be able to identify the occupant, their likes and dislikes and display the appropriate content for that user. Obscura Digital will also be a part of the ‘play’ area of the Future Technology Pavilion showcasing the latest technology-enhanced pool table.
Additional Future Technology Pavilion sponsors include: Access Networks, Grandcare Systems,Honeywell, Lutron, Nest and Symbol Logic. CEDIA will release additional details regarding the Future Technology Pavilion as the show approaches.
The Future Technology Pavilion will offering tours during CEDIA EXPO tradeshow hours, Thursday September 6 and Friday September 7 from 9:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. and Saturday September 8 from 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. in Indianapolis.
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Share Article Back to Top The Intuitive Home Is Coming to CEDIA EXPO in Full Force The concept of the “Smart Home” is not a new one. This term has bounced around the industry for years. But what happens next? What comes after the "Smart Home?" Dr. Michio Kaku asserts that most smart homes are not smart, but well-designed homes installed by smart electronic systems contractors (ESCs). Can some of us agree with that? The "Smart Home" does require a lot of skill on the part of an ESC- getting systems to talk to one another and integrating them for maximizes results. Dr. Kaku believes the “Smart Home” is set to evolve into the fully intuitive home with the help of next-generation future technology such as IPv6, RFID devices and artificial intelligence. This represents an exciting time for our industry as the next generation of technology emerges. Dr. Kaku will present the Opening Keynote at this year's CEDIA EXPO, and he will focus on this very topic. The discussion of the future does not end there. On Thursday, September 6 CEDIA is offering a panel discussion on the Intuitive Home of 2016. This will offer an opportunity for you to get your questions answered and join in the discussion with the key players in the industry. Both the Opening Keynote and panel discussion are free to attend. We’ve saved the most exciting for last; you can see the Intuitive Home of 2016 with your own eyes when you visit the Future Technology Pavilion. One feature of this future home environment will be a sophisticated energy management control solution that will make changes to reduce the carbon footprint of the home and save the homeowners money without needing to make noticeable changes to their lifestyle. With products from top manufacturers like Savant, Digital Projection, 3M and Nest just to name a few – you won’t want to miss what’s on display in this year’s pavilion. Registration for CEDIA EXPO 2012 is open at http://www.cedia.org/expo. Attendees who register before July 13 will enjoy 40 percent off their registration fees including courses. CEDIA EXPO will be held September 5 – 8, 2012 at the Indiana Convention Center in Indianapolis, IN.
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Procella Ships Its First-Ever Power Amp Procella Audio just debuted its first power amp, the DA-2800, spec'd to deliver a total of 2,800 watts into 4 ohm loads. The amplifier is rated at 700 watts-per-channel into 4 ohm loads and 360 watts-per-channel into 8 ohm loads. Channel pairs can also be bridged, producing 1,400 watts at 8 ohms. Two versions of the four channel amplifier are available and both use an identical basic power amplifier, with the DA-2800DSP version adding onboard DSP for each channel. List price for the DA-2800DSP is $5,999 and list for the non-DSP DA-2800 is $4,699.
All the specs are here: http://www.procella.citymax.com/index.html
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Share Article Back to Top Lightware to Debut Hybrid Matrix Calling this analog and digital matrix a Hybrid Router, Lightware's new 25G is touted as not only a matrix, but also "a complete signal architecture": a cloud that supports eight media layers — video, audio, Ethernet, USB KVM, USB 2.0, IR, RS-232 and CEC channels. All layers are supported by 25G Hybrid signal management; inside the cloud all the layers are independent for switching and extending all signal layers separately.
The 25G Hybrid signal architecture allows video, audio and media layers to be transmitted over a single fiber or one CAT5 cable so one switcher supports all eight media layers. The 25G Hybrid Matrix has 160 inputs and 160 outputs and is spec'd at a total throughput of 4TB per second. It offers 25 gigabits-per-second data rate switching for transporting next generation video signals, such as HDMI 1.4 and DisplayPort 1.2, and handling all future video and audio standards, including 4K resolution and stereo 3D formats.
Each video port is equipped with a separate audio input and output connector, forming a 320×320 S/P/DIF crosspoint switch. It manages stereo and multichannel audio as well as high bitrate formats like Dolby TrueHD and DTS-HD Master Audio. Optional multi-channel to stereo downmixing is available.
The product won't be released until InfoComm so there are no specific specs yet. But, when they launch, details will be here: http://lightwareusa.com/products/by-function/modular-matrix-frames
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Share Article Back to Top Screen Innovations to Debut Designed to be the first levitating screen that “floats” an image in thin air and virtually disappears, Stealth is a new motorized screen from Screen Innovations. It consists of a slender, cable-hung, motorized cassette that literally drops a small tube from the ceiling (using aircraft cables). The tube raises and lowers (to store out of site) and stops at a preset location and rolls the material down into place. When powered off, Stealth rolls from the bottom up using custom helixes and can be installed to disappear back out of sight.
Available in large custom sizes and varying gains (2.7, 1.4 gain, and 0.8 gain), it will ship in this summer. You can see all the specs here (when it's on SI's website after InfoComm): http://www.screeninnovations.com/
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Share Article Back to Top Peerless-AV to Debut More PeerAir Wireless Mounts Peerless-AV's PeerAir wireless mounting solutions will grow at InfoComm to include more indoor and outdoor wireless mounts, including some that can stream Full HD 1080p 60Hz content to flat panels and projectors up to 131 feet away.
PeerAir Wireless Mounting Solutions can fit from 37” to 65” screens and projectors weighing up to 50 lbs. This includes the following four models: - PeerAir Wireless Tilt Wall Mount for Flat Panel TVs 37” to 63” (WL-ST660-100)
- PeerAir Wireless Articulating Wall Mount for Flat Panel TVs 42” to 60” (WL-SA761PU-100)
- PeerAir Wireless Flat Panel Cart for Flat Panel TVs 47” to 65” (WL-SR560M-100)
- PeerAir Wireless Projector Mount for projectors up to 50 pounds (WL-PRG-UNV-100)
PeerAir Outdoor Wireless Mounting Solutions provide a weather-resistant way to mount flat panel screens and stream Full HD 1080p wireless content and include the following two models: - PeerAir Wireless Outdoor Articulating Wall Mount for Flat Panel TVs 42” to 60” (WL-ESA763PU-100)
- PeerAir Wireless Outdoor Tilt Wall Mount for Flat Panel TVs 42” to 60” (WL-EPT650-100)
Want to see them all? Go here: http://www.peerless-av.com/en-us/professional/site_search
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Share Article Back to Top rAVe Scoop: AVocation Systems Introduces 8×8 HDMI Matrix with Audio AVocation Systems' new Mountain Series 8×8 HDMI Matrix with Analog and Digital Audio (HX-0808HA) is its first HDMI matrix. Providing eight HDMI, eight analog audio (RCA) and eight digital audio (RCA) inputs and outputs, the HX-0808HA supports simultaneous or independent routing of HDMI or analog/digital audio. Digital audio can also be broken out and routed independently for maximum flexibility.
Claiming to have EDID/Key management, the new switcher is compatible with HDMI 1.4, offers support for 3-D content and includes 12-bit deep color processing with resolutions up to 1080p 60Hz pixel rates (225 MHz). Control options are IP, RS-232, USB and IR. HDCP 1.1-compliant, the matrix is rack mountable (ears included) and consumes two rack units.
Full details are here: http://avocationsystems.com/mountain-series-hdmi-matrix-router/
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Share Article Back to Top Extron Ships HDMI Fiber Optic Extender Extron just started shipping its PowerCage FOX HDMI fiber optic extender, a modular transmitter and receiver set that enables long distance transmission of HDCP-compliant HDMI, audio and control signals over fiber optic cabling. Using Extron's all-digital technology, it allows for resolutions up to 1920×1200 resolution, including HDTV 1080p/60, to be processed. Features include Key Minder, EDID Minder, Auto Input Memory, audio embedding/de-embedding, audio gain and attenuation, internal test patterns and real-time system monitoring. You'll see applications for this in both the ProAV market as well as HomeAV. The PowerCage FOX HDMI is designed for the PowerCage 1600, a rack-mountable enclosure that supports a wide range of Extron fiber optic transmitter and receiver boards. Using a single power cord and housing up to eight fiber optic extenders in a single enclosure, the PowerCage 1600 simplifies integration for large, rack-mounted systems. The enclosure also features an optional redundant, hot-swappable power supply and thermal management to optimize reliability in mission-critical environments where continuous, 24/7 operation is essential. The hot-swappable, modular design allows for adding or replacing boards such as the PowerCage FOX HDMI in the field, without having to power down the system.
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Share Article Back to Top Stewart Adds Affordable CIMA Line in Standard Configurations and Sizes Stewart Filmscreen announced last week the introduction of CIMA, a new screen line offering standard configurations and sizes, thereby reducing the price. These will be available in both the residential and commercial markets. With CIMA, Stewart provides integrators with a screen solution that has been designed to deliver high performance under a wide range of viewing conditions and at a competitive price, according to the company. The line offers basic screen configurations in both white and gray screen material depending on the environment. The NEVE white screen material is ideally suited for applications where lighting control is available, while the TIBURON gray screen material is optimized for applications with less lighting control. CIMA by Stewart Filmscreen is available in fixed frame wallscreen, above ceiling electriscreen, and below ceiling electriscreen mounting options. Electric roller screens come with optional IMC low voltage control for interconnectivity.
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Share Article Back to Top Colorado vNet Rebrands as 3vNet Colorado vNet, a manufacturer of whole-house automation products, has announced it will formally operate under the new company name 3vNet Inc., effectively immediately.
To read the complete press release online, click here. Back to Top Savant Adds Imerge to Partners in Excellence Program Home and commercial automation manufacturer Savant Systems has added Imerge, an English manufacturer of audio and media servers, to its Partners in Excellence program.
To read the complete press release online, click here. Back to Top Mobotix Added to Savant's Partners in Excellence Program Home and commercial automation manufacturer Savant Systems has added Mobotix, a German manufacturer of networked camera technology, to its Partners in Excellence program.
To read the complete press release online, click here. Back to Top Advanced Systems Group Adds Cullen Quave to Inside Sales Team Integrator Advanced Systems Group (ASG) added Cullen Quave to its inside sales team in March. He is focused on researching and supporting sales orders for ASG technicians in the field, as well as providing software solutions for ASG clients, specifically Autodesk 3D content creation and creative finishing products.
To read the complete press release online, click here. Back to Top Lenbrook America Promotes Bart Greenberg Lenbrook America, the U.S. distributor for NAD and PSB, announced the immediate promotion of Bart Greenberg to the newly-created position of vice president of sales. Greenberg joined the company in June 2011 as western regional sales manager. Greenberg has also served in sales management roles with Yamaha Electronics and Sharp Electronics for more than two decades.
To read the complete press release online, click here. Back to Top Amber International Launches New Website New HomeAV distributor Amber International recently launched a new corporate website, which can be found at http://www.amber-international.com.
To read the complete press release online, click here. Back to Top Panamax/Furman Promotes Ryan Conway Panamax/Furman announced this month that Ryan Conway has been promoted to the position of western regional sales manager of custom install (CI) sales. In his new role, Conway is responsible for the development and implementation of strategic sales plans to promote the company's BlueBOLT cloud-based power and energy management platform across the Rocky Mountain States, from Montana to New Mexico, and west to the Pacific coast.
To read the complete press release online, click here. Back to Top Stampede University Courses Approved for CEDIA CEUs Distributor Stampede Presentation Products announced this month that all of the online courses offered by Stampede University have been approved for Continuing Education Units by CEDIA.
To read the complete press release online, click here.
Back to Top 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.
To read more about my background, our team, and what we do, go to https://www.ravepubs.com Back to Top Copyright 2012 – 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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