Volume 14, Issue 22 — November 22, 2017
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Industry News Audio Control & Signal Processing Projection Cables, Furniture, Mounts, Racks, Screens and Accessories Media Players, Recording & Distribution
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When Was The Last Time You Did an AV Demo?
By Lee Distad rAVe Columnist
For as much traction as the so-called smart home has gained in consumer awareness, it’s still audio and video that remains a key part of the residential business. While I’ve met a few HiFi shop owners who loathe automation and prefer to deal with it in the context of cinema room design, I don’t think I’ve ever known an AV pro who does nothing but automation and lighting control. Consequently, audio and video equipment and effectively presenting it remains essential.
Hopefully, by now, all AV pros know that clients buy when the salesman has created both trust and value. Effective demonstrations establish you, the dealer, as a trusted expert. Secondarily, but still important, an effective presentation cements in the client’s mind why the system they’re being asked to pay for is worth the money.
There are a couple of things that I’ve observed going on in big box retail with regard to their video displays.
The first is that their passive presentation have all risen to a higher level as the years have gone by and technology has advanced. That includes looping video content streamed from dedicated video servers and quite often supplied and supported by the brands of screen they’re running on. That’s great, and I fully endorse it.
The other is that I can’t remember the last time I witnessed an active presentation led by a sales associate looking to wow the customer. I’ll just pause here and admit that while my work takes me into big box stores on the regular, I’m not there all the time and generally not during prime time evening shopping hours. I won’t make the claim that big box salespeople don’t ever present, just that they do it seldom or at least less often than they used to.
Armed with this, I have quizzed the independent AV dealers I know and feel reassured by their confirmations that yes, they do indeed actively demonstrate the quality of their systems’ picture and sound.
So, circling back to the title, I’ll ask you the readers: When was the last time YOU performed a demonstration?
Hopefully it was recently. And while what’s current for movies and music changes, what hasn’t changed is what it takes to deliver an effective demonstration.
One thing that I learned from experience from my time in the front lines of retail HiFi was that if prospective customers have been shopping for any length of time, they’ll have “demo fatigue.” They may well have seen the same action movie scene (Pearl Harbor was big when I had this revelation) over and over again.
It’s not a bad thing to keep older yet still effective demo materials in your library. Beyond the punch of the system you’re selling, it’s one way to be memorable.
Speaking of overcoming demo fatigue, keep it on target. The whole point of a demonstration is to impress. Be organized. Have the demo materials ready to go.
I know that Bose is a polarizing brand in the business, but if there’s one thing they can be credited for it’s turning demos into a repeatable, systemic process. Tell the client what they’re going to experience, show them and then reaffirm what they just experienced.
That’s it. It’s not voodoo, it just works.
The goal of demonstrations is to turn a prospect into a client. Bear that in mind, and knock their socks off with a killer demo of a killer system. Leave a Comment
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HDR Is the Key to 4K Marketing and Branding Success With AV Manufacturers
By rAVe Team The UHD device market continues to excel with media streamers, set-top boxes, games consoles and UHD TVs all demonstrating significant growth. The quantity of 4K UHD content that is being created is also growing, but there is limited delivery of it to consumers, finds Futuresource Consulting in its latest 4K UHD Consumer Market Tracking report.
Futuresource forecasts that throughout 2017, 35 percent of global TV sales will be 4K UHD, taking the worldwide household penetration of 4K UHD TVs to 8 percent, as the average price continues to fall, and larger screens increase in popularity, many of which will be UHD as standard.
High Dynamic Range (HDR) is obviously the new battlefield for device manufacturers. However, it is a more difficult consumer message to convey than the improved resolution. Furthermore, the industry is in danger of devaluing the term with no universally accepted definition of how much better than “standard” dynamic range devices need to be before they can be labelled HDR. As such, there are many poor implementations in the market, branded HDR, but with little discernible improvement.
The UHD media streaming market continues to hot up, with new UHD devices from Roku, Amazon and Apple helping propel worldwide 4K UHD shipments to account for 36 percent of all media streamers sold throughout 2017.
“Despite the strong hardware sales and a significant quantity of content being shot, produced and stored in 4K, only a small proportion of that is readily available to consumers,” says Futuresource Market Analyst Tristan Veale. “Therefore, the content gap is appearing to expand as the demand for the higher quality hardware is outstripping the propensity to pay for UHD content. This gap will likely continue to widen until broadcasted UHD becomes more mainstream.”
The report finds that broadcasters must invest at multiple points, with this investment currently not being matched by the financial return from customers. As such, the upgrades and content acquisition are a challenging justification for many operators that are seeing increasingly suppressed margins.
Video On Demand providers of transactional and subscription content continue to gain momentum globally with Netflix banking over 1,000 hours of UHD content and UHD a renewed focus for Apple, Google and Amazon. Apple’s offer of 4K UHD titles at the same price as HD on its iTunes store has already prompted a response from Amazon and Google, both of which have lowered the cost of 4K UHD titles.
“UHD is increasingly standard across the key SVoD services, with many offering UHD content for no extra charge,” comments Veale. “As such, by the end of 2017 globally, it is expected that there will be over 33 million homes with a 4K TV and an SVoD subscription that offers UHD content. SVoD providers don’t face the same issues as broadcasters in delivering content, also problems with interoperability are significantly reduced due to IP connectivity. As such, continued growth of available content on these platforms is expected.”
Futuresource’s 4K UHD Consumer Market Tracking report is available and goes in to more detail on this. It covers the expected scale and impact of UHD within home entertainment, focusing on the latest key developments and trends in the market over the last quarter, as well as looking forwards. Detailed market data coverage with forecasts to 2021 includes UHD Blu-ray Software, UHD Digital Transactional, UHD Digital Subscription, Broadcast UHD coverage and STB shipments, UHD TV shipments, installed base and household saturation, UHD Blu-ray player shipments, installed base and household saturation. Leave a Comment
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Middle Atlantic Earns Patent for RSH 1 RU Custom Rackshelf Middle Atlantic Products today announced it has been awarded patent number 9,648,771 from the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office for its RSH Series 1 RU Custom Rackshelf. The 1 RU rackmount solution features the series’ innovative snap-together assembly that speeds up integration and a front-face design that addresses the need for quick and easy last-minute equipment installation and upgrades and for performing ongoing system maintenance.
Accommodating smaller devices that previously required a two-space shelf, the new single-space RSH Custom Rackshelf saves crucial rack space, conforming to ever-changing AV needs. Its tool-less, knockdown assembly greatly simplifies installations, while its mounting capabilities ensure a clean and professional look. Because its faceplate attaches to the shelf after installation, integrators can mount the shelf with or without a component. This unique face-after design addresses the need for quick and easy last-minute equipment installation and upgrades, and for performing ongoing system maintenance.
Leveraging Middle Atlantic’s patented UMS mounting pattern and offering a choice of 8- or 11.5-inch depths, integrators can attach additional small devices to the shelf, supporting mounting flexibility beyond larger AV system components. The new offering is tested to meet the highest standards in safety and reliability with a UL/ETL weight rating protecting installed equipment up to 35 pounds.
Middle Atlantic’s RSH selection provides complete flexibility to mount any custom device according to weight, size, and finish as well as accommodates multiple devices with simple mounting and clamping options. To ensure ease of ordering, Middle Atlantic offers an 11,000+ measured unit database. If a particular component isn’t listed, the company will measure and add it to this growing custom rackmount database.
Here are all the specs. Leave a Comment
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AV Industry Loses Another Icon as John Stiernberg Passes
John Stiernberg, 66, president and founder of Stiernberg Consulting, passed away Nov. 11, 2017, after a months-long battle with cancer.
A Chicago area native, John was deeply committed to his college sweetheart and wife of 45 years, the former Jeanne Broughton. Together they founded Stiernberg Consulting in 1993, a seminal business development consultancy within the music, audio-video, and entertainment technology industry. Despite his influential role as a guiding force behind many of the industry’s success stories, John maintained an intentionally understated, behind the scenes profile to keep the spotlight on his clients.
An accomplished bluegrass and gospel musician, John was an ardent music lover and aficionado, with an encyclopedic knowledge that spanned multiple genres and eras. He embraced technology with equal fervor, cultivating a keen insight and understanding of consumer and professional technologies. But it was John’s business acumen that informed his work, guiding the CEOs and business trajectories of the industry’s dominant players and rising stars.
A fervent supporter of music and technology education, John was active in numerous trade organizations including NAMM, InfoComm, NSCA, and CEDIA. A dynamic keynote speaker, he was a frequent contributor to industry publications, creating hundreds of white papers and reports, and authoring the acclaimed music industry guidebook, Succeeding in Music: Business Chops for Performers and Songwriters.
John was an amazingly thoughtful man – very humble and unassuming, yet brilliant. I had an opportunity to work directly with him on a long-term-strategy committee for NSCA years ago and it would be hard to name another person as customer-focused or as respected as he was
John is survived by his wife Jeanne; his mother, Myra Stiernberg, of Tillamook, OR; brother Donald Stiernberg and sister-in-law Ilene Stiernberg of Skokie, IL; niece Bonnie Stiernberg of Brooklyn, NY; nephew Charlie Stiernberg of Chicago, IL; and brother-in-law Matthew Broughton of Ripon, WI.
In lieu of flowers, the family has suggested a donation to one of many charitable causes John was committed to, including the NAMM Foundation, as well as Bay City United Methodist Church, Bay City, Ore.
Memorial services are pending. Please share your memories of John below in the comments.
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Luxul Releases New Epic 3 Wi-Fi Router With Built-In Remote Management Software Luxul today introduced a new AC3100 dual-band gigabit router with a host of built-in features. The new Epic 3 integrates Luxul’s wireless controller with Roam Assist, remote network monitoring and management from Domotz and cloud-based content management and parental controls from Router Limits.
With the Epic 3, installers can now create a roaming Wi-Fi experience for their clients and service their networks remotely. With Domotz remote network monitoring built in and installers receive alerts when issues arise on their clients’ networks, allowing them to fix problems before customers even realize they exist. Luxul claims that having the Epic 3 on a client’s network also means quicker setup times and easier network maintenance for installers.
The Epic 3 router is compatible with Luxul’s access points (APs), allowing installers to add APs to maximize the performance and budget of each project. Capable of managing additional access points, the Epic 3 offers a cost-effective multi-access-point roaming solution for residential and small commercial networks.
Luxul’s Epic 3 with built-in Roam Assist, Domotz remote management software and Router Limits content management boosts Wi-Fi reliability while allowing users to remotely maintain the network to which it’s connected, and fully control their internet experience.
- Roam Assist provides seamless Wi-Fi connection throughout the home, eliminating problems such as low, dropped or lost signals.
- Domotz remote management software gives installers the power to manage, maintain and troubleshoot their clients’ networks from anywhere in the world.
- Router Limits content management means end-users are in control of their internet experience by managing internet traffic; choosing which devices can access the web; what parts of the web are OK (or not OK) and the days and times the internet should be available.
The Luxul Epic 3 Dual-Band Wireless AC3100 Gigabit Router will be available in late November 2017 with KRACK vulnerability protection. All the details are here. Leave a Comment
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CEDIA Announces Certification Roadshow for ESC-T Review CEDIA has announced that it will host a certification roadshow throughout the month of December. The six events, which will include the ESC-T certification review, ESC-T certification exam and an emerging trends talk, are part of CEDIA’s ongoing effort to make certification more accessible.
“Earlier this year we announced that CEDIA Certification Exams are now available through the Kryterion testing network which has than 1,000 testing centers worldwide,” said Dave Pedigo, CEDIA VP of emerging technologies. “However, we recognize that many individuals benefit from taking a review session and we want to make sure those who become certified know how they can market and use their certified status to elevate their work.”
All certified professionals have access to a new set of CEDIA certification logos for all levels of certification. Another new component of the toolkit that CEDIA is providing to certified professionals is access to digital badges through BadgeCert. Through this program, digital certification badges can be easily added to email signatures, LinkedIn accounts, websites and other social media platforms. Clicking on a digital badge allows clients to verify the current status and expiration date of an individual certification and see what knowledge and skills it represents. In addition, Amazon announced a new program for individuals with advanced CEDIA certification at CEDIA 2017. Those who are CEDIA Certified (ESC-T, ESC-D, ESC-N) can take advantage of the Amazon Home Technology Pro Engagement Program.
CEDIA will host the certification roadshow in the following locations:
Monday, December 11
PowerHouse Alliance
Clifton, NJ
Monday, December 11
PowerHouse Alliance
Denver, Colorado
Tuesday, December 12
ADI
Pompano Beach, FL
Wednesday, December 13
PowerHouse Alliance
Oakland, California
Thursday, December 14
ADI
Farmers Branch, TX
Friday, December 15
Volutone
VanNuys, California
The emerging trends talk that is included in the roadshow schedule is free for all to attend and will start at 3:00 p.m. on the day of the roadshow. Those interested in attending the certification review and sitting for the exam can find registration information here. Leave a Comment
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Peerless-AV Announces Newly Upgraded Xtreme Outdoor Soundbar Peerless-AV has announced an upgraded Xtreme Outdoor Soundbar (SPK-080) — an all-season solution for outdoor audio entertainment.
The new Xtreme Outdoor Soundbar is part of Peerless’ next generation line of outdoor soundbars, offering what they say is a more powerful and durable outdoor audio solution as it’s equipped with 200 watts of total system power and an IP65 rating. The soundbar can also be used as a standalone product using Bluetooth.
To help with installation, the new soundbar features a universal mounting option and both analog and optical connections with a direct-wired connection.
Here are all the specs. Leave a Comment
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New Klipsch On-Wall Speakers Debut Klipsch today introduced its Reference Premiere Designer On-Wall speakers for flat panel TVs. The Klipsch Reference Premiere Designer On-Wall speakers is made up of four models. The RP-140D, RP-240D and RP-640D can be used as left, center, right or surround speakers, while the RP-440D SB is a three-channel passive sound bar. Equipped with four-way keyholes for horizontal or vertical wall mounting, each speaker also includes a glass base which can be attached for placement on a tabletop or bookshelf – also giving the option of horizontal or vertical orientation.
Klipsch claims its Tractrix Horn technology improves high-frequency response and extension, while enhancing imaging and dynamics. A Linear Travel Suspension titanium tweeter maximizes dynamics for detailed performances. Klipsch copper Cerametallic woofers minimize distortion while providing one of the highest efficiency ratings in the class.
The Klipsch Designer On-Wall speaker series is here. Leave a Comment
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James Loudspeaker Introduces Three Omni Planter Outdoor Loudspeakers James Loudspeaker has introduced three Omni Planter landscape speaker systems engineered for applications where in-ground solutions are not practical. Omni Planter speakers incorporate a down-firing subwoofer and deliver 360-degrees of sparkling clear entertainment.
All James Loudspeaker Omni Planter models accommodate a decorative plant of choice nestled into the top section of the all-aluminum powder coated loudspeaker enclosure available in an array of standard and custom colors. Typical applications for the Omni Planter loudspeaker include rock-scape areas or any other environment where traditional satellite/subwoofer combinations cannot be installed. The Omni Planters are also ideal for large open seating venues such as outdoor theaters that demand detailed and dynamic coverage as well as high-output. Custom colors and configurations are available, including units without rear-firing satellites when situated in a corner or against a wall. Sturdy, tamper-proof brackets and bolts make the Omni Planter ideal for commercial applications and for securing to solid surfaces such as concrete.
Available models are:
- Omni Planter 89AT4-P 3-inch satellites/8-inch subwoofer $2,400.00 (each)
- Omni Planter 89AT70-P (premium 70-volt version) $2600.00 (each)
- Omni Planter 109AT4-P 4-inch satellites/10-inch subwoofer $2,900.00 (each)
- Omni Planter 109AT70-P (premium 70-volt version) $3,100.00 (each)
- Omni Planter 129AT4-P 6-inch satellites/12-inch subwoofer $3,400.00 (each)
- Omni Planter 129AT70-P (Premium 70-volt version) $3,600.00 (each)
All the specs are here. Leave a Comment
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iRoom Implements Apple HomeKit Technology into iPad Docking StationsOrigin Acoustics has announced Apple HomeKit implementation into the iRoom iPad Docking Stations.
Origin Acoustics says that iRoom is one of the few Apple-certified manufacturers of iPad and iPhone accessories. The certified charging electronics and connectors ensure reliable charging of the iPad and protects it from current peaks.
The models iBezel and iTop come with a built-in control processor and touch control keypad on the glass faceplate that allows for direct control of devices such as lights, volume or selection of audio/video sources.
Apple HomeKit brings together all smart devices in one single app. Integration of HomeKit technology into iRoom’s docking stations takes it one step further. It allows for control of HomeKit compatible devices through iBezel’s or iTop’s touch buttons in addition to iPad control via the Apple Home app. This adds convenience to a control environment by providing immediate access to often used functions such as lights, blinds, source select or volume control without the hassle of unlocking the iPad screen, opening the Home app and finding the right control.
iRoom foresees the implementation of HomeKit for the second quarter 2018. Here are the details. Leave a Comment
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Key Digital Ships Audio Matrix with DSPThe new Key Digital KD-MAX8x8 eight input to eight output audio matrix switcher with built-in audio DSP. The KD-MAX8x8 has analog and digital connections for input and output and enables analog-to-digital or digital-to-analog conversion of signals, or can operate as two independent audio matrixes (one digital and one analog). Analog audio inputs are connected on balanced/unbalanced six pin phoenix terminal blocks and digital audio sources are input on a PCM coaxial RCA connection that supports surround formats up to Dolby and DTS 5.1.
Each output of KD-MAX8x8 handles all pre-amp functionality, enabling integrators to connect directly into amplifiers. Any of the connected audio sources may be selected on any output and apply variable signal processing levels for volume, bass, mid, treble, balance and lip sync.
Here are more specs. Leave a Comment
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Gefen Ships 4K 600 MHz EXT-UHD600-1SC Extender over Fiber Gefen from Core Brands today announced that it is now shipping its new 4K Ultra HD 600 MHz Extender for HDMI over one Fiber-Optic Cable (EXT-UHD600-1SC). The EXT-UHD600-1SC is a compact HDMI 2.0 audio and video with High Dynamic Range (HDR) up to 200 meters over a single strand of SC-terminated multi-mode fiber-optic cable.
This new 4K Ultra HD 600 MHz extender for HDMI over one Fiber-Optic Cable supports 18.2 Gbps of bandwidth and 600 MHz TMDS Clock frequency. Full bandwidth support allows the EXT-UHD600-1SC to accommodate resolutions up to 4K Cinema-DCI (4096×2160 up to 60 Hz 4:4:4) and 4K Ultra HD (3860×2160 up to 60 Hz, 4:4:4) along with High Dynamic Range HDR-10 and Dolby Vision. HDCP 2.2 and the legacy HDCP 1.4 are both supported. The EXT-UHD600-1SC also supports 1080p Full HD, WUXGA (1920×1200), 3DTV and Deep Color (up to 1080p resolution).
Highest performance multi-channel digital audio, including 7.1 channels of LPCM and HBR (High Bit Rate) digital audio formats, such as Dolby Atmos, Dolby TrueHD, DTS:XTM and DTS-HD Master AudioTM, are passed through to the HDMI outputs.
Gefen says the EXT-UHD600-1SC guarantees electrical isolation between the sender and the receiver. This extender can be powered from sources and displays featuring powered USB ports, or by using external power supplies. Here are the details. Leave a Comment
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RTI’s New Custom Control Kit Debuts RTI today announced the availability of a new custom control kit that integrates Pro Control solutions into the RTI control platform. Bundling the company’s XP-3 control processor, Pro Control’s Pro24.z remote, and an unlimited RTiPanel license in one cost-effective package, the C2K1 starter kit allows dealers to offer their customers a quick way into home automation.
The new starter kit is centered around RTI’s XP-3 advanced control processor. The processor features a built-in ZigBee RF transceiver to allow bi-directional communications with compatible RTI and Pro Control remote controls. In addition to control options — including IR, RS-232 and relays — the XP-3 uses two-way drivers that provide users with feedback from third-party devices and event scheduling.
Using RTI’s award-winning RTiPanel app for Apple and Android devices, an unlimited number of users can now control installed electronic systems via their favorite smartphones and tablets. In addition, the C2K1’s Pro Control Pro24.z remote control has a 2.4-inch LCD touch-screen display, programmable five-way joystick and backlit hard buttons.
RTI’s new Custom Control Kit C2K1 is here. Leave a Comment
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A Sub-$2,000 4K DLP Projector Debuts from BenQ
BenQ America just launched the CineHome HT2550 DLP projector that they say is capable of hitting 96 percent Rec 709 color and is native 3840×2160 (4K UHD) resolution using single-chip DLP.
BenQ’s HT2550 projector uses 0.47″ single-DMD-chip DLP technology and employs BenQ CinematicColor technology and a RGBRGB color wheel to hit the 96 percent coverage of Rec. 709 color gamut. The HT2550’s 4K video includes compatibility with high dynamic range (HDR10) support and uses motion-adaptive edge pixel enhancement to help with flesh tone rendition. It also can support HDCP 2.2 copy protection.
The HT2550 includes auto keystone correction and a 1.2x zoom lens and inputs include HDMI and VGA.
The BenQ HT2550 will be available in North America in Jan. 2018 for under $2,000 retail and here are all the detailed specs.
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BenQ’s TH671ST HD Projector Aimed at Budget-Conscious Buyers BenQ America today announced the availability of its new budget-friendly TH671ST HD home entertainment projector. Designed for console gaming, the TH671ST claims smooth gaming and something called LumiExpert — intelligent ambient lighting technology.
The BenQ TH671ST is HD 1920×1080 resolution and it has a low 16.67-ms input lag and microsecond DMD response helping to eliminate motion blur and image lag. In addition to the high 3,000-lumen brightness, LumiExpert actively detects the ambient light conditions and automatically adjusts visual brightness for maximum comfort and clarity. An onboard 5-W stereo speaker offers custom Cinema, Music, Sports, and Game modes that enable nuanced, clear audio based off content. Making it easier for viewers to untether their media content from their mobile devices, the USB-A power port allows for the use of wireless streaming dongles such as Chromecast, FireTV stick, or Roku.
The rich HD picture of the BenQ TH671ST is further complemented by a step-by-step setup wizard that includes basic and advanced options to fine-tune the picture to fit the space. The projector’s short-throw design only requires as little as five feet to project 100″ pictures.
The BenQ TH671ST will be available soon in the U.S. for $749 here. Leave a Comment
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SANUS Expands Wireless Speaker Stand Series to Accommodate Sonos® PLAY:5 SpeakerSANUS is launching a new member of its Wireless Speaker Stand Series designed for the Sonos PLAY:5 speaker, the largest of the home sound system’s family of wireless speaker products.
The new, wireless speaker stand, the SANUS WSS51, holds the Sonos PLAY:5 at the manufacturer’s recommended angle for ideal audio dispersion at the optimal listening height. At 31.5″ tall, it fully supports the speaker for optimum bass response – facilitating high-quality sound from anywhere in the room, whether listeners are sitting or standing.
The WSS51 offers the following:
- Quick assembly requiring only a screwdriver
- Cable-hiding, integrated wire channels
- Includes carpet spikes and rubber feet to provide stability on any surface
- Holds the speaker in either vertical or horizontal orientation
The WSS51 is available now and sold as a single stand at $119.99. Color options include black and white.
Here are the details. Leave a Comment
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Wall-Smart Collaborated with URC for New Retrofit Construction Mount Wall-Smart has announced a new partnership with URC, offering new construction and retrofit mounts available through URC sales channels.
The New Construction Flush mounts for URC TKP-7600, TKP-5600 and TKP-100 integrate into any wall for unobtrusive installations that preserve the room décor. These Flush mounts can simply be painted any color to truly appear to be part of the wall and create a uniform look and feel.
The Retrofit mounts for URC TKP-7600 and TKP-5600 offer a new kind of ease-of-installation, with a very quick and straightforward installation process. The mounts allow easy upgrades from older touch screens, without the need to do any drywall or paintwork. The mounted touchscreen remains accessible for service and maintenance while maintaining a high level of aesthetics and integration.
Here are the tech details. Leave a Comment
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TEAC Introduces the AD-850 Cassette/CD Multi-Function Player for KaraokeBridging the best of old and new, the TEAC AD-850 combines a CD player and cassette deck and also adds features like MP3 recording and playback, USB memory stick recording and playback and even a front panel microphone input for karaoke.
In addition to commercial CD playback, TEAC says the AD-850 supports recordable CD-R and CD-RW discs, including discs with MP3 files and the integrated cassette deck features a ±10 percent pitch control during playback.
The AD-850 has a built-in front panel 1/4-inch microphone input, and the ability to mix the mic signal with backing tracks from CD, cassette, USB or auxiliary input. You can even select two different settings of reverb for the microphone input, to give your vocals that professional “studio” sound. Record your performance to cassette tape or a USB drive to share with friends and family.
The AD-850’s two head cassette mechanism supports normal format tapes, as well as chrome and metal varieties. It also features a ±10 percent pitch control to raise or lower playback to suit your vocal range. The CD player supports commercial CDs, including displaying meta data (artist name and song title) in the LCD readout. Automated playback modes are offered including Repeat, Shuffle and Program Play.
Here are more detailed 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.
To read more about my background, our team, and what we do, go to https://www.ravepubs.com Back to Top |
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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