Essential Install May 2018

The essential magazine for the custom install industry

May 2018

INSIDE

We craft audio products that perform like no other, based upon a profound understanding of how people hear.

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EI LIVE! REVIEW

SMART HOME HAVEN

SPEAKERS

MAD SOUNDS

HVAC

BEAT THE HEAT

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W NE Compatible with any iOS device

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Book Now J

At www.blustream.co.uk

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Essential Install | Contents

The essential magazine for the custom install industry

May 2018

INSIDE

We craft audio products that perform like no other, based upon a profound understanding of how people hear.

EI LIVE! REVIEW

SMART HOME HAVEN

SPEAKERS

MAD SOUNDS

HVAC

BEAT THE HEAT

May 2018

CE Pro EUROPE

In this issue…

ro

C ommercia l EUROPE CE P EUROPE INTEGRATOR

Commercial

INTEGRATOR

REGULARS

FEATURES

5 From the Editor’s desk

60 CE Pro Europe

7 Essential news

72 Essential review

Yamaha’s 2018 flagship AVR

Show success

14 Invision insights

74 Training dates

38 Speakers

16 Pulse press

77 Essential products

45 HVAC

Busy bees

20 Marvellous Meridian

Digital discussion

Automation announcements

Superb seminar

Leading the way

Smart home know-how

On the Pulse

30 EI Live! Review

Loud and proud

Splendid spectacles

Don’t lose your cool

18 HDANYWHERE updates

54 AVRs

22 CEDIA showcase

62 Day in the life

Patent approved

Are you receiving me?

Train to gain

Experience expertise

24 Habitech headlines

66 Case study

Average net circulation October 2015 to October 2016

OK Google, play Sonance!

26 Autonomous alliances

Astonishing AV

69 Smart thinking

5,212

Z-Wave refresh

EI Live! review

EUROPE

30

Speakers

The big picture

38

Case study

66

2 | May 2018 Contents.indd 2

29/05/2018 15:06

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The 2018 World Cup is just around the corner. Here’s a great package to offer customers who may be upgrading to 4K for the tournament. It’s a bundled solution that gives you generous savings on our normal trade prices – so you can score a winning margin too. ✔ A Vivitek HK2288 4K-UHD projector in black or white – for true Ultra High Definition images ✔ An Audipack Q-Fix bracket – for quick installation and easy adjustment ✔ Your choice of 2m, 2.5m or 3m Screen Int Compact HC 4K surface screen – for getting the best performance from a 4K/UHD projector World Cup Package Price Normal trade price You Save

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pages 24-25

From The

Editor’s Desk And the award goes to…

Niamh Marriott, Editor

Hello and welcome to the May issue of Essential Install magazine, and what an issue it is. We’ve got more automation announcements, expert industry opinions, and prized products than you can shake a smart home stick at.

Speaking of splendid swag, congratulations to the winners of the Smart Building Awards! This year’s awards were celebrated in style during the evening at the delicious gala dinner following the first day of EI Live!

Accompanied by the sophisticated sounds of our swing band, winners celebrated their successes and revelled with peers and colleagues. The winners were nothing short of spectacular this year, with many people, products and projects wowing the independent judging panel with their entries. It was a marvellous night and a wonderful chance to catch up with you all.

The benefits of winning an award can be bountiful.

Not only is it a marvellous selling point to your customers

to be an award-winning company, it also offers real industry recognition and raises your profile above your competitors and peers, motivates your team to work even harder, and can make you far more attractive to new talent. Your credibility and prestige are increased, and an award proudly displayed gives a sense of professionalism before you’ve even sat down for an initial client meeting.

It’s also free marketing, which is always lovely and handy.

If you didn’t take home the top prize this year, fear not, there are plenty of opportunities to shine in EI. Got an opinion on a technology? Think your product solves a common industry problem? Have some top tips for a smooth install? Let me know, this is your industry and I want to offer you a platform to speak. Oh and for daily updates, don’t forget to check out our sister publication CE-Pro.eu, sign up to our weekly newsletter and give us a follow us on Twitter @Install_Mag.

EDITOR IN CHIEF: Daniel Sait, dan@allthingsmedialtd.com EDITOR: Niamh Marriott, niamh@allthingsmedialtd.com EDITORIAL COORDINATOR: Jordan O’Brien, jordan@allthingsmedialtd.com SALES DIRECTOR: Ian Kitchener, ian@allthingsmedialtd.com PUBLISHER: David Kitchener, david@allthingsmedialtd.com ACCOUNTS: susan@allthingsmedialtd.com CIRCULATION: carol@allthingsmedialtd.com STUDIO MANAGER: Ben Bristow, ben@allthingsmedialtd.com GRAPHIC DESIGN: Jon Appleton, jon@allthingsmedialtd.com Essential Install magazine, Suite 14, 6-8 Revenge Road, Lordswood, Chatham, Kent ME5 8UD. T: +44 (0)1634 673163 F: +44 (0)1634 673173 Whist we make every effort that everything printed in Essential Install magazine is factually correct, we cannot be held responsible if factual errors occur.

All articles are copyright and remain the property of Essential Install magazine.

Ed's Comment.indd 5

25/05/2018 09:43

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Essential Install | News

Essential News Smart home happenings and automation announcements

The new brands were on show at EI Live! 2018

Pulse adds Anthem and Paradigm to portfolio Pulse Cinemas has added Anthem and Paradigm to its range of AV brands, Essential Install can exclusively reveal. This is just the latest company to join the distributor’s line-up, having announced the addition of Loewe in February.

The addition of Anthem and Paradigm widens the company’s amplification and speaker brands increasing the choice of performance options and price points available from Pulse. The two new brands whilst offering strong performance, can offer options at lower cost than some of the company’s other brands.

This is not the first time Pulse Cinemas has shown that impressive performance can be achieved at competitive price points. At EI Live!

2017 the company debuted a range of cinema packages that were designed to be affordable, and were reason enough to attend the show. BenQ’s addition to the line-up also enabled Pulse Cinemas to defy what was possible in a sub-£20k cinema. Anthem and Paradigm will further the company’s ability to offer increased pricing options all year round, however.

The announcement of Anthem and Paradigm joining Pulse Cinemas’ distribution line-up comes at a very important time for the company. Its recent investments have ensured that its headquarters is fully updated with a blend of the latest and greatest technologies, while new staff members have joined the team meaning the firm is still able to keep up with its high level of support, even as it grows.

Commenting on the announcement, Rob Sinclair, director of international business and market development at Paradigm, was quick to point out his enthusiasm for the move, “Mike, Kapes and the team have shown great professionalism in adding our brands to their current range of products and we have confidence that the relationship will be long lasting and fruitful for both companies. The Stansted facility is one of the finest anywhere in the world. We are delighted that our brands will now be demonstrated in this impressive venue to visiting installers.”

Kapes Patel, technical sales director at Pulse Cinemas adds, “Mike and I have spent 16 years focusing on giving our dealer/installers the best possible service and support. Adding these two exceptional brands is definitely a highlight and one that we are proud to announce through CE Pro Europe and Essential Install magazine.”

Pulse Cinemas 01279 647 039, pulsecinemas.com

May 2018 | 7 News.indd 7

24/05/2018 20:05

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22/05/2018 11:59

Essential Install | News

Leon Speakers acquires Terra Speakers

Leon president Noah Kaplan (left) and Terra president James Banfield have a history of collaboration

Leon Speakers has announced that it has acquired Terra Speakers, Maine-based manufacturer of rugged, all-weather speakers. This purchase expands Leon’s portfolio of high-performance, custom loudspeakers, providing new residential and commercial business opportunities.

Leon and Terra have a long history of working together that dates back over a decade with Leon president Noah Kaplan and Terra president James Banfield having collaborated extensively on product development. Terra’s All Climate FIVE line of all-weather loudspeakers was designed in partnership with Kaplan, and Leon’s Boundary Series outdoor speakers are made with drivers manufactured by Terra at its Maine plant.

“We’ve been collaborating with Terra for years now and over that time we’ve found that our companies share a lot of the same core values and the common vision of creating high-performance, design-driven audio products that are made right here in America,” said Kaplan. “We’re both passionate about art, music, design, and craftsmanship, and Terra’s strong expertise in the outdoor market will be a huge asset to our company.”

The acquisition will bring a whole host of new products to Leon’s current residential and commercial product lines, especially bolstering their outdoor audio offerings. Terra is known in the industry for creating durable speakers that are built to thrive in rugged weather conditions, and its current product line will help to build out Leon’s Boundary Series of outdoor speakers.

Leon Speakers 01438 831095, leon-speakers.co.uk

Atlona designates Sahara AV as UK manufacturer’s rep

Sahara AV will leverage Atlona’s strengths in AV over IP and networked control

AV collaboration and control specialist Atlona has appointed Sahara AV as its manufacturer’s representative for the UK. Headquartered in London, Sahara AV will work closely with systems integrators, consultants and end users to demonstrate, deliver and support Atlona’s complete line of signal management and control systems, with a goal of moving more commercial facilities to AV over IP solutions.

Sahara AV is part of the Sahara Presentations System Group.

For more than 40 years, Sahara Presentation Systems has been distributing AV solutions and software through Sahara AV, primarily to the corporate, healthcare, retail, compulsory education and higher/ further education (HE/FE) markets.

To achieve its goal of accelerating transitions to the network, Sahara AV will leverage Atlona’s strengths in AV over IP and networked control, including its Atlona’s OmniStream AV over IP distribution platform, second-generation Atlona Management Systems (AMS), and Velocity IP-based AV control solution. Shaun Marklew, Sahara AV’s sales and marketing director, points to the very low latency and high reliability of OmniStream as a substantial Atlona strength; as well as the ability to quickly configure and organise AV over IP products and workflows by room, floor, building and/or site with AMS. “Rather than just ‘box shifting,’ we pride ourselves on collaborating with resellers and integrators on their projects from conception to installation,” said Shaun. “By working with Atlona, we are now in a stronger position to extend our reach into the many vertical markets we serve, and move our customers to networked systems and workflows that will bring new opportunities and efficiencies to their operations. Having developed reliable technologies that minimize the impact of AV systems on users’ networks and solve technical AV challenges, Atlona is a trusted brand at the forefront of the global AV over IP transition—and a welcome addition to our family of marketleading commercial AV manufacturers.”

Sahara AV 020 8319 7777, saharaav.com

May 2018 | 9 News.indd 9

24/05/2018 20:06

Hide Alexa in the Ceiling.

Valet is a four zone amplifier with Amazon Alexa integration. It provides high definition audio to eight speakers, low voltage power to, and audio from the Echo Dot, all with one single Cat5/6 cable.

ConneCt the Dots • hiDe the Dots • Power the Dots

T: 01359 270280 W: www.invisionuk.com E: sales@invisionuk.com

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24/05/2018 13:17

Essential Install | News

Rako offers control panels and cover plates, as well as control modules and racks

Indigo to distribute Rako Indigo Distribution has announced it has added Rako to its product portfolio. Speaking on the new partnership, Indigo’s Charlotte Herteleer said, “At Indigo Distribution, we are committed to providing the very best home automation brands and products to our dealers. We are therefore excited to announce the addition of Rako to our growing portfolio. We now offer wireless and wired lighting control solutions to complement and expand our range of automation products, integrated with the slick and seamless Elan home system and user interface.”

The Rako range will be added to both the Indigo System Design App and the Indigo Loyalty Program, and Indio is offering its dealers up to 10% cash back, as well as free shipping for the top two tiers.

“This will ensure our dealers ease of installation, time optimisation and competitive pricing,” said Charlotte. “This new partnership between two of the UK’s leading control system companies will enable our dealers to provide intuitive and reliable home automation installations throughout the UK and Ireland.”

While Rako products have gained popularity in the smart home sector, thanks to the ease of installation and the adoption of technologies such as Alexa, HomeKit and Google Home, the company’s products can also be used in commercial buildings.

That includes bars and restaurants, hotels, boardrooms, offices, conference facilities, retail, churches, and schools and universities.

Indigo Distribution 02891 455 565, indigodistribution.co.uk

Bowers & Wilkins move to bigger premises

The new facility will be more than twice the size of the original at nearly 30,000sqft

Bowers & Wilkins, the storied British audio brand, is relocating from its research and development centre to a new and larger facility with cutting-edge equipment and tools, called Southwater Research & Engineering (SRE). The move represents a significant investment to expand the team and accelerate the company’s ability to develop new capabilities that will drive innovation across its suite of luxury home speakers, headphones and performance car audio.

Every major acoustic innovation that has defined Bowers & Wilkins had its beginnings at that original ‘University of Sound’, established

by John Bowers in 1981. The original SRE lays claim to innovations including the Diamond tweeter, the Continuum and Aerofoil cones, as well as iconic products such as the Zeppelin, the 800 D3, the PX noise-cancelling headphones as well as the Nautilus speakers.

The new facility will be more than twice the size of the original at nearly 30,000sqft. When it opens later this year, it will accommodate multiple anechoic chambers, significantly increase in the number of listening test rooms, a suite of product testing and engineering labs, and dedicated Headphone and Automotive Audio Labs.

“For more than 50 years, Bowers & Wilkins has been defined by cutting edge acoustic technologies complemented by beautifully designed products,” said Gideon Yu, executive chairman and CEO at Bowers & Wilkins. “Inspired by John Bowers’ quest for what he called ‘True Sound’, our engineers are dedicated to honouring and continuing that legacy today. The new SRE is an extension of our rich sound engineering tradition. It is designed to further the mission of crafting products that deliver incredible sound experiences and beyond to our customers and consumers.”

Bowers & Wilkins 0800 232 1513, bowers-wilkins.co.uk

May 2018 | 11 News.indd 11

24/05/2018 20:06

Essential Install | News

HARMAN opens new Experience centre & EMEA HQ The opening of the experience centre in London represents a major investment in the EMEA region

HARMAN Professional Solutions has announced the grand opening of the HARMAN Experience Centre – London. The new facility expands the growing global network of HARMAN Professional Solutions Experience Centres, including locations in Los Angeles, Singapore and Shanghai, and will serve as the new headquarters for the EMEA region.

Designed to showcase how HARMAN solutions address customer needs across a variety of entertainment and enterprise market applications, the 25,800sqft (2,400sqm), multi-functional facility including EMEA headquarter offices, demonstrates the integration of brands including JBL Professional, AKG Acoustics, AMX, BSS Audio, Crown International, dbx Professional, DigiTech, Lexicon Pro, Martin, Soundcraft and Studer.

“The opening of the experience centre in London represents a major investment in the EMEA region, enabling us to deepen relationships with our customers and greatly expand our presence across critical markets,” said Chris Smith, vice president, EMEA, HARMAN Professional Solutions. “Not only will the facility offer customers the opportunity to experience HARMAN innovation first hand, it provides our staff with a state-of-the-art headquarters that will allow us to pursue new opportunities with greater speed and efficiency.”

The HARMAN Experience Centre—London is comprised of several dedicated spaces along with the EMEA office space and meeting rooms. The Product Showroom is filled with HARMAN solutions including HARMAN’s Connected Retail Experience, Huddle Space, Connected Hotel Room, Home Recording, Networked AVoIP, and much more. The Foyer, Boardroom and Auditorium are not only practical-use spaces, but also areas that demonstrate HARMAN solutions for restaurant, corporate, education, corporate, and theatre environments.

HARMAN harman.com

Essential people Loewe is expanding its team in the UK with two new staff appointments. It has expanded its account management team with the addition of Danny Cavie and has filled a new office-based role aimed at improving sales and administration support for dealers with the appointment of Siobhan Duffy. “The expansion of the UK team is important to support organic growth within our current dealer base as well as ensuring we develop relationships with the right new accounts,” commented Loewe UK MD Alan Whyte. “We’re thrilled to have both Danny and Siobhan on board during an incredibly exciting time for the brand, and look forward to forging long and prosperous working relationships with them both”.

AV technology company Peerless-AV has appointed Matt Nixon as distribution channel sales manager. Matt is responsible for developing and implementing the long-term business strategy, broadening sales opportunities, managing distributor relationships and providing support for the ongoing growth of key accounts. Commenting on his appointment, Matt said, “I’m enjoying being part of a successful, enthusiastic and productive sales team at Peerless-AV. I look forward to putting my social and commercial relationship skills into practice with upcoming sales promotions, product training and marketing initiatives.”

GJD, manufacturer and designer of smart electronic perimeter detection and LED illumination equipment, is pleased to announce and welcome Fay Parker as GJD’s new internal sales executive. Fay is responsible for building and maintaining customer relationships, developing new business opportunities and creating bespoke solutions to suit customer requirements.

Hamilton Litestat has appointed John Hall as area sales manager for South Wales and the West. The new appointment follows further growth in the region for Hamilton, with John joining the team to support additional business development in the area. “I’m excited to be joining Hamilton and be part of such a well-respected British company within the electricals industry,” said John. “Having worked in both wholesale and technical sales, I believe I can bring experience that will make a real difference to the team and Hamilton’s customers at a really exciting time for the business.”

CEDIA has announced that Thomas Darling will join the CEDIA staff as the senior vice president of development and education. This newly created role will lead CEDIA’s professional development department, specifically focusing on strengthening the education programs and increasing the scope and quality of CEDIA’s curricula. CEDIA has also hired a new director of education. Samantha Ventura joined the CEDIA team in late March. Samantha is a PhD candidate in organisational leadership specialising in virtual leadership and cultural intelligence and also has her master’s degree in teaching.

Fay Parker

Matt Nixon

John Hall

Samantha Ventura

Thomas Darling

Danny Cavie and Siobhan Duffy

12 | May 2018 News.indd 12

24/05/2018 20:06

LINEAR THINKING BLACK LINE LindyCables.com

DISCOVER LINDY lindy.com

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23/05/2018 16:25

Essential Install | Invision UK

Smart speakers and premium products at Invision Conference

Invision’s Smart Home Innovation Conference offered real opportunities for business growth, genuinely useful advice for installers and dealers alike, and a plethora of brand new products from its leading automation brands. EI went along to get the smart home scoop.

RTI integration in action

The format for the day was exquisitely organised, with a real sense of purpose and a need to produce a worthwhile day out for smart home technicians, whose time is often precious.

Having attended an Invision roadshow last year, I thought I knew the format – products on display and helpful brand reps to explain the technology, coupled with the option to listen to a few speakers talking about their specialist expertise – little did I know that the conference had really shaken up the structure and I was actually in for a real treat.

The conference focused on presenting information in a way that was easy to navigate, interesting to take part in and useful for business demands. Alongside the back wall of the conference room were the latest and greatest products, lined up for inspection, and the projector and screen directly opposite with all attendees sat facing the front.

Superb seminars

Jared Edwards from Luxul

With a wide range of CI and home automation brands already in its portfolio, Invision would never struggle to fill a conference schedule with top talkers. Presenting with their best feet forward were brand representatives from LILIN, Luxul, Origin Acoustics, WyreStorm and RTI, discussing the most cutting-edge technologies and products available in our luscious industry, with the aim to inspire and inform. Luxul’s technical training manager, Jared Edwards, stated the case for networking being the essential ingredient for every install and Origin Acoustics’ Dave Donald enthused on voice control. Dave agreed that the size of the conference was ideal. He says, “It was just the right size event allowing for personal interaction while having the critical mass necessary to create a level of energy that motivates dealers to act.”

An impressive speaker, CEO of RTI Ed McConaghay stressed the importance of retaining a strong brand identity, Jason Hill, group VP of LILIN offered advice and explanations on cyber security threats in surveillance and James Meredith

from WyreStorm outlined the evolution of HD distribution.

There was plenty of opportunity for discussion around the presentations and many had an opinion on at least one so the breaks throughout the day and the afternoon networking sessions were put to good use. Ed McConaghay enjoyed the event, exclaiming, “The active participation by the dealers was a rewarding confirmation of their thirst for more knowledge, and respect for the Invision team’s ability to deliver leading edge product ideas and business solutions.

It was a great time to create new relationships and to refresh old ones. I would do it again anytime!”

Divine devices on display

A whole host of new products were unveiled on the day including Origin Acoustics’ Deep Subwoofer, RTI’s RTIQ remote management, a new integrated remote monitoring solution, and LILIN’s brand new day and night 4MP HD auto focused IR IP Camera, which has been designed for a range of environments demanding high security and reliability.

James Meredith of WyreStorm commented, “Thanks to everyone at Invision and to all who attended to learn about WyreStorm’s true multi-platform approach to signal distribution. Many familiar faces, plenty of new ones and some great technology made for a very informative, fun and ultimately rewarding day for all involved.”

EI tends to agree. The event offered everything you’d need from a smart home conference and we will certainly be attending the next Invision show.

Invision 01359 270 280, invisionuk.com

14 | May 2018 Invision.indd 14

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Authorised Crestron Services Provider specialising in developing innovative and flexible Crestron software solutions exclusively for the residential sector.

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15/05/2018 12:18 13:02 17/05/2018

Essential Install | Pulse Cinemas

Loewe has the widest range of OLED TVs on the market

A Pulse Cinemas and Loewe love-in Picking the right brands to match the rest of its portfolio is one jobthat distributors have to get right.

Pulse Cinemas believes it has done that with Loewe.

Mike Beatty, Pulse MD, explains, “We believe Loewe is the perfect fit for a TV brand within our family of products. The performance and luxury feel make it a great fit to partner other brands in our stable such as Kaleidescape. Working together those two products really deliver something special.”

The news of the appointment of Pulse was first announced back in February of this year and the company has wasted no time in bedding the brand in. All over the company’s Stansted HQ, and at the company’s London Experience Centre, Loewe TVs have been integrated and are ready to be demonstrated.

This is absolutely key for Mike as he explains, “You really have to experience these products to appreciate the different level they go to. Just get your customers in front of the range and they will see the difference. The picture, the style, the build-quality are really impactful and create the desire for the product.”

“The company has a fantastic portfolio of complementary brands, together with strong and established relationships with a client base of installers who work on projects that have huge potential for placement of Loewe TVs. A high level of technical back-up and superb customer service is also available to ensure all installs of Loewe TVs go nice and smoothly.”

Charlie adds, “Loewe TVs are very much premium products, in every way. Made in Germany, in small volumes with exceptional build quality using high end materials, they really need to be seen to appreciate the less tangible and more tactile qualities – just like any luxury product.

“There’s plenty of choice too from sophisticated minimalist designs to luxurious opulence with the widest range of OLED TVs on the market including bild 3, bild 4, bild 5, bild 7 and bild 9 ranges and screen sizes up to

77in. Of course, Loewe TVs are beautiful on the inside too, using state-of-the art technology, including the latest OLED displays with HDR and Dolby Vision.”

Charlie also underlines that the Loewe TV platform provides significant flexibility when meeting the needs of installers; from IP and RS232 control with certified drivers, a range of operating modes including Hotel Mode and Monitor Mode which allows switch-on directly to an AV input of your choice, to cable management detail. Charlie is also at pains to point out that Loewe’s carefully selected premium distribution within the UK means installers can also enjoy a healthy retained margin.

Important also to realise that despite the luxury approach, Loewe TVs still compare favorably price wise with its rivals. Worth also noting are the audio options provided by the brand with passive and active wireless audio systems which are designed to integrate with Loewe TVs. A built-in 5.1 Dolby digital decoder enables the TV to connect directly, via a cat 6 cable or wirelessly, to the audio system with Loewe’s integrated soundbar acting as centre speaker. Auto detection powers up the audio system when the TV is switched on and enables everything to be controlled with the single TV remote.

Another nice touch sees Loewe’s Bluetooth connectivity paired with an integrated media player which allows users to connect their smartphone directly to the TV and play music through Loewe’s TV speakers or connected external audio system.

The whole Pulse team is on hand to show visitors just how good the Loewe sets are, so get in touch and find out for yourself.

Pulse Cinemas 01279 647 039, pulsecinemas.com

16 | May 2018 Pulse.indd 16

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BECAUSE PERFECT CONTROL

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Interchangeable custom trim pieces CresnetÂŽ wired communications Four button styles

crestron.com/horizon All brand names, product names, and trademarks are the property of their respective owners. Certain trademarks, registered trademarks, and trade names may be used in this document to refer to either the entities claiming the marks and names or their products. Crestron disclaims any proprietary interest in the marks and names of others. Crestron is not responsible for errors in typography or photography. Š2018 Crestron Electronics, Inc.

Ad_Horizon_mediaone3.indd 1 Untitled-16 1

22/05/2018 16:50 16:31 22/05/2018

Essential Install | HDANYWHERE

Patent granted for HDANYWHERE matrices and app A new patent has been granted for HDANYWHERE’s AV matrix, MHUB, by the UK Intellectual Property Office.

HDANYWHERE’s universal control app (uControl) delivers whole-home AV control, free with every MHUB

The integrated universal controller inside all HDANYWHERE MHUBs and its control application, ‘uControl’, have been granted a patent by the UK Intellectual Property Office (Patent Number GB2548668) and was on display at this year’s EI Live! show.

Central to HDANYWHERE’s patent is the process which makes setting up a control interface effortless – requiring no prior training or technical knowhow. Technical protections include the system’s communication with the HDA Cloud, ultra-low IP-to-IR processing latency times (almost indistinguishable from direct remote control), and its unique method to dynamically redraw the control interface based on the mobile device the user is controlling.

These innovations are now a standard feature in all HDA MHUB matrix models, and with the release of their new API it is possible for any third-party control systems to hijack and utilise the MHUB’s I/O to enhance the reach of control.

Chris Pinder, HDANYWHERE founder, says of the patent, “The matrix category is full of homogeneous products; tech specs are often indistinguishable from the competition, and all depend upon third-party controllers to make them work properly. We didn’t feel comfortable with this risky reliance on other brand’s boxes to make our hardware usable. The rationale behind the development

of uControl was simply self-reliance and self-sufficiency – to provide an included controller for a whole-home AV system straight out of the MHUB box.

“As we gradually overcame each technical hurdle during the development of the universal remote app and everything required to support it, in terms of software and hardware smarts, it became clear we should look at protecting our invention. We felt that if it’s worth copying, it’s worth protecting, especially in our field, so the patent application process began around two years ago.

“Innovation is definitely an overused word when it comes to HDBaseT matrices. But not in the case of uControl, it is a truly powerful value-add feature that allows users to achieve so much more as standard. Our patent protection gives us the confidence to continue to invest in, and improve, the platform that gives us a definite edge over the competition.”

HDANYWHERE showcased its MHUB at this year’s EI Live! Be sure to get in touch with the team behind the brand to learn more about this innovative, and now patented, product.

HDANYWHERE 01684 575 324, hdanywhere.co.uk

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Become a

a mini control system within every MHUB Every MHUB ships with uControl - A universal remote app that can control Sky, BT, Virgin, AppleTV and pretty much any display. try it in demo mode

GOLD AWARD WINNER

GOLD AWARD WINNER

SILVER AWARD WINNER

BRONZE AWARD WINNER

2018

HDANYWHERE.COM Untitled-1 1

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Essential Install | Meridian

Hi-Res Performance, Tailored for Custom Install

Meridian has always challenged convention. For more than forty years, the British manufacturer has pushed boundaries, disrupted norms and delivered products that have shaped and redefined how people experience sound across the world.

Meridian’s rigorous and research-led philosophy has maintained its position on the limits of what is possible, introducing the world’s first DSP digital active loudspeaker, bringing the world’s first fully digital surround sound processor to market and launching revolutionary technologies, including Meridian Lossless Packing (MLP) and Master Quality Authenticated (MQA).

Meridian’s pioneering nature has also seen the company tailor its renowned audio quality to countless environments, devising unique solutions, such as, the world’s first 3D in-car surround system for Range Rover vehicles.

In keeping with Meridian’s desire to optimise the audio experience no matter what the context, the company turned its expertise to the custom integration industry in 2015.

Meridian’s commitment to raising the bar of audio performance in the connected home has been illustrated by a tailored series of new, innovative products to help home technology integrators put their clients at the centre of the listening experience. The company also offers a number of complementary services designed to support its dealer network.

Meridian’s CI products

Meridian’s award-winning product offerings to the CI industry include the 218 Zone Controller, the 251 Powered Zone Controller, the 271 Digital Theatre Controller, the new UHD722 Ultra High Definition HDMI Processor and the company’s range of DSP in-wall speakers.

218

Meridian was awarded Best New Hardware at the 2017 CEDIA Awards for its 218 Zone Controller. The 218 Zone Controller uses Meridian High Resolution up-sampling technology to improve audio output from a range of AV technology in both media room and whole home applications. With Meridian Speakerlink, optical, and analogue inputs, and digital and analogue outputs, its versatility ensures it can be used in any number of system configurations.

271

Meridian Audio’s 271 Digital Theatre Controller is designed to deliver the most exceptional and immersive home cinema experience. Complete with the highest quality dynamics and clarity, in analogue, digital and 3D format applications, the 271 has the ability to integrate any analogue or digital AV processor, or receiver on the market with Meridian’s DSP loudspeakers. With Meridian High Resolution (MHR) technology, the 271 offers 16 unbalanced inputs, 16 balanced inputs and the option of 16 digital inputs, depending on the choice of processor.

It is a premium performance option for streaming services, including Atmos, Auro and DTS-X 3D formats, and can be integrated with ease thanks to an intuitive IP controlled set up and configuration platform. The 271 is the link integrators need to integrate a Meridian DSP Loudspeaker with other products of your choice, renowned for bringing the best, hi-resolution, immersive audio into home cinemas.

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Essential Install | Meridian

251

The 251 is a compact Powered Zone Controller with two powerful, cool-running channels of on-board amplification capable of generating Meridian’s statement superior audio performance for a variety of analogue speaker applications.

Enabled for Hi-Res audio, including Master Quality Authenticated (MQA), the 251 can act as an integrated amplifier, delivering 2 x 100W for two passive loudspeakers or a soundbar for media room projects. It can be deployed to run a 2.1 system with a separate subwoofer, using the unit’s pair of analogue outputs, or be used as the hub for distributed audio applications from single zone to wholehouse distribution using the 251’s digital and analogue inputs. This Powered Zone Controller can also be the endpoint for Meridian’s award-winning Sooloos music management platform as well as offering support for Roon.

In all these applications, the 251 will elevate the listening experience by bringing Meridian’s trademark fidelity and high resolution audio performance to the system.

The 251 Powered Zone Controller is quick and simple to install and set up. As a 1U, half rack width unit, it can easily be installed behind a TV or within an AV rack. An optional rack mount kit or VESA mounting bracket is available. A web-based setup page makes for simple, repeatable and quick configuration.

UHD722

Meridian’s Ultra High Definition HDMI Processor features built-in Multichannel Meridian High Resolution (MMHR).

The UHD722 can connect to existing processors, enhancing sound quality to HDMI-compatible equipment and producing seamless audio. Including Meridian’s unique high-resolution Upsampling and Apodising technologies, the UHD722 ensures the best possible performance from Blu-ray Disc, satellite/TV receivers, and games consoles.

In-Wall speakers

Meridian’s DSP640 and DSP520 in-wall Digital Active Loudspeakers provide a discreet, superior audio performance from a compact system. The DSP640 contains a 100mm mounting depth, delivering powerful audio for cinematic viewing with minimum unwanted deflection. They feature Centre Elevation technology for an incredibly lifelike experience, as well as internal 100W and 150W power amplifiers that deliver both wide-range and bass audio for a realistic sense of positioning, space and true scale.

Meridian HQ, Huntingdon

Meanwhile, Meridian’s in-wall/in-ceiling DSP320 Loudspeakers combine quality audio performance with a shallow mounting depth. The DSP320 measures just 100mm deep and 300mm square, making it easy to install with precise positioning. This subtle in-wall/in-ceiling loudspeaker can pack a punch with two powerful 80W class amplifiers, meaning that no external equipment needs to be installed and leaving more space available for other systems, whilst reducing any unnecessary heat.

Design and Specification Service

Meridian’s complimentary Design and Specification Service integrates all of its partners’ technology to make it quicker and easier for integrators to specify the right products for the perfect installation.

To utilise this service, integrators simply need to discuss upcoming projects with Meridian’s design experts who will then take care of the rest.

Integrators will receive a co-branded CEDIA-approved pack which features precise room layout and speaker positioning diagrams, detailed wiring diagrams, and comprehensive product information. This service saves the integrator valuable time and helps achieve the exceptional performance expected from a Meridian system, while also giving the client the confidence that they will receive the highest level of audio-visual performance in all areas of their home.

Distributed by Meridian

Meridian has developed partnerships with pioneering brands that share the brand’s desire to achieve the highest level of media room and home cinema performance.

For a really high performance solution, Meridian distributes Barco Residential projectors, Display Technologies screens and Cinema Acoustic Treatment Systems (CATS) panels to ensure that dealers have access to a comprehensive range of premium home cinema solutions. Barco Residential projectors deliver phenomenally high quality video resolution. Distributed

by Meridian, the Loki Dual Laser Projector, available in two resolutions - either 3840 x 2160 or 5120 x 2160 and with a native 2.37:1 aspect ratio, prevents no loss of light or black bars when enjoying home theatre, ensuring a premium movie-watching experience. Meridian’s partnership with DT Screens and Cinema-ATS complete the range with first-class screen and acoustic products for home cinemas.

Integrators are welcome to attend Meridian’s ‘Distributed

by Meridian Day’ on June 28 to get hands-on with and learn more about these solutions. To find out more, visit bit.ly/DistributedbyMeridian.

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Essential Install | CEDIA

Building professional networks is an unexpected advantage of attending training sessions

The value of education

Richard Colman, company director at CEDIA member, Luxe Smart Homes, discusses how attending industry training allowed him to set up a successful installation company, and why all integrators should maintain standards by regularly signing up for education courses.

I joined CEDIA just over a year ago, as I wanted to gain access to their training program at the membership prices.

I was the first inductee under the ‘individual membership’ programme. I was transitioning from a different industry and needed to gain a solid understanding of how to set up an installation company and all the various aspects involved in doing so. I’m now 12 months on from this stage and, looking back, I don’t think I would be where I am today if it hadn’t been for that CEDIA training I initially undertook.

I drove up and down the M25/M1 for three consecutive weekends as I threw myself into the boot camp, Technical School, and Networking School courses. While my brain may have been slightly overwhelmed by the sheer breadth of information I was taking in, it was all fitting into place and building upon the knowledge I had already learnt myself through playing around with AVRs, projectors, and computer networks in the past.

I think the biggest thing I took from those first few weeks was the confidence to go into a new industry and be taught with the highest of standards that CEDIA is committed to delivering. Once I had completed my ESC-T and ESC-N certifications, I was able to apply what I had learnt instantly when working on site. When I encountered fellow technicians who had years more experience than I had, who didn’t understand the reason for using one wireless radio channel over another, or when to use a Cat 6a cable instead of Cat 6, I knew that the investment I made in training myself in those first couple of weeks was immediately paying off.

After I completed the previously mentioned CEDIA courses, I then dived into product-specific training courses with AWE, Invision, Control4 and Lutron. This advanced my knowledge even further — to the point where I can now design, specify, install, and maintain an overall home automation control system that can incorporate a home cinema, lighting routines, and smart home security.

Another benefit of continued professional development that has helped me grow my business is all the fantastic people you meet on these courses. There are usually plenty

of breaks and lunchtime chats to discuss the state of the industry or the latest technological innovation. Not only that, after leaving the classroom, it’s been invaluable to be able to communicate with colleagues and friends on a regular basis. I’ve been able to build up a network that has years more experience than I have but have all happily helped me along my way. Even junior technicians who I have met at these courses have been able to make connections post-classroom that have led them to further employment opportunities.

My company is growing at a rapid pace, and I’ll be looking to take on new staff members in the coming months. I’m a firm believer in investing in human capital as a means to attract, secure, and retain talent in the future. A well-motivated, fully educated technician is going to have a calmer and more professional demeanour when facing challenges that present themselves on site.

So, for all those companies that have wondered where the value is in sending their staff on training courses, be it at CEDIA or at one of the many distributors and manufacturers that offer excellent training facilities, think about the time a knowledgeable technician will save you on site, the extra money that will keep the smile on his or her face, and the more significant number on your bottom line for having a fully trained workforce. luxesmarthomes.co.uk @luxesmarthomes

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Essential Install | Habitech

OK Google, play Sonance!

America’s original and favourite architectural speaker brand continues to squeeze bigger sound from ever more discreet designs. Habitech’s audio guru, Giovanni Scatola, introduces the latest models fit for the smart speaker age…

The tech giants are beating each other up to bring you the smart home. They think that IoT thermostats, lights, cameras and speakers in their millions will finally deliver an intuitive voice-activated home control lifestyle, and generate billions in revenue. And they’re right. One in six Americans (that’s 39 million people) already own a smart speaker and that number is predicted to double within a couple of years. This is good news for the likes of Amazon, Apple, Google and Samsung, and great news for CI, because in popularising custom home tech, the second wave of smart home evangelists is likely to open new opportunities for the first.

Let’s face it, great sound is never going to come from a HomePod, Echo or Home Mini, but these little messengers are destined to enable it with an ‘Alexa’ or an ‘OK Google’.

Rather than threatening the naturally intelligent tech you’ve been installing for years, artificial intelligence is likely to empower it. So add a smart speaker to your demos, glue it to your system with an IoT control platform such as Simple Control, and refresh a conversation about what really

smart AV looks like. And you can always add a little extra magic with the liberal application of new tech from Sonance, creator of the in-wall speaker: the world’s very first ‘smart’ design.

A new cinema reference

The new Reference Series flush cinema speakers promise enhanced audio impact and detail from a design with the same footprint as their Visual Performance predecessors, so they’ll drop into existing cavities for easy upgrade.

Larger 4th generation woofers and coaxial speakers employ carbon fibre/rohacell laminated cones paired with ceramic dome tweeters for accurate and even tonality across the range, so speakers can be mixed and matched in any configuration for optimum performance.

There are nine new SKUs including inwall, in-ceiling, cabinet speakers and in-wall subwoofers (10in and 12in), equipped with dual spider technology for a level of bass performance and output that is unmatched in the world of in-wall.

New Reference Series cinema in-wall/ceiling speakers combine fabulous fidelity with discreet looks and easy upgrade convenience

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Essential Install | Habitech

Deep, controlled bass from the easy-toconceal ultra-compact D8 Dual 8in sub

Design great sound into gardens of any size up to 450sqm with a new range of SonArray packages

Like the D8, the powerful Impact subs offer app-controlled EQ to fine-tune their prodigious output to the room

Equipped with new satellite and subwoofer models, the flagship ‘Landscape’ allweather range will bring evenly dispersed, high quality sound coverage to the largest spaces

The low-profile Pro Series and VP52R UTL (opposite) in-ceilings prove there’s no barrier to great Sonance sound and utility

Sonance Extreme in-wall/ceiling speakers are more than a match for any weather

Deeply discreet There’s no greater example of the small box/big sound approach than the D8 dual 8in square subwoofer, which offers the same output as a 12in woofer as well as easy app-based EQ functionality via a built-in wireless receiver and optional wireless transmitter.

Sharing this optimisation tool is the new Impact line of cabinet subs: i8, i10 and i12 (8/10/12in, 200W/300W/400W). We’re including the i8 in a superstealthy Sonance surround system of SB46M/46L soundbar and VP46R in-ceilings for highly immersive audio and aesthetics in smaller spaces.

Great sound for the cottage garden to the golf course

Sonance is redefining the quality of outdoor audio with a new line of Landscape Series products including two new satellites: a 4in (LS4T) and a 6in version (LS6T), and three new subwoofers: a 12in in-ground subwoofer, 15in in-ground subwoofer and a 12in hard-scape subwoofer. The new sat design offers higher output, wider dispersion and higher fidelity than its predecessors, and for added versatility, includes the selectable 70V, 100V or 8 ohm tap dial from the Sonance Pro series.

For smaller projects, new SonArray sat/sub package options will deliver all the design flexibility you need in gardens up to 450m², powered by a single Sonance SR2-125 amplifier. Combine the new Sat 4-pack with a SonArray sub for bijou urban spaces; expand the ‘groundbreaking’ original 8.1 system to 12.1 or 12.2; and for larger country gardens use two 8.1 systems in a 16.2 configuration. The SR2-125 is custom-built with DSP to optimise the sound quality of all SonArray systems.

New Visual Performance Extreme all-weather speakers

Wherever the climate gets truly hostile, the new IP-66 rated Extreme in-wall/ceiling speakers boost performance with larger voice coil and magnet engines for higher SPL and increased power handling. Built to withstand extreme humidity, salt spray, temperature and UV challenges from -34C to +79C, the round 6in (VPXT6R), 6in single stereo (VPXT6R SST) and 8in (VPXT8R), and a 6in rectangle (VPXT6) benefit from a new grille retention technology (XPC), with eight capture points to resist pressure washing. The round models also offer square grille options for pristine integration.

Ultra-skinny in-ceiling

You can squeeze big accurate Sonance sound into ceiling voids as narrow as 36.5mm with the new ultrathin two-way 5.25in VP52R UTL in-ceiling speaker.

And new for highend commercial applications, two lowprofile in-ceiling 2-ways from the Sonance Professional Series will bring unequalled fidelity, extremely low distortion, wide dispersion and smooth power response to boutique restaurants, shops and bars. The 4in PSC43RTLP (85mm deep) and 6in PS-C63RTLP (111mm deep) join a range of 70V, 100V, 8 ohm selectable Inceiling, pendant and surface mount speakers designed to elevate levels of performance and practicality in commercial projects.

Time to big up small miracles

Apple, Google, Amazon et al haven’t invented the smart home, they’ve simply voice-enabled it. In the age of the smart speaker, the smart money is still on the ones that deliver great sound discreetly.

And for that you’ve always had Sonance, the world’s original smart home brand.

Habitech 01256 638 500, habitech.co.uk

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Essential Install | Alliances

Alliance executive director Mitchell Klein leads a panel on smart home upselling at ISC West 2018

Z-Wave update: new certified devices, tradeshow momentum and membership growth

In October of last year, we introduced Essential Install readers to the Z-Wave Alliance – who we are, about Z-Wave technology, and the major benefits of Alliance membership - as well as our predictions for 2018. So far, this year is off to a great start with the Alliance and membership participating in numerous industry tradeshows, certified product and membership growth, as well as exciting news from members who are really transforming smart home and buildings. And we’re only halfway through the year. Here’s what we’ve been up to.

Ecosystem Growth

Z-Wave Alliance now boasts over 700 member companies and 2400+ certified devices, as displayed on this wall in the Pavilion at CES 2018

Since we last reported in 2017, the Z-Wave certified device ecosystem has grown from 2,100 certified interoperable devices to over 2,400 and over 100m products have shipped in the market. We celebrated the 100 millionth Z-Wave device released into the market and announced at the recent ISC West Show in April.

It’s clear that demand for Z-Wave in the market is growing fast, across various industry verticals and moving beyond the smart home and into commercial applications like MDUs, elder care, insurance, healthcare and others.

For integrators, this growth represents greater product ecosystem choice and new business opportunities – a big differentiator for new sales and upselling in the increasingly competitive installed smart home market. As overall smart home awareness grows, we see more and more consumers requiring assistance with installation and ongoing support. With an increase in smart speaker growth in the U.S. and UK, installers who may be currently offering AV support and services should consider understanding smart home offerings at retail and creating support offerings to new tech adopters in their region.

Tradeshow support and momentum

Tradeshows continue to be a leading platform for member collaboration and demonstrating the value of Z-Wave to various industries, markets and key players. They can also be a great place for integrators to network with perspective customers, industry contacts and attend education courses to learn new skills (some of which I have the pleasure of hosting). The Z-Wave Alliance Pavilion kicked off 2018 at CES in January, with over 30 members participating in the largest smart home footprint in the Sands Convention

Center’s Smart Home Marketplace section of the show.

Announcements from members included new products with Google Assistant integrations and a host of devices that feature Z-Wave S2 Security.

After CES, the Pavilion traveled to ISE, Light+Building, ISC West and SMAHome Taipei. Most recently, the Alliance hosted the annual Z-Wave Summit EU in Amsterdam where members spent two days learning more about Z-Wave technology opportunities, market trends from leading analyst, media and technology experts, and networking with other European manufacturers, developers and integrators.

Exciting new Z-Wave products

Alliance members have been very busy this year developing, shipping and announcing new Z-Wave solutions to the market including new smart lighting and outlet products from Aeotec and Fibaro, door/window and water sensors from LEEDARSON, smart locks from August Locks and a DIY security system from abode – just to name a few. Alliance manufacturers are addressing market needs with solutions that resonate with smart home consumers, offering unique features like voice control compatibility with both Amazon and Google that installers can leverage for new sales and position as an entry point into larger systems and whole-home platforms to offer new value and capabilities for their customers.

We’re looking forward to participating in events throughout the summer and heading to CEDIA 2018 in September. If you’re attending the show, be sure to stop by the Alliance Pavilion for member demonstrations, new products, to speak with Alliance leadership and more. If you’re interested in learning more about Z-Wave Alliance and membership opportunities, visit z-wavealliance.org.

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Eurosat Recommends WyreStorm for unrivalled product design, quality, reliability and performance.

MX-0606-HDBT-H2L | MX-0808-HDBT-H2L: HDBASET | BIDIRECTIONAL IR | POH | 35M (4K) 70M (1080P)

Empower your AV WyreStorm gives you more with true AV distribution flexibility supporting the latest 4K UHD and HDR content and devices.

MX-0404-HDBT-H2A-KIT: HDBASET | BIDIRECTIONAL IR | POH | 35M (4K) 70M (1080P) EX-70-G2: HDBASET | BIDIRECTIONAL IR | 2WAY POH | 70M (1080P)

WyreStorm’s award-winning HDBaseT range of 4x4, 6x6 and 8x8 matrix switchers offer a total AV solution for the delivery of 4K HDR video, audio and control with PoH to receivers for the utmost in installation convenience and affordability.

Additionally with the new MX-0404-HDBT-H2A-KIT you can break-out the audio from your sources to a multi-room amplifier for the ultimate AV experience in any home.

Transmitting 4K HDR or HD point-to-point has never been easier with WyreStorm’s extensive range of extender sets ensuring an extender solution for any application. The new EX-70-G2 takes reliable and affordable HD extension up to 70m, or 4K to 35m to another level with bidirectional IR, serial control and 2-way PoH to power RX or TX from either end for hassle-free installation at a price that’s hard to beat.

Time is money. Whatever your installation calls for, WyreStorm gives you more of both and for an unbeatable installation experience.

Eurosat Distribution Ltd - UK Distribution Partner T: 020 8208 4444 E: sales@eurosatlondon.com W: www.eurosat.com

Eurosat EI Advert May 17.indd 1

5/19/17 4:35 PM

HAVE YOU SEEN THE LIGHT

AT THE END OF THE COREFIX TUNNEL?

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Essential Install | EI Live! Review

HEADLINE SPONSOR

Plans are already in place to build on a successful 2018 event, with further initiatives in 2019

Show spectacular

EI Live! 2018 was a whirlwind of AV automation, delighting and exciting all the senses with a bounty of brilliant brands. With so much going on including product launches, seminar discussions and live demonstrations, what stole the spotlight and wowed the crowd?

There was a lot to see and do at EI Live! 2018, although one could quite easily become overwhelmed by the amount of cutting-edge technology on offer. Whether it was OneAV showcasing the stylish NEEO remote, or AWE’s wall of TVs, there was plenty to see and do across the two days of the show.

AWE’s impressive village was divided into category zones

AWE showed the latest screen solutions from all its major brands, including Samsung’s new The Frame TV, as well as the new Sony AF8 series, Videotree’s Lifestyle Bathroom, Mirror Hyper Illusion XT and Oceana Outdoor ranges, and the latest OLED products from Panasonic and LG. The dedicated control zone was home to the latest URC products, Total Control 2.0 control system and the URC MX HomePro. Key integration was demonstrated

by Philips Hue and Dynalite lighting control solutions, video distribution options from HDAnywhere, wireless blind control from QMotion and window shading from Silent Gliss. The latest KEF products, including the brandnew KEF Ci5160REF stole the show in AWE’s dedicated audio zone. KEF also displayed its range of THX certified architectural speakers, and Denon and Marantz showed off its latest speakers and AV receivers. In the solutions zone, AWE hosted the SANUS product range.

“With a regular flow of visitors passing through the AWE village to find out about the latest products and solutions, and a celebratory evening as AWE took a double win at the Smart Building Awards, we enjoyed a successful two days at EI Live 2018,” comments AWE’s Stuart Tickle.

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Essential Install | EI Live! Review

CYP was the main sponsor of this year’s show

Genesis Technologies had one of the most eye-catching and inventive stands

Exquisite exhibitors

Aldous Systems showcased its range of brands including 18Gbps 4K video distribution over category cable from AVProConnect. The team on the stand offered demos of its Invisible Compression Technology preserving 10/12 Bit Colour and High Dynamic Range over 70m of Cat6a.

The company also highlighted the latest from 2N, the IP intercom manufacturer which can be integrated with all leading control systems or used stand-alone. Outside the main entrance of the venue, Aldous Systems presented the latest outdoor speakers from SpeakerCraft with its new 100v line series and 8 0hm outdoor subs.

Invisible speaker company Amina Technologies impressed the crowds with its invisible technology. Phil Fisher and John Cattani from the UK sales team met with visitors to explain a little more about how great sound can be heard, but not seen. Legrand teamed up with Habitech to launch its new ‘MyHOME_Up’ home automation system at EI Live! and Bespoke Telecoms displayed the new custom bespoke 2N video entry panels in bronze and stainless steel.

Connected Distribution used the show to unveil the SoundCast range of outdoor portable Bluetooth speakers, the latest cutting-edge products from its portfolio of class leading brands. Teaming up with the distributor was Pulse-Eight. Martin Ellis, Pulse-Eight’s MD, enthusiastically showed EI’s editor its new neo:Ultra range, specifically designed for the modern 4K UHD home installation. EI Live! was also the UK debut for Gallo Acoustic’s new DROP pendant speaker design, a particular favourite of EI’s editor.

Exclusive product launches

Meridian Audio presented its renowned 200 series, including the award-winning 218 Zone Controller, 271 Digital Theatre Controller, and 251 Powered Zone Controller. The company also displayed the new UHD722 Ultra High Definition HDMI Processor, a 4K switching solution, and Meridian’s M6 Digital Active Loudspeaker as well as its in-wall/in-ceiling DSP320 Loudspeakers.

Monior Audio showcased a selection of exciting new products at EI Live! including the new premium CI Grille and the new CLG-W10, a passive sub-woofer system designed to deliver superior sound in outdoor environments. The compact design is extremely versatile and is optimised to provide the system designer with an increased number of installation options. The striking new Vecta range of architectural speakers can be installed both inside and outdoors. The company also be showed its new CI amplifiers which feature cutting-edge technology.

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Essential Install | EI Live! Review

Simon Honywill offered advice on how to get the best from audio

LeCroy’s distributor, Olancha Group Ltd, showed the new 280 test set for the first time in the UK at EI Live!

This battery powered test set is designed for installers to conduct basic verification and diagnostic tests on HDMI/ HDBaseT cables, video distribution networks and individual AV components. The tester fully supports the latest HDMI standards and is capable of supporting 4Kp60 video with RGB and YCbCr 4:4:4 video encoding.

Planet Leasing attended the show to intimate how it can produce specialised vehicles to the custom installation, Hi-Fi, AV and electrical sectors. As CEDIA and Clarity trade affiliates, the company has 30 years’ experience working with installers, manufacturers and distributors and can find customers the most appropriate vehicle for the lowest price possible. Rako Controls showed new products this year including Rako’s RAK8, a flexible, centrally wired installation option. The same size as the standard RAK4, the RAK8 has 8 outputs & can be fitted with any combination of four different plug-in modules. TDI have been exhibiting at EI Live! since its inception and returned this year with a wealth of new

Smart Building Awards 2018 As well as the super schedule of spectacular speakers in the Technical Theatre and Retra Seminar Sessions, EI Live! revamped the Smart Building Awards, with two brand new categories, and a delicious gala dinner. The winners of each award were presented at the networking dinner, as attendees learnt about the best the industry has to offer.

Highlights included Simon Schino from Pulse Cinemas winning Salesperson of the Year and Wilfred Van Baelen being presented with the Special Recognition Award for his invention, Auro 3D.

solutions specifically designed for the AV CI market, including CYP’s HDBaseT AVLC HDMI transmitters and receivers and the new range of EZ-EXO and EZ-RJ45 CAT termination systems from Platinum Tools.

The Technical Theatre

The Technical Theatre was a major new addition to EI Live!

2018, with it being the ultimate location to learn about new topics and discuss the future of the industry. This year, the technical theatre was supported by CYP, EI Live’s headline sponsor, and was a roaring success.

CYP often takes its training courses on the road across the UK and into Europe. For delegates that struggle to get to its HQ in Shepperton, this initiative is ideal, as CYP is conscious that time is tight yet training in today’s quickmoving technological world is vital. This was one of the key reasons as to why CYP was delighted to sponsor this year’s EI Live! The development of the all-new Technical Theatre mirrors just how important the sharing of knowledge is and is a subject that CYP is extremely passionate about.

With a packed two-day schedule of speakers, the Technical Theatre played host to big names such as Simon Honywill, a sonic educationalist and senior sound consultant for Glastonbury’s Pyramid stage, and Wilfried Van Baelen, the co-founder of Galaxy Studios and Auro Technologies, and inventor of Auro 3D. Simon says, “Sound is undoubtedly the primary human sense, and it is a source of constant frustration to me that it is so often overlooked, side-lined and compromised. I believe that the world could be a better place if people were better equipped to make sense of the sonic environment in which they live, and were prepared to think about sound in the same way they might about sight.”

Bemco’s Julian Barkes stated the case for the electrician as the ‘ultimate’ smart home installer and Bruno Napoli, cofounder of Krika, explained how to make cash from services.

All this as well as the daily panel session, chaired by Daniel J Sait, which hosted AV distribution veterans: CYP’s Nick Bovill, HDANYWHERE’s Dillan Pattni, Pulse Eight’s Martin Ellis, WyreStorm’s James Meredith, Bluestream’s Chris Tolton and Matt Dodd, an expert from the HDBaseT Alliance. Together they discussed the most pressing issues of AV distribution in roundtable format.

Countless people sat in on sessions in the Technical Theatre on both days of the show, with some sessions being standing room only. The sessions covered everything from the future of AV distribution to 3D audio, with attendees walking away with new titbits of information to use towards their future projects.

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Essential Install | EI Live! Review

Remarks from the editor-in-chief

Daniel J Sait, editor-in-chief All Things Media

AWE’s Stuart Tickle outlines the benefits to be made in the smart home market

It is often hard to pick out one theme from a show that stays with you after the event has closed. This year was no different as our diverse industry out did itself once again with some great stands and demos covering every aspect of what we do.

However, this year, one thought does keep coming back to me following several conversations at the event, the need to understand and underline the difference between good audio and really high-quality audio.

There is real value in understanding why there is a difference and how that actually works in the real world and inside people’s heads. A lot of emphasis has been placed in recent times on the advancement of vision, 4K, HDR and the like take up endless column inches, whilst the audio that often accompanies or acts on its own in music delivery, can be the poor relation. Not so at EI Live! as many companies and those giving talks wanted to talk about sound.

Two highlights from the show personally for me were the talks given by Simon Honywill, sound engineer and sonic educationalist, and Wilfried Van Baelen, inventor of immersive audio format Auro 3D. It was very inspiring to hear these two, one responsible for one of the most famous stages on the planet (Glastonbury’s Pyramid Stage) and one responsible for pushing the barriers of audio technology with Auro 3D, enthuse about the power and joy that audio and music delivers.

I also had interesting conversations with Audio Excellence CEO Patrice Congard and Maurizio Conti, president of home theatre design specialist HTE. Both operate their businesses on the understanding of solid acoustic principles and are fascinating to listen to appreciating their level of understanding of how sound works. We might never get to the same level of understanding as these genuine experts have garnered over many, many years, however, the show did inspire a strong desire to learn more about how sound works, and why it delivers emotion in a way no other medium can.

As Wilfried underlined, hearing is the only sense that develops before birth, it’s powerful in a way no other sense is. We as an industry, armed with a better understanding of how this super sense operates, stand better equipped to wow more customers. I would urge everyone to try and find the time to understand how sound actually works, it’s really fascinating stuff. As at EI Live, there are experts out there to help you, tap into their knowledge and inspire more of your customers.

Sound booths

It wasn’t just about the products on the stands, but also the products in situ. Both Pulse Cinemas and AWE set up sound booths which showcased how the technology would work in a real-world home cinema setting. Pulse Cinemas pulled out all the stops with the addition of Anthem AV and Paradigm, while AWE’s Epson projectors were put to the test in its sound booth.

Distributor AWE brought its A game this year with dedicated product zones and a home cinema sound room on the stand. Returning for the 2018 edition of the show, the impressive Epson Home Cinema wowed attendees with the Epson EH-TW9300 3LCD 4K Enhancement projector, for the ultimate home cinema experience.

Together with a Draper ReAct projection screen, Marantz amplification and KEF loudspeakers, the pop-up home cinema showed just what can be achieved in a compact space for a very affordable budget.

Despite having only just announced that it is now distributing Anthem and Paradigm products, Pulse Cinemas showed the new line-up at EI Live! Pulse’s sound booth boasted a full Dolby Atmos 7.2.4 home cinema at the show. Inside the sound booth was a range of technology, including products from both Anthem and Paradigm.

Inside, attendees were treated to film clips projected onto a Screen Research Clear Pix 4 woven screen, which received projected images from a BenQ projector, featuring a prismasonic anamorphic lens. Pixelgen THX-certified HDMI cables delivered content from the Kaleidescape server. These were paired with an AV receiver from Anthem AV and acoustic treatment from Vicoustic. Everything in the sound booth was controlled from a Crestron control panel, which included Lutron lighting and visitors watched whilst sitting in the comfort of the Fortress seating that was present.

Retra Smart Home Seminar

Another major addition to EI Live! 2018, the Retra Smart Home Seminar provided electrical retailers the opportunity to learn about the ins and outs of the custom install market. Here they received the opportunity to learn all about CEDIA, as well as an in-depth walkthrough on some of the smartest products available from AWE. Conversations at the show confirmed how vital much of the industry thinks electrical retailers will be to sustain and expand the smart home industry. They already have a wide knowledge of electrics and are already well placed to become smart home installers.

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MAKE SURE IT WORKS. Fox & Hound HDMI 2.0b, HDR and HDCP 2.2 field test kit.

Start installing with confidence.

FROM THE MAKERS OF THE FRESCO SIX-G & SIX-A

Distributed in the UK by

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Designed to save time and money, the Fox and Hound Analyser and Generators can accurately test your displays, sources, repeaters and cabling with the click of a few buttons.

www.oneav.co.uk 22/05/2018 16:30

Essential Install | Smart Building Awards 2018

Projector Screen of the Year

Stewart Filmscreen – Dual-roller ElectriScreen

Brackets/Rack or Mounting Product of the Year

Graham Randall and Ollie French

Dedicated Touchscreen of the Year

Loudspeaker of the Year

Wayne Hyde, Claire Pullen and Jamie Pullen

Multi-Room/ Zone Music Solution of the Year

Meridian Audio – 251 Powered Zone Controller Hugo Fitzjohn, Chris Cope and Georgina Walsh

Optoma – Laser 4k UHD Projector (UHZ65)

Future Automation – Universal Swivel Bracket and Wall Box (PS-WB)

Jamie Pullen and Wayne Hyde

CAVD – MirrorTouch

by AGATH

Projector of the Year

Tyrone Hammill and Penny Wilkinson

Control4 – Triad Designer Series

Phil Hardaway and Mark Reynolds

TV/Display of the Year (Conventional) AWE – Sony A1

Stuart Tickle

Best Whole House Project

8

Henri – The Grand Prix House

PRESENTED BY ESSENTIAL INSTALL MAGAZINE Maxime Faurie and Céline Carneiro

Best Commercial Integration Project

Matrix/Signal Distribution Product of the Year

Aubrey Wright, Lyndsay Copeland and Perdee Gould

Joe Fletcher, James Trumper, Stuart Knight and Dillan Pattni

Handy AV – Cruise 1st

HDAnywhere – MHUB

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Essential Install | Smart Building Awards 2018

Best Cinema Project

iCubed Home Cinema Ltd – Oakwood Manor Multiplex

Charlie McClarron, Iain Martin, Paul Cummin and Rachel Beeching

Cable Solution of the Year OneAV – PixelGen THX Max 4K Interconnect System

James Lush, Chris Watling and Ben Hayes

MultiDwelling Unit (MDU) Project of the Year

Training Initiative of the Year

Sara Adhami and Sandra Rogers

Nick Fichte and Greg Currie

Distributor of the Year AWE Europe

Sales Person of the Year

Stuart Tickle and Paul Mott

Simon Schino

Smartcomm Ltd – Chiltern Place

Special Recognition Award Wilfried Van Baelen

Wilfried Van Baelen and Daniel Sait

Crestron – Crestron Masters

Simon Schino – Pulse Cinemas

Integrated TV/Display of the Year Aquavision – Kitchen Range

Manufacturer of the Year

Artcoustic Loudspeakers Glenn Kelly, Paul Cummin, Rachel Beeching and Charlie McClarron

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Essential Install | Speakers

Artison has products to complement today’s large screen TVs

Niles is one of the brands looking to get the garden rocking

The sound of now

Whether they are in-wall, in-ceiling or standalone, discreetly hidden or proudly displayed, what are they loudest and proudest products available? As summer approaches, and the technology progresses, is there a higher demand for outdoor solutions? How can installers ensure high quality sound in a garden environment? EI listens to what’s up.

Niles’ new Landscape Audio Series includes weatherproof landscape satellite speakers and two burial subwoofers that deliver an indoor quality listening experience to outdoor spaces. The new garden series delivers the Niles sound, and its 70V/100V tap setting adds an important installation option that dealers have been requesting. The Niles NI-GS-6 6in (152mm) and NI-GS-4 4in (100) AllWeather Satellite Speakers feature weatherproof fiberglass reinforced ABS enclosures that are rugged enough to stand up to any outdoor weather condition as well as wear and tear from garden equipment. The Niles NI-GSBSUB-12 12in (300mm) and NI-GSBSUB-10 10in (250mm) In-Ground Subwoofers feature waterproof HDPE enclosures. Each is dunk tested before shipment to ensure against leaks.

The port and canopy assembly is designed to move air in an even 360° pattern, while the woofer magnet is placed on the vented side of the enclosure to leverage woofercooling airflow for motor structure longevity.

The Niles Landscape Audio Series adds Installation Accessories to ensure safe and secure installation of every outdoor system. These include the AW-LS-STAKE Landscape Speaker Stake Mount, AW-LS-MOUNT Landscape Speaker Surface Mount and the AW-LSCONDUIT Landscape Speaker Conduit Box Mount. Niles speakers are available in the UK from Indigo Distribution.

Audio aficionados since 2003, Artison has raised the bar with its portfolio of audio solutions including its LCR Dual centre speakers, available via RGB Communications.

The maker’s aim is to deliver a quality audio experience for home cinema fans. Artison offers the Dual centre speaker range which features centre channel technology, meaning that clear audio is delivered from the middle of the screen. There is also the option to mount these to the display, so if the TV is mobile the sound will always be on point when watching. Set in tiers – Sketch (good), Portrait (better) and Masterpiece (best) – each pair of speakers can be suited to purpose without sparing on performance.

Artison’s Studio Soundbars are available in 4 widths with increased specifications and designed with a slimprofile aluminium enclosure and bracket. Displays are continually increasing in picture quality which is brilliant – but they’ve also increased in size. A large display in a modest room won’t usually be a problem, however an overbearing sound system can ruin the atmosphere envisaged for the space and let’s face it, a big TV with a tiny soundbar just looks silly.

Artison says it hands flexibility back to the customer through fully-bespoke grilles available in any width (Soundbars) or height (Dual Centre), pattern, colour or design; designed to align with the width of the display

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Essential Install | Speakers

Will you follow the Congard Code?

and not the speakers, they allow for an appropriate system suited to the room.

Whether you’re looking to hide it or the client wants to flaunt it, Artison offers bespoke grilles available in any width (Soundbars) or height (Dual Centre), pattern, colour or design enabling your professional audio to remain the centrepiece or hidden in plain sight.

Small but mighty, the Mezzanine Surround series boasts high-quality performance and integration with Artison front channel solutions, to complete an audio system. The surrounds diffuse audio and minimise localisation using out-of-phase tweeters and angled baffles; which in combination with a Monopole/Dipole mix, the speakers enable for the sound to be steered without editing the natural ambience of the audio.

Winning the ‘Best of Show’ award at CEDIA 2018 in San Diego was an important moment of recognition for Audio Excellence, distributed in the UK by CAVD. Headed by Patrice Congard, Audio Excellence shares the same home as Screen Excellence in Suffolk. Patrice has not only designed a system consisting of a speaker range with matching amplifiers and DSPs, but a system that aims to promote the ‘Congard Code’; a methodology for configuring a surround sound system. The Congard Code seeks to challenge, and improve upon, some common misconceptions about calibrating a system.

The main difference in the way that the system is configured is centred on the routing of the bass signals.

For example, in most home cinema configurations, bass frequencies that the satellite speakers cannot deliver are channelled through to the LFE subwoofer. Patrice argues that this is bad practice and the LFE channel should be solely for LFE. Instead, frequencies below 100Hz from the Vertex left, centre and right speakers are directed to bass extension speakers below the screen. This in effect creates full-range loudspeakers for the crucial LCR signal.

As a result, Audio Excellence says its system sounds powerful, controlled and ‘correct’. The Vertex range is comprised of three ‘limited range’ speakers for front/surround/height duties, specified based on the SPL required at the front row. There are three Raijuu subwoofers, R1 for Bass Extension and a passive and active version of the R2, an 18in vented sub for LFE only.

In the rack, DSP duties are handled by the Control 4.6 or 4.8 and the Quattro and Octo amplifiers deliver pro-

levels of power ranging from 400 to 600W per channel into 8 Ohm loads.

Uptake by UK installers and conversion from other brands of invisible speakers continues into 2018 for Nakymatone and CAVD. Attracted not only by a clearer, more natural musical presentation, the easy installation process really wins over engineers and project managers, says the distributor. Each speaker is a complete package; protection circuitry, high pass filters and the back box are all complete as one sleek package.

There’s just four same-sized models in the range to suit all applications where you either plaster or wallpaper over the soundboard: Goed – means good. It’s a very good entry-level plaster-over speaker that features a riveted aluminium tuned back box and dual exciters to drive the music. Mooi – means nice, this model sounds nicer than Goed, worth ‘selling up’ to the more demanding customer.

Echt – CAVD’s most popular model, means real, for the best and most realistic sound. A super tuned anodised, polished and welded back box unites with four top-of-therange exciters to produce ‘beautiful’ music reproduction.

Lastly there’s Twee meaning two, a single speaker for stereo use in smaller spaces such as bathrooms.

The maker says its speakers sound natural and musical because the cabinet has been acoustically tuned for the application. Eric Nakkila and Godfried van Rooij painstakingly tried endless methods and experiments over three years to achieve the Nakymatone natural and musical sound. The internal Neodynium exciters have also been placed for optimum results. And because they ship as a factory sealed box, the sound barely travels out of the back of the speaker. This means less noise breaks through to the rooms next door or above.

As a company most commonly known for creating soundbars, customers often don’t realise that Leon Speakers offer a full range of audio products from front soundstage speakers, to architectural audio, subwoofers and outdoor speakers. While soundbars are a big part of Leon’s business, it aims to provide audio solutions for the whole home, inside and out.

Years back Leon launched its Boundary Series outdoor speakers which are handcrafted out of solid aluminium, and feature marine-grade drivers in a precision-fit waterproof cabinet, with a UV and saltwater resistant finish.

When entering the outdoor market, Leon partnered with

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Essential Install | Speakers

Leon is underlining its full family of speaker solutions

Sonance Extreme inwall/ceiling speakers are more than a match for outside conditions

Terra Speakers, Maine-based manufacturer of all-weather audio. Leon partnered with Terra to develop its Boundary Series and have been collaborating closely ever since.

Over time, both companies saw the value in joining forces, and earlier this month it was made official and announced that Terra is now a Leon Company. Like Leon, Terra has been around for 20 years and is known for its rugged outdoor speakers that are durable and built to last. Its product line is complementary to Leon’s in many ways and Leon are excited to add a whole suite of outdoor speakers, subwoofers, and lighting solutions to our portfolio of products.

Terra offers dozens of outdoor audio solutions including its AC Series and AC FIVE Series of speakers perfect for landscapes, backyards and marine projects.

All of Terra’s products are IP67-rated, handcrafted and meticulously tested in Maine, guaranteed to last and withstand harsh conditions. Leon Speakers (and very soon Terra Speakers) are available to purchase in the UK through Future Automation.

Yamaha has introduced a brand new family of MusicCast products, including streaming speakers, sound bars and a wireless subwoofer. The MusicCast 20 can be used as a standalone speaker, paired, or acting as surround speakers with a compatible MusicCast AV receiver or sound bar, and delivers versatile listening. The MusicCast 20 features four speakers inside, which delivers a big sound from a small box.

A true stereo speaker, the MusicCast 50 features dual aluminium woofers and dual tweeters to deliver a wide Hi-Fi sound. In addition to this, it features digital and analogue inputs equipped to be used to upgrade TV sound, or connect a turntable (external phono stage required) via the RCA input.

Say goodbye to speaker wires! The MusicCast 20 and 50 connects wirelessly. Whether via Bluetooth or over Wi-Fi with Airplay, the wireless connection makes it quick and simple to get started. For movie buffs, the MusicCast

20 & 50 can be used at the back of the room, replacing the need for surround sound speakers. The MusicCast Sub 100 can accommodate home cinema or Hi-Fi stereo sound and can be used wirelessly with the MusicCast 20, 50 & Bar 40. Amazon’s Alexa is soon to feature on MusicCast products too.

Available via Habitech, Sonance’s new Referenceseries speakers promise enhanced audio impact and detail from a super-discreet design with the same footprint as the Visual Performance predecessors, so they’ll drop into existing cavities for an easy upgrade.

Sonance’s larger forth generation woofers and coaxial speakers employ carbon fibre/rohacell laminated cones paired with ceramic dome tweeters for accurate and even tonality across the range, so speakers can be mixed and matched in any configuration for optimum performance.

The high-excursion woofers have 38mm voice coils, which deliver +/- 8mm of linear excursion. There are nine new SKUs including in-wall, in-ceiling, cabinet speakers and inwall subwoofers, all with a low-profile, paintable design.

The new Extreme speakers boost performance with larger voice coil and magnet engines for higher SPL and increased power handling. A round 6in (VPXT6R), 6in single stereo (VPXT6R SST), and a new 8in (VPXT8R) have round or square grille options and are joined by a 6in rectangle (VPXT6), with eight capture points to resist pressure washing.

The new ‘Impact’ cabinet subwoofers – the i8, i10 and i12 (8in/10in/12in, 200W/300W/400W) – include DSP with 16-band parametric EQ and room correction via the SonARC iPhone app through a built-in wireless receiver and optional wireless transmitter.

Sonance is boosting the quality of outdoor audio with the new line Landscape Series products including two new satellites: a 4in (LS4T) and a 6in version (LS6T), and three new subwoofers: a 12in in-ground subwoofer, 15in in-ground subwoofer and a 12in hard-scape subwoofer.

The new sat design offers higher output, wider dispersion and increased fidelity than its predecessors, and includes the selectable voltage tap dial from SPS. Sonance Professional Series includes a range of 70V, 100V, 8 ohm selectable In-Ceiling, Pendant and Surface Mount Speakers that deliver unequalled fidelity, extremely low distortion, wide dispersion and smooth power response. The range shares consistent voicing, ensuring sonic integration when used together throughout a space.

An Armour Home brand, Q Acoustics has designed the Qi 65 outdoor speaker to benefit those homeowners wanting to enjoy music in their gardens or other outside areas. The speaker, incorporating a wide range 6.5in woofer plus a 1in tweeter, is finished in a ‘rock-like’ granite effect texture, so it can all but disappear from view. The rugged glass reinforced polymer cabinet construction and weatherproof cable allow the Qi 65 to be located at ground level, making it easy to locate and to install with confidence.

Jonathan Bennett, marketing director at Q Acoustics, says, “Q Acoustics is working hard to supplement its range of loudspeakers with innovative products for homeowners who love to spend time outside. We recently conducted some research that revealed 71% of people now consider their gardens as an extension of their living rooms. Meanwhile, two thirds of homeowners like to dine ‘al fresco’ more than two evenings a week, with 87% believing that music improves the ambience when eating outside or hosting a barbecue.”

“We wanted to go the extra mile and not just house an indoor speaker in a weatherproof shell,” he continues.

“Therefore, we engineered a low resonance cabinet and optimised the driver characteristics to ensure the Qi 65

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‘Manufacturer of the Year’ Award-Winner

artcoustic.com

29/05/2018 16:32

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Essential Install | Speakers

Integrated or statement standalone, Meridian is confident it has a solution

Q Acoustics rocks!

can deliver full and clear sounds even at high volume.

This ensures the speaker is ideal for high quality outdoor music reproduction. It can provide the wow factor at any garden party or barbecue, plus it is the perfect product for installers to upsell when carrying out projects in homes that are accompanied by large outdoor areas.”

Meridian has consistently been at the forefront of audio innovation, recognising that the best musical experiences will trigger a deep emotional connection.

Meridian’s DSP loudspeakers are the pinnacle of this innovation, built with the capability to reproduce analogue sound waves through digital speakers. Evolved and perfected for over 25 years, Meridian’s Digital Signal Processing (DSP) technology has been designed to capture the authenticity of live performances and accurately replicate this back to the listener. Meridian is proud of its ability to deliver subtleties, retaining the rhythm, timing, alignment and relationships that deliver quality audio experiences.

Some of the latest introductions include Meridian’s DSP640 and DSP520 in-wall Digital Active Loudspeakers which provide audio from a compact system. The DSP640 contains a 100mm mounting depth, delivering powerful audio for cinematic viewing with minimum unwanted deflection. They feature Centre Elevation technology for a lifelike experience, as well as internal 100W and 150W power amplifiers that deliver both wide-range and bass audio for a realistic sense of positioning, space and scale.

The DSP320 measures just 100mm deep and 300mm square, making it easy to install with precise positioning.

This subtle in-wall/in-ceiling loudspeaker can pack a punch with two powerful 80W class amplifiers, meaning that no external equipment needs to be installed and leaving more space available for other systems, whilst reducing any unnecessary heat.

The DSP320 also features Meridian’s Enhanced Bass Alignment (EBA) and Centre Elevation technologies, enabling accurate time alignment so that all the frequencies reach the listener at the same time. Meridian’s DSP8000 Digital Floor Standing Loudspeaker contains integral DAC’s, pre-amplifiers, power amplifiers, and built-in high efficiency digital crossovers to immerse media rooms and listening spaces, a good match for any cinematic or musical experience.

The prestigious Smart Building Awards 2018 was held recently, at a hugely successful gala dinner event at Sandown Park, UK. Following on from the success of winning ‘Best Loudspeaker’ in 2015, Artcoustic were delighted and honoured to be presented with ‘Manufacturer of The Year’ for 2018.

Artcoustic has been designing ground-breaking, world-class loudspeakers since 1998, constantly pushing the limits of convention and challenging the status quo.

A passion for performance, functionality and design has inspired the brand to reinvent the conventional loudspeaker with a fresh and modern look.

After years of combined design and technical development, Artcoustic has created a loudspeaker, which looks as good as it sounds, without compromising one to the other. The award-winning collection of speakers perform amongst the highest in their class, delivering efficiency, dynamics and high-quality sound and clients are encouraged to follow their personal style through an extensive selection of customisable design options. As a result, Artcoustic has become a widely-respected loudspeaker brand for the high-quality music and cinema systems, worldwide.

Artcoustic offers a comprehensive and flexible range of loudspeakers to ensure the correct set-up can be specified for the correct application. The bespoke solutions available, enable the brand to deliver an impressive sound experience for any interior, small or large, domestic or commercial.

The design is based around a modular format, so all speakers are built to be scalable - from the smallest model to the largest, the user can expect the same tonality and quality throughout. From home music systems, to dedicated home cinemas or commercial installations, Artcoustic can provide a solution that fits any requirements.

Artcoustic would like to thank all their supportive installers for being part of this success, including Smartcomm who won ‘Multi Dwelling Unit - Project of the Year’ and iCubed Home Cinema who won ‘Best Cinema Project’ at this year’s Smart Building Awards.

Congratulations to them both for their excellent work.

Indigo Distribution 02891 455 565, indigodistribution.co.uk Artcoustic 01245 400 904, artcoustic.com RGB Communications 01488 733 66, rgbcomms.co.uk CAVD 01628 563 344, cavd.co.uk Future Automation 01438 833 577, futureautomation.co.uk Yamaha 0844 811 1116, uk.yamaha.com Habitech 01256 638 500, habitech.co.uk Armour Home 01279 501 111, armourhome.co.uk Meridian Audio 01480 445 678, meridian-audio.com

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Rediscover Your Music CUSTOM INSTALL

CI Features include:

- 12v Triggers - Presets - IR inputs - Interrupts

- Fully-featured automation drivers - Audio inputs - USB Port for Service & Data - Rack Mounting

The Multi-Room HiFi you (and your customers) have been waiting for...

Multi-Room System of the year 2014, 2015, 2016 & 2017

The Bluesound/BluOS Difference...

- Designed for CI and for the end-user - MQA (Master Quality Authenticated) Certified - Hear it as the recording studio intended - NAD Electronics - 45 years experience delivering outstanding amplification & sound quality - Convenience features that users love:- App control, IR control, one-touch presets, headphone jacks and Bluetooth - CI features that installers love:- functional drivers, triggers, interrupts, presets, rack mounting and more - Unique product model - Vault 2 - features built-in CD Ripper, NAS Drive & Streamer - Feature-rich App provides fast time to music

CERTIFIED

Distributed and supported in the UK by Anatech Distribution, Unit 12, Teddington Business Park, Station Road, Teddington, London Borough of Richmond, TW11 9BQ

info@anatech.co.uk | +44 (0) 20 8977 8633 | www.anatech.co.uk

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27/02/2018 15:44

300 SERIES

A S O U R C E O F I N S P I R AT I O N . . .

MADE IN FRANCE

FO C A L

I

3 0 0

S E R I E S

Add a new dimension to your music with the new 300 Series from Focal. This discreet, ingenious French design offers simple tool-free installation across a versatile range of high performance products for stereo, multi-channel and home cinema environments. Thanks to patented ‘Flax’ technology drivers and an adjustable aluminium/magnesium inverted dome tweeter, the 300 Series offers a unique and uncoloured listening experience that will give your home a whole new atmosphere.

S i m p l i f i e d i n te g rat i o n by exce l l e n ce Focal U.K. - Southampton Road, Salisbury, SP1 2LN - 01722 426600 www.focal.com/300series

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13/02/2018 10:07:03 25/04/2018 13:42

SensibleEssentialInstal_05_SensibleBro2013_02.qxd 18/09/2014 16:43 Page 1

This Month’s Essential Supplement

HVAC

sensible heat

Advanced HVAC controls for the home

Do the Sensible thing; call us today!

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Essential Install | HVAC

Keep your cool HVAC is seriously upping its game and getting smart. There is now a big range of products that can control and monitor heating, ventilation and air conditioning systems. So, what’s the hottest method of control, is there a rise in control apps, and is the omnipresent Amazon Alexa getting integrated? EI checks the temperature of the market.

Sensible Heat continues to supply fully integrated HVAC controls with a range of control systems, including Control4, Savant, Crestron and RTI, using its range of proven, pre-written drivers which are available free-ofcharge to its partners. Dave Robinson, Sensible Heat’s MD explains, “As the various control systems evolve and develop, our drivers need to be regularly updated to match, and often when a driver is under review, we take the opportunity to add new features to the drivers.”

Dave adds, “As well as the familiar thermostat functions, Sensible Heat offers many users are now wishing to have additional information a one stop shop on their touchscreens, including control of the hot water approach for installers service, towel rails or pool temperatures.

“Because we tend to look at the HVAC system in a holistic way, and often are responsible for not only the room side thermostat controls, but also the control of the main plant (boilers, pumps, etc), Sensible Heat is able to offer many other features, and our AV control system drivers make it easy to incorporate these features on touchscreens. Our custom plantroom control panels are also able to offer fault monitoring –1so18/09/2014 when the client’s or boiler fails, SensibleEssentialInstal_banners_02_Layout 17:10 pump Page 1

they can receive an alert on their AV touchscreen, or an email can be sent to their maintenance team.” Sensible Heat believes that there is little point in being able to adjust the temperature of a sitting room from a touchscreen, if you don’t know that the heating or cooling system has failed.

The company has found that many installers appreciate its ‘one stop shop’ approach as they are not expected to be experts in HVAC systems. Sensible Heat can take care of the technicalities and encourage installers to resell its service as part of their package, thus lowering technical risk.

On control methods for HVAC systems, Dave says, “The new North SmartSwitch colour touchscreens continues to be popular where the client wants a simple HVAC-only user interface in certain rooms. The SmartSwitch forms part of the Zip range, and comes in a variety of metallic finishes, and we can configure it to provide thermostat functionality for a single room (for heating and AC), or a suite of rooms, whilst forming part of the overall control system – so whole house functions (e.g. holiday/away mode) still work, without exposing the user to the underlying complexity of the HVAC system. A simple solution for the consumer is always preferable.”

info@sensibleheat.com www.sensibleheat.com

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Global Search with the new TuneBridge App • Control and curate music from your phone or tablet with the touch of a button.

• Hi-Res Audio certified. 24-bit lossless audio.

• Full Spotify operation, within the App.

MMS1e Single-Source Streamer • Compact form factor you can put anywhere • NEW LOWER PRICE

T: 01359 270280 W: www.invisionuk.com E: sales@invisionuk.com

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Essential Install | HVAC

Energy saving

“ABB’s intelligent ClimaECO HVAC solution, with the ABB i-bus KNX inside, is one of the most innovative products the building control market has to offer,” says Mark Warburton, technical director at Ivory Egg. “The ClimaECO solution allows efficient heating, ventilation and air conditioning in one system and is therefore a true holistic ECOsystem solution based on the standard for home and building control, KNX. With its integration into higher level management systems, time can be saved, and costs reduced, especially in the project realisation phase. The combination of room climate control and central HVAC automation reduces energy consumption and makes planning and operating buildings more efficient.”

The ability to integrate with multiple HVAC companies and products is a vital requirement for control systems, and an important design feature for RTI solutions.

For this integration, RTI turned to Cool Automation, which produce its gateway device CoolMasterNet. CoolMasterNet provides an IP or RS232 interface that speaks the common languages of HVAC systems including BACNet, ModBus and RS485, meaning RTI can integrate with leading VRF and Split HVAC systems from brands like Daikin, Mitsubishi and LG. RTI can gain control and feedback of these devices to show temperature and fan speed feedback, as well as controlling the device to set the temperature or turn on and off. Page 2 SensibleEssentialInstal_banners_02_Layout 1 18/09/2014 17:10 ABB’s intelligent ClimaECO HVAC solution can save time and money

Advanced HVAC controls for the home

Energy saving solutions are understandably in vogue.

RTI systems can be customised to help save money and decrease the environmental footprint by automatically adjusting HVAC, lighting and shades to maximise energy conservation. Additionally, seamless integration with popular energy management products allows customers to monitor, in real-time, progress towards a greener lifestyle.

RTI now also offers drivers for the third generation Nest Learning Thermostat, which features new rings and a big sharp display. It’s a smart device that determines the optimal temperature for the home owner and reduces heat when the home is empty. Now, customers can also control a hot water tank with the Nest Thermostat. It comes with a hot water schedule, which can be adjusted from the Nest app, with options to boost heat for extra hot water when needed and a smart function to turn off the heat when not in use for a few days. It’s all rather smart.

“Millions of Nest homes around the world have saved approximately four billion kilowatt hours of energy compared to what they would have used if they’d left their thermostats at a consistent temperature. And today, with brand new software and hardware, our European customers can save even more whilst staying comfortable, thanks to remote hot water control and OpenTherm compatibility,” says Lionel Paillet, general manager of

Pyng turns up the heat, and well, down again too

info@sensibleheat.com www.sensibleheat.com

sensible heat

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documenta�on

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Essential Install | HVAC

RTI also offers drivers for the Nest Learning Thermostat

Crestron’s thermostats can be controlled with Pyng

Europe for Nest. “The third generation Nest Thermostat learns the temperature you like, then programs itself.

It knows how long it takes to heat your home so you’re comfortable when you get there. When you leave, it automatically turns down your boiler and hot water tank so you save energy.”

Crestron offers a variety of both wired and wireless thermostats as well as temperature and humidity sensors, all of which connect to the Crestron home automation system, and can be controlled with Crestron Pyng.

The wired Crestron CHV-THSTAT is a versatile heating and cooling thermostat with integrated humidistat designed for one and two stage control of forced air, radiant, and heat pump HVAC systems. Although functional as a standalone thermostat, the CHV-THSTAT delivers enhanced functionality as part of a complete Crestron home automation system.

The DIN-TSTAT-FCU provides a full featured FCU controller with Cresnet interface for integration with a Crestron control system or Crestron Pyng system. The rail is a fan coil unit controller designed for use in two pipe applications. It may be operated as part of a standalone controller or integrated with a home automation system.

Full programmability enables use in various types of applications and beyond control of FCUs.

SensibleEssentialInstal_banners_02_Layout 1 18/09/2014 17:10 Page 3

Temperature technology Crestron’s wireless thermostat the CHV-TSTATEX features infiNET EX technology and is designed for one or two stage heating and one or two stage cooling control of baseboard, forced air, and heat pump HVAC systems.

The large backlit LCD display provides a clear view of temperature, set point, system mode, fan and cooling set points, and adjustable anticipators to prevent overshooting the desired temperature. Continuous fan operation can be selected when needed for increased circulation enhancing the user experience.

Crestron has also developed its own range of wall mounted temperature and RH sensors. Its C2N-RTHS sensor communicates directly with any Crestron control system. One piece mounting makes the C2N-RTHS simple to install and the 1½in diameter face protrudes just 1/8in from the wall surface, and is easily painted or wallpapered to blend into the wall surface.

Integrating HVAC within a Crestron system can help lower energy bills and increase user friendliness, and is simple to control with Crestron Pyng.

Electrorad has been supplying electric radiators since 2000. Its Digi-Line electric radiator range has been designed and is manufactured in Britain. The radiators are filled with a thermal fluid to transfer heat to the whole of the surface area without the need for any pump or moving parts. The fluid is heated by 100% efficiency electric elements. The radiator body is constructed in steel and powder coated to ensure a high quality, extremely long lasting and robust finish. Single panel and double panel radiators are available and both have convection fins to ensure the perfect balance of radiant and convected heat.

Energy saving features include the new open window feature which can sense when a window has been opened and stops the radiator heating until the window is closed.

It also benefits from surface temperature control, which can be operated at the full 90° or reduced to a maximum

info@sensibleheat.com www.sensibleheat.com

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HDBaseT Recommended Cat 5E, Cat 6 & Cat 6A CPR COMPLIANT Available in up to 10 different colours - CPR compliant - Stocked in 305m pull boxes or reels for easy handling and storage - Available in PVC or LSHF - Screened or unscreened Duct grade & armoured options available

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Essential Install | HVAC

of 75° or a maximum of 60°. There is also double panel radiator smart control; if the room temperature is within 1° of the set point, the front panel only will operate. If the room temperature is more than 1° from the set point, the back panel will also operate to act as a boost and re-heat the room faster.

The New Digi-Line thermostat is a double proportional band control (PI & PWM) giving the high accuracy of +/- 0.1°. The room temperature is sensed below the radiator where the room air temperature is at its lowest and there is no heat from the radiator to affect the reading. Each radiator thermostat also has a radio frequency receiver built in, so central control is easy to achieve by using the optional four zone radio frequency central programmer.

Electrorad’s optional central programmer is battery powered and uses radio frequency signals to communicate with its electric radiators, so no wiring is required. It can be wall mounted or be free standing. All electric radiators can have different temperature settings, and every zone can have different operating times.

In addition to updating and expanding its Vanguard range of aluminium electric radiators, Electrorad has launched a new state-of-the-art Vanguard Eco-smart range that is one of the first to have voice control compatibility with Amazon Alexa. Both ranges are fully compliant with Lot 20 legislation that took effect January, 2018.

Vanguard and Vanguard Eco-smart offer a wide choice of outputs in 750w, 1200w, 1500w and 2000, and being fully Lot 20 compliant, they feature a number of energy saving controls. These include Virtual Open Window Sensors – to ensure that radiators stop heating when they sense a draft and restart when the window has been closed – and Adaptive Start Control thatPage helps1 radiators SensibleEssentialInstal_banners_02_Layout 1 18/09/2014 17:10 Automatic open window sensors can save money

learn when to switch on in order to achieve optimum household comfort. Going beyond Lot 20 compliance, all models also boast an in-built energy monitor.

The new Vanguard Eco-smart range goes one step further; enabling homeowners to use voice commands for their heating. In addition to wireless control via a control hub and App, these models feature a Geo-Location option that automatically reacts based on the homeowners proximity to or from the home.

All Vanguard Eco-smart models can be controlled from anywhere in the world, and they feature an inbuilt RF chip with a signal that can ‘hop’ up to five times to increase the range and help reach remotely-sited radiators.

Commenting on these latest developments, Richard Brown, managing director at Electrorad, says, “By installing radiators such as Vanguard that drive efficiency through intelligent and adaptive controls, contractors and developers will not only be on the right side of the new compliance regulations, they will be able to give homeowners a better quality product, and one that will help save even more on energy bills.”

EI chatted with Intelligent Controls’ John Corbin to hear how its partnership with North Building Technologies (it was awarded Gold Partner status by North in 2015) is improving its business model. The company uses the North Commander as the primary source for its HVAC integration and interfacing. North’s recently released new smart switch, supplied by Intelligent Controls, can be configured to meet many HVAC control requirements – as a standalone controller or as part of the North ZIP network.

Speaking about the Commander, John says, “One of the strengths of the Commander is its ability to offer integration with a simple set of serial IP protocols. As an example, the North Datasync driver provides integration with Crestron and AMX. The JSON driver is the best for Control4 integration with the Janus driver. For Savant, the telnet driver is used and we have a very simple profile in the HVAC. All are synchronous.”

“I believe integration should be fast and reliable. The North integration platforms have been our choice since 2003 when we started our independent business and I’ve been using North product since 1999, when the humble Compass Node was king,” John concludes.

Sensible Heat 01273 475 834, sensibleheat.co.uk Ivory Egg 01243 572700 ivoryegg.co.uk Invision/RTI 01359 270280 invisionuk.com, rti.corp Invision 01359 270280 invisionuk.com, nest.com Crestron 0845 873 8787 crestron.eu Electrorad 0113 274 6799, electrorad.co.uk Intelligent Controls 01342 717 748, intelligent-controls.co.uk

info@sensibleheat.com www.sensibleheat.com

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ESTIMATING MADE EASY! QCONTRACTOR is a brand new, tailor made quoting solution for AV Integrators.

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www.qcontractor.com Untitled-10 1

23/04/2018 16:48

Essential Install | AVRs and amplification

Yamaha has a new family of MusicCast compatible AVRs

On the receiving end

AVRs have evolved way beyond their original incarnations and now offer a mixture of amplification and applications to make installer’s lives easier and end-user’s AV experiences richer.

Be it a home cinema environment, or as part of a multi-room music system, AVR and high-quality processor assessment now needs careful consideration. EI takes a look at the latest.

Yamaha has introduced a brand-new AV receiver lineup. The maker says the RX-V 85 series will offer greater flexibility than ever before, which means building a home cinema has never been easier. Equipped with streaming services, MusicCast multi-room, YPAO room correction, Alexa voice control, high quality parts and new Yamaha tech, these AVRs are fully loaded.

Multi-room audio is available with this new range as all of the RX-V85 series AV receivers can be used on Yamaha’s MusicCast network. The MusicCast family is ever expanding and growing, allowing customers to create multi-room systems using a variety of different products.

Whether it’s a Hi-Fi system, a micro Hi-Fi setup, a stand-

alone streamer, a home cinema system, sound bars or streaming speakers, all can share the same music content.

Soon to include with the Alexa voice control, all a user has to ask is, ‘Alexa, ask MusicCast to play Favourite 1 in the living room’, for example.

Say goodbye to speaker wires, too. Yamaha offers MusicCast Surround, a brand new tech which allows a pair of MusicCast 20’s, 50’s or even a single MusicCast 50 streaming speaker to be used as wireless rears with the RX-V485, RX-D485, RX-V585, RX-V685 and slimline RX-S602 AVRs. Users of the system can immerse themselves in cinematic sound with the RX-V85 series of AV receivers.

Cinema DSP 3D is designed to produce a quality of sound that can transport users to large scale venues.

Using the Cinema DSP ‘Standard’ mode creates a much wider, deeper, and taller sound stage. Install is easy and the set up of the RX-V85 series AV receivers can be done in minutes with Yamaha’s YPAO room correction tool. By simply placing the supplied microphone at the preferred listening position and plugging it into the amp, the system is automatically tuned for optimum performance. With quality parts, including a minimum of three Burr-Brown 384 kHz / 32-bit DACs on board all of its RX-V85 series AV receivers, Yamaha says customers can expect a highly accurate and natural sonic performance.

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Essential Install | AVRs and amplification

Datasat takes cinemas to the next level

The Denon Flagship AVCX8500H

Marantz’ first ever 11.2 channel AV receiver incorporates the very latest audio and video formats, and is available from AWE. This flagship AVR has the ability to upscale standard and high definition analogue and digital video content to 4K Ultra HD. In terms of audio, with a focus on performance including an oversized power supply, the amplifier is capable of delivering 205W per channel and provides a much higher performance level from a single AVR than previously ever possible. Compatible with Dolby Atmos, DTS:X, and Auro 3D soundtracks, the Marantz SR8012 is designed to deliver immersive sound for a full movie experience in medium sized rooms. Its powerful digital signal processing and 11 channel design means that the SR-8012 can accommodate a complete 7.1.4-channel or 9.1.2-channel 3D immersive sound system without any further amplification.

Offering reference quality processing, the Marantz AV8805, its first 13 channel AV pre-amplifier, is equally adept at delivering full immersive audio formats (Dolby Atmos, DTS:X, Auro 3D), as well as producing reference grade high-res audio. Designed to be connected to dedicated power amplification, the Marantz AV8805 is Ideal for integrators needing rock solid reference quality surround processing and video switching. It features a balanced XLR stereo input and assignable 15.2 balanced XLR outputs, which include overhead channels, front/ width outputs and two subwoofer outputs.

Also available from AWE, the Denon Flagship AVCX8500H is the world’s first 13.2 channel AV amplifier that supports the latest immersive audio formats, including Dolby Atmos, DTS:X and Auro-3D. The AVC-X8500H ushers in a leading home theatre experience with 13 channels of built-in amplification to enable premium 3D surround sound up to 7.2.6 without external amplification and supports latest 4K Ultra HD picture standards. The AVCX8500H also comes equipped with a range of features to provide enhanced control capabilities and compatibility with third-party and custom integration solutions. It features IP control capability for integration with major third-party control devices and Control4 SDDP certification.

Distributor CAVD’s continues with its supply and support for Datasat’s Digital immersive audio processors and separate amplifiers. Rather than an all-in-one approach, splitting the processor from the amplifier yields a higher performance whether for surround, or stereo sound, says the maker. Datasat processors and amplifiers are designed to service the very best home cinema installations across the globe. The two processor models, the RS20i and LS10 are super-tuned and upgraded versions of the AP20 model that forms the core of the audio system in thousands of commercial cinemas.

The RS20i or LS10 are normally specified for the equipment rack dedicated to the home cinema, unlike a multi-room capable AVR, Datasat is there to drive just one full set of immersive speakers to deliver the ultimate 3D audio experience. Likewise, music streaming services are not part of the package, those are best left to a separate dedicated streaming source.

Both processor models feature Dirac room optimisation, decoding of Dolby Atmos, DTS:X and Auro3D and now ship with full HDMI 2.0 HDCP2.2 inputs and outputs.

Datasat offers two models of fully differential and balanced power amplifiers to complete the package.

The RA-2400 is a two-channel amplifier, delivering 400W RMS into an 8 Ohm load. Ideal for high-end left and right speakers in home cinema room used for music purposes too. The RA-7300 delivers 300W RMS into an 8 Ohm load and is designed to get the best out of any loudspeaker model specified for the room. Both feature massive torrodial transformers with multiple second windings and high current power supplies, each channel in effect operates as a state of the art mono block power amplifier.

Designed and made in the USA, with a reputation for reliability, ease of set up and unmatched sound quality, CAVD says it’s the choice of professionals.

The new, modular XPA-DR Series platform available from Karma AV delivers Emotiva’s signature blend of audiophile design and performance at a more entry level price point.

Emotiva’s DR Series’ XPA-DR1 mono, XPA-DR2 twochannel and XPA-DR3 three-channel models use up to three pairs of Differential Reference Amplifier Modules, fed by a massively overdesigned, fully regulated, 3 kW switch mode power supply within a heavy-duty chassis.

The DR modules are deployed in pairs to provide each channel with a completely balanced low-noise signal path from differential input to complementary fully-discrete analogue Class A/B output stages. Working in unison they deliver high power with natural dynamics, vivid resolution and absolute control.

Output stages use Emotiva’s super-efficient Soft-Switch Class H power supply topology, allowing each to operate on a lower supply voltage at low power levels in order to minimise quiescent power consumption and standby power losses, and to switch instantly to a higher voltage rail when required to ensure a clean signal transit without clipping. This operation is continuous and in real time, allowing greater overall efficiency, cooler operation, extended component life, reduced power consumption, and increased reliability.

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How good does your rack look?

AV switch series • Rear panel ports and front facing LEDs for clean integration with AV rack systems • Available in 8-port and 26-port configurations • Future proof your network with Gigabit speeds

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Essential Install | AVRs and amplification

Audio Research’s amp took two years to develop

The modular XPA-DR Series from Emotiva

Lets go to the moon!

The modular XPA-DR platform employs Emotiva’s high-current 3 kW Switch-Mode Power Supply (SMPS), which offers the dynamic attributes of a classic transformer-based supply with less of the drawbacks.

By generating large reserves of fully regulated continuous and dynamic power from a lighter and more efficient design, the SMPS ensures optimum performance under a wider range of load conditions.

The amplifiers’ front panel blue LED display and protection system are designed to work with the maximum number of channels so need not be updated with the addition of channels. Unoccupied rear panel slots are covered with protective cover panels (XPA-DR1 for instance is configured with a pair of Differential Reference Modules and up to two further module pairs can be added).

Simaudio’s new MOON 390 Network Player / Preamplifier has been crated to offer a complete highend listening solution. Featuring a DAC, preamplifier, headphone amplifier, phono stage and network streaming capability, the MOON 390 is a flexible music system.

Simaudio has built on its heritage of outstanding audio products by combining the functionality of the award-winning MOON 350P preamplifier and MOON 380D DAC with the latest high-end streaming architecture to create the MOON 390. With a host of analogue and digital connection possibilities, the MOON 390 will reveal astonishing levels of detail, says the maker.

The MOON 390 is designed to deliver an outstanding high-resolution streaming experience through music services such as Tidal Masters, Qobuz Sublime+ and Deezer Hi-Fi. The DAC architecture supports PCM (up to 32-bit/384kHz), DSD (up to DSD256) and is MQA certified.

It is also Roon Ready and has Bluetooth aptX connectivity.

The MOON 390 features the new MiND 2 streaming module. MiND 2 (MOON intelligent Network Device) is a way of streaming and listening to music. MiND 2 allows the playback of all the most common file formats, including DSD and MQA (via local files and TIDAL Master files). The MiND 2 also boasts a USB host port, permitting access to music on USB thumb drives. Finally, MiND 2 will also stream any digital or analogue input of the 390 to other MiND 2 zones on the same network. The MOON 390 is available in a black, 2-tone or silver finish and is available through Renaissance Audio.

After two years in development, the new Reference 160M (REF160M) Monoblock Power Amplifier has been revealed by Audio Research. It features a refined audio topology with fewer and better components in the signalpath than in previous designs, switchable Ultralinear/ Triode operation, proprietary autobias, output tube monitoring and protection and advanced power meter. This array of features has never been offered before in an Audio Research amplifier.

The designers at Audio Research wanted to create a new style that would complement the look of the REF6 preamp while also featuring a transparent faceplate that allows a view of the glowing KT150 vacuum tubes.

While this window allows you to see the output tubes, it also incorporates an innovative duallayer construction with distinctively etched markings that create an integrated power meter.

The power meter’s output-level markings illuminate via hidden LEDs, and the illumination brightness is adjustable.

The REF160M includes a sculpted cover with an integrated fan to cool the heat generated by the four (4) KT150 output tubes and two (2) 6H30 driver tubes. Solid-state power regulation was chosen to provide increased efficiency, stability, and reliability. The power supply stage uses a newly developed High Energy Capacity Transformer and a hefty bulk storage-capacity network to provide high current on demand for transient peaks and intense dynamics, as well as for bass depth and authority.

It is understood that the best path is the shortest path.

Audio Research engineers created a new audio circuit topology with the shortest signal path and the fewest components. Those components are not only the best available, says the maker, but many are custom made for Audio Research. Incorporating these quality components is a special four-layer circuit board that lowers the noise floor, and a design which was previously reserved for use in the company’s preamplifiers. The result, says the company, is a new benchmark in musicality in every criterion of sound quality. The new REF160M will be available in natural silver or black finishes and is available from Absolute Sounds.

Yamaha 0844 811 1116, uk.yamaha.com CAVD 01628 563 344, cavd.co.uk Karma AV 01423 358 846, karma-av.co.uk Renaissance Audio 0131 555 3922, renaissanceaudio.co.uk Absolute Sounds 020 8971 3909, Absolute Sounds

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image courtesy of www.realmcontrol.com

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Essential Install-add.indd 1 Untitled-1 1

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Essential Install | CE Pro Europe

CE Pro AV

CE Pro SMART HOME

EVENTS

CASE STUDIES FEATURES EUROPE

ce-pro.eu COMMERCIAL

@CEProEurope

facebook.com/CEProEurope

Essential Install Magazine is jam-packed with everything you need to know about the custom install industry, but did you know there’s a place you can go online to get even more? CE Pro Europe is brought to you by the same people behind EI EUROPE and offers breaking news, exclusive case studies, and comprehensive coverage of some of the biggest events that affect our industry. This month digital editor Jordan O’Brien finds out how AI is beginning to out-smart humans…

CE Pro

Judgement day

Those in the custom installation industry may have been installing smart homes for many years, but in recent times things have really started to get interesting. Now it’s no longer about putting control in the hands of consumers but having their every move anticipated using AI. New control devices have also made it easier than ever to turn lights on, set the temperature to a comfortable level, and contact family members.

These control devices employ incredibly intelligent AI in the form of Alexa, the Google Assistant, or Siri; all of which act as the user’s personal assistant. They’re capable of keeping track of the next doctor’s appointment, queue up songs from streaming music services, and most importantly, control thousands of smart home devices.

Are these smart assistants becoming a little too clever for comfort, however?

Earlier this month, Google unveiled a brand-new feature for its AI which significantly blurred the line between man and machine. The new feature is called Duplex, and is designed to be capable of making phone calls that mimic human speech, allowing the user to book a haircut or a table at a fancy restaurant without the person on the other end of the phone knowing they’re talking to the user’s virtual assistant.

Duplex’s incredible success comes from its ability to add imperfections to speech, something not often associated with AI. The pauses, breaks, and minor exclamations are what often separate a human and a robot, but now Duplex can ensure that the Google Assistant can use those very imperfections. The result is scary.

Can AI pass the Turing test?

Google’s new AI is certainly clever, and can keep up with conversation, but can it pass the Turing test? This test, developed by legendary British computer scientist Alan Turing, is supposed to determine whether something is man or machine, although Google’s AI has now successfully fooled the test, with humans unable to tell the difference between the newly launched Duplex functionality and a human.

The problem is, Google’s success at passing the Turing test doesn’t necessarily make its AI better than everyone else’s. In fact, the whole point of AI isn’t so it can mimic humans; it’s to allow humans to accomplish real tasks as simply as possible. It’s a tool, not an object to converse with. That’s where Amazon has differed. Sure, Alexa may not be as conversational as Google’s AI, but it is capable of controlling far more smart home devices. Both Amazon and Google have nothing on firms like Microsoft, however.

Microsoft’s AI tools may not be as glamorous, but the firm has showcased functionality such as the ability for drones to operate autonomously and spot anomalies without any interference from a human. That is infinitely more useful than an assistant that can tell jokes naturally, even if it isn’t as ‘cool’.

The top five: Here are the five most popular stories from the month of May. Control4’s Showroom Bonanza

Control4 has forgone the typical job of building its own showrooms, with the company instead choosing to partner with 140 locations worldwide…

A Paradigm Shift

Pulse Cinemas has added two new brands to its distribution line-up, with both Anthem AV and Paradigm…

Vision Of The Future

Find out all the Dolby Vision titles now available to watch, including those that are coming soon…

Outcast

Yamaha’s WXAD-10 may not be as popular as Google’s Chromecast offering, but its functionality is quite impressive…

Much Ado About 3D

Dolby Atmos, Auro-3D, DTS:X; how do the three major 3D audio formats differ, and which one is right for your next install?

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Loki Cinemascope The new Barco Residential Loki Cinemascope laser projector offers the same Ultra HD enhancements as his Loki stablemate, coupled with a high-capacity 2.37:1 aspect DLP engine. This exceptional design allows a 2.40:1 film to be shown without requiring an anamorphic lens.

In partnership with Genesis Technologies and Meridian Audio, we help you create the very best home cinema and media room experience for your customers. 路 Motorized DCI notch filters 路 HDR10

To find out more contact neil@genesistechnologies.co.uk or design@meridian.co.uk

路 HDMI 2.0a 路 HDCP 2.2

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Untitled-1 Barco HER 1ad Loki Essential Install Apr17.indd 1

14/07/2017 09:13 12/04/17 09:55

Essential Install | Day in the Life: Visual Systems Sales Ltd

The company has branched out and is now building its own smart properties from the ground up

Acton Man

EI spent the day with Ashwin Shah, chairman and founder of Visual Systems Sales (part of the Myriad Group), at the company’s specially converted HQ in the up and coming area of Acton Town, West London. This dynamic company leader, with well over 40 years in the industry, shows no sign of slowing down as his company continues to innovate and develop.

Visual Systems Sales has been established for 27 years at its home of Acton, which is undergoing a major regeneration programme. The Myriad Group, of which the company is part, has a history stretching back over 45 years to the earliest stirrings of the AV industry.

Ashwin explains to EI that his entry into the sector was a complete accident. “I was training to be an accountant and I got to know a guy in my building who worked for a company called Myriad Production Associates. He worked 12 hours a day, six days a week, and he could not work out why he was not making any money. He asked me to take a look at the books and I made some adjustments to make the company more efficient.

“I was asked to join with a small share-holding – and some three years later – I was in a position to buy the company out. The company operated mainly in the AV production side of things; servicing events, shows, and some fixed installation work. We had some serious clients in areas such as the financial sector and were working with

very early equipment, it was so long ago we operated with slide projectors like the Kodak SAV 2000’s before video projectors were even developed.”

Now known collectively as the Myriad Audio Visual Group, right from the off Ashwin could see the potential in all the different areas an AV specialist could work in; so set about purchasing specialist companies and recruiting the best people to expand the company’s interests. Gradually different arms were added to create the different divisions that exist today which include Visual Systems Sales (professional AV commercial and residential integrator), SiteCall (service and maintenance division) and Creative Staging Ltd (Dry Hire, production, set building and events) including Mediatech Hire & Events business – which was purchased a few years back and merged fully into Creative Staging. The group also contains Myriad Networks (IT & telephone networks), Myriad Audio Visual (sales and group management) and Map Multimedia (broadcast software).

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Essential Install | Day in the Life: Visual Systems Sales Ltd

The hospitality sector is just one of the areas the company operates in

Ashwin is proud of his company’s record in recruiting and retaining talented staff

Most innovative of all is the company’s Design and Build division, which was created to build smart homes.

The company not only provides all the technology but builds the homes as well.

Ashwin enthuses, “Throughout the history of the company, we have been able to deliver this growth because we put the staff right at the centre of everything we do, we give them the power to innovate, take responsibility and drive the company forward.

“I am particularly proud of this aspect, we have staff that have been with us since they left school and are now in their fifties; we currently have seven people retired from the business having spent many years with us, and every year we bring in three new people to continue our journey.

“We are all colleagues together, what hurts you, hurts me, we don’t have any ‘no go’ areas in terms of ideas, we listen and make decisions fast if we think it’s a good idea.”

Just one recent example here was a suggestion that the company was not fully servicing the needs for video walls; now the company is fully active in that area providing solutions for, amongst others, a top London hotel and an international IT company in Canary Wharf.

Ashwin explains, “We’ve already had video wall’s in our rental fleet so we understood the technology well, we knew we could offer something of value to the fixed the installation market, so we did, simple.

“The rental side of the business is a great proving ground for technologies and products, you often learn the most about them in those environments; products often begin in this sector of our company and make the transition across to the fixed market.”

Ashwin is not just proud of the company’s ability to recruit, train and retain the best staff, but also its ability to build client relationships. Just over 27 years ago the company won a contract for the fixed installation needs of the Post Office, it still has that contract today and in 2015 completed a £1m project fully updating all the AV at the Post Office’s HQ, winning the first of its hattrick of Smart Building Awards in the process.

As far as the domestic sector goes, the company’s journey into this sector was down a recognised route.

Ashwin explains, “We were working for lots of top companies in London, so senior staff started to ask what we could do for their homes as well. We started to become active in the market and took on some really nice projects including one for the finance director of a major bank.

“Right from the off we were working on large scale projects as we had the experience from the commercial sector to cope. Another of the early projects was a £0.5m project for a company chairman; complete home automation, music everywhere including the gardens and grounds, AV distribution too – a really cool project.”

At this point Ashwin is at pains to point out just how brand neutral the company is. “We never make any decisions based on brand. We assess every-single project on its own merits and specify exactly what suits the client best. Way too many technicians spec the system they would have and don’t listen well enough to the client.

Don’t go on an ego trip, go on a client trip.

“We are totally client centric, often we don’t spec exactly what is going into the system until quite late in the project. Take projectors for example, it’s a really fluid market, at one point in the year, one maker has the best solution for a project, a few months later, it could, and probably will be, someone else; so we give ourselves the freedom to stay fluid and pick the right equipment.”

A developing market

Ashwin is rightly proud of one of the company’s most recent innovations, the creation of its own developer arm.

The first project the company got involved with was a three dwelling development, not far from company HQ in Pinner.

“I have a passion for creating smart homes, so we thought why not create our own client base and build the homes as well!” enthuses Ashwin, “We are also in the latter stages of a project that is literally around the corner from here developing a warehouse into 11 loft apartments. Clients will get control of all their utilities over a Wi-Fi system which will use iPads and Alexa as the

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Essential Install | Day in the Life: Visual Systems Sales Ltd

High quality cinema is definitely part of the company’s road map

control interface. As the homes are purchased, the owners get a brochure laying out exactly what their new home can do, but also offers them upgrade paths to enhance with higher levels of control or the addition of AV.” True to his word, the apartments are literally a stone’s throw from the office and a quick tour confirms the near completion of this innovative and exciting way to create smart homes. Really cool looking loft apartments with mezzanine floors which are just crying out for the most modern of tech too, thanks to Ashwin and his team, they will get just that. Completion is scheduled for three weeks and the company already has another development in the planning stage, also in Acton, which literally got planning approval the day of EI’s visit.

However, Ashwin is not a fan of all types of new build projects. “We are often asked by developers to get involved in really large-scale stuff. But we are cautious, some of the terms offered are frankly crazy and we often say no. We said no to a 300-apartment project in London, I knew the financial arrangements were way to risky, the company that did take the project on went under.”

Bringing it all back home Home cinema is another area Ashwin is excited about.

The company has been involved for a long while acting as the installation partner to another firm, which was selling home cinemas and then bringing Visual Systems Sales in as the installation partner for projects that included work in One Hyde Park. However, staying true to its tried and tested method, the company recruited a sales person with a history in residential AV and home cinema, and is now embarking on projects of its own, quoting on high end London market and MDU’s. A nice sounding large basement cinema is just waiting for its planning permission to come through for the team to get started.

As far as the future is concerned, Ashwin is very positive. “Amazon, Google and Sonos have done us a huge favour in raising the awareness of the concept of smart homes. On their own none of the products released by these giants really amounts to much, to make a truly smart home, end users need the industry to integrate the experiences into a whole and they need experts to not just fit them but define the clients needs in the first place. I was at an event recently with one of our suppliers and one of the bosses was saying how he had purchased an Amazon Echo and fitted it himself. Then he said, ‘But I can’t get it to work properly, can you help me?’”

Ashwin’s enthusiasm for the sector is clear, “At the end of the day I am an entrepreneur, I get excited about many different areas we can get involved in. But my first love is the AV. I eat, sleep and even dream it. There are loads of innovations coming that we will be able to exploit, in many ways this industry is just getting started and I cant wait to see what we can offer clients next.”

EI has to say it was a real pleasure to spend the day with one of the industry’s true pioneers and characters, Ashwin’s fervour for the sector and belief in his staff is truly infectious, and long may it continue.

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ECA3189 ECA Member Ad 1 A4 WHITE with Bleed.pdf

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Untitled-12 1

Shaping our industry. Enabling business growth. Getting you specified.

20/03/2018 17:26

Essential Install | Case Study

Here comes the sun!

A comprehensive Crestron control solution, perfectly suited to luxury living at sea, comprising a centralised DigitalMedia 3-Series system, with DigitalMedia receiver and room controllers, Cresnet remote temperature and relative humidity sensors and 13 stylish touchscreens. Smooth sailing with this luscious install.

This magnificent 83m superyacht is a triumphant tour de force of technology and design. An ambitious display of elegance and power, the superyacht has been crafted to meet the exacting standards of its owner, successfully combining intuitive automation and high quality interior design into a showcase of luxury living at sea.

The superyacht’s co-owners partnered with prestigious Dutch yacht builders, Amels, and technology integration experts Van Berge Henegouwen to bring their ambitious vision to life. They wanted to create a luxurious floating island for their families, with a calming atmosphere and relaxed, beachy interior incorporating pioneering smart technology.

With a project of this calibre, only the best design, most innovative products and superior materials were acceptable.

When it came to technology, Crestron was chosen for its automation system for this impressive vessel.

‘Here Comes the Sun’ is the owner’s third yacht purchase. Rather than the sleek and glossy interior often seen on superyachts, ‘Here Comes the Sun’ is decorated with a warm and tactile palette, incorporating silk, wool, and natural oak panelling alongside vintage footworn floors to add a homely feel to the space. It was important that the comprehensive onboard technology was installed with discretion in mind, to enhance the use of the space without compromising the décor.

Victor Caminada, marketing manager at Amels comments, “We selected Crestron for this build because of its prestige and steadfast reputation in state-of-the-art

automation. The technology allowed for a comprehensive solution for this remarkable yacht and perfectly met the demands of the client.”

Split across a total of six decks, the superyacht can hold a crew of 24, plus the captain, as well as sleeping up to 18 guests, perfectly accommodating the owner’s family. The living spaces are ideally suited to entertaining and guests can select from a variety of pre-determined scenes to set lighting and music preferences via an easy-to-use Crestron touch screen or Apple iPad mini, discreetly positioned around the vessel. The Crestron CEN-NSP-1 network stream player allows for a wireless interface for Apple iOS devices using AirPlay or USB. Built-in internet radio also enables them to listen to online sources for music and news without a mobile device being connected.

To ensure the comfort of guests, the on-board climate is managed via Cresnet remote temperature and relative humidity sensors installed in entertainment areas and throughout the superyacht.

Adding to a generous array of entertaining spaces, there is an indoor spa pool and Beach Club bar, which includes a huge Crestron-operated sliding door to deliver an indoor/outdoor experience. Just off the lobby is a luxurious home cinema. The complete cinema AV system, which includes powerful amplifiers, speakers and projection, is controlled by Crestron and operated via a single Apple iPad mini as the user interface. Each multimedia entertaining space delivers world-class and

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Essential Install | Case Study

Kit List

superfast networked connectivity, even when at sea, thanks to the Crestron MC3 system.

The owner’s deck, which provides a private living space and sanctuary, includes Crestron automation throughout.

Aside from the intuitive lighting and temperature controls, there are a few custom additions such as a large television which slides seamlessly up from within a coffee table, perfectly hidden within the furniture when not in use.

Edwin Nieuwenhuyse, director of technology and engineering at Van Berge Henegouwen concludes, “A superyacht of this scale and prestige requires a calibre of technology that will not only provide superior automation today but also well into the future. Crestron DigitalMedia provides a flexible platform which not only ensures the installation of a world-class system, but also a scalable solution to incorporate future technologies.

The result is a brilliantly connected superyacht that delivers the most luxurious smart living for the owners’, their families and guests.”

Van Berge Henegouwen +31 20 799 3700, vbhi.com Crestron 0845 873 8787, crestron.eu

Model

Description

Qty

DMC-SO-HD

2-Channel DigitalMedia 8G Fiber Output Card for DMSwitchers

11

DM-MD32X32-RPS

32x32 DigitalMedia Switcher w/Redundant Power Supply

1

CEN-CI3-3

3-series Card Interface – 3 Slot

2

MC3

3-Series Control System

1

TPMC-4SMD-B-S

4.3 inch Designer Touch Screen

8

HD-MD6X2-4K-E

6x2 4K HDMI® Switcher

12

AUD-EXT-100

Audio Extender for One Unbalanced Stereo Signal

2

CP3

Compact Control System With Ethernet

10

C2N-RTHS

Cresnet Remote Temperature and Relative Humidity Sensor

7

DM-RMC-100-S

Digitalmedia 8g fiber Receiver & Room Controller 100

21

DMC-4K-HD

HDMI 4K Input Card

32

HD-SCALER

High-Definition Video Scaler

1

CH-HRMOT1A-IW

In-wall curtain and screen controller

1

TPMC-3SMD-W-S

Isys 2.8 inch Designer Touch Screen

5

CGEIB-IP

KNX IP Gateway

1

CEN-NSP-1

Network Stream Player providing a wireless or wired interface for iOS devices or USB.

3

PWE-4803RU

PoE Injector

7

C3IR-8

Provides 8 IR/1-way serial ports for expansion of a 3-Series Control System

5

CNTBLOCK

The Cntblock Is A Parallel Distribution Block For Termination Of Multiple 4-wire Cresnet Cables.

1

May 2018 | 67 Case Study.indd 67

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Untitled-9 1

22/05/2018 12:02

Essential Install | Smart Thinking

Cutting through the confusion of large displays

With so many options when it comes to achieving a large image, installers are spoilt for choice. But which one is best?

Penny Wilkinson catches up with Ross Noonan, technical product specialist at Optoma, to try to cut through the confusion.

Environmental factors play a significant part when it comes to choosing a large display solution

To achieve a large image, installers have a myriad of options. Should they go projection? This is, by far, the most cost effective and simplest way to attain a large display image, especially if high resolution is required.

But is there too much ambient light? Would a high brightness laser projector cut through this? Should they install a Large Format Display (LFD)?

For a large image, a single LFD screen is heavy, cumbersome and expensive. Installers could create a videowall with multiple LCD screens, but this has the downside of bezel frames around each screen, slicing through the overall image. Or, they could look at an LED display. LED displays are made up of slim LED panels installed flush beside each other to create a seamless display with no bezels disrupting the image. They are expensive compared to projection, but large LED displays are becoming far more comparable in cost to similar size LFD videowalls.

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Essential Install | Smart Thinking

LED displays are intrinsically more complex than projection

matching the content to the native display resolution is always the best option. But if the content resolution varies or cannot be known up front, Optoma has a range of image scalers which use HQView technology to give the best on-screen results.

So, if people want a definite size, they may need to compromise on the resolution and aspect and/or create content at that resolution. Optoma has simplified this for customers by offering a range of panels at specific sizes and resolutions.

Customers can have custom sizes with different resolutions, but they should try to ensure the overall display’s aspect ratio is consistent with its individual panels to ensure the image is not distorted.

P: So, which solution do you think is best?

R: It depends on the environmental factors. In a high ambient brightness environment, projection will look washed out, but if the ambient light is not too high or light could be controlled, projection may be the best, and certainly the cheapest, option. If the ambient light is high and you want large seamless imagery without bezels interrupting the image, you may need to look at installing an LED display.

P: What questions do I need to ask when looking at LED displays?

R: Do you need a permanently installed or mobile solution?

Is it for indoor or outdoor use? How bright is the environment where it will be operating? What size and aspect ratio do you need? What content will you be showing?

Where will the audience be in relation to the display? How accessible will the display be if it needs maintenance?

P: Can you use LED displays in full sunshine?

R: Yes you can. Brightness of LED panels is measured in Nits. A single nit emits over three times more light than a single lumen. LED panels can be scheduled to change the brightness at different times of day.

P: As the LED display is made of lots of tiles, there must be more flexibility in size and aspect ratio, right?

R: Size and aspect ratio is a little bit more complex for LED displays than projection. Due to their modular setup, there is no limit to the overall image size for LED displays.

True. But this is where it can be more complicated than projection. When looking at the size and aspect ratio, you also need to consider your content and desired resolution.

The LED panels that make up an LED display are a certain aspect ratio. If the same number of LED panels are used horizontally and vertically – it will retain that same aspect ratio. For example, Optoma LED panels are 16:9 aspect ratio. A display of 10x10 panels would keep the aspect ratio the same, but if the customer wanted a specific width and height, the aspect ratio may not be 16:9 and it would alter the resolution – as there would be more or less pixels depending on the size chosen.

Resolution is determined by the size and the pixel pitch of the LED display – that is, the distance between each LED diode/pixel in the panel. The narrower the pixel pitch, the greater the resolution of the panel. Pixel

LED Screen

FHD20422

FHD26528

UHD20845

UHD261056

Screen resolution

FHD 1080P

FHD 1080P

UHD 4K

UHD 4K

4 x 2.2m

5 x 2.8m

8 x 4.5m

10 x 5.6m

Screen size

(dimensions)

(180in)

(226in)

(361in)

(452in)

P: Why is it important to know where the audience will be?

R: The closer the audience is to the screen, the narrower the pixel pitch you need for them not to see individual pixels. As a rule of thumb – for a 2.6 pixel pitch, the minimum viewing distance is 2.6m away, for a 2.0 pixel pitch it is 2m.

But this is not the optimal viewing distance. We advise that the optimum distance is roughly the width of the display so the best place to view a 5m wide display is 5m back.

You also need to think about the viewing angle. Better quality LEDs have a wider viewing angle. If your audience will be viewing the display far off-centre, you need to make sure the diodes have a wide viewing angle, which ours do.

P: How accessible will the display be after install?

R: Some LED displays are only accessible from the rear which would need substantial framework, designed and signed-off by structural engineers.

All of Optoma’s out of the box solutions are designed to be mounted directly onto the wall using wood screws and are front serviceable with no cabling required to connect each tile. If one panel gets damaged, it can be simply swapped out without having to dismantle the entire display.

It is easier and cheaper to change this single panel within an LED display than for a LFD or videowall.

Every display comes with a custom tool kit with everything needed to install, as well as spare LED panels and components, including a unique suction device for removing individual panels which significantly reduces the potential for damage during installation and servicing.

Q: Does it need much servicing then?

A: No. Optoma LED displays need minimal maintenance.

There are no filters to clean. Fluctuations in temperature and damp may reduce the lifespan of diodes so we advise to leave the display on standby to keep these warm and dry. If there is a build-up of dust on the front of the display, you can brush this gently with a soft brush - but other than that, they need very little maintenance.

Q: What are the main pitfalls for installers?

A: One of the common pitfalls is that buyers look for the cheapest option and buy directly from a Far East supplier. This is high risk as these companies request payment up front and, when there are problems, provide no local support. I would recommend choosing a trusted and established AV brand within Europe with whom they can be assured they would have support during and post install.

Optoma has a range of ultra-thin, 16:9 native aspect ratio LED displays. These are easy to install, operate and maintain, and engineered for reliability and superior image quality.

Optoma 01923 691 800, optoma.co.uk

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Learn more at cedia.net Untitled-7 1

29/05/2018 16:03

EssentialREVIEW Yamaha RX-A3070

Flagship 9-channel multi-zone AV receiver Yamaha’s 2018 flagship AVR builds on the outgoing RX-A3060 with more zones, comprehensive features and a considerably lower price. The £1599 retail is some two-thirds of its forbear and half that of top-spec AVRs from peers like Denon, Marantz and Arcam. With nine channels of amplification, Dolby Atmos and DTS:X decoding, and four zone control, the RX-A3070 is certainly a cost-effective solution for multi-room installs.

The core of the RX-A3070 sports much of Yamaha’s well-proven technology and the build quality is top-notch. The heavyweight chassis, chunky speaker binding posts, H-section internal bracing and thick aluminium fascia lend it a robust, premium feel. The Aventage series specification includes audiophile grade components throughout, ESS’s Sabre-Pro DACs and a claimed 9 x 150W. Connectivity includes 8-in/2-out HDCP 2.2 compliant HDMI ports and ARC (if not the newer eARC) to back-feed TV audio signals to the AVR. Composite and component video inputs cater for legacy equipment and built-in scaling takes any input to 4K/60p. The HDMIs pass though all current forms of HDR including bandwidth-heavy Dolby Vision, BT.2020 and 4:4:4 colour.

Wi-Fi, Ethernet and Bluetooth further enhance connectivity, enabling internet radio, a raft of builtin music streaming services, AirPlay and Yamaha’s MusicCast wireless multiroom audio platform. For more traditional broadcast audio there is the welcome addition of an FM/DAB+ radio tuner.

This Yamaha’s core architecture is beginning to look a little dated though. ‘Only’ nine channels of amplification will be frustrating to installers looking to leverage the 11.1 channel processing and the GUI is rather clunky and uninformative by current standards.

The lightweight remote control doesn’t have the gravitas one would like and extremely small button text doesn’t make for easy reading.

Thankfully, Yamaha’s AV Controller app is much slicker. The black background offers high contract, easy to read graphics and the operational structure is logical. It offers access to most of the RX-A3070’s advanced features, including multi-zone control and Yamaha’s comprehensive DSP modes. End users also have access to the Yamaha MusicCast app that offers limited AVR controls alongside music streaming.

Installation

The RX-A3070 is a freestanding AVR so a rack tray may be required. Its 192mm height is close to 5U and another slot above would be advisable for cooling space or a 1U fan tray. The combined Wi-Fi and Bluetooth antenna stands 55mm proud of the AVR’s top panel but it worked equally well pointed down rather if space is tight The two HDMI outputs form zones 1 and 2, with full matrix switching of any input to either HDMI port. The composite and component video out terminals can feed zones 3 and 4 with restricted switching. Audio in zones 1, 2 and 3 can be run from the power amps or pre-outs, with zone 4 pre-out only.

The RX-A3070 adds two 12v trigger ports, IR loop in/out and RS232C for integration with controllers including Control4, Crestron and AMX. Yamaha’s own YNC protocols are fully supported and the developers API kit is available on request. Yamaha’s UK-based technical support team are on hand for control documentation or general help and advice for RXA3070 installers.

In a brand-new feature in Essential Install, respected AV reviewer Richard Stevenson puts some top CI products through their paces. This month he takes a look at the Yamaha RX-A3070 AV receiver.

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EssentialREVIEW Yamaha RX-A3070

Performance

The RX-A3070 deploys Yamaha’s top-spec 64-bit parametric room optimisation (YPAO) software for speaker levels, LFE management and RoomEQ. The system measures up to eight seating positions and four points on the supplied 3D mic stand for height and angle speaker measurement, making for a lengthy set up process.

The system adjusts channel levels relative to main L/R speaker output rather than the more usual default 85dB fixed volume. That neatly gets around the problem suffered by many peer AVRs of overattenuating high-efficiency speakers. It also makes this Yamaha ideal for installs in small rooms where speakers are very close to the listening position.

The RX-A3070 has 11 sets of speaker terminals and relay-actuated amplifier assignment of its nine amplifiers from the GUI. That allows the user to, for example, temporarily switch off surround back in the main zone to power stereo in zone 3 without reconnecting speakers. For a full Atmos/DTS:X system you can add an extra stereo power amp for channels 10/11, or engage Yamaha’s complex Virtual Presence Speakers to fill the void. Both are rather complex workarounds compared to the simplicity of AVRs with 11 channels of amplification on board.

A full scale audio performance is on offer

Despite the 3D mic and using multi-point measurement, the RX-A3070 exhibited some set-up errors using full auto mode. It failed to identify transposed L/R and front/rear on overhead speaker wiring, so care needs to be taken with wiring labelling. However, auto channel level balance and EQ measured very well, keeping all speakers very closely timbre and volume matched at typical listening levels.

Sound performance more than justifies the RXA3070’s asking price. It punches well above its weight in drive and drama, and the on-board amplification goes nicely loud without sounding strained. Subwoofers might require some manual fettling post set-up as the YPAO system here does not attempt to EQ LFE channels.

Using a variety of sources, and audio formats from stereo to Atmos, the sound has a foot tapping pace and a robust balance that drives action movies along with gusto. Some of Yamaha’s DSP modes offer notable upgrade to the soundstaging with movies and we particularly liked the Sci-Fi mode for action movies.

The RX-A3070 is not perhaps the most spacious or delicately detailed sounding AVR but few at the price can deliver such a full-scale sound. Fewer still can match its comprehensive specification and features, including 4 zone control.

Sci-Fi mode proved to be a hit

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24/05/2018 20:23

Essential Install | Training Dates

AL LT R A D E

B EMCO K N X

UBIQUITI LEVEL 1

KNX ‘TASTER’ COURSE

DATES/LOCATION: May 22, Brighton & Hove; May 31, Maidstone; May 23, Bournemouth; Jun 28, Hemel Hempstead

DATES/LOCATION: Jun 13, Jul 18, Aug 15, Sept 12, Oct 10, Nov 7, Dec 5; Bemco Wandsworth

UBIQUITI LEVEL 2

KNX BASIC COURSE

DATES/LOCATION: May 30, Bournemouth; Jun 27, Brighton & Hove

INTRODUCTION TO HDL DATES/LOCATION: May 23, Brighton & Hove; May 30, Bolton

INTRODUCTION TO CCTV

COST: Free

DATES/LOCATION: May 21-25, Jul 9-13, Sept 24-28, Nov 19-23; Bemco Wandsworth COST: £750 +VAT

KNX ADVANCED COURSE DATES/LOCATION: Oct 22-26; Bemco Wandsworth

DATES/LOCATION: Jun 13, Brighton & Hove; Jun 21, Hemel Hempstead; Jun 14, Maidstone; Jun 5 Bournemouth; Jun 14, Reading

COST: £750 +VAT

INTRODUCTION TO IRS

Bemco 0208 874 0404, bemco.co.uk

DATES/LOCATION: May 24, Hemel Hempstead; Jun 20, Brighton & Hove; Jun 21, Maidstone; Jun 27, Bournemouth; Jun 28, Reading

MORE INFORMATION »

INTRODUCTION TO FIBRE DATES/LOCATION: May 30, Brighton & Hove; May 31, Hemel Hempstead; Jun 20, Bournemouth; Jun 21, Reading

13th June 2018 18th July 2018 15th August 2018

CAT5/6 CABLE, CONNECTIONS & BEYOND DATES/LOCATION: May 24, Reading; Jun 6, Brighton & Hove; Jun 13, Bournemouth; Jun 28, Maidstone

DEMOPAD SOFTWARE PROGRAMMING DATES/LOCATION: May 24, Bolton; Jun 28, Bolton

TELEVES FIBRE OPTICS: THE NEXT LEVEL

24th - 28th Sept 2018 19th - 23rd Nov 2018

DATES/LOCATION: May 30, Cardiff; May 31, Reading; Jun 5, Brighton & Hove; Jun 14, Hemel Hempstead; Jun 13, Maidstone; Jun 6, Bournemouth

C ED I A LIGHTING DESIGN PACKAGE DATES/LOCATION: Jun 13-14; AWE, Epsom

INTRODUCTION TO LIGHTING FUNDAMENTALS DATES/LOCATION: Jun 13; AWE, Epsom

RESIDENTIAL LIGHTING CONTROL DATES/LOCATION: Jun 14; AWE, Epsom

CABLES, CONNECTIVITY AND STRUCTURED WIRING WORKSHOP

All courses are free to attend.

DATES/LOCATION: Jun 25; CEDIA Training Centre, St Neots

MORE INFORMATION »

BOOT CAMP

For more information or to book call 0344 225 2700, training@alltrade.co.uk or visit alltrade.co.uk

DATES/LOCATION: Jun 25-29; CEDIA Training Centre, St Neots

SMART HOME TECHNICIAN DATES/LOCATION: Jun 25, Jul 11; CEDIA Training Centre, St Neots

22nd - 26th Oct 2018

AW E FOUNDATION WORKSHOP DATES/LOCATION: Jul 3, Oct 9; AWE, Epsom COST: £200

FOUNDATION IN SMART HOME CONTROL WITH URC – MXHOMEPRO DATES/LOCATION: Jul 4, Oct 10; AWE, Epsom

For more info visit www.bemco-knx.co.uk

ESSENTIAL TECHNICAL AND PERSONAL SKILLS FOR INSTALLERS DATES/LOCATION: Jun 26; CEDIA Training Centre, St Neots

HEALTH & SAFETY DATES/LOCATION: Jun 27; CEDIA Training Centre, St Neots

SAFE ISOLATION DATES/LOCATION: Jun 28; CEDIA Training Centre, St Neots

COST: £30

AUDIO, VIDEO AND RF SYSTEMS

HDMI & 4K VIDEO DISTRIBUTION WITH HDANYWHERE

DATES/LOCATION: Jun 29; CEDIA Training Centre, St Neots

DATES/LOCATION: May 24, Jul 5, Sept 20, Nov 15; AWE, Epsom

Member and non-member costs available online.

COST: £25

WHOLE HOUSE INTEGRATION WITH URC TOTAL CONTROL DATES/LOCATION: Jun 19, Aug 28, Oct 16; AWE, Epsom

MORE INFORMATION »

CEDIA 01480 213 744, education@cedia.co.uk, cediaeducation.com

COST: £60

HDBASET EXPERT INSTALLER DATES/LOCATION: Jun 7, Oct 11; AWE, Epsom COST: £25

MORE INFORMATION »

AWE 01372 729 995, awe-europe.com, smarthomeacademy.co.uk

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Essential Install | Training Dates

CRESTR O N

HA B I T EC H

CRESTRON STUDIO FOR RESIDENTIAL LIFESTYLE

ARCAM – PRODUCT TRAINING

DATES/LOCATION: Jun 4-5; Crestron UK

COST: Free

CTI-P101 FOUNDATIONS OF CRESTRON PROGRAMMING DATES/LOCATION: May 21-23, Jun 11-13; Crestron UK

NVX DESIGN AND APPLICATION DATES/LOCATION: May 23-24, Jun 20-21; Crestron UK

DM-NVX DESIGN AND NETWORKING DATES/LOCATION: Apr 25-27; Crestron UK

CTI-P201 CORE SYSTEM PROGRAMMING DATES/LOCATION: Jun 20-22; Crestron UK

CRESTRON SYSTEMS TECHNICIAN DATES/LOCATION: May 9, Jun 19; Crestron UK

CTI-FUSION-P CRESTRON FUSION PROGRAMMER DATES/LOCATION: May 24-25; Crestron UK

CRESTRON DIGITAL MEDIA NETWORKING CERTIFICATION

DATES/LOCATION: Sept 6, Oct 31; Basingstoke

DAHUA DATES/LOCATION: Jun 5, Jul 17, Sept 5, Oct 17; Basingstoke COST: Free

PRONET – QUICK START TO NETWORK DESIGN DATES/LOCATION: Jun 19, Sept 11, Nov 7; Basingstoke COST: £99

PRONET – INTEGRATOR ADVANCED NETWORK DESIGN DATES/LOCATION: Jun 20, Sept 12, Nov 8; Basingstoke COST: £99

WYRESTORM HD DISTRIBUTION THEORY AND TROUBLE SHOOTING (INCLUDING HDBASET AND 4K) DATES/LOCATION: Jun 27, Jul 18, Sept 26, Nov 13; Basingstoke

DATES/LOCATION: May 25, Jun 22; Crestron UK

WYRESTORM – NETWORK HD

CTI-SG SMART GRAPHICS TRAINING

DATES/LOCATION: Jun 28, Jul 19, Sept 27, Nov 14; Basingstoke

DATES/LOCATION: May 30-31, Jun 25-26; Crestron UK

CTI-FUSION-P CRESTRON FUSION PROGRAMMER DATES/LOCATION: Jun 14-15; Crestron UK

High Dynamic Range

COST: Free

COST: Free

MORE INFORMATION »

Habitech 01256 638 500, habitech.co.uk

CTI-P301 ADVANCED PROGRAMMING SKILLS DATES/LOCATION: Jun 27-29; Crestron UK All Crestron training courses are free.

MORE INFORMATION »

MERI D I A N

Crestron +1 888 273 7876, crestron.com

MERIDIAN BASIC SETUP

IVORY E GG K NX TRAIN ING

MERIDIAN ADVANCED SETUP

3 DAY TECHNICIAN

DATES/LOCATION: Jun 26, Aug 21, Oct 2, Nov 27; Meridian HQ, Huntingdon DATES/LOCATION: Jun 27, Aug 22, Oct 3, Nov 28; Meridian HQ, Huntingdon

HOME CINEMA ESSENTIALS DATES/LOCATION: Jun 12, Aug 7, Oct 23; Meridian HQ, Huntingdon

DATES/LOCATION: May 21-23, Jul 23-25, Oct 15-17; Bosham

MERIDIAN SOOLOOS

2 DAY PARTNER

TWO-CHANNEL MASTERCLASS [CEDIA CERTIFIED TRAINING]

COST: £750 +VAT

DATES/LOCATION: Aug 20-21, Dec 3-4; Bosham COST: £350 +VAT

MORE INFORMATION »

Ivory Egg 01243 572 700, ivoryegg.co.uk

L IL IN

DATES/LOCATION: Jun 13, Aug 8, Oct 24; Meridian HQ, Huntingdon

DATES/LOCATION: Jul 17, Sept 18; Meridian HQ, Huntingdon

MULTI-CHANNEL MASTERCLASS [CEDIA CERTIFIED TRAINING] DATES/LOCATION: Jul 18, Sept 19; Meridian HQ, Huntingdon

MORE INFORMATION »

Meridian 01480 445 622, meridian-audio.com

SURVEILLANCE FOR CUSTOM INSTALL DATES/LOCATION: Jul 24, Milton Keynes; Oct 23, Milton Keynes; Jun 5, Edinburgh; Jun 6, Leeds COST: Free

MORE INFORMATION » LILIN 0870 120 5550, lilin.co.uk

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Intrinsic-FP2.pdf

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Essential Install | Products

Essential Products

Opulent Offerings Of AV Automation

The Zero Edge Pro is available with SI’s LED backlighting options

Screen Innovations updates its Zero Edge screen Screen Innovations (SI) has announced an update to its Zero Edge screen, the company’s most popular model. Zero Edge Pro is a brand-new type of screen that gives end-user greater options for customisation, 36 screens in one and three bezel options: Small (1/2in), Medium (1 1/2in), or Large (2in). The Medium and Large options are available in 12 designer-selected colours with an in-lay of hand-wrapped velvet or completely wrapped in velvet, made to order.

When SI introduced Zero Edge in 2011, it impressed with its half-inch bezel providing a sleek and low-profile appeal. “Fixed frame screens have always been just a means to an end. No one ever asked the customer what they wanted —which is always our first step in product development,” says Ryan Gustafson, CEO of Screen Innovations. “And we did exactly that in designing the new Zero Edge Pro as a brand-new type of screen, giving customers the power to choose exactly how they want their screen to look.”

“We’ve already had several inquiries from customers who want to order trim to match their favourite sports teams or as the accent colour in their room,” says Skyler Meek, director of marketing at SI. “Zero Edge Pro gives our customers the ability to do exactly what they want to do; custom integration. Another great feature, Zero Edge and Zero Edge Pro are hand-built from 100% aluminium. That means the screen not only fits together perfectly, it will last a lifetime.”

Zero Edge Pro is also available with SI’s LED backlighting options. SI has added a new option for backlighting as well, including a new IP controlled solution that can be integrated and controlled seamlessly with Philips Hue Smart Lighting ecosystems.

Screen Innovations 01842 824 425, screeninnovations.com

Atlona expands OmniStream AV over IP line-up

The new products will be on display at InfoComm 2018

Atlona will expand its OmniStream AV over IP family at InfoComm 2018 (June 6-8) with the global debut of a new USB over IP product line for cost-effective signal extension and distribution. Now shipping, Atlona will demonstrate the new OmniStream 311 (AT-OMNI-311) and OmniStream 324 (AT-OMNI-324), the newest members of the Atlona OmniStream Pro line, which offer scalability and reliability for medium-to-large commercial AV systems. Both USB over IP products work in tandem to integrate within a wide variety of system design scenarios for soft codec conferencing and remote keyboard/mouse control.

In a typical configuration, up to seven AT-OMNI-324 peripheral device adapters can interface with one AT-OMNI-311 host device adapter to extend USB signals over the network. Each AT-OMNI-324 can accommodate up to four peripheral devices in its hub, allowing users to easily move up to 28 signals from high-bandwidth devices including PTZ cameras (such as the Atlona AT-HDVS-CAM), speakerphones, microphones and digital signal processors to a PC or host device where the AT-OMNI-311 resides. The same architecture also supports extensions and distribution of standard HID class devices including a wall-mounted touch display, keyboard and mouse over the same network.

“Whether used in a standalone configuration or as part of a broader Atlona All-IP Meeting Space solution, our new OmniStream USB over IP devices remove the wiring and cabling burdens associated with KVM switching and other legacy signal distribution means,” says David Shamir, director of product management at Atlona. “Our customers now have a clean, networked solution to support everything from simpler meeting table needs where the presenter wishes to interface a touch display with a laptop, to streamlined videoconferencing solutions in huddle rooms.”

RGB Communications 01488 733 66, rgbcomms.co.uk

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Essential Install | Products

LG’s super UHD line-up uses ThinQ AI technology

LG launches 2018 TV lineup LG Electronics has launched its 2018 TV line-up with an array of new OLED and SUPER UHD models. The products feature the company’s ThinQ artificial intelligence technology and an advanced α (Alpha) processor.

LG has launched 10 new AI-enabled OLED TV models for 2018, including the W8, G8, E8, C8, and B8. Each model boasts a range of design factors from Picture-on-Wall (model 77/65W8), to One Glass Screen (model 65G8), Picture-on-Glass (model 65/55E8) and Cinema Screen design (model 77/65/55C8 and 65/55B8). Screen sizes range from 55in to 77in with 12 AI-enabled SUPER UHD TVs (model SK95, SK85, SK81 and SK80) available in sizes varying from 49in to 75in.

LG’s 2018 AI-enabled SUPER UHD line-up is powered by LG’s α (Alpha) 7, the same processor found in the B8 series.

In combination with Nano Cell and FALD backlighting, LG AI-enabled SUPER UHD TVs offer advanced LCD picture quality with deeper blacks, enhanced image rendering, improved shadow details and accurate colours from wide viewing angles. To complement the upgraded viewing experience, the new SUPER UHD TVs also support Dolby Atmos for an immersive audio-visual experience.

With AI functionality embedded in the sets, LG 2018 TV viewers can speak directly into the remote control and use the latest advanced voice assistant technology. This is achieved by employing Natural Language Processing (NLP) to deliver intelligent voice-activated control and connectivity.

Moreover, LG’s ThinQ AI-enabled TVs also work with Google Assistant and Amazon Alexa devices to allow remote, hands-free control.

LG Electronics 0344 847 5454, lg.com/uk

Get to work!

WORK PRO AUDIO, the AV brand from Valencia’s Equipson Group, has announced the launch of the WNS-8P, an eightport Ethernet switch designed especially for AV applications in the live, installation and integration markets.

“Network technology is a fundamental component of the modern AV industry,” explains Equipson CSO Juan Jose Vila, “but for some time, our AV customers have been making us aware what a headache it can be to configure Ethernet switches designed for use in standard data networks, not AV applications. We realised there was a requirement for a switch designed specifically for AV installation professionals, and so the WNS-8P was born.”

Housed in a standard 19in rack, the WNS-8P offers Power Over Ethernet (PoE) on each of its standard Ethernet connectors, is compatible with RJ45 and etherCON connectors, and can be configured using a simple web-based interface. Compatible with WORK PRO’s numerous Ethernet-based AV solutions, including the BlueLine range (all of which can now be powered via the switch’s PoE connectors), ArtNet/sACN nodes and the recently launched LightShark range of lighting consoles and associated expanders, the WNS-8P is intended to have industry-wide appeal, bringing together Ethernet-based AV hardware from many manufacturers and forming the basis of (for example) Dante or DMX streaming networks. The WNS-8P will be available later in 2018.

WORK PRO AUDIO +34 961 216 301, workproaudio.com

The WNS-8P is compatible with RJ45 and etherCON connectors

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WE CRAFT AUDIO PRODUCTS THAT PERFORM LIKE NO OTHER Meridian has always challenged convention.

For more than forty years, we have pushed boundaries, disrupted norms and delivered products that have shaped our industry and redefined how people experience sound.

We are the Pioneers of High Resolution Audio.

meridian-audio.com

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Essential Install | Products

Crestron on the Horizon Crestron have announced that its new line of Horizon keypads are available to pre order. Available in highly configurable single-US-gang models that combine up to four across, the new line offers designer aesthetics, superior button feel, four different button styles, programmable multi-colour backlighting, interchangeable custom top and bottom trim pieces, and Cresnet wired communications. Crestron keypads deliver an advanced custom control solution as part of a complete Crestron smart home.

“These stunningly beautiful keypads provide Crestron residential dealers, as well as interior designers and architects, with incredible flexibility in both control and design,” said Michael Short, global residential marketing manager at Crestron. “Inviting to the touch and appealing to the eye, Horizon keypads deliver a premier user experience combined with bespoke design for homeowners.”

Crestron have also announced that, through its new partnership with Tyba, Turn, a new and award-winning generation of rotary keypads developed by Tyba, is now a Crestron Connected device. With its uncluttered configurable interface, intuitive rotary control, and clean design, Turn adds style and finesse to any residential space. When connected to a Crestron control system, Turn performs just like any native Crestron control device.

Crestron Connected devices can easily be connected to any home network using standard Ethernet cable. Crestron keypads deliver an advanced custom control solution as part of a complete Crestron smart home.

Crestron 0845 873 8787, crestron.eu

Q Acoustics unveils 3000i speakers Q Acoustics says its new 3000i loudspeaker series delivers true Hi-Fi and immersive, powerful home cinema sound for the home at an affordable price. Building on the success of the original 3000 series, the new range features audio and design technology taken from the company’s high-end flagship Concept 500 loudspeaker to improve audio performance.

Whether looking for an effective stereo upgrade to a Hi-Fi system, compact bookshelf speakers for tight spaces, floorstanders for larger rooms or a 5.1 set-up to take TV, movies and gaming to the next level, the new range caters for all budgets and living spaces.

The new range caters for all budgets and living spaces The series consists of the 3050i large floorstander, the compact 3010i and mid-sized 3020i bookshelf speakers with a matching 3090Ci centre-channel speaker and the slimline 3060Si active sub-woofer completing a 5.1 surround sound home cinema speaker set-up.

To deliver a larger-scale sound, the 3010i and 3020i bookshelf models have been designed slightly taller and 25% deeper than its predecessors. This increase in physical volume allows the low-end frequencies to be extended for more powerful bass sounds that still belie these speakers’ diminutive size. The 3000i series also boasts a fresh elegant design, arriving in four stylish premium finishes – Graphite Grey, English Walnut, Carbon Black or Arctic White.

Q Acoustics’ engineers recognise that a meticulously designed enclosure can reduce the structural vibrations that can adversely affect the sonic performance. The new 3000i range now features internal support in areas of the cabinet that need stiffening, including an extra precision-cut top damping panel. The result is a more focused, accurate and low distortion fidelity.

Armour Home 01279 501 111, armourhome.co.uk

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Tel: 01279 647 039 24/05/2018 11:15