Volume 13, Issue 16 — August 30, 2016
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Projection TVs Control & Signal Processing Lighting Audio Media Players, Recording & Distribution Security Cables, Furniture, Mounts, Racks, Screens and Accessories
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Dealer Locators: What Are They Good For?
By Lee Distad rAVe Columnist
I think we can all agree that, in principle, it’s a great idea for vendors and manufacturers to maintain a “FIND A DEALER” database on their website. It’s a splendid idea — in principle. It will pre-qualify interested prospective customers who’ve been doing their research and funnel them towards resellers or installing dealers in their geographical area. Alas, as with many things, there is often a gulf between principle and practice.
It’s a reality that in really large companies the right hand often doesn’t know what the left hand is doing. And I know from experience that when it comes to keeping websites up to date, new products and pricing get priority for timely execution and accuracy (as they should), but other information can slip through the cracks.
At one of my old employers, I would regularly get phone calls from people who’d gotten our number from the website of a TV manufacturer that had us listed as a dealer, yet we hadn’t sold their brand in ten years.
Ironically, during the same period that I was there, one of our key vendors failed to list us on their site as their exclusive Edmonton dealer for a couple of years, which was a huge bone of contention every time their poor sales rep paid us a visit.
I’ll admit that at my job now I get grief from my dealers on a regular basis about our own dealer locator on our website. Not because they’re missing, typically, but because when you do a search for their city, they’re not as highly ranked as they think they should be.
Believe me when I say that it’s a high-wire-balancing act to explain diplomatically to one of your dealers that their rivals who rank higher on the page also sell five to six times more of our products than they do.
What goes around comes around, too. One of our vendors keeps referring end users to us, as their national distributor. Which would be great, except we distribute only one of their many categories, and they keep sending people our way for categories that aren’t part of our business.
Bad databases aren’t a problem that’s unique to our industry. Awhile back my Ryobi weed trimmer died. Since it was still under warranty, I went to the website, which directed me to a list of factory-authorized small engine repair shops that do warranty work.
That’s great and, even better; the owner of the first place I called was friendly and helpful. So helpful in fact that he asked, “What address did the website give you?” It turns out that the address Ryobi lists for the local shop was five years old, and his shop is now on the other side of town. Despite repeatedly communicating his address change to Ryobi, they haven’t updated their website.
Common problems, as you can see.
Obsolete databases aren’t just a modern problem, either. My good friend Reg Bergmann was our regional Yamaha rep for over thirty years, and he told me about how when he first took over his territory in the 1970s, many of the dealers listed in the big three-ring binders his boss gave him were out of business, sometimes for years.
Reg tried for awhile to get these phantom dealers off his books, but eventually gave up and would only bring it up at national sales meetings when one of his bosses would say, “What about these guys? They’re not doing anything with us! What can you do to drive business in their store?” That’s when he’d laugh and say, “How about we hold a séance?”
Back to the present day: It’s important for companies to understand that consumers turn to the Internet to inform their purchasing decisions. In order to get the business, it’s not only important to answer the What, Why, and How questions, but also the Where and the Who.
And, of course, to make sure that those answers are correct.
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Just Breathe
By Hope Roth I was sitting on an overturned paint bucket, holed up inside a freezing cold electrical closet. Just another day at the office! I was trying to figure out the best way to queue up commands if a link in the system went down. I thought things out to their extreme conclusion… and realized that what I was doing could potentially wind up with dozens of commands stacking up if the system stayed offline for an extended period. Can you imagine the lights coming on all of a sudden and then strobing unpredictably? I could, and I knew it wouldn’t be a pretty sight.
As I frantically added conditional logic and piled on more code, I realized I was painting myself into a corner. I was over-complicating everything, but not really making anything better. So I stopped, took a deep breath, walked around in circles for a few moments and then let myself mull over other possibilities. Which is when I realized it was stupid to queue up commands in the first place. The commands all canceled each other out! I didn’t need to stack them up. I just needed to remember the last button the customer pressed, and then send that particular command through after the system came back online.
We’ve all made terrible decisions at 2 a.m. Sometimes it’s that last shot of whiskey. Sometimes it’s a convoluted piece of code that was the only thing we could think of to get us off the damn job site. I know a lot of people who take pride in not leaving their laptop until everything is done. Personally, I like to think more smarter and less harder. I will get up and walk around if my brain is stuck. I will grab a snack if I think my blood sugar is too low. And if it’s a multi-day job, I will go home and get some rest if I think I’m tired enough that I’m making things worse. And, when I realize that I’m taking things down a bad path, I will take several deep breaths. And then I usually come up with a far more elegant solution.
There’s an episode of Scrubs where Elliot tells JD her secret to handling things when it all seems to go wrong at once… take one deep breath. I don’t know why, but that scene has stuck with me, over all of these years. My job is less about saving lives and more about keeping the lights and the TVs on, but the stresses still pile up. All of your coworkers calling at once for support. Several clients having issues at the same time. Computer problems just when you’re trying to get something uploaded. I take a deep breath, I triage my job duties, I start fixing things.
Just breathe.
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Optoma Launches HD27 Home Theater Projector Optoma today is launching its HD27 1080p home theater projector. With new color modes an improved lamp life and a smaller form factor, Optoma claims the HD27 is capable of displaying sRGB and rec.709 color modes. In addition, lamp life is 8,000 hours.
Spec’d to be 25,000:1: contrast ratio, the single-chip DLP projector is native 1920×1080 and is claims to project 3200 lumens. Inputs include two HDMI, one MHL and USB.
The Optoma HD27 lists for $649 and all the specs are here. Leave a Comment
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SIM2 Launches SIM2xTV Hybrid Laser Projector SIM2 USA announced the launch of SIM2xTV: a 2,900 lumens hybrid LASER projector that can project up to 110-inches on ANY wall surface. The SIM2xTV can be placed upon furniture or ceiling mounted, while the SIM2xTV INV model can be built into any furniture to become an invisible part of the decor. The sleek, quiet-running SIM2xTV can project an image on a light-colored wall or video screen.
As part of a brand revitalization initiative for the US market, SIM2 has created new dealer-friendly service and support policies to establish themselves as dedicated channel partners for professional integrators. SIM2 will be establishing an exclusive dealer network and providing extensive support and training seminars. The SIM2xTV features a two-year parts/labor warranty and 30-day advance replacement.
The SIM2xTV is available now and lists for $15,000. Here are the details. Leave a Comment
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Metra Home Theater Group to Intro Helios Tailgate TV Mount at CEDIAMetra Home Theater Group has announced the Helios Tailgate TV Mount. The Helios Tailgate Mount is works with TV’s from 32” to 55” and weighing up to 60 lbs. A simple mount attaches directly to a 2” trailer receiver hitch for quick and easy installation and it has a black powder coat finish which makes Helios weatherproof. The Helios Tailgate Mount is made VESA Complaint with 100×100, 200×200, 400×400 and 600×400 patterns.
In addition, Metra Home Theater Group is offering a two-part Lunch N’ Learn series, “Making the Jump to 18 Gbps” and “Making the Jump to Fiber,” both available for technologists interested in learning about High Dynamic Resolution (HDR), 4K Deep Color and the lengths you can take fiber. Jeff Boccaccio, president of DPL Labs, will again host the sessions, which focus on issues integrators face and the best way to resolve them. The Lunch N’ Learns will take place in booth #3005 on Thursday, September 15th and Friday, September 16th at 12:00 p.m. Early registration is recommended as seating and lunches are limited. To register for the Thursday or Friday Lunch N’ Learn, go here.
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PureLink Partners with Savant on 4K Video PureLink and Savant have teamed up to offer residential customers professional 4K video matrix switchers (all chrome sampling rates of 4:2:0).
Both the PureLink UX-8800 and UX-4400 (8×8 and 4×4) 4K HDMI switchers support HDCP 2.2 and HDMI 2.0b. A SmartHost Premium license is included with each switch. Also coming soon is PureLink’s HCE II extender, an HDMI over HDBaseT transmitter and receiver package that transmits 4K up to 70 meters over a single CAT cable.
This is an interesting partnership as they both needed each other to compete with the likes of Extron, Crestron, Kramer and AMX — all of whom have both control and video switching. However, they integration of each others’ control protocol is the key here. If Purelink only just sells Savant their switchers, etc., this will NOT work. If they integrate a plug-and-play style communications protocol, this could be a powerful combination. But, that’s a big if.
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Comprehensive Introduces the CSW-HDBT300M Switcher/Scaler to HDMI with HDBaseT Comprehensive Connectivity Company just launched a multi-input switcher for HDMI with HDBaseT that extends signals for distances up to 330 feet over a Cat6/7 cable (CSW-HDBT300M). Comprehensive’s CSW-HDBT300M accepts up to eight various input sources — one DVI, two VGA, one composite video and four HDMI signals. It handles current or legacy input sources and scales their resolution up to 4Kx2K@30Hz (4:2:0).
Comprehensive’s switcher provides EDID management for recognizing multiple display formats and sources with each source routed to any display using the easy-to-read front panel push buttons, IR remote control, RS232 interface or even TCP/IP control that lets the user manage the unit from a web browser. In addition, the switcher unit is HDCP compliant for pass-through content.
Features:
- Scales and transmits distances up to 330 feet through CAT6/7 cable
- Compliant HDMI 1.4 and HDCP 1.3
- Supports resolutions up to 4Kx2K@30Hz (4:2:0)
- Supports PoE, embedded audio, has S/PDIF and stereo audio outputs, EDID and IP control
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KanexPro Launches SDI Pro SeriesKanexPro just announced its new SDI Pro Series of products. The lineup includes:
- SDI to HDMI Converter (SDI-SDHDXPRO) is a signal equalizer and re-clocker designed for connecting professional SDI video equipment to any HDMI display or consumer based TVs. Ideal for surveillance systems, rental and staging facilities, post-production and digital cinema, the converter has two SDI loop outputs for sending re-clocked SDI signals and connecting to down-stream equipment.
- HDMI to SDI Converter (SDI-HDSDXPRO) features signal equalizer and re-clocker designed for converting single HDMI signal into two 3G-SDI, HD-SDI signals in professional applications involving broadcasting, post-production and filming. Ideal for surveillance systems, rental and staging facilities, post-production, television studios and digital cinema, the converter auto detects input signals converting the output resolution to correct format.
- SDI Repeater (SDI-HDRPTPRO) with 3D, SDI and HD-SDI, is designed for extending AV signals at longer runs up to 300 meters using single RG6 cable. Additionally, it embeds audio up to 7.1 channels passing ancillary data.
- Fiber Optic SDI Extender (SDI-EXTFIBERPRO) is designed for extending 3G to SDI and HD to SID signals over fiber up to a distance of 10 kilometers (6.2 miles) with resolutions up to HD 1080p/60. The Extender is a reliable and secure method of delivering digital HD video, audio, data over long fiber optic cables, commonly found in government command and control systems and digital signage.
- Multi-Video Cross Converter to SDI (SDI-SDI2MULTIPRO), a 3G-SDI to multi-video cross converter and switcher designed to convert SDI and HDMI video and audio to multiple outputs, such as DVI, VGA, component, S-video or composite video. With a powerful up and down video scaler, the Converter supports resolutions up to 1080p60/59.94Hz and 1080p/29.97Hz.
- SDI to Multi-Video Cross Converter (SDI-MULTI2SDIPRO), a multi-cast cross converter providing multiple input conversions from HDMI, DVI, VGA, component, to 3G, HD, SD to SDI and HDMI. Additionally, the converter also features a scaler with resolutions up to 1080p60/59.94Hz and 1080p/29.97Hz.
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Metra Home Theater Group Introduces the M3B Pro Series Metra Home Theater Group announces the M3B Pro — designed specifically for the custom installation market, enables integrators to install a flexible multi-source and multi-display video distribution system into any home without running cables back to the structured wiring source.
The M3B Pro Series from Metra Home Theater Group utilizes existing coax and splitters to make video distribution much simpler and far less expensive. With easy setup and a simple source selection via any learning remote, the need to re-wire is eliminated completely. With 100 channel output selection and LED channel display, the M3B Pro Series features a channel selection change of less than three seconds. The chassis of the M3B Pro Series has been redesigned with heavy, ventilated metal chassis and detachable ears for wall or rack accessory mounting, best fit with the M3B Pro Series 12 Port Rack Mount.
The M3B Pro consists of a decoder receiver and encoder transmitter, allowing integrators to provide multiple sources to multiple displays at 1080p over common coax and splitters. The re-designed chassis of the M3B Pro provides more efficient ventilation and the ability to fit vertically into the Metra Multimedia Broadcast Pro Series 12 Port Rack Mount. The M3B Pro Series 12 Port Rack Mount was designed for clean and easy installations with ample space for ventilation and it has a durable black powder coat finish and thumb screws for attaching gear.
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Extron Announces New Larger HDMI 4K Distribution Amplifiers Extron has two new 4K distribution amplifiers in the DA HD 4K Series, the DA4 HD 4K and DA6 HD 4K provide reliable distribution of a source video signal to as many as four or six displays, respectively. All three models in the HD HD 4K Series are HDCP compliant and support data rates up to 10.2 Gbps, Deep Color up to 12‑bit, 3D, Lip Sync and HD lossless audio formats. Extron technologies provide easy EDID and HDCP management, and automatic input cable equalization ensures signal integrity up to 50 feet (15 meters) when used with Extron HDMI Pro Series cables.
The DA HD 4K Series offers integration-friendly features that include automatic color bit depth management based on EDID, selectable output muting via RS‑232, as well as front panel indicators for easy monitoring and troubleshooting. They also feature Extron EDID Minder and Key Minder technologies to maintain continuous EDID communication between between connected devices and ensure simultaneous distribution of HDCP-encrypted source content. Each output provides +5 VDC, 250 mA for powering peripheral devices such as an Extron UHD4K 101 or HDMI 101 Plus cable equalizer. Now available in sizes ranging from two to six outputs to match the most common design needs, the DA HD 4K Series is ideal for applications that require the reliable distribution of a single HDMI source signal to multiple displays.
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Metra Home Announces Products for the Future of HDMI Metra Home Theater Group has announced four new Ethereal products, the Voltage Control Trigger, Active Cable Voltage Stabilizer and HDM All in One, designed to solve many problems custom installers and technologists are facing with the latest HDMI technology.
Metra Home Theater Group’s Voltage Control Trigger (HDM-VCT) solves an evolving problem many technologists are experiencing with current displays. In the quest to speed up source selection through display based inputs, changes have been made to how the hot plug return signal works. Devices connected through an AVR, switcher or matrix may not consistently sync to the display due to this signal not requesting an EDID, which led Metra Home Theater Group to create the HDM-VCT. The HDM-VCT is a compact HDMI device that connects to a relay or digital I/O on a control system to break the signal between the 5-volt trigger and hot plug signal to create an EDID reset. In addition, the HDM-VCT, with supplemental TMDS voltage, adds 100ms delay to the hot return to ensure that the source is prepared to accept the signal.
The Active Cable Voltage Stabilizer (HDM-ACVS) is designed to supply sufficient voltage and current to televisions to keep all sources, such as matrices and active cables, functioning. Many technologists are facing problems with new displays that do not provide enough power and result in a power failure once active cables are connected, which led Metra Home Theater Group to design the HDM-ACVS. On some newer displays, if a technologist is performing an install that is somewhere between 5 meters and 20 meters and they’re using an active HDMI cable powered by the display, they won’t have a picture.The HDM-ACVS is designed to supply the correct voltage and current needed to keep sources and active cables functioning – especially at longer lengths.
Lastly, the HDM All in One (HDM-AIO) encompasses a digital analysis device, voltage swing corrector and voltage control trigger making it the ultimate problem-solving solution. The digital analysis component can correct audio and video timing issues found in HDMI components, including audio drop outs. Additionally, the HDM-AIO includes a voltage control trigger used to break the signal between the 5-volt and hot plug signal to create an EDID reset and provide a hot return delay of 100ms.
Metra Home Theater Group’s Voltage Control Trigger (HDM-VCT), Active Cable Voltage Stabilizer (HDM-ACVS) and HDM All in One (HDM-AIO) are spec’d to be 18 Gbps certified and support all HDMI 2.0a features, HDCP formats, HDR10 and Dolby Vision HDR. Here are the details. Leave a Comment
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Draper to Launch Shades at CEDIADuring CEDIA Draper will be showing off its new line of integrator targeted shades — the quiet and flexible Motorized FlexShades — 115v, 24V and battery operated — for both interior and exterior applications. Draper shade products have hundreds of possible operation/control variations — including the ability to react to current sun conditions and tie into automation systems. Add to that a line of decorative fabrics, and you can create a shading system to fulfill any design imagined — from bold styles that allow you to express your personal style, to translucent textures that add panache while diffusing the light, to room darkening fabrics which completely control light and privacy.
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Atlantic Technology Debuts LCR2 Ultra Compact Speakers Atlantic Technology has introduced its new LCR2 ultra compact speakers in white or high-gloss black finish for a wide variety of audio and home theater applications.
Just 8 inches tall, the Atlantic Technology LCR2 claims to be the smallest speaker ever offered by the company.
The front baffle is designed to reduce diffraction and enhance dispersion to ensure excellent timbre balance for music and maximum intelligibility on dialog. The ¾-inch silk dome tweeter offers exceptional upper-octave smoothness and dispersion. The audiophile-grade long-excursion 3½-inch woofer uses CPP (Composite Polypropylene/Paper) cones that deliver smooth bass response down to 100Hz. This frequency is more than deep enough for any accompanying subwoofer to be totally non-localizable.
The speakers have built-in keyhole brackets for wall or stand mounting, or can be placed on a shelf or tabletop. The speakers are sold as a single, so customers are not forced to buy pairs if they want odd numbers of speakers.
Atlantic Technology LCR2 ultra compact speakers are $200 each and here are all the specs. Leave a Comment
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AudioControl Partnering with Architectural Loudspeaker Brands to Provide DSP-Optimized Sound on Director M-Series Amplifiers AudioControl has announced a new industry alliance initiative called the AudioControl Sound Partners Program. The objective of the Sound Partners Program is to work with architectural speaker manufacturers in order to implement performance profiles defined by their engineers which, when stored in the DSP onboard the AudioControl Director M-Series of high-performance 8 and 16-channel amplifiers, creates a comprehensive whole-house entertainment/commercial audio platform for professional integrators.
Four prominent architectural loudspeaker manufacturers have joined the Sound Partners Program — Origin Acoustics, James Loudspeaker, Triad Speakers and Stealth Acoustics. Each company has provided critical performance measurements to AudioControl, enabling tailored profiles to be created and stored in software form.
The matrixing capabilities of the Director M-Series allow any of eight analog or two digital inputs to be routed to any zone output. The 2U M-Series M6400 and M6800 includes two digital SPDIF inputs plus two SPDIF outputs that are tied to the matrix so that any one of the input sources can be routed through the digital outputs. These digital outputs can then be connected to the digital inputs on additional M-Series amplifiers, enabling integrators to use multiple amplifiers and assign input signal routing as needed. The Director M-Series is expanding with the addition of two new models including a 1U, 8-channel solution called the M4800 in the coming weeks. All models are capable of 100 watts per channel at 8 ohms, 200 watts at 4 ohms and 400 watts bridged. M-Series amplifiers offer powerful DSP-based functionality along with AudioControl’s legendary sound quality, and can be used either as a standalone matrix-amplifier or as part of a third-party control system from companies including Crestron, Savant and Control 4.
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Procella Audio Launches V18 Bass Engine: Procella Audio announced today the introduction of a new flagship subwoofer, the V18 Bass Engine. This dual-18 inch subwoofer claims to produce reference-quality low frequency reproduction for the largest screening room and home theater environments, capable of continuous output up to 137 dB, with peak output of 143 dB. Its sealed-box design utilizes Procella’s unique V-Loaded driver configuration, with amplification provided by Procella’s DA06-DSP power amplifier.
In the V-Loaded configuration the drivers are mounted facing each other, angled at about 12 degrees to form a shape like the letter V. In playback, this produces coupling and a high compression loading of the drivers, resulting in lower distortion, improved transient response, and reduced cone excursion at high SPL.
With 1W/1m sensitivity of 105 dB, and power handling of two 1,400-watt continuous and two 2,800-watt peak, the V18 has an extremely high output capability. Its low frequency extension to a -3 dB point of 18 Hz enables it to produce massive output at subsonic frequencies. Its hand-made Neodymium subwoofer drivers have 4 inch voice coils and are produced for Procella by one of Italy’s top professional audio driver manufacturers. Each 8 ohm driver is fed directly from an amplifier channel through gold-plated binding post inputs.
The V18 will list for $7,499 and ship next month. Here are all the specs. Leave a Comment
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Bryston Unveils BDP-Ï€ Compact Digital Music Player Bryston has announced the introduction of the BDP-π digital music player, joining the BDP-2 in Bryston’s lineup of digital players aimed at real music enthusiasts. The BDP-π is available now and lists for $1,295.
The BDP-π features advanced Bryston hardware and software built upon the Raspberry Pi and HifiBerry platform giving users fast response to commands and superb overall performance all from a chassis 1/3 the width of Bryston’s full-sized player. The BDP-π will playback digital music ranging from MP3 to lossless 24/192 high-resolution files and can be connected to virtually any DAC (Digital to Analog Converter) using the provided S/PDIF, Toslink, USB and HDMI connectors. The BDP-π is a complete digital entertainment hub — users can connect an external drive to access limitless libraries of digital content, gain access to their favorite Internet radio stations and enjoy lossless TIDAL streaming (subscription required).
The BDP-π is also a Roon Ready device. Roon Labs has created a software solution that delivers the ultimate user experience by merging Bryston’s exceptional BDP digital playback hardware with an intuitive, graphically rich music library management and playback software.
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Parasound to Debut Four-Zone DAC and Crossover at CEDIA Parasound will introduce the ZoneMaster 4 DAX, a four-zone DAC with crossovers for the custom installation industry. Parasound says the 4 DAX was designed in response to custom installers who create multi-zone systems based around the Sonos Connect, Heos Link, BlueSound Node or Google Chromecast Audio, and are looking to upgrade their clients’ digital sound quality, with connectivity for subwoofers, stereo or mono speakers, and system control options.
The Parasound ZoneMaster 4 DAX is a single chassis unit that uses four 192kHz ESS Sabre DACs, four Parasound-designed analog crossovers with multiple configuration options and four 12V outputs, each triggered when analog audio is present in that zone.
The 4 DAX’s analog audio outputs include stereo, high-pass stereo, full-range mono, high-pass mono and low-pass mono/subwoofer for each of the four zones. Each zone has optical and coax inputs, level adjustments for left and right channels and 12V outputs for turning on additional equipment such as amplifiers and cooling equipment.
The Parasound ZoneMaster 4 DAX will list for $995 and here are the specs. Leave a Comment
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KEF Introduces Ci5160REF-THX Home Theater Loudspeaker KEF’s newest addition to its Extreme Home Theater THX Ci Series custom install speaker series is the Ci5160REF-THX.
Featuring four linear 165mm (6.5 inch) bass drivers and a 125mm (5 inch) MF/HF Uni-Q array as well as a 25 millimeters (1″) vented aluminum dome tweeter at the acoustic center, the Ci5160REF-THX is aimed solely at high-end.
Designed to be part of the Reference Series, the Ci5160REF-THX is THX Ultra 2 Certified and is finished with a brushed 11mm (7/16″) thick aluminum front baffle, making the Ci5160REF-THX a striking visual — and an unmatched sonic — addition to any home theater.
The Ci5160REF-THX will be available December 2016 and will list for $10,000. Here are all the specs. Back to Top |
MainStream Audio Debuts MS amp160 for All-In-One Streaming and Multi-Zone AudioMainStream Audio announced the MS amp160, a new amplified streaming product designed for custom integrators looking for an “all-in-one” Wi-Fi streaming and two-channel amplifier solution.
MainStream Audio’s MS amp160 Wi-Fi streaming and audio amplifier compliments the trio of non-amplified units launched by MainStream Audio in July. The amp160 has been engineered as a two-channel, 160-watt, class D (2×80 L/R) with a Wolfson 24/192k CD quality DAC inside. Designed to work in venues where amplification and Wi-Fi streaming is needed to drive indoor or outdoor speakers, the amp160 delivers powerful sound quality and performance for any residential or commercial application. The custom integrator now has more versatile Wi-Fi streaming options for any residential or commercial installation than ever before. And, at just 7.8″ L x 4.6″ W x 1.4″ H, it will fit just about anywhere the installer needs it to.
The amp160 offers multi-room/multi-zone (up to 12 zones) capability and can be set up in minutes via any home Wi-Fi network. The amp160, like the other Mainstream Wi-Fi products, is iOS, Android and PC compatible, while addressing all popular music streaming OS platforms. The entire product line supports several third party music stations including v-Tuner, Pandora, iHeartRadio, tunein, Spotify, Tidal and many other audio services.
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Rotel Intros Two New Integrated Amplifiers, CD PlayerRotel has announced the 14 Series that includes a CD Player and two integrated amplifiers.
The A14 is one of the two integrated amplifiers that’s rated at 80 watts per channel RMS into 8 ohms, both channels driven. The A14 uses a toroidal transformer plus slit-foil capacitors to handle difficult speaker loads and dynamic signal peaks. It has been designed to accommodate both analog and digital source components and it includes an on-board AKM 32 bit/768kHz DAC. Features include integrated Bluetooth with aptX, PC-USB with DSD support, signal sensing power control and universal in/out capability including multiple analog (two aux, CD, tuner, phono) and digital (two coax, two optical, PC-USB (PCM 32 bit/384 kHz) with DSD (1X/2X), Apple iOS USB, Bluetooth aptX) ports. It will list for $1299.
The A12 integrated amplifier looks the same as the A14 but has its output power rated at 60 watts per channel RMS into 8 ohms. The power supply also uses toroidal transformers and it also has been designed to accommodate both analog and digital source components and it includes an on-board AKM 32 bit/768kHz DAC. Features include integrated Bluetooth with aptX, PC-USB with DSD support, signal sensing power control and universal in/out capability including multiple analog (two aux, CD, tuner, phono) and digital (two coax, two optical, PC-USB (PCM 32 bit/384 kHz) with DSD (1X/2X), Apple iOS USB, Bluetooth aptX) ports. It will list for $899.
Finally, Rotel also debuted their CD14 CD player that claims ripple-free voltage and current to both digital and analog circuits. It uses a Wolfson 24 bit / 192 kHz DAC, provides disc metadata via an on-board display and has both a coaxial digital and analog output. It will list for $599.
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KEF Releases Ci200QSb-THX 8″ In-Wall or In-Ceiling Subwoofer KEF announces a new edition to its ‘Q’ Series In-Wall or In-Ceiling architectural speakers – a THX-certified 8” square subwoofer with two operating modes.
In passive mode, two Ci200QSb-THX subwoofers can be wired in parallel with a set of KEF Ci speakers for added low-frequency response and emphasis, or you can use two Ci200QSb-THX subwoofers with a pair of KEF Ci speakers for even more low-end response. In passive mode, the low-frequency matches the response of the best 8” Ci speaker. Using even our smallest in-ceiling speakers — Ci50R, Ci80.2QR and CI100QR — the Ci200QSb-THX adds a remarkable bass response to any architectural sound system.
In active mode, the Ci200QSb-THX is matched with KEF’s 250WPC Class-D DSP KASA500 subwoofer amp to create an active in-wall (or in-ceiling) subwoofer with amazing low-frequency extension and emphasis. When configuring four Ci200QSb-THX subwoofers with a KASA500, THX Select 2 certification standards are achieved. When configuring eight Ci200QSb-THX subwoofers with a KASA500, THX Ultra 2 certifications standards are achieved.
The Ci200QSb-THX also features KEF’s Ultra-Thin Bezel (UTB) technology which offers the thinnest possible visible rim around the speaker assembly. With the speaker grilles in place the Ci200QSb-THX is indistinguishable from other KEF architectural speakers, giving installers and designers and amazing amount of freedom-of-placement.
All KEF Ci architectural speakers, including the Ci200QSb-THX, are manufactured to Marine Grade Construction standards — the grilles are coated via a proprietary process, the speakers include moisture-resistant terminations and finish materials, and the plastics are UV protected. They will ship in December and list for $400 each or $800 per pack.
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Phase Technology Updates dARTS Digital Theater Systems Phase Technology announced a new version release of its dARTS (Digital Audio Reference Theater System) 660 and 535 Series Speaker systems with enhanced custom room calibration. Each dARTS system is configured as a home theater solution package to include performance-matched speakers and an amplifier that calibrates the speakers’ performance to accommodate the nuances of the room.
All digital, dARTS claims to be the most predictable speaker system you can own as each speaker driver in the system harbors custom fine-tuning software matched to within 0.5 dB of each other and the systems minimum SPL (loudness) is 105db in the listening area — that’s loud, precise and clear. Every dARTS System is shipped calibrated and aligned to Phase Tech’s custom response “reference” performance.
Once installed, the room, with its own sonic footprint is taken out of the equation with customized dARTS Audyssey MultEQ Pro room calibration software engineered into its amplifiers.
The new dARTS systems upgrade incorporates a custom version of Audyssey MultEQ Pro room correction software into the system’s new DP4000 IA amplifier, with no external equipment required for setup or testing other than a standard Audyssey Pro calibration kit. The amplifier offers increased dynamic power providing up to 250 watts per channel and will manage a standard 7.2 or Dolby Atmos 5.2.2 system. Multiple amplifiers can be included for larger environments.
The dARTS series speakers are available in four variations – tower / monitor, in-wall and custom-box set-ups and unique application sizes can be special ordered. System configurations vary with each option a main, center, surround and subwoofer models are included to fit environments up to 18,000 cubic feet in size. dARTS retail price ranges from $17-49K for a 7.4.4 Atmos system.
All speakers utilize the same driver complement — PhaseTech’s silk blended soft dome tweeters and woofers made from a three-layer composite of glass fiber and Nomex honeycomb materials. dARTS 660 Series speakers use 6.5” woofers while 535 Series woofers are 5.25″.
Here are all the specs. Leave a Comment
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Autonomic Introduces New eAudioCast Audio-Over-Ethernet Products Autonomic has announced the introduction of the MMS-1e whole-house music player and the M-120e four-zone amplifier, each featuring their eAudioCast audio-over-Ethernet technology. This means that that the music player and amplifier can be connected using a single Cat5e cable at high resolution bitrates, no traditional audio wiring required.
The completely solid state-based MMS-1e music player represents a new entry-level product for Autonomic that will broaden the opportunities for integrators to deliver Autonomic music solutions, particularly to those clients focused on enjoying streaming content throughout the home. The MMS-1e can be leveraged as a low cost single stream music player utilized as a standalone solution within a control system environment, or can be paired with an Autonomic eSeries amplifier, where its capacity doubles to provide two independent network streams of content. That means that the MMS-1e paired with the M-120e amplifier will deliver a two-stream/four-zone premium entertainment package at an affordable price point. And this solution is expandable via Ethernet to as many as 96 zones, enabling the user to grow their music system as their needs change while enjoying the same intuitive user interface they become accustomed to with the basic package.
The economical single stream MMS-1e retails at $995 and the two-stream/four-zone package starts at $1,995 MSRP. Anticipated ship date is September 2016 and all the specs are here. Leave a Comment
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Metra Home Launches 16-Channel Hybrid DVR and Security CamerasMetra Home Theater Group announces the new 16-Channel Hybrid DVR, encompassing the four most common video technologies, as well as 16 new Spyclops cameras.
The 16-Channel Hybrid DVR (SPY-DVR16HYB2) provides dealers with more flexibility due to its compatibility with four types of video technology, including AHD, TVI, analog and IP. Dealers can utilize any combination of the video technology across all 16-channels, combining four components into one system. In addition, the 16-Channel DVR is available in two options: with or without a hard drive, allowing dealers to bring the cost down to create a larger profit margin. The 16-Channel DVR features 1080p resolution for recording and playback quality, with up to 15 frames per second for TVI, AHD and analog and up to 25 frames per second for IP.
Metra Home Theater Group is rolling out a new lineup of new Spyclops cameras, all of which are compatible with TVI, AHD, CVI and CVBS and feature resolutions up to 1080p, including the following:
- 4-in-1 Bullet Varifocal Camera features a 2.8 – 12mm manual varifocal lens for zoom and focus adjustment. Available in both grey and white, the 4-in-1 Bullet is IP66 water resistant and includes 42 IR LEDs for night vision viewing up to 40 meters.
- 4-in-1 Dome Varifocal Camera includes a 2.8 – 12mm manual varifocal lens for zoom and focus. Available in both grey and white, the 4-in-1 Dome is IP66 water resistant with 36 IR LEDs for night vision viewing up to 30 meters.
- 4-in-1 Convert Motion Sensor Camera is designed for indoor use only, with a 3.6mm fixed, pinhole lens for a wider picture.
- 4-in-1 Mini Bullet Wide View Camera features a 3.6mm lens for a wider picture. Available in grey and white, the 4-in-1 Mini Bullet is IP66 water resistant with 18 IR LEDs for night vision viewing up to 20 meters.
- 4-in-1 Mini Dome Ultra Wide View Camera features a 2.8mm lens for ultra-wide picture. Available in grey and white, the 4-in-1 Mini Dome is IP66 water resistant with 18 IR LEDs for night vision viewing up to 20 meters.
- 4-in-1 Low Profile Dome Wide View Camera is designed for indoor use and includes a 3.6mm fixed lens for a wider picture and 12 IR LEDs for night vision viewing up to 20 meters.
In addition, Metra Home Theater Group has designed new, 2-in-1 cameras, compatible with AHD and CVBS, that boast resolutions up to 720p, including the following:
- 2-in-1 Mini Bullet Wide View Camera features a 3.6mm lens for a wider picture. Available in grey and white, the 2-in-1 Mini Bullet is IP66 water resistant with 18 IR LEDs for night vision viewing up to 20 meters.
- 2-in-1 Mini Dome Wide View Camera features a 3.6mm lens for a wider picture. Available in grey and white, the 2-in-1 Mini Dome is IP66 water resistant with 18 IR LEDs for night vision viewing up to 20 meters.
- 2-in-1 Low Profile Dome Wide View Camera includes a 3.6mm fixed lens for a wider picture with 12 IR LEDs for night vision viewing up to 20 meters.
Here are the details. Leave a Comment
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Channel Vision’s New IP Intercom Features Touch Screen Room Stations & App Channel Vision announced a new IP-based intercom systems along with a 7” IP Touch Screen. The new IP systems centralize your home electronics into one system and residents receive video push notifications to their touch screen or a phone app upon a visitor ringing the doorbell. For single family homes, the SI-8000 series front door stations are an attractive addition to any home while providing the first line of defense against home invasions and burglaries.
The SIM Series IP Intercom provides a complete solution for access control to apartments, duplexes, offices and other MDUs. Visitors can call the Touch Screen using the scrollable directory or by dialing the floor and unit number. Residents will receive video push notifications with the option to lock/unlock the door on their touch screen, tablet or smartphone.
The IP Front Door Stations (SI-8000 Series and SIM Series) and Touch Screen Room Stations are already shipping and you can see the specs here. Leave a Comment
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RoseWater Energy Group Announces Enhancements to the Energy Management HUB Rosewater Energy Group is updating its RoseWater Energy Group HUB, which the company will show at CEDIA 2016. The Energy Management HUB has been re-engineered with an updated configuration featuring batteries with 14.4 kilowatt hours of useable storage, an increase from the 12 kilowatts of storage previously utilized. In conjunction with Alpha, RoseWater Energy Group has engineered the Extra Battery Pack (EBP), a supplemental battery for HUB owners looking for additional power. EBP, now a carbon based configuration, includes an extra battery pack that doubles the energy storage capability available in one HUB. In addition, RoseWater Energy has begun testing on a new ‘Time of Use’ algorithm which will allow HUB owners utilize a tiered power charging cycle. The new software will enable users to utilize the HUB’s power during the day, when energy prices have spiked, and recharge in the middle of the night, when energy prices are lower. The new algorithm is set to update in the cloud within the next six months.
The HUB offers a seamless total system integrated solution, using a dual inverter system with solar input that blends power conditioning, backup, and renewable energy management into one pre-assembled, configured and integrated industrial-grade platform. Since CEDIA 2015, the HUB has been updated with a new communications panel to unify communications and add code space for custom algorithms, allowing engineers at RoseWater Energy Group to directly reach the system and provide updates. By enabling remote access, HUB owners don’t have to worry about the hassle of scheduling in-home visits or programming a system on their own. In addition, the HUB features new inner-bay wiring with an added raceway and OpticsRW, additional software created to monitor the use and storage of the HUB.
RoseWater’s Energy Management HUB will be at CEDIA 2016. Get all the specs here. Leave a Comment
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Salamander Designs Creates New Product Category with Low Profile Wall CabinetsSalamander Designs has announced the introduction of Low Profile Wall Cabinets as part of their Chameleon collection. Measuring only 12-inches deep and available in an array of styles and configurations, these shallow depth additions to the Chameleon lineup make it easy to conceal A/V electronics and wiring in a low profile cabinet.
Salamander floor-standing shallow depth cabinets are designed to be easily affixed to the rear wall for added safety and stability, particularly when using the optional integrated TV mount that ideally positions almost any size flat panel display without the need to drill into finished wall surfaces. Each cabinet is constructed on a lifetime warrantied extruded aluminum frame that enables easy customization for just about any application.
The Low Profile Wall Cabinets are available in triple and quad-width sizes. Also optionally available are integrated 3U vertical racks to accommodate smaller rack-mountable components. Salamander Low Profile Wall Cabinets will be available in October and will start at $2,499. Here are all the specs. Leave a Comment
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Draper’s New Profile Design Is Industry’s Biggest Thin Bezel Screen Draper’s completely redesigned Profile fixed screen has only a ½ inch thin bezel frame yet, is available in sizes up to 30 feet wide — this is perfect for HomeAV and digital signage applications as the Profile gives the projected image a “flat panel look.”
Draper says that size isn’t the Profile’s only advantage as they spec the redesigned frame to actually be 30% lighter. Thus, the frame is easier to assemble, and viewing surface attachment is simple with our new sliding hook-and-loop system. Optional LED lights frame the Profile with thousands of color possibilities. In addition, the Profile redesign also comes with a Zero Edge option—and, yes, at 30 feet wide.
Profile is available with all of our Optically Seamless, ISF certified, 8K-ready TecVision formulations and it can be wall mounted or flown.
It’s officially launched at CEDIA but you can see it here. Leave a Comment
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Salamander Designs Intros Two New Home Theater Seating Styles Salamander Designs has announced the introduction of their Luca and Lilliana home theater seating solutions. Both models feature distinctive design and unique stitch patterns reminiscent of luxury automobiles.
The Luca seating features a diamond double-needle stitching on the seat and back inserts with single-needle top stitch on the arms, the seat and back frames. Consumers can select stitching that matches or contrasts with the upholstery for a stunning look. Luca recliners are offered with manual or power recline mechanisms and with or without cup holders.
The Lilliana seating is a similar overall form factor to the Luca models, but has horizontal channel stitching on the seat and back inserts and matching or contrasting welt around the perimeter. Like the Luca chairs, Lilliana models are offered with manual or power recline mechanisms and with or without cup holders.
Here are all the specs. 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 2016 – 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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