Essential Install June 2021

JUNE 2021

THE ESSENTIAL MAGAZINE FOR THE AV AND SMART HOME INDUSTRY

THE F OR EF R ONT OF BR ITISH MAN UF AC TURI NG

Matrices Extenders Splitters DSP Pre Amps Power Amplifiers All your AV requirements

HVAC

A HOT TOPIC

ALWAYS IN STOCK ALWAYS AVAILABLE

MATRIX AND SIGNAL MANAGEMENT IMPORTANT CHOICES

DIGITAL SIGNAGE

A BRIGHT FUTURE?

NEW PRODUCT

HMXL88ARC / HMXL66ARC

New Levels of Advanced Audio Integration We are pleased to announce the launch of two feature rich HDBaseT™ Matrix, the HMXL88ARC and HMXL66ARC. Using CSC technology, these powerful HDBaseT™ matrix support 4K 60Hz 4:4:4 resolutions over distances of 40m over a single CAT 6 cable. The new HMXL66ARC and HMXL88ARC come into their own with advanced audio features specifically designed for maximising the integration of all AV sources in the modern home. Enhanced audio routing is achieved through the integrated 26x8 audio matrix. This enables the audio both from displays (via ARC) and all other sources to be embedded and routed through the system at the users discretion.

These ARC and audio routing features enable our installation partners the ability to create a truly AV experience throughout the home.

NEW

HMXL88ARC 8x8 HDBaseT™ CSC ARC Matrix

NEW

HMXL66ARC 6x6 HDBaseT™ CSC ARC Matrix

HDCP 2.2

J Advanced HDBaseT™ technology offering distribution of video and audio over a single CAT cable J Advanced Colour Space Conversion (CSC) supports HDMI 2.0 18Gbps specification including HDR J 26x8 Audio Matrix independently controllable from the video

HDCP 2.2

J Advanced HDBaseT™ technology offering distribution of video and audio over a single CAT cable J Advanced Colour Space Conversion (CSC) supports HDMI 2.0 18Gbps specification including HDR J 20x6 Audio Matrix independently controllable from the video

NEW

HEX70ARC-KIT HDBaseT™ ARC Extender Set - 70m (4K up to 40m), ARC, Bi-directional IR, Bi-directional PoC J Advanced HDBaseT™ technology offering uncompressed video and audio with zero latency J Extends HDMI 1080p up to a distance of 70m over a single CAT cable J Supports 4K UHD video up to 40m (3840 x 2160 @30Hz 4:4:4, 4096 x 2160 @24Hz 4:4:4, and 4K @60Hz 4:2:0)

4K HDR up to 40m

PRO88HBT70CS

Custom Pro 8x8 HDBaseT™ CSC Matrix (4K 60Hz 4:4:4 up to 40m) Supports 4K HDR, IP Control, PoC, 2-Way IR, 4 x Simultaneous HDMI Outputs , Audio Breakout with Volume Control J Advanced Colour Space Conversion (CSC) supports HDMI 2.0 18Gbps specification over HDBaseT™ J Supports 4K resolutions including HDR (4K 60Hz 4:4:4) to a distance of 40m

J Smart Scale technology - automatic 4K to 1080p scaling Available Now - Custom Pro, 16 x HDMI 2.0 inputs, 16 x HDBaseT™ outputs

1080p up to 150m

HEX100CS-KIT

HEX150CS-KIT

100m HDBaseT™ Extender Set Supporting 4K 60Hz 4:4:4 (70m)

HDBaseT™ CSC Extender Set Supporting HDMI 2.0 4K 60Hz 4:4:4 up to 100m (1080p up to 150m)

J Advanced HDBaseT™ technology offering CSC scaling with zero latency J Supports 4K UHD video up to 70m (3840x2160 @60Hz 4:4:4 and @60Hz

J Advanced Colour Space Conversion (CSC) supports HDMI 2.0 18Gbps specification including HDR support

4:2:2 including HDR)

C O N T R A C T O R

S E R I E S

C44-KIT Contractor 4x4 HDBaseT™ Matrix Kit

J Includes 4 x HEX70B-RX HDBaseT™ Receivers

M U L T I C A S T

IP200UHD-RX/TX Multicast 4K UHD Video Receiver / Transmitter J Supports up to 4K HDR UHD video sources (3840 x 2160 @30Hz 4:4:4, 4096 x 2160 @24Hz 4:4:4 and 4K @60Hz 4:2:0) J Advanced signal management for independent routing of IR, RS-232, USB / KVM, audio and video

4 K

U H D

V I D E O

O V E R

I P

Become a Certified Blustream Installation Partner

Interactive Online Tutorials We have re-designed our regular interactive online tutorials, focused on providing convenient, bite sized insights into the latest Blustream solutions and the day to day challenges we all currently face in our rapidly evolving market. During these unprecedented times, we have increased both the content and frequency of the sessions we are hosting to bring you the most comprehensive range of interactive webinar content available in the UK.

Register now: www.blustream.co.uk/advanced-learning-portal J

Our UK Address: The Service Station,

Tel: +44 (0)115 824 7000

J Video over IP vs HDBaseT - which should you back?

Melton Road, Hickling Pastures,

Email: sales@blustream.co.uk

J with 10 more courses to choose from...

Nottinghamshire,

Web: www.blustream.co.uk

Current Tutorials Available

J Specifying a Custom Pro Matrix with 18Gbps support

J CAT Cable Certification & Verification J When is 4K, Actually 4K?

Book now at J www.blustream.co.uk

LE14 3QG United Kingdom.

16 64 26 CONTENTS

June 2021

4 FROM THE EDITOR’S CHAIR

64 ESSENTIAL CASE STUDY: IMAGINE THIS

7 ESSENTIAL NEWS

69 ESSENTIAL PRODUCTS

Not going back to ‘normal’ What’s going on?

16 PULSE CINEMAS

The latest news from home cinema central

18 ESSENTIAL HABITECH

Media Room Master Class Top toys time!

FEATURES 14 THE POWER OF PULSE-EIGHT Excellence under pressure

Relax, now you’re flying first class!

21 ESSENTIAL CEDIA Lighting top tips

48 INSTALL PIONEER

Dr. Christian Heil of L-Acoustics

62 TOGETHER FOR CINEMA

HVAC FEATURE 24 SENSIBLE HEAT

Expert help and advice

26 KNX TACKLES HVAC INTEGRATION Automation platforms on the front foot

The latest news

YOUR DISTRIBUTOR www.avoke.co.uk | av@avoke.co.uk

41

55

21

38

31 POLAR BEAR DESIGN

DIGITAL SIGNAGE FEATURE 53 PEERLESS AV

Good looks and performance

The Peerless view

34 PENN ELCOM Slide into place

55 SOCIAL SIGNAGE

Ed Qualls, CEO of Just Add Power, a digital signage QnA

MATRIX AND SIGNAL MANAGEMENT FEATURE 36 ESSENTIAL CYP Sending the right signal

38 CRESTRON CUTS THROUGH Signal taming

57 A BRIGHT FUTURE?

Jeff Hastings, CEO BrightSign, takes a look at what’s next

58 POST-COVID RECOVERY

Jon Raines, Corporate Account Manager at Sharp NEC Display Solutions, offers some insight

41 THE CORRECT PROTOCOL Stuart Lockhart, Vision’s MD talks IP

42 FREE-ON-BOARD BENEFITS A new perspective?

FOR Smart Home www.avoke.co.uk | av@avoke.co.uk

JUNE 2021

THE ESSENTIAL MAGAZINE FOR THE AV AND SMART HOME INDUSTRY

T HE F ORE F RONT OF BRI T I SH M A NUF A C T URI NG

pages 18–19

Matrices Extenders Splitters DSP Pre Amps Power Amplifiers All your AV requirements

HVAC

JUNE

NOT GOING BACK TO ‘NORMAL’ A phrase that has become (perhaps) overused during this difficult time is ‘the new normal’, as people in their working and personal lives adjusted to cope with the effects of the pandemic. The difficulty with the phrase for EI was and still is, what was normal in the first place? especially in an industry as diverse as the AV and CI space. Our approach to publishing and writing, whilst it takes in many of the best parts of ‘old school’ publishing with close attention to getting the basics right, has always embraced different and less conventional approaches to creating our publications. In fact, one of the reasons Essential Install has gone from a standing start over a decade ago to become the dominant magazine in the CI and AV trade space is precisely because we did things differently, sometimes ‘normal’ is not optimal.

With this philosophy of embracing change and evolving working practices to suit the industry - we serve fully in mind, a big part of our planning for the future will be implementing any positive changes that have come from having to adapt to this damaging and terrible pandemic.

Businesses right across the industry have adapted; moving training and customer interaction online and looking at how logistics can be improved, not just to cope with COVID 19, but with Brexit also.

04 JUNE 2021

However, it is all well and good, and of course easier, to say that we want to keep the ‘best bits’ of lockdown, when the alternative is simply not available.

However, will companies be able to prevent themselves from slipping back into bad habits such as unnecessary journeys and in person meetings when they become possible? It might take more effort than is assumed especially after having been locked up for so long, the urge to meet with people and colleagues is strong. There are of course times when in person is much better, creative ideas flow better during person to person contact undoubtedly.

AV demonstrations are so vital in our sector, and simply not possible unless you are there. Trade shows/events can of course move some of their content on-line, but again for this type of venture in person is better. But there are undoubtedly times when its temping to do something in person, when it simply is not needed. Looking at EI’s own history going back over 25-odd years in AV journalism, launch events used to stack up the diary at several a week, were all of these needed/necessary? Probably not. However, hindsight is a wonderful thing and many of these ‘norms’ were cultural, it was the ‘done thing’. It often takes a shift elsewhere to push change across industry and COVID has definitely provided a chance to look at how we live our lives in and out of work and prioritise what really works for us, the planet, each other and the industry.

A HOT TOPIC

ALWAYS IN ST OC K ALWAYS AV AILABLE

MATRIX AND SIGNAL MANAGEMENT IMPORTANT CHOICES

DIGITAL SIGNAGE

A BRIGHT FUTURE?

GETTING IN TOUCH EDITOR-IN-CHIEF

Daniel Sait, dan@allthingsmedialtd.com

EDITORIAL ASSISTANT

Beatrice Lee, beatrice@allthingsmedialtd.com

SALES DIRECTOR

Ian Kitchener, ian@allthingsmedialtd.com

GROUP AD MANAGER

Claire Talty, claire@allthingsmedialtd.com

PUBLISHER

David Kitchener, david@allthingsmedialtd.com

STUDIO MANAGER

Mark Weller, mark@allthingsmedialtd.com

ACCOUNTS

susan@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 www.essentialinstall.com

SOCIALS /INSTALL_MAG /ESSENTIALINSTALL Whilst 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.

THIS SUMMER - BRING THE NIGHTCLUB HOME For 30 years, L-Acoustics has been the choice of the world’s top clubs, music venues, and artists on tour.

This powerful pedigree and unrivaled sonic signature are now available for specification in residential, marine, and other architectural environments. L-Acoustics Creations is proud to present Archipel sound systems, turnkey solutions from stereo to surround sound. Our team of experts can also design bespoke systems to suit any space.

Visit l-acoustics-creations.com to book an appointment in London, Paris, or Los Angeles

l-acoustics-creations.com

NEWS

NEWS B2BAV: HOME TECH MARKETPLACE OUTSOURCING SERVICE LAUNCHES B2BAV is described as a first for the professional home technology industry – a new, service-based marketplace which allows users to upload their experience, skills and network with others to create additional business.

Users of the new B2BAV website can share their skills and generate secondary revenues based upon their specialisms while at the same time-saving business owners time by providing the skills they lack or don’t have the bandwidth to learn. Integration businesses who may need a drawing, a cinema design or even some Control4 Programming can find them at b2bav.com.

“The home technology space is in the midst of exponential growth, a growth which cannot currently be sustained by the number of people working in the industry,” said B2BAV Founder Benjamin Davies.

“Creating a space where any company globally can register, and both sell and outsource their skills is a big task but made all the easier with a secure and verified website. B2BAV allows integrators to grow and scale their business without employing somebody in every discipline.”

Benjamin added, “B2BAV has been an idea burning a hole in my brain for the last three years.

Having spent over a decade in the Smart Home Technology market, dedicating the first five years of my time training in every discipline, I came to the realisation

that it was impossible to become specialised in all areas. For a small business, attempting to maintain that level of knowledge without outsourcing other skills is impossible. The freedom I, and my business, has gained through outsourcing areas of the business I am either not competent in or do not enjoy allows me to be more strategic and focus successfully on achieving our goals.”

B2BAV has been created to be quick and easy to use. It takes just five minutes to set up an account, and users can start promoting their talents and earning from them right away.

B2BAV b2bav.com For the first 6 months of the site, fees are capped fees for sellers to 5%

NEXT LEVEL ENTERTAINMENT

FINE SOUNDS UK ADDS MCINTOSH AND CI-FI RANGES, EXPANDING HQ New lines and an expanded HQ, things are on the up at Fine Sounds UK

Fine Sounds UK, the country’s McIntosh and Sonus faber distributor, says it has expanded its music and movie portfolio to bring the benefits of McIntosh and Sonus faber sound quality to a new group of home entertainment fans.

FSUK is now offering a comprehensive range of Hi-Fi quality installation products, including McIntosh electronics and Sonus faber loudspeakers.

In addition to the growing portfolio, Fine Sounds UK has joined CEDIA as a trade supplier member, bringing McIntosh and Sonus faber’s high-performance CI offerings to the organisation’s integrator members (and their customers), for the first time.

Crucially, McIntosh and Sonus faber sound and build quality is no longer the preserve of traditional two-channel music systems, with the two companies (both part of the McIntosh Group) providing

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synergistic electronics and loudspeaker systems for a range of home installation projects.

The convergence, where Hi-Fi quality meets installation convenience, enables the ‘Voice of Sonus faber’ and McIntosh’s sound quality to be enjoyed in several areas of the home, not just where the Hi-Fi system is located. Fine Sounds UK’s Sales Director, Andy Oattes, has even coined a phrase for the converging categories: (Ci-Fi).

The Ci-Fi portfolio will include Sonus faber’s Italian-made range of in-wall and in-ceiling CI loudspeakers, the Palladio Collection, plus McIntosh Laboratory’s range of install-friendly equipment, including the recently announced MX100 A/V processor and MI347 seven-channel power amplifier.

The company has also announced an expansion of its headquarters in Fife, Scotland, to house a greater range of products from its brands.

Fine Sounds UK’s new larger facility means more products, including AV racks and isolation devices from Italian specialist Bassocontinuo, can be held in stock at any one time, ready to ship directly to the company’s dealer network. The result, says the company, is a far better customer experience as waiting times for the distributor’s imported hi-fi ranges are greatly reduced.

Fine Sounds UK finesounds.uk

Adding an Artison Studio soundbar to any installation will bring your media experience to life. Featuring side-firing stage tweeters to create an audio image of surprising dimensions, enveloping you in a deeper and more immersive audio and video experience. Bring your entertainment experience to the next level with Artison.

Find out more at rgbcomms.co.uk

rgbcomms.co.uk or call us today on

01488 73366 RGB Head Office, 2 Lambourn Business Park, Lambourn Woodlands, Hungerford, RG17 7RY

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JUNE 2021 07 EI Strip Ads Mar 21.indd 1

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NEWS

MIDWICH INNOVATION HOUSE OPEN FOR BUSINESS! Billed as the UK’s largest multi-brand experience centre, Innovation House, home to Midwich Group brands including the Invision stable - is now open.

Midwich Group, global specialist audio visual (AV) distributor to the trade market, has officially opened Innovation House, a 50,000sqft state-of-the-art experience, training and event facility in Bracknell (UK).

It is home to five of the group’s UK distributors: Midwich, PSCo, Holdan, Invision and Sound Technology.

The company says Innovation House features the UK’s largest multi-brand experience centre showcasing more than 200 AV, Unified Communication & Collaboration (UC&C), broadcast, smart home and rental solutions from 50 manufacturers all under one roof.

The multi-million-pound facility will bring together vendors, resellers, consultants, and end users across the industry, with the chance to experience the technology and make side-by-side comparisons, as well as the opportunity to take advantage of dedicated training, testing and demonstration facilities. After more than a year of remote working and social restrictions, the opening of the centre aims to safely reconnect the industry after what has been a turbulent year.

Innovation House is home to 80 product and technical specialists from across the Midwich Group; providing guidance, knowledge, and training support to help visitors to define and create the perfect technology solutions for them or their customer’s needs.

In line with the current COVID-19 guidelines, Innovation House hosted its first in-person event on Wednesday Thursday 19-20 May as part of London Digital Signage Week. Midwich and PSCo’s channel partners were invited to join them for two days of tech tours and networking. The event is in association with partners Absen, BrightSign, HYPERVSN, PeerlessAV and Tripleplay.

Interested trade partners can book a private tour and demonstration by getting in touch with their account manager, or by visiting the dedicated Innovation House website. Whether a vendor launching a new product, or a reseller looking to host a customer or sales meeting, Innovation House is designed to be an extension of the group’s customers business.

Midwich Group midwichgroupplc.com

Innovation House is open!

SNAPAV TO ACQUIRE ACCESS NETWORKS SnapAV has announced that it will acquire premier networking solutions provider Access Networks. The company says the acquisition will broaden SnapAV’s networking portfolio with new products and managed services including system design, configuration, monitoring and support.

“Adding Access Networks to the SnapAV portfolio enables our Partners to tackle any size commercial or residential network project,” said G Paul Hess, SnapAV Chief Product Officer. “The pandemic has affirmed our belief that a solid network infrastructure is critical in any home or business. Access Networks complements our OvrC-enabled networking solutions including Araknis and Pakedge solutions and strengthens our Partners’ ability to handle network deployments of any size for any need.”

The company combines expert knowledge and experience with leading technologies to design and maintain sophisticated network solutions based on the principle of Keeping You Connected. Through its products’ feature sets and ease-of-use and reliability, the company provides what Partners need to solve their customer’s most challenging networking problems, says SnapAV. “More SnapAV Partners can now do more complex networking jobs with greater confidence, knowing that they are supported by Access Networks.

Their industry-leading team of professionals bring comprehensive experience and high-performance hardware solutions to the SnapAV networking product portfolio,” Paul added.

With the maker’s design and deployment services, Partners can confidently deliver rapid proposals to

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satisfy even the most demanding clients and projects, says SnapAV whether a Partner is bidding to work on a high-end residential property, a small business, or a corporate environment, Access Networks’ advanced managed networks and cutting-edge technologies, including Wi-Fi 6, helps ensure that the job gets done right the first time.

Their team of networking experts provides turnkey networking solutions, with custom designs created specifically for every project.

SAVANT SMART AUDIO WISA SOUNDBAR 55 Savant’s revolutionary Smart Audio Soundbar 55 and matching wireless speakers offer superb sound quality with Savant’s award-winning software built-in. The Smart Audio Wireless Soundbar lets you experience best in class capabilities including a wide soundstage, amazing dynamics, ultra-clear dialogue, a built-in music stream plus all of the technology to control your home.

The design, hardware configuration, monitoring, and support that is included in the managed services results in a plug-and-play deployment that is secure, reliable and scalable, making its partners more efficient and productive while ensuring the best experience for their clients.

Find out more at rgbcomms.co.uk

SnapAV snapav.com

rgbcomms.co.uk or call us today on

01488 73366 A new addition to the SnapAV family

RGB Head Office, 2 Lambourn Business Park, Lambourn Woodlands, Hungerford, RG17 7RY

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JUNE 2021 09 EI Strip Ads Mar 21.indd 2

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It’s official...

Lyngdorf makes the world’s best surround processors “The Lyngdorf MP-50 processor and SDA-2400 amplifiers are now in a class of their own.” Widescreen Review “The Lyngdorf MP-60 delivers the best performance I’ve heard from any processor to date and I’ve heard them all.” AVForum “After living with the MP-60 for quite some time, I’ve come to the conclusion is the best processor money can buy.” Home Cinema Choice “With RoomPerfectTM, the MP-60 produces the best sound quality heard for the lowest cost so far. You get SOTA surround sound performance for much lower cost than with other top tier contenders.” Widescreen Review “I can categorically state that I have never heard such pristine home cinema audio outside the mixing suites at Skywalker Sound.” Home Theatre Forum “In my opinion the MP-60 exists in a class of its own with performance that is best described as perfect.” AVForum

Gecko Home Cinema • 01635 268114 • www.lyngdorf.com

NEWS

CUSTOM AV DISTRIBUTION ADDS MIKODAM Custom AV Distribution (CAVD) has joined forces with Mikodam in the UK for the residential custom installation channel. Mikodam is a manufacturer of acoustic architectural products and furniture. Their elegant and effective solutions are seen worldwide in luxury residential and commercial properties, says the distributor.

Extremely effective acoustic surfaces that look like art, but with flexibility and options to satisfy even the most demanding interior designer or client are what are on offer. The panels are designed to lend themselves well to either forming a single decorative A beautiful new approach to acoustic treatment is available from CAVD and Mikodam

piece, spot treatment around a media room or a show-stopping design that embraces all surfaces of a cinema room.

Currently there are 15 styles of panel from the brand and CAVD can supply free renders to help your customer visualise the space. The latest additions are PIRA, DETA, VATA, TORA and LEDA which are each 1200mm x 600mm. They can be mounted horizontally or vertically, mixed up and/or combined with other panels. All easily mounting on a simple rail system. Dealers are welcome to bring clients to the CAVD showroom in Marlow where Mikodam panels are on display.

Mikodam is not just a pretty face. The acoustic engineering hidden in the panel system is extensive and therefore many panels are available in various ‘T’ versions. This means perforations, combined with other technologies to achieve low, mid or high effective absorption coefficients.

CAVD and Mikodam provide a service in the UK to fit your Mikodam creation. The fitting team will also visit site to check all measurements, to avoid any nasty surprises during commissioning.

Custom AV Distribution cavd.co.uk

ARMOUR HOME ELECTRONICS APPOINTS ALLTRADE Armour Home Electronics has appointed Alltrade as the UK Distributor of its leading install brands within the custom installation channel. Alltrade will be responsible for distributing Armour Home’s awardwinning brands within its Premium Audio Installation Solutions stable, including Q Acoustics Install, Systemline and QED Pro. Armour Home Electronics has a long-standing and successful track record in the install market with its brands growing significantly over the last few years.

Alltrade’s unparalleled experience, expertise and high-standing in the custom install market will ensure business will continue to grow, while providing robust support and a high-quality service in supplying the channel. New and existing installers will see the benefit of this partnership having access to all the ranges, with the option to collect the same day or get a free next day delivery on Alltrade’s own fleet of vehicles.

Built on a heritage and pedigree in audio industry through brands such as Q Acoustics and QED, Armour Home’s install brands deliver multi and single-room audio solutions that are easy to fit, deliver high-quality audio and intuitive operation in any room in a home or property.

Lee Harding, Technical Director for CI at Alltrade, said, “Alltrade are delighted to be working with Armour Home Electronics and becoming the UK distributor of the award-winning Q Acoustics, Systemline and QED Pro brands. We believe we can make a further positive impact on Armour Home’s already growing custom install business through our

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commitment to exceptional service and support to both existing clients and new customers.”

Jack Fox, Regional Sales Director at Armour Home, commented, “The awareness and sales of our install brands has grown significantly over the last few years and we want to ensure that as our business grows, we are providing adequate support and high quality service moving forward. This is the reason we have selected Alltrade as our installation distribution partner, with their unparalleled experience in supplying the channel and operational excellence such as next day on site delivery. We will continue to supply and work with some customers directly, with Alltrade building on our existing installation customer base.”

Armour Home armourhome.co.uk

Since 2003, Artison has set the standard in innovative solutions for home theatres, music reproduction and AV meeting rooms.

Their product range includes; unique dual channel technology ‘left, centre, right’ speakers which eliminate the need for a centre speaker, soundbars designed to be hidden in plain sight, easy to install architectural in-wall/ ceiling speakers, amplifiers and the world’s smallest high-performance subwoofer.

Find out more at rgbcomms.co.uk

A new distribution partnership between Alltrade and Armour Home

rgbcomms.co.uk or call us today on

01488 73366 RGB Head Office, 2 Lambourn Business Park, Lambourn Woodlands, Hungerford, RG17 7RY

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JUNE 2021 11 EI Strip Ads Mar 21.indd 3

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NEWS

BAFTA HQ TO RECOGNISE RAY DOLBY’S LEGACY Dolby Laboratories has announced that Ray Dolby’s legacy will be reflected in BAFTA’s redevelopment of its headquarters at 195 Piccadilly, including the transformation of The Princess Anne Theatre and the naming of the Ray Dolby Room.

The redevelopment will enable BAFTA to expand its year-round work to find and support new talent, in the UK and globally, and support the industry at all levels.

As the exclusive audio/visual sponsor of the The Princess Anne Theatre, BAFTA’s iconic 227-seat screening room at the heart of 195 Piccadilly, the revamped auditorium will be powered by Dolby Vision and Dolby Atmos technology when it officially reopens in 2022.

In addition to The Princess Anne Theatre, the principal event space at BAFTA’s HQ will be named The Ray Dolby Room, after the iconic founder of Dolby Laboratories. The first-floor room will celebrate Ray Dolby’s innovative and lasting contributions to the film and television industry as it plays host to BAFTA’s year-round programme of events.

“It’s wonderful to celebrate Ray’s contribution to the entertainment industry, and we are thrilled that his legacy will be recognised at BAFTA 195 Piccadilly”, said Ray Dolby’s son David Dolby. “BAFTA is the home of film, games and television in the UK, and we are proud to support the redevelopment of 195 Piccadilly both financially and with Dolby’s technology so visitors to the building can enjoy the best audiovisual experience and see the magic on the screen come to life as the creators intended. Supporting

BAFTA is a fitting tribute to Ray’s innovation in sound technology and the founding of Dolby Laboratories, both of which have had a tremendous impact on the creative industries.”

Amanda Berry OBE, Chief Executive of BAFTA, agreed, “We are so grateful to the Dolby family and the Dolby company for their respective generous contributions to the redevelopment of 195 Piccadilly. This is a vital investment in the creative future of film, games and television that will enable us to deliver a greater variety of new talent initiatives, learning events and activity and increase access to our industries.”

Dolby Laboratories dolby.com

FOCAL ROLLS OUT A NETWORK OF DEALERS DEDICATED TO 1000 SERIES For a unique, personalised experience and in a response to the expectations of customers seeking high-end stereo and home cinema installations, Focal is rolling out a network of dedicated 1000 Series retailers/dealers. These companies will be trained and granted access to The CEDIA Designer tool.

Thanks to this partnership with CEDIA and by training these specialist teams through various solutions, the brand demonstrates that service is more at the heart of the Focal offering than ever.

With its early 2021 launch of the 1000 Series in-wall and in-ceiling loudspeakers, including two products from the Utopia collection, Focal is developing a support strategy that lives up to its range.

As a CEDIA partner, Focal says it trains and provides 1000 Series retailers/dealers with free access to The CEDIA Designer. This interactive cloud software creates a single space for the entire process of designing an audio-visual system. Installers can use this for a unique and precise way of designing highperforming custom installations that are adapted to the listening rooms they will occupy.

All 1000 Series retailers will benefit from the support and advice of experts trained in the

12 JUNE 2021

products, in using The CEDIA Designer but also in the techniques and tools necessary for designing the ideal installation.

Focal focal.com

Focal is showing the 1000 Series some love

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2020

Cover the Ground with Sound For every all-weather application and project challenge, you’ll love the answer from Sonance Consistently voted No.1 outdoor speaker supplier In-Wall • On-Wall • In-Ground • On-Ground

2018

201 9

ESSENTIAL PULSE-EIGHT

THE POWER OF PULSE-EIGHT

They say you can judge a company by how it copes with challenges and by that marker Pulse-Eight has come through the last 12 months with flying colours, not just coping with the pandemic, but actually growing during that period Director of Sales Marc Waple explains.

The last 12 months or so have been among

high manufacturing standards; including one

challenge like COVID-19 arrives. That is when

the most challenging for any type of company

of the toughest and most thorough testing

the real test of a system is delivered. We are

to deal with. Travel disruptions, restricted

regimes around.

very proud that we were able to carry on (mostly

working practices and world-wide shortages of

Anyone

who

has

ever

visited

our

components all made it extremely challenging

manufacturing site in Poole, Dorset will

for manufacturers to continue to operate during

have seen how proud we are of how well our

the COVID-19 pandemic. However, with our

systems are designed and the efficiency of our

proud ‘Made In Britain’ heritage and some

processes. You might say it’s relatively easy

nifty footwork in getting ourselves organised,

to set up a production line that can cope with

Pulse-Eight did not just survive, but thrived,

everyday normal operation - after all that is

producing two new cutting edge products

what we do, we are a manufacturer through and

during lockdown and maintaining our extremely

through, but its less easy to cope when a serious

unaffected) and continue our roadmap of new product creation, delivering the ProAmp8, (our one of a kind multizone and multichannel home cinema solution) and our neo:6a (6 x 8 HDMI/ HDBT distribution matrix) during lockdown.

Not only that, but we continued to develop and deliver our rigorous testing regime which underlines the reliability people expect from Pulse-Eight.

TESTING TIMES We want to be sure that every single piece of equipment that we produce will be able to cope with what the world will throw at it, so each of our products has their own specialised testing setup, created just for that line to test the PCBs to their maximum capabilities on both a mechanical and electrical level. This approach ensures that each product is 100% functional before it ever reaches our customers, and we can remove from the supply line at source any products with an issue. For maximum efficiency, this process takes place before final assembly and following that, all completed units receive a final full load real world testing to double check New introduction, the versatile ProAmp8

14 JUNE 2021

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ESSENTIAL PULSE-EIGHT Dolby Zone DSP and Equalizer (EQ) control and has its own fault detection and system reset abilities - which protects the amplifier and connected speakers from any potential damage.

The product offers a low-energy consumption profile when in standby and not in use and also has automatic sensing and 12V trigger options for efficient energy savings with a fast wake-up. Also on board is user-friendly Web UI control access, with the product delivering easy integration with third-party control systems.

Proudly built in Britain, the ProAmp8 can cope with a multitude of tasks at a level of quality and reliability that installers will love.

Also added during lockdown was our new neo:6a matrix with added audio breakout.

The complete kit includes six HDBaseT 70m Class B PoH receivers, delivers Ultra HD 4K Video Transmission (up to 340Mhz), as well

they are ready to do exactly what we say they will

but can be located elsewhere and is good

and installers can purchase with genuine peace

looking enough to be on show if that is required.

of mind every single time they order a Pulse-

The ProAmp8 has been created to be

full HDCP 2.2 support to deliver reliability

Eight product. All of these steps are carried

the ideal all-in-one solution for both surround

and future proofing abilities as well as six

out on 100% of what we manufacture, so we

sound and distributed audio systems, delivering

HDMI Inputs, six HDBaseT Class B Outputs,

genuinely have complete control of the quality

a flexible solution to cope with a huge range

two HDMI Outputs and six HDMI Source

of the stock we produce. We are not reliant on

of projects.

Audio Breakouts (Optical & Digital Coax).

as 1080p and 3D support. Also included is

any other company and consequently have one

Delving into the features a little more, the

As with all neo matrices, the neo:6a

of the lowest failure rates in the whole industry,

ProAmp8 delivers full audio DSP and EQ

reliability is literally built into our product’s DNA.

allows multiple control methods including,

settings, Multi- Zone Mode and Dolby Digital

HDMI-CEC Bi-Directional Control functionality,

5.1 Surround Sound Mode. This level of

NEW INNOVATIONS

versatility allows for a 5.1 home cinema to be

So, reliable products are a great asset, but

created at the same time as powering a multi-

they also need to deliver the functionality that

room, whole-house distributed audio system all

installers want. Enter our two latest creations,

from the one unit.

The amplifier has been created to be the

the ProAmp8 and neo:6a.

Let’s look at the ProAmp8 first up, designed

perfect partner to Pulse-Eight’s ProAudio DSP

as a powerful multizone and multichannel home

pre-amp range and latest neo video matrix

cinema solution for this exciting and growing

products. The ProAmp8 delivers an Eight-

part of the sector.

Zone Power Amplifier driven by ICEpower

Bi-Directional IR Control and a highly responsive Web Interface. Completing this comprehensive line up of features and abilities is automatic EDID management, a three-year warranty and of course our ‘Built in Britain’ stamp of quality.

We firmly believe that installers and the industry in general are looking for key abilities, great products, reliability and innovation. At Pulse-Eight we strongly feel we deliver in all these areas, not just when it is easy, but when

This versatile product boasts a highly

modules creating up to 100W of high-quality

capable Eight-Zone Power Amplifier that

sound per channel. There are also eight

delivers excellent audio performance with

stereo (L/R) analogue inputs and one digital

robust and reliable Class D amplification all in a

(coax/optical) input with Dolby support and

compact form factor for ease of installation. The

bridgeable outputs zones to create flexible

Pulse-Eight

product is happy in a traditional rack installation,

power configurations. The unit also delivers full

pulse-eight.com

it hard and that is how you recognise the PulseEight difference.

Product testing is second to none at Pulse-Eight

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JUNE 2021 15

ESSENTIAL PULSE CINEMAS

ARMING YOU WITH ADDED VALUE

Our Apartment and Reference Cinemas have under-gone major refurbishment

Pulse Cinemas has the concept of added value in our DNA. Never simply a box shifting distributor, our aim is to provide our installation partners with as many reasons as possible to work with us and together find new opportunities. Check out this round up of just a few of our recent initiatives.

Created as a separate entity to Pulse Cinemas, but very much part of our family, Pulse Simulations in a brand new company - offering our customers exclusive access to the best racing simulators on the planet.

Being added to the demonstration facilities at Pulse HQ as we speak, this unique offering delivers turnkey solutions to driving fans everywhere, hardcore sim enthusiasts or just a family that want to have an amazing gaming experience. We will be revealing

more details very soon, but rest assured our foray into this sector has been long planned and designed to deliver a unique experience.

Different levels of performance are available (Amateur, Sport and Pro), with the highest level achieving something no other simulator can; actual simulated g-force, so the drive feels as close to the real thing as possible.

The system can offer a myriad of different racetracks and options to keep any racing fan happy.

Pulse Simulations can be enjoyed with the machine’s own screen array or be married to a full home cinema system too. The thing to remember here is that not only are these the best driving sims around, created in partnership by a leader in this field, we take care of everything. Design and installation are delivered from our end, installers get the margin and a happy customer, so literally everyone wins. Ask us more about this amazing new experience, or better still make an appointment to come and enjoy it for yourself.

DEMONSTRATION HEAVEN

Pulse Cinemas has long been known for having the best demonstration spaces in the UK, well now we can claim to be amongst the best in Europe with our updated suite of highperformance experiences.

The ‘Apartment Cinema’ was created to show how high-performance a compact space can be. This cinema has been completely revamped in recent weeks and is now offering a killer combination of Paradigm speakers, Sim2 projection and Anthem processing to deliver a level of performance that we know you are going to be impressed with.

Our ‘Reference Cinema’ has also undergone a major transformation, the headlines here are the addition of Alcons Audio speakers recently added to the Pulse Cinemas stable and

16 JUNE 2021

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ESSENTIAL PULSE CINEMAS

Our photo realistic renders and videos offer strong marketing support

benefit here. Should you require it, we also have access to the services of one of the best interior designers in the country who fully understand the needs of AV and home cinema projects.

ADDING ALCONS AUDIO

the Sim2 Dual NERO 4S UHD HDR, a dual projection system created to get the very best from technologies such as HRD. In action, the imaging is simply amazing. All of this power is backed up with the best in AV processing and other Pulse Cinemas favourites such as Fortress Seating, adding a new level of luxury.

The Pulse Cinemas demonstration opportunities do not end there of course, our partnership with Minotti London, one of the capital’s most exclusive furniture demonstration spaces, is home to a very special opportunity - to see our brands in concert with some of the most stylish interiors around.

Featuring products such as Kaleidescape, Paradigm and Sim2 XTV, this concept shows how our brands are completely at home in the most fashionable and well-appointed homes around. Like all of our demonstration spaces, it has to be experienced, and stands ready as a facility to show installers and their customers just what can be achieved so make an appointment today!

PULSE CREATIVE

Multi-media communication is vital in today’s market as we look to effectively show what our industry can offer. Those of you who have been keeping an eye on our social media output will have seen a huge increase in the amount, quality and variety of what we are producing.

This increase is down to a new part of the Pulse Cinemas family, Pulse Creative, a division dedicated solely to the production of multimedia output, promoting Pulse Cinemas and our industry in general. Equipped with the latest filming, recording and production equipment, Pulse Creative has the ability to produce highquality content of any kind from right here at Pulse HQ. Our Terrific Tuesday, Sofa Sessions, un-boxing features and other videos are all created by this new division. This work will continue as we build up a library of interviews, ‘how to’ videos and training sessions, that our customers will be able to access 24/7. Pulse Creative also benefits our customers in other ways as its resources can also be accessed by other companies working in the ‘luxury

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products and services space’. In this way we are building partnerships with companies with similar customer groups allowing us to create new opportunities and avenues to showcase Pulse Cinemas and our installation partners.

UNRIVALLED DEALER SUPPORT

Accessing these multi-media opportunities, along with many other services, the Pulse Cinemas Dealer Portal has been updated and created to offer our customers an opportunity to access enhanced support services. Pulse Cinemas dealers who demonstrate a strong level of commitment will enjoy an extensive range of new and dedicated benefits, based around every resource we have at our disposal. Committed Pulse Dealers gain full and unfettered access to all our demo facilities, their own space on the Pulse Cinemas website (showcasing their work and access to our team of marketeers) and writers who will create stunning case studies, articles, videos and professional photography and beautiful renders of proposed works to show just how good your projects are. This content will be hosted on the dealer portal, but any content created for you by us can be used for your own promotional activities. Access to the Pulse Cinemas design service which includes photo realistic renders and videos is a particular

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Home cinema installers have long dreamed of providing the very best performance that recreates that of the very best commercial cinemas. Well now they can by using Alcons Audio. Building its reputation in the pro audio world, Alcons Audio noticed that some of its smaller pro-cinema products were beginning to be used in the residential market, so decided it should make a dedicated range for precisely that purpose, the CRMS-series or Cinema Reference Monitor Systems. Pulse Cinemas customers now get to access all the precision and power offered by this brand with its promise of 1:1 reproduction of any source fed into the system. Again here, you need to hear just how good these are, so come and see us soon.

ECOMMERCE COMING SOON

Due to go live very soon via the Pulse Cinemas website is a new and comprehensive ecommerce functionality allowing our dealers to carry out a multitude of tasks in real time all the time. Once logged on (ask us about how to register) dealers will be able to buy stock, check availability, and review their current credit status. The service will speed up interactions of all kinds between Pulse and our customers and also free up staff at both ends to carry out other important activities.

Many months in the planning and execution our ecommerce service will take dealing with Pulse Cinemas firmly into the 21st century and is yet another added value reason to work with us.

More information on all these stories is available on our regularly updated website, a vital resource that keeps the whole industry up to speed on everything that is happening at Pulse Cinemas, and that is a challenge in itself as we never rest in searching for new ways to support our installation partners and their customers.

Pulse Cinemas pulsecinemas.com

JUNE 2021 17

ESSENTIAL HABITECH

RELAX, NOW YOU’RE FLYING FIRST CLASS!

With over five decades in last-detail fulfilment for prestigious cinemas, Infinity seats are sure to satisfy your clients’ desire for quality and exclusivity in every measure.

Habitech’s new luxury cinema seating range, Infinity Seating Solutions, embodies the true meaning of bespoke says Jonathan Pengilley.

The age of globalisation has conferred many benefits.

Greater product availability, simplicity, functionality and reliability for instance, but it’s also put rocket boosters under a drive to standardise design. In a consumer world that increasingly knows the “price of everything and the value of nothing”, to quote Oscar Wilde, wealthier buyers are flexing their plastic in the opposite direction.

Seeking an antidote to product conformity, they want something that defines their individuality and status. Above all, they value the quality of exclusivity. Cost is merely a consequence of their desire, it’s never an impediment to it.

So, it follows that the brands supplying this demand are temples of the unique, dedicating huge resources to the service of modelling a ‘standard’ product in the owner’s image.

Jump into a new forecourt Bentley - the 2021 ‘Flying Spur’ for instance - and be prepared for a near limitless array of custom permutations, involving the largest choice of ‘stock’ interior and exterior colour palettes, countless configurations of steering wheel functionality, wheel trims, interior veneers, hide and stitching colours, and the smallest detail specification for seat piping, carpet binding and hand crossstitching. That’s just the standard inventory.

For the really fastidious customer, Bentley’s personal commissioning division can colourmatch virtually any sample provided for inside and outside the car, recording the bespoke

18 JUNE 2021

colour in case there’s a prang. Naturally, it’s also possible to embroider seats and overmats with a personal motif and, in a final custom flourish, a chosen name can be added to the illuminated sill plates. Anything is possible in this rarefied bespoke service cosmos. “The only limit is the customer’s imagination”, says Bentley.

Does this ring any bells? Course it does. Just like Bentley, Rolls Royce, Gieves and Hawkes, Huntsman, Burberry, De Beers, Vacheron Constantin and many others, your business deals in exclusivity. In other words, you know what makes the wealthy tick. Which is why you’ll love the intrinsically bespoke approach of Infinity Seating Solutions, our new luxury seating brand.

year it shipped the first export orders to the USA, the crucible of commercial cinema.

IF SAVILE ROW MADE CINEMA SEATING Now completely dedicated to the provision of bespoke seating for flagship cinema auditoriums, Infinity is currently exporting to as many as 20 countries, because few if any rivals can compete with its innovation, durable quality, one-to-one service and sustainability.

HIGH END NOT HIGH STREET Hand-made in the UK since 1964, Infinity Seating Solutions bears all the hallmarks of a high-end evolution. Working in partnership with some of the most prestigious and demanding commercial clients, including the QEII ocean liner, Abbey Road Studios, the Barbican Arts Centre, UCI, Odeon, Empire and Everyman Cinemas, Infinity Seating Solutions has built a reputation for immaculate and enduring bespoke fulfilment.

By 2012 it had supplied Odeon Cinemas with over 150,000 luxury chairs, and by 2019, completed showcase installations for Pathé in France and Switzerland. Just last

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Enduring comfort and quality from Infinity’s ‘Cooper’ Recliner

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ESSENTIAL HABITECH

The sumptuous ‘Petherton Micro’ 2-seater sofa.

Choose from thousands of finish and accessory permutations, or make it completely bespoke

In fact, so much work goes into R&D that each of its ‘standard’ ranges is protected under copyright. Building on these design templates, and in close consultation with Infinity’s craftsmen and women, wonderfully bespoke seating emerges from thousands of material, colour and style permutations to deliver stunningly original, one-of-a-kind furniture. Naturally, in the purest tradition of bespoke manufacture, Infinity can also deliver a brand-new design from sketches, photos and ideas supplied by the client. Echoing Bentley, the possibilities are endless.

SUSTAINABLE COMFORT

Another feature which sets Infinity apart is its commitment to sustainability. Long before it was fashionable, the company decided not to offer or promote animal products. Instead, it uses faux leathers and velours, which can be recycled, as well as an innovative synthesis of plant-based Cork fabric (Cork leather) and Ultraleather, together with recycled foams, latex foams, super-durable, eco-friendly EkoPly frames and FSC beech frames. The result is sustainable,

cruelty-free, environmentally friendly furniture, complete with all the native beauty and precision of a high-status luxury product.

This means that your customers will simultaneously enjoy the uber-sumptuous feel of a first-class cabin and huge eco credibility.

What’s more, bundled with the high-end commercial build quality are commensurate levels of fire proofing and durability, way above the standard usually associated with resi furniture. Infinity Seating Solutions’ furniture is not only beautifully different, and superior, it stays that way for longer.

ENDLESSLY BESPOKE

In consultation with the Infinity team, your customers can choose from powered Recliner chairs available with good/better/best mechanisms, Armchairs and matching 2 or 3-seater Sofas, smaller Auditorium chairs, large Daybeds perfect for lounging in front of a favourite film with the kids, and Powerloungers, combining Daybed, (or Armchair with a legextension) and a powered electric Recliner.

When the seating configuration is confirmed, they can pick the style from a range of standard designs, offered in a variety of colours, fabrics, velours, velvets, micro velvets and those

plant-based, cruelty-free leathers and suedes. In addition, and in the spirit of bespoke, completely original material and colour choices can happily be accommodated: it’s in the company’s DNA after all!

The style options available from Habitech include the most affordable, best-selling ‘Cooper’ range, the contemporary ‘Diablo’ and ‘Prince’ ranges, and the ‘Petherton’ Range, named after the road in Islington, where the founder John Jenkins had his first tiny workshop back in 1964.

Customers can further personalise the design of each seat with armrest variants, legextensions, electric footrests, footstools, inset, oval and swivel tables, consoles, hidden wireless chargers, cup holders, embroidery, mech-tech, kick plates, cushions, protective seat covers and shoe bags. There are endless ways to create an original and irresistible invitation to relax. And if your customer feels like a change of colour or texture, the team will ‘re-bespoke’ any Infinity seat through the company’s exclusive reupholstery service, whenever the fancy materialises.

Habitech will be managing sales, consultation handovers and delivery from the Infinity warehouse. All seats are supplied with a 5-year warranty (2-years mechs), and are very quick and easy to install, but for a little extra outlay, Infinity will deliver and install the seats for you, and maintain a professional interest throughout the lifecycle of the product.

FLYING FIRST CLASS For all home cinema design businesses, the answer to the bespoke v standard question must be a no-brainer. When absolutely nothing in your custom cinema room design is standard, why would you contemplate installing anything other than bespoke seating? And why wouldn’t you want to involve the UK’s most accomplished custom seating specialist as a design partner?

Created with the experience of over five decades in last-detail fulfilment for prestigious clients, including leading national and boutique commercial cinemas, Infinity seats are sure to satisfy your customers’ desire for quality and exclusivity in every measure. And when this happens, the most intimate and extraordinary home cinema journey can begin.

Habitech habitech.co.uk

Lounge in front of a favourite film with the kids on the ‘Prince’ Daybed. All infinity seats have commercial levels of fire protection and durability and are made to the highest ecological standards

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JUNE 2021 19

R8010

S L I D E & R OTAT E R A C K

On-demand 360° access is here! Effortlessly slide and rotate loaded racks Makes even tight and hard-to-reach racks a breeze to access Would your life be easier if you could just slide your rack out or spin an enclosure to work on the sides or back anytime?

This is the newly-updated R8010 Slide & Rotate Rack system - an enclosure with more freedom than ever before. It makes it simple to slide a fully-loaded rack safely out and spin it in either direction offering full 360° access.

Instant 360° access built from high grade steel for minimal flex under a heavy or full load

Slides out 550mm / 22”

360° Rotating Plate

Rear Cable Management Bar

A V A ILAB LE I N SI ZES 6U- 24U | M6 O R 10/ 32 R AI L O P T IO NS ● Slides out to 550mm / 22” and rotates 360° in either direction ● Secure in position with Slide Catch and Spin Catch ● Folding cable management tray ● Security faceplate protects catches from use ● Full hole double rack rails with square holes for clip nuts ● Quick assembly: under 30 minutes

S C A N TO WATC H F U L L V I D E O :

Shop: PennElcomOnline.com

Catalogue: Penn-Elcom.com

ESSENTIAL CEDIA

CASTING A LIGHT Luke Crutcher from CEDIA Member, Living Home Tech, one of the authors of CEDIA’s RIBA approved CPD, ‘Introduction to Integrated Lighting Design’, talks through some of the common challenges to watch out for when fitting integrating lighting as part of your project.

Getting the mains dimming specification right is key to a successful installation. Make sure you check the lighting control manufacturer’s list of compatible luminaires and lamp types before specifying. If there is no information on a particular fitting or lamp, then we would strongly recommend bench testing over a period of sufficient time to test the dimming range and performance. This will allow you to assess any problems with lamp flicker and the smoothness of the dimming process, so that you don’t have any issues when on site. The last thing you need is problems with untested GU10 LED lamps juddering through the dimming transition - or pulsing because of unforeseen issues with current leakage through the control system.

It’s also important to make sure you use sufficient lighting circuits for an installation.

Too many and it can overwhelm the client, too few and you will struggle to achieve the WOW scenes that professionally integrated lighting can create. Using a lighting control system eliminates confusing and unattractive grid switches in busy areas, so at the touch of a button the client can transform a room simply with light.

In our view, there is just not enough lighting control used in some projects, and, sometimes, it’s seen as something that can be easily cut from a project when budgets are tight. For example, the adverse impact on wiring, room aesthetics and ease of use when trying to control 12 different circuits with a single grid switch in a

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kitchen is huge, especially if some circuits need to be dimmed whilst others are just on/off.

Sometimes it makes far more sense, and has fewer ramifications, to simply lose a couple of AV zones in a property rather than remove the lighting control.

Consider the different types of light your client needs and make sure you understand how they use their home when taking the brief.

Task lighting for everyday jobs, such as, food preparation and cooking, ambient general lighting for everyday use and accent lighting, where you wish to highlight a particular feature, such as, artwork all have a part to play.

The colour temperature should be considered for every room. You may use warm white (2700-3000K) in the main living spaces, but in the key task areas, such as utility rooms you should opt for day light (4000K+). Be careful though not to mix colour temperatures with different fittings or circuits. Lighting contributes to the client’s sense of comfort and wellness in their home and combining warm white fittings at 2700K and an LED strip at 4000K in the same space is going to jar and create discomfort rather than a mood of relaxation.

We’ve found using fibre optic lighting to create an atmospheric, low level glow in home cinemas is a big winner. In these spaces, take care when using pathway lighting to direct the light across the floor and not into the client’s face when they’re seated.

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If you’re working with a developer, then, professionally integrated lighting control can make all the difference to selling a property.

Creating a welcome scene for the agent to use where, upon entry, one button can control all the lighting circuits with pre-sets around the home is impressive and a powerful marketing tool.

One final piece of advice. If the project budget permits, a high-quality LED fitting should always be specified. The negative impact on colour rendering when using cheaper LEDs can be pretty dramatic. Be sure to select LEDs with a high CRI output – we use 98 CRI fittings where we can. In the long term, your client will not regret it!

Living Home Tech livinghometech.co.uk

Luke Crutcher from CEDIA Member, Living Home Tech

JUNE 2021 21

Rollable Laser TV Bring out the big screen whenever, wherever, with a Laser TV system.

120” of stunning 4K laser-projection on a motor-rising screen.

IN PARTNERSHIP WITH

&

Most Stylish Projector 2021

Contact a Laser TV Specialist today on 01684 576 348 or team@oneav.co.uk

100’’ MODEL SHOWN

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ESSENTIAL HVAC

HVAC CONTROLS – ARE THEY GETTING EASIER TO INTEGRATE? Dave Robinson, Managing Director of Sensible Heat Ltd, looks at recent developments in HVAC controls.

In some respects, integrating HVAC controls with AV systems has become simpler. If we take a simple house - let’s say with underfloor heating, and the requirement is to make the simple ‘smart thermostats’ supplied with the heating system appear on the AV touchscreen system, it may well be something that the Custom Installer would be able to handle in-house.

If the thermostats have a compatible ‘driver’ for the AV system, then in theory it should be simple enough. However this assumes that the thermostats have been supplied and installed correctly by others; that they are working, acting on the correct zones in the floor, and that the communication side of things works as it should – if it doesn’t, who is going to resolve these issues, the plumber? Seems unlikely. In these circumstances, it is easy to get dragged into a dispute about the heating performance, or in ironing out problems with communications, wiring etc, when you haven’t even earned a margin on the controls products which have been installed by others. So, maybe the Custom Installer should specify, supply and install the thermostats himself? Fine, if he is confident that he understands the way that the HVAC system works well enough. But in the same way that most Custom Installers use external specialists for a range of tasks (for instance, motorised gates, security systems, cameras, sometimes the programming of the AV system itself), why not employ a specialist to deliver a complete, working HVAC control system? It is often the quickest, most cost effective and above all, lowest-risk way of delivering an effective HVAC controls package.

24 JUNE 2021

There are other issues too; often, being able to communicate with a few basic ‘smart thermostats’ just isn’t enough. The HVAC systems in each room may be more complex – there may be radiators or trench heaters, perhaps they have to work in sequence with a heated floor? There may be an AC system, perhaps it has to work for heating as well as cooling? And what about the main plantroom – are we going to let the client experience his first heating plant failure, and a cold house, when his expensive AV system is not telling him that anything is wrong?

Shouldn’t we be integrating the main plant controls too? It’s no use deciding that this is the domain of the plumber – when we install an AV touchscreen system, it becomes the client’s portal for all things technological – that is how they experience the building’s services.

Having the backing of an experience HVAC specialist is often very useful – especially when things go wrong! If the heating or cooling system isn’t working as expected, or the performance is in question, then inevitably the Custom Installer will find themselves involved in the discussions.

Rightly or wrongly, the thing that the client looks at and interacts with to ‘drive’ the heating and cooling, i.e. the AV touchscreen system, is always the first system under suspicion. The task here is to quickly identify, and if possible prove, where the fault might actually lie, probably nothing to do with the controls at all, and that will almost certainly rely on a deep understanding of how the HVAC system itself works.

In fact, perhaps you may be able to use the AV system as a tool, to help analyse and diagnose problems with the HVAC system, or to prove that it is working as it should. We recently

helped a developer client with a complex dispute, where the end user was complaining of a lack of performance with the heating and cooling systems – not the HVAC controls, but the mechanical heating and cooling systems themselves. We were able to use the Control4 system which was already installed, together with an App created by Janus Technology called BMS Monitor, to record exactly what was going on in the property, including how the user had set the system (which modes, setpoints etc), and plot all of this against outside temperature (obtained from a web service). The clear graps could be used by the various consulting engineers involved to diagnose a few genuine faults, and then to identify the ‘finger trouble’ issues (i.e. mis-setting of the controls) by the end user, which were the bulk of the issues. A happy resolution, and it is difficult to see how else this might have been achieved.

Such specialist knowledge, and the application of analysis tools like this, helps to add value to our overall package. Energy and CO2 reduction are bound to be more prominent in all our lives going forwards, as we decarbonise the building stock. New technologies are appearing all the time, including heat pumps of course, and they often have attendant issues and complexities which we need to keep abreast of. Properly applied HVAC controls not only improve comfort, but also improve energy efficiency, and the slick visualisation of energy consumption is another thing we can offer.

Partnership with a clued-up HVAC specialist to help with all of this would seem to be a no-brainer!

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ESSENTIAL HVAC

KNX TACKLES HVAC INTEGRATION HVAC is a core application to include in any smart home or building project, with the breadth of KNX-certified products now available removing the complexity of full integration with all other aspects of intelligent control. It’s ‘too big an opportunity for installers to miss out on’, argues Paul Foulkes, President of the KNX UK Association.

Heating and ventilation costs are among the highest when it comes to running a building, be it a home or a complex commercial environment.

Demand for effective control systems is consequently high. Surely no systems integrator is going to want to miss out on the opportunity to specify and install the controls and enjoy the potential of a long-term system maintenance contract. All the more so when HVAC can be a logical and fully integrated extension of the lighting and entertainment systems that are already your bread and butter. Why give the HVAC work to someone else?

HVAC accounts for over a third of a building’s energy consumption (lighting with about a fifth). So, whether it is cost or conscience or both that drives them, owners and occupiers are going to take a keen interest in finding ways to control consumption and costs. Of course, they will not want to compromise on their comfort or enjoyment of the premises, so they will expect creative solutions. They will also be looking for assurances that whatever steps they

26 JUNE 2021

invest in now will not paint them into a corner, because we will surely see new regulations for green certifications and to ensure we meet Net Zero targets.

The pandemic and growing awareness of indoor air quality (IAQ) has made systems designers

and

building

managers

more

aware than ever that they need more than an ‘overview’ of all the parameters of their HVAC. They need the automation that enables them to achieve the best-possible outcomes and provide a safe environment. For instance, there’s a dynamic balance between staying warm and comfortable, and ensuring optimal clean airflow from natural or mechanical ventilation sources.

That brings us (inevitably) to open systems as the preferred approach as it gives integrators flexibility to create custom systems. Of course, the ‘de facto’ global standard and ‘lingua franca’ of building controls from over 500 manufacturers, is KNX.

WHAT IS KNX? A quick reminder about KNX. First conceived as a successor to the EIB, KNX is the only global standard for integrated control of all aspects of home and building control, from lighting and AV to HVAC and security with: a single, manufacturer-independent design and commissioning tool (ETS), support for all comms media (TP, PL, RF and IP), and a complete set of supported configuration modes (system, easy and automatic mode).

All products bearing the KNX logo share data in a standardised way. They are certified to guarantee system compatibility, interworking and interoperability, and all newly certified products are guaranteed to be backwards compatible. A KNX system is futureproof and will be infinitely scalable and flexible over the years. Gateways to BEMS and proprietary protocols are now commonplace, as other manufacturers have recognised the need to cater for growing demand for the global, open standard.

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An AV industry good cause enterprise that designs and installs cinema rooms into children’s hospices and other deserving locations across the UK.

Calling all installers! …can you help?

Together For Cinema is seeking an installer to project manage an installation in Glossop, Derbyshire.

“Reuben’s Retreat is a charity that was born in memory of Reuben Michael Graham who tragically passed away in August 2012, aged just 23 months.

It’s a home-from-home for families bereaved of a child and for children with life limiting or threatening conditions and their parents and siblings.” www.reubensretreat.org

Together For Cinema – together for better Please contact Ian Morrish at ian@ad-con.uk or 01372 454366 / 07768 398007 to see how you can help make a difference.

www.togetherforcinema.co.uk

Proud Media Partners of Together For Cinema

More than 50 materials and colors

IP VIDEO DOOR STATION Modern IP video technology for new and retrofit buildings Easy installation via PoE Keyless access by App, RFID, keypad or fingerprint Smart Home & NVR compatible, e.g. Control4, Loxone, Crestron, Synology DoorBird combines exclusive design with the innovative IP technology in the field of door communication.

www.doorbird.com

B2B Services & Solutions For The Audio Visual & Integration Industries

BUILD - INSTALL - SUPPORT

EQUIPMENT & SUNDRY SUPPLIES INSTALLATION & SUPPORT SERVICES RACK, LIGHTING & CONTROL PANEL BUILDING

020 3745 1548 outsourcedav.co.uk info@outsourcedav.co.uk HVAC Control the Sensible way

Sensible Heat offers a full backup service to resellers, including design advice, supply and commissioning.

We can work with you to create a fully integrated solution – don’t worry, you won’t need to become an HVAC expert! Do the sensible thing and contact us now.

> Control any form of heating; radiators, underfloor etc. and any form of comfort cooling > wired or wireless schemes > Make each room a zone: better comfort and efficiency > iPhone / Android access via App > HVAC controls always provided with independent/ backup user interface > Building size or complexity of HVAC plant is no problem > Custom Control Panel for plantroom if required > Interfaces to AMX, Crestron, Control4, Savant, RTI with pre-written, proven “drivers” > Interfaces to most major aircon systems (Daikin, Mitsubishi, Toshiba, Sanyo etc.)

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ESSENTIAL HVAC

Now in its fourth decade, the KNX standard has also introduced secure IoT, more RF functionality and ever-greater system security and BIM compatibility.

YOUR OPPORTUNITY The bottom line is that having some form of heating control is mandatory – why settle for the lowest common denominator when you can offer value-added customised HVAC. HVAC does not exist in a silo anymore – anymore than lighting engineering or AV installation do. It is an opportunity for anyone with integration skills smart enough to manage the infinite possibilities of an open system control protocol. We live in a joined-up world and smart buildings need to be actively intelligent, reacting automatically to events around them with different applications acting in concert.

Falling temperatures will turn heating on, but they might also close the windows and doors.

People walking into a room can boost airflow as well as trigger lighting. Failing evening light can close curtains as well as trigger evening lighting scenes and temperature comfort settings, potentially involving dozens of circuits.

Your skills will customise all this complexity and make it transparent to the owner. Control also needs to involve analytics for predictive maintenance, performance monitoring and remote management, all building bricks of longterm client relationships.

All good in theory but can you really trust KNX for HVAC? Absolutely. HVAC control is not an afterthought but a fundamental pillar of the KNX standard, with recently updated Application Description document ensuring

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the interworking of KNX devices in a system including multiple applications: lighting, curtains and blinds, access control, zoned HVAC etc.

KNX gives you control of all types of heating and cooling including radiators, hydronic and electric underfloor, trench heaters, air conditioning and forced air. Remember, the standard evolved from the commercial world and was designed from the outset to handle complex heating installations.

Traditionally seen as primarily a wired system, KNX has embraced the growing importance of RF control. The imminent ETS6 release of the manufacturer independent KNX commissioning software will carry five RF channels instead of one. In addition, KNX RF couplers can behave as segment couplers so you can extend an existing TP line without changing physical addresses and reprogramming. In short, KNX RF is geared for HVAC and delivering the levels of control users want.

Throughout the world, the KNX manufacturer community is busy developing further improved HVAC controls with unprecedented functionality to take full advantage of the most recent facilities the standard is offering, including the KNX third party IoT API.

Users can command a multiple systems to call up a specific lighting scene, HVAC comfort settings or entertainment at the press of a single, beautifully designed button or touch screen.

A lot of this functionality can be duplicated on Apps for remote access.

As KNX Tutor and consultant Gordon Fry points out, “Room controllers hide any control ‘complication’ while providing full system control. All the user needs to see is a single elegant device per room.”

Last but not least, the release of version 6 of the ETS commissioning software is making device addressing and system configuration easier than ever for integrators. If you haven’t looked at the opportunities KNX offers in earnest yet, now’s surely the time to do so. Start with a free taster training course, progress to become a KNX Partner and then, to claim your share of the inevitable demand for better HVAC control, take a few days hone your skills further with a specialist KNX HVAC course.

Find out who can help you get onboard with the global open control standard from the KNX UK Association. 95,000 other integrators around the world cannot be wrong!

FRONT OF HOUSE Native KNX devices can be used at primary system level, for direct control of boilers for instance. However, the star of the show of any KNX system is at the user interface, in this case the room controller where control of multiple building functions can be brought together.

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JUNE 2021 29

THE FIRST CHOICE FOR SMART HOME AUTOMATION Economic entry levels & ease of ‘programming’.

Savant always has the customer in mind when it comes to updating and refining their systems and interfaces. With Savant home automation, your customers can access and control all of their home technology in a centralised location — multi-room music, a home theatre or media room, smart lighting, climate control, shading, security and surveillance, and outdoor entertainment.

Offer your customers the best experience in home automation by joining our exclusive network of authorised dealers, and benefit from our easy-to-install systems that deliver high levels of customer satisfaction.

Your FREE Introduction into Savant Register for our monthly webinars covering everything you need to know to become a Savant integrator and offer your customers the best in luxury home automation.

There really is no better time to make the change to Savant.

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T: +44 (0) 1488 73366

ESSENTIAL HVAC

BEAUTY IS IN THE EYE OF THE BEHOLDER, BUT INITIAL ATTRACTION IS WHERE WE START! As humans we are put at ease with symmetry, we like uniformity. It creates a feeling of belonging and well-being, which in turn creates the more calming and stress-free environments that we all long for. Justin Wells, CEO, Polar Bear Design, examines the interplay between functionality and aesthetics.

Those involved in the planning, design and construction of buildings, whether for use as living accommodation or working environments are aware that aesthetics are key for both interior and exterior design.

Functionality and features are essential when deciding upon suitability, however in addition they must consider the cognitive factors that a customer uses when making a purchasing decision, or choosing an partner.

Those decisions are initially based upon first impressions, cost, ease-of-use and design.

Architects and designers are creating sustainable and smart buildings which utilise a whole host of products. Traditionally, designers and architects hid the control systems of smart home features in cupboards or somewhere out of sight simply due to the fact that they just weren’t aesthetically pleasing. Conventional smart thermostats often force homeowners and installers to choose between aesthetics, control and functionality. However more modern smart thermostats not only control heating and air conditioning, but can also be integrated with smart lighting control systems.

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The market is changing, there are many beautifully designed smart thermostats and HVAC controllers to choose from when designing new homes, multiple person dwellings and offices.

If we take aesthetics as one of the challenges that designers and installers face, we have to realise that they are a core design principle that can make a difference to a customers’ purchasing decision. Aesthetics is not just about the exterior design of the faceplate or fascia of a smart thermostat, which takes on board factors such as colour, style, pattern, shape, weight and more - but it also must include the design of the control panel and digital display if available.

Designers must use aesthetics to complement their designs ease-of-use and desirability.

Attractive design layouts can and will be the first impression a customer receives.

Aesthetic design offers an emotional connection, it is about influencing the thought process of customers and offering the customer pleasure from the beginning. It matters because not only does a designer need to make the first impression right, but it also has to create a lasting bond with the installer and the end user. Bonding ensures that in time, as their requirements change or additional devices become available, they remain with their preferred partner brand and opt for a complementary device to suit their needs. As consumers, we are often creatures of habit, we like to stay with brands that provide us with attractive, useable products, great customer service and the potential for growth and expansion. Choosing a heating, cooling or smart home system is no different.

While we’ve demonstrated the reason behind why aesthetics must be high on the agenda for designers of HVAC systems and

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control management, how do they know they’re getting it right? One design does not suit all, that’s why at Polar Bear Design it’s about flexibility for the customer, and personalisation without compromise on style and design. We offer a customisation service where we modify ‘off the shelf’ standard products and alter them to a design brief so the client gets a unique product that matches the interior design theme.

Sir Jonathan Paul Ive, British-American industrial, product and architectural designer and former Chief Design Officer of Apple Inc once said, “There is beauty when something works and it works intuitively.” So are we saying that HVAC controllers need to look great and be smart, in a word ‘Yes’, but not in the traditional way most people think about smart technology.

It is an irritation that manufacturers want to create their own eco system and have an App for everything. This approach is based on them trying to hold all the cards. But if something works well a customer will stay anyway, so there’s no need to be so precious about products.

At Polar Bear we take a different approach, a customer centric approach. This does not mean the Zentium (image above) is not smart, far from it with its ARM processor and Edge BMS technology. We create a customer centric approach by ensuring that the HVAC controls can be integrated with as many different control systems as possible which includes traditional HVAC controls, but also the AV Controllers such as Control4, Crestron, Lutron, AMX etc.

This creates a singular interface for the user and the HVAC becomes part of the solution of a Smart Home.

The HVAC industry can become a sexy, attractive area of building and installations if we remember that looks do matter and first impressions count, but we must have the essential usable features and functions on the inside to make a lasting impression.

JUNE 2021 31

PATHS

5%

N UNT O DISCO CHASE! PUR FIRST ODE USE C 1 2 EILEK

WE DO THINGS A LITTLE BIT DIFFERENTLY! We are LEK Essentials, part of the Lektropacks family, and we make products that you really want at prices that you really want to pay! Just like other brands we offer similar tech and features, but our products are engineered and built to give you just what you require and no more, so you only pay for what you need!

And naturally we offer all the techy extras you need for a quick, reliable and cost-effective installation, so really, what have got to lose? Head over to our website, check out our latest offers and bag a 5% discount why you’re at it using the code EILEK21. Here’s to thinking a bit differently!

UK working hours 9am - 5pm

Lektropacks brands include:

LE-88M70 70m 8x8 HDMI 2.0 HDBaseT Lite Matrix

UK working hours 9am - 5pm

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LE-44M70 70m 4x4 HDMI 2.0 HDBaseT Lite Matrix

LE-EX33-KIT 4K HDBaseT Lite Kit

UK working hours 9am --5pm UK working hours 9am - 5pm UK working hours 9am 5pm

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LE-EX53-RX

Receiver for use with LE-88M70 Matrix, LE-44M70 Matrix and LE-14HB70 Splitter

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LE-14HB70 70m 1x4 HDMI 2.0 HDBaseT Lite Switcher

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ESSENTIAL PENN ELCOM

EASY DOES IT The 19in R8010 Slide & Rotate Rack Enclosure from Penn Elcom offers advanced support, convenience and true flexibility all in one reliable package.

For installs where regular access is needed, the R8010 Slide & Rotate Rack Enclosure delivers - on-demand - 360° access with ease, increasing placement options around a myriad of different types of projects. Its always possible to get to the equipment, even if it is necessary to place the rack in an out of the way area.

The rack mounting top section with integrated cable management comes as standard with this product delivering maximum added value as as competitor products charge extra for these premium features.

For the installer and customer too, wouldn’t life be easier if it were possible to just slide the rack of equipment out and spin it around to provide 360° access, all of the time?

This is exactly what the newly updated R8010 Slide & Rotate Rack system does; making it simple to slide a fully-loaded rack safely out up to an impressive 550mm / 22in and rotate it left or right. Penn Elcom has also made the enclosure easy to assemble taking just 30 minutes from start to finish. Just screw the base plate to any flat, solid surface to secure the unit in place.

The unique folding cable management bar enables the system to freely slide and spin without cable entanglement, while the rack’s position can be locked in place whenever needed so equipment can be worked on effectively without any unwanted movement.

Penn Elcom has developed this next level 19in rack technology for the increased variety of projects that present to installers out in the field.

34 JUNE 2021

The Base Plate is designed to be bolted or screwed to a solid, flat surface and ensures maximum stability while the enclosure frame is reinforced to prevent stress under a heavy load.

The R8010 is supplied complete with the Top Unit, the Rotating Base Unit and the Folding Cable Management Bar. The R8010 is built with high grade steel and is structurally fortified so there’s minimal flex under a heavy or full load. The rotation locking mechanism lets you extend the rack and then fix it to 0° or in ±60° increments. The two builtin catch locks ensure the rack cannot extend or spin unless engaged.

The rear cable management tray is hinged so it folds when the rack slides in and out. As the cables are fed along the tray and up through the central opening, they are free to slide and spin with the rack without creating cable tension. With this method, cables are protected from damage and disarray over the time of the installation.

The tower base and top portion also include cable management as well as fixing points for the compatible R4000-CT cable trays. The base unit holds the slide catch, the rotation catch (with removable security plate) and also includes cable tie holes at the rear as well.

Get in touch with the company direct to find out more.

Penn Elcom penn-elcom.com

R8010 Slide & Rotate Rack: Full Specifications • Slides out to 550mm / 22in and rotates 360° in either direction • Secure in position with Slide Catch and Spin Catch • Rotation lock in ±60° Increments • Folding cable management tray • Security faceplate protects catches from use • Full hole double rack rails with square holes for clip nuts • Removable Rear Folding Cable Management Tray • Top and Base Cable Management • Pull handles protected by removable Security Faceplate • Choose a rail height, from 6U up to 24U • Quick assembly: under 30 minutes • Height: 367.5mm / 14.5in • Width: 495mm / 19.5in • Depth: 605mm / 23.8in • Extended Depth: 1355mm / 45.5in • Weight: 15kg / 33.06lbs • Load Capacity: 60kg / 132.28lb

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@ eil ive s how #eilive s how2021

FARNBOROUGH INTERNATIONAL EXHIBITION CENTRE

SEPTEMBER 29-30 2021

VIS

www.eiliveshow.com

ITO AR R RE E N GI OW STR OP ATIO EN N S

EI Live! 2021, the UK’s national show for the AV and Home automation market sector, will boast a greater focus on smart products from the world of electrical contracting; delivering a unique platform on which a smarter, brighter future can be established.

ESSENTIAL CYP

LEK ESSENTIALS INTRODUCTION Nathan Barnett, Sales Accounts Manager Lektropacks, introduces a new concept into the matrix and signal management sector.

When looking for an AV distribution system, the options are vast. There are many brands available that offer a huge array of features and gadgets with the intention that everything you need is on-board. We all know that the majority of AV distribution systems on the market offer a generally good performance, with each brand aiming to differentiate itself with the latest musthave feature. But what if your requirements are far simpler? What if all you want to do is distribute a couple of sources around a property or work environment in full 4K UHD video?

Sometimes we can over complicate things because, well, we just can. This is why the team at Lektropacks has created a new brand called Lek Essentials. To steal another’s advertising strap line – these products do exactly what they say on the, er, front. If you want a product that offers the quality of performance with a stripped-down feature count at a very competitive price point, then this could be the range for you.

Starting with the matrices, we are offering two versions – an 8 input / 8 output (8x8) and a 4 input / 4 output (4x4). Both deliver 4K UHD over 40 metres and FHD up to 70 metres using Cat 5e cable thanks to HDBaseT technology.

Crucially, their receivers are powered by PoC (Power over Cable), so there is no need for a wall-wart power supply at the display. They also both offer audio embedding and deembedding, so all AV requirements are catered for. And the best part? These are possibly the most keenly priced matrices on the market, offering significant value for anyone looking for simplicity and performance. So what is missing?

When you ask yourself what the installation actually needs, we think you will be hardpressed to come up with anything significant.

When it comes to signal extenders, the Lek Essentials kit again delivers 4K UHD signals up to 40 metres and FHD up to 70 metres. Ask yourself a question – do you really need the AV signal to be extended up to 100 metres? When you look at the difference in price between this and the competition, it might make you realise that 40 metres is plenty!

I know that you will be asking how can Lek Essentials products be so competitively priced?

Have they scrimped on the service/support, for example? Well, the great news is that as a

36 JUNE 2021

range within the Lektropacks portfolio, all Lek Essentials products receive the same, industryleading support and service that any other product receives. That means we have a help desk manned by real professionals who not only know the products inside and out but have also been in the field installing it, so understand the importance of why quick and concise answers are crucial, with in-the-field support available where it is required. We also keep a good stock of all products available for next-day delivery (to site if required).

Where have we saved cost? Well, we don’t have any flashy software, the feature list is focused and the packaging is ample but basic.

After all, these products have been designed for trade use, so the need for any Apple-esque

unboxing experience is not required. We feel that the Lek Essentials brand offers a very honest solution to AV distribution, offering what you need rather than what you are given.

So, what do you have to lose? We are sure that were you to try a Lek Essentials product, you won’t help but be impressed with the performance, which after all, is what it is all about. Why not visit our website or give us a call to find out more about this great value range of AV distribution products and how you can create compelling AV distribution systems that deliver a great performance at a cost that will please your customer? What’s not to like?

Lektropacks lektropacks.co.uk

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ESSENTIAL MATRIX AND SIGNAL MANAGEMENT

WHAT ARE THE BENEFITS OF USING AV OVER IP John Clancy, Executive Vice President Residential at Crestron, offers his insight into the matrix and signal management landscape.

When asked by dealers and integrators if they should opt for matrixes or for AV over IP solutions, my answer is always the same: I would choose AV over IP anytime. And from my extensive experience in the residential industry, first at the installer side and now at a manufacturer, I have learned how it can solve a plenitude of issues that installers encounter.

If you take an average residential project, it is usually divided into three types of zones: rooms with surround sound and 4K video, rooms with two-channel audio and 4K or even 1080 video, and rooms without video, just with two-channel audio. If we would choose a matrix solution there, the audio quality would suffer as soon as the source would be connected to a sink or endpoint that does not support multi-channel audio. Immediately it would be downgraded to two-channel. A satellite receiver for instance by default receives and emits surround sound, but as soon as it makes that connection through a traditional matrix to any two-channel room, by default that source would turn off surround sound and flip to two-channel. So, the entire house, even the zones where surround sound is installed, only receives two-channel. There are downmix solutions available for matrix switchers, yes, but these require wiring and are not at all scalable much less flexible.

38 JUNE 2021

However, the robust and diverse nature of the right AV over IP encoders and decoders allows for systems to use an assortment of products based on need, which means you don’t have to worry about anything. It doesn’t matter if there’s surround sound in one room and stereo in another. Resolution and frame rate don’t matter either. No matter what sources or displays are in the home today or tomorrow, AV over IP makes everything works seamlessly, delivering what is needed anywhere.

By having the highest quality sound available on the network, the homeowner can decide what they want to listen to. For example, a home cinema may have a room in front, comparable to a lobby where there’s popcorn or drinks available. While there, the owner also wants to be able to hear or see what is going on in the theatre. Thanks to AV over IP they can play in stereo from that source, without downgrading the surround quality in the home cinema.

Integrators will spend less time on-site during and after the installation. Adding displays and sources becomes easier as the system grows and there’s no need to worry about the clutter of cable boxes, gaming consoles, Blu-ray Disc players and streaming devices. Even better, the right encoders and decoders future-proof installations. When the next best video format or audio type comes along, they will be able to support it with just a simple software update.

AV over IP technology adds value and benefits to any smart home, as it simplifies designs with its scalability and flexibility, speeds up deployment, limits points of failure and provides an easy path for upgrades. This means there’s virtually no limit to the number of sources and displays the system can handle. And if you want to add a TV or additional sources, such as a gaming system, no hardware or infrastructure needs to be replaced. Instead, all you need to do is add an additional box for that new display or source. You can add more zones in any combination of two-channel audio, video and surround sound without being restricted to a fixed matrix. AV over IP offers almost an infinite level of scalability and flexibility.

Not only can the homeowner watch, listen, and play whatever they want, wherever they want, there are also no more wires and boxes lying around the TVs and there’s only one remote to control everything. This interoperability simplifies designs and brings down the cost to deploy a video distribution system, removing the cost of ownership as a potential argument.

While high-quality AV over IP solutions might currently be slightly more expensive than matrix solutions, the prices for this type of equipment generally come down over time. But even if they don’t, the benefits far outweigh that marginally higher cost.

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@VisionAV @VisionAV @VisionAV @VisionAV @VisionAV

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DM NAXTM AUDIO-OVER-IP DISTRIBUTION + CRESTRON RESIDENTIAL SPEAKERS BY ORIGIN ACOUSTICS

NO COMPROMISE SOUND Introducing our next generation of residential audio solutions • Popular streaming services embedded in every zone

• Scalable up to 256x256

• Pure and powerful amplification

• Works with DM NVX® Video-over-IP technology

• Supports AES67 and Dante® audio networking • Works seamlessly with voice assistants

• Local inputs and outputs • Easy to install speakers built with premium materials for optimal performance

Visit crestron.com/resiaudio 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. ©2021 Crestron Electronics, Inc.

ESSENTIAL MATRIX AND SIGNAL MANAGEMENT

THE CORRECT PROTOCOL Stuart Lockhart, Vision’s Managing Director - calls for AV vendors to increase focus on delivering IP products that are easy to install, as well as use.

We’ve just had a year-long lesson in why AV needs to be on the network. So unless there is a very compelling reason why it should not be - we’d expect all new installations to be AVover-IP. End-users now more than ever need the flexibility and agility it gives them in terms of hybrid working.

It also means AV can be managed and monitored remotely, either by in-house technology teams where an organisation has a substantial in-house resource or (more likely), by an outsourced partner, typically an AV systems integrator who provides support as a managed service.

From an operational efficiency and productivity point of view, it’s beneficial to both the end-user and to the AV service provider.

Controlling signals and getting them to where they need to be is ever more important because of the steep increase in use of video for communications, over IP of course.

Once you accept that the future is networked AV, then making sure a switch or indeed any AV device is easy to select and configure is a nobrainer for a vendor. Or at least it should be.

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Sadly, set-up can be a real challenge for installers, because of the very poor software provided by some vendors.

The installer uses this software to search for the device on the network to configure it, but often the software only scans one network port on the PC when there are normally several, so the installer doesn’t know which one to scan.

That might sound like a little thing, but it is little things like this that really trip up installers.

They just want to get the job done, quickly and efficiently. As vendors, we need to give them software that makes their job easy, not throw obstacles in their path.

Vision’s litmus test is always ‘easy for the installer’. For this reason we really went to town on the software for our TC-MATRIX product to make sure this type of thing wouldn’t happen.

The TC-MATRIX is a good example of a product designed to cater to a wide range of applications and be a workhorse for installers.

This new product uses an IP network to distribute, switch, or matrix. It can have up to 100 x transmitters, and 100 x receivers and supports 4K at 60Hz. It doesn’t have to be setup with software; simple channel assignment on the front panel allows very fast manual setup.

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Where integration into more complex systems is required, Crestron and AMX drivers are included and it also works for video-wall configurations up to 3x3. We have also provided IR pass-through – vital with displays without visible IR receivers to enable fast control for the user. One other issue that frequently trips up installers is Power Over Ethernet or PoE. While PoE has an obvious attraction, it can cause more problems than it solves for installers. If the switch can’t output enough wattage, some devices won’t work, but it’s very hard to determine whether it is device fault or a power fault. As a result, we’d recommend avoiding products that use PoE. Now that AV has become essential to organisations, whatever their size or sector, we vendors need to do all we can to provide products that enable fast, effective installation as well as the feature set user need. Deployment at speed and scale is the future and we do a disservice to the installer community if we do not provide them with products designed to support that.

JUNE 2021 41

MATRIXES AND SIGNAL DISTRIBUTION

VIDEO DISTRIBUTION WITH ‘FREE-ONBOARD’ BENEFITS Derek Hulbert, Managing Director of Netvio and former CEO of WyreStorm, views the current round of product consolidation as a significant and timely opportunity to redefine and expand video product functionality.

During the last decade, we have seen unprecedented changes in the advancement of streaming and display technologies. This statement alone is paradoxical - knowing the importance we place on the latest high-resolution equipment, yet we now watch more highly compressed content than ever before. The video distribution sector has also overcome significant challenges. Not only related to increased resolution demands without impacting bandwidth, but for some, a redefinition of market position and purpose.

Product evolution and consolidation often manifests itself through the expansion of capabilities over time. An ambitious concept can end up consuming a vulnerable and narrow focused product outlier with the end result being a disruptive, yet valuable new product category.

With ever improving transmission technologies, more emphasis on software development and lower manufacturing costs, video products can be hosts to an array of new and seemingly ‘free on board’ (FOB) capabilities compared with historical hardware costs. In short, the term ‘Video Matrix’ is potentially outdated; especially for new brand, Netvio, who sets out

42 JUNE 2021

to recalibrate the industry with a new range of professional audio, video and software solutions.

When choosing between traditional video distribution products, it is very tough to draw a distinction based on video performance alone. Regardless of brand, marketing hype or acronyms; pretty much all manufacturers and brands use the same third-party technology platforms. What is becoming more relevant is to understand what other FOB benefits a video product can offer and how it can enhance the overall end user experience, system performance, efficiency and reliability.

Automatic downscaling providing seamless movement between new and legacy equipment, audio return management providing the best possible digital audio experience from embedded display apps, onboard audio preamps providing routing convenience for popular devices and the avoidance of content buffering through the provision of hardwired Ethernet connectivity are all important.

These are all real tangible end-user benefits that would justify inclusion into many integrated system designs, but now find themselves as onboard FOB features hosted by 4K/60

4:4:4 HDR video capability over a single cable network infrastructure.

For us, the biggest advancement in video product design is software, both embedded and user facing. This has resulted in more powerful internal processing power allowing several unique concepts for the professional installer and end-user.

Netvio ‘360’ is the first free installation software tool for PC and Mac which provides a unified and guided workflow process for the configuration, design and set-up of an audio, video and software solution. ‘360’ is designed specifically to ‘simplify complexity’ and for the first time provides a unique cross platform application for the installation of HDBaseT, 1Gbps, 10Gbps AVoIP systems together with connected AV devices and peripherals.

Installers can use the inclusive ‘360’ design tool to schematically drag and drop their audio, video devices onto the screen canvas, which subtly provides all the required data steps to launch the new Netvio GO end-user control application for Apple and Android devices – a process best described as visually codeless programming.

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MATRIXES AND SIGNAL DISTRIBUTION

Netvio GO is another example of FOB functionality that provides a high-quality enduser experience for the control of multiple disciplined video systems, displays and sources without the need for a conventional control system processor.

In over 10 years with WyreStorm as CEO, a common question was ‘which is the best video format?’ and the common reply was ‘it very much depends on the application’. There was also a realisation that there wasn’t a ‘one fits all’ video platform, with installers needing a good understanding of multiple platforms to fulfil a variety of applications successfully.

We all know the vast array of applications and opportunities that video-based projects can provide. From homes to bars, meeting rooms, classrooms, live events, retail, medical environments with the list going on. But interestingly, each of these examples have subtle differences in respect to the demands of each application and the expectations of system users, notwithstanding any recent implications of COVID-19.

In deciding where to start, the first consideration could still be HDBaseT. The ease of ‘plug and play’, while punching uncompressed 4K HDR across a dedicated AV network is still compelling. If bandwidth demands exceed 9-10 Gbps then a touch of light compression is added to bring the world seamlessly to order.

Latency is often overlooked when considering video systems, but vitally important in applications where end-users interact with content such as meeting rooms and live events.

AVoIP by nature adds latency across any network. H.264/H.265 for example has some of the highest latency performance numbers across the technologies, but this doesn’t make H.264/H.265 any less valuable when compared with AVoIP alternatives. Its attributes of balancing video quality and extremely low bandwidths makes it ideal for CCTV system, embedded streaming applications and mass deployment of AV over large-scale multilayer networks.

HDBaseT was the highly prevalent ‘go to’

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technology for presentation and meeting room applications in preference to AVoIP because of its zero latency capabilities, but will this trend continue in a post Covid-19 AV world?

The trend of continuous online meetings and the potential of reduced staff numbers actually allowed within confined meeting spaces could initiate a longer term and sustained change in AV demand. As with most things, the answer is probably somewhere in the middle with fewer online meetings and a return to some in-person normalcy, but some changes ahead for sure.

If uncompressed high quality 4K video quality and scalability are still your key project drivers, then SDVoE (software defined Video over Ethernet) would be high on your list.

Delivering similar uncompressed video performance to HDBaseT, SDVoE runs over a 10Gbps IP network, adding the flexibility of inputs and outputs galore, with the eventual system size more limited by budget constraints than the imagination.

Cost aside, SDVoE is another good example of product evolution absorbing functionality previously defined by separated hardware.

Video wall processing, multi-view video tiling and KVM, when combined with near zero latency, SDVoE is a serious contender for critical

applications such as real time operation centers, live events and medical rooms, where budgets generally allow such technology indulgencies.

The balance between function and value often wins the largest market share, with platforms such as JPEG2000 becoming very popular and widely adopted by the largest industry brands. It undoubtedly achieves the balance between scalability, 4K HDR video quality and price, but with some sensible consideration to the compression ratio used to run over a cost effective and convenient 1Gbps infrastructure.

Netvio takes this JPEG2000 concept further with its JP4 1Gbps AVoIP series by adding a hybrid H.265 process which provides an industry leading full HD preview stream which is not only used within the Netvio ‘GO’ free control application but is widely available across a wide variety of network applications and popular software-based decoders.

The competitive nature of the industry will mean a drive towards even better video quality over existing 1Gbps and 10Gbps network infrastructures and of course the further adoption of 8K video standards over a wider integrated system. Moves towards transceiver devices will slowly migrate users away from dedicated transmitter and receiver devices. An exciting roadmap ahead.

The basic concept of merely moving video from point A to B, is now greatly enhanced with convergence of function and value delivering seemingly free on-board functionality combined with the highest quality video functionality. It allows forward thinking installers to redefine conventional system design moving towards the trend of ‘value integrated solutions’ to meet the increasingly savvy budget minded end-user.

Netvio’s overarching key value is ‘simplifying complexity’ and will be launching its new range audio, video and software solutions to the UK and EMEA market during Q3 of 2021, where the team has worked hard to deliver the convergence of features and value.

The changing nature of work will continue to shape demands on information and comms flexibility

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JUNE 2021 45

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L-Acoustics Creations Tahiti 2.1 sound system terrace installation

THE L WORD Dr Christian Heil, President & Founder, L-Acoustics, in an exclusive EI interview from our Install Pioneer Series. Come back next issue for part two.

How did you come to launch L-Acoustics and design the technology? What gave you the idea?

L-Acoustics was more of a journey than an idea.

Music has always been a part of my life, as has sound. I used to build my own speakers as a hobby when I was younger. In the 1970s, along with everyone else at the time, I was enjoying live rock shows - especially musicians taking bold new approaches such as Pink Floyd. Quite by chance, I came into contact with an intriguing new population of humans: live sound engineers. I became very interested in what they did. Also, as a scientist (whose speciality was particle physics), some of what I observed fascinated me from the perspective of what I knew about the behaviour of sound waves. It crossed my mind that there were possible areas for improvement based on scientific principles, and what was initially observation became a conversation. I became a kind of sound consultant.

Tell us all about L-Acoustics’ heritage and reach in the world of live sound, what are some of the key take-aways, milestones for the company in that sector?

In 1992, L-Acoustics pioneered a technology called WST (Wavefront Sculpture Technology) which is the basis for the line source array - now widely used in concerts and touring. The main idea was to reduce destructive interferences created by multiple sound sources and focus sound coherently in a specific direction, like a laser beam.

In a line array, multiple loudspeaker enclosures

48 JUNE 2021

behave like a single source. This technology, in the form of a loudspeaker model known as V-DOSC, was taken out on some prominent tours.

Engineers and audiences heard the difference and therefore reacted differently. Productions found it more convenient because it was lighter and easier to transport and deploy, enabling more shows at a lower cost. To my surprise, the line source array went from becoming a new solution to ‘the’ industry solution for large-scale live events.

We then initiated the enterprise to consolidate speaker design, electronic developments, DSP software and protocols for mixing engineers to provide - through technology - a noticeable sound improvement to audiences.

In 2016 we looked for an opportunity to ‘disrupt’ ourselves by introducing L-ISA Immersive Hyperreal Sound technology, a new way to mix and deliver sound which creates a much truer and more direct connection with the music. L-ISA is an evolution of stereo that makes sound more natural, but also more malleable. So L-ISA is much

L-Acoustics was founded in 1984. Here is Christian with some of his first pro audio loudspeakers

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INSTALL PIONEER

more than going beyond the stereo paradigm to spatial audio. We have evolved to be able to place, resize, move and shapeshift sound in real time.

This allows creators to invent new forms of art and entertainment with sound as the ‘emotional cement’ which makes the experience credible and true.

How did the L-Acoustics Creations part of the company come into being?

What is the concept?

The seeds of L-Acoustics Creations were planted in 2011 when I gathered a team to explore immersive sound. At the heart of that team were Guillaume Le Nost, a young genius in signal processing, and Sherif el Barbari, a magician in live sound engineering. We aimed to present the human brain with sound as close as possible to reality, implying the need for a spatial dimension.

Project L-ISA (Immersive Sound Art) was born, mobilizing a cross-disciplinary R&D team at L-Acoustics.

A key outcome of this research was a new format we call BluSpace which maps the ability of human hearing to reproduce a sonic ‘reality’ or in our case, hyperreality. This allows us to transport a sonic creation in a truly lossless way, indistinguishable from the original, (if that is the desired effect), or enhanced and reimagined with the creator’s vision.

The specifications for BluSpace define conditions for recording, object-based mixing and playback.

L-Acoustics Creations exists as a division devoted to these extraordinary new sonic creations for media play, including Island and Ocean, our immersive sound spaces along with professional sound systems to bring live concert sound into any residential or architectural environment.

How has L-Acoustics Creations drawn on your experience in the live arena?

Live sound is our lifeblood, pro audio our DNA. If anything, confinement has taught humanity how much we value the live music experience for its powerful vibrancy and impact. Music is physical, meant to be felt rather than ‘just’ heard. Live is the utmost expression of that emotional connection.

Everything we do at L-Acoustics Creations is nourished by our heritage as a designer of premium pro audio systems. We encourage audiophiles to ‘bring the concert home’ and we mean it sincerely, offering the same designs used in live shows, tuned and modelled for home use. The R&D team— more than 25% of our employees—serves both live and installed sound systems at every scale.

Now the scale of L-Acoustics sound systems just happens to extend all the way to a single listener, whether via a sound system, immersive sound space such as Island, or Contour XO, a professional in-ear monitor developed in collaboration with JH Audio to deliver the L-Acoustics sonic signature of live sound.

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Having listened to the systems, they do have a ‘live’ feel to them, can you shed any light on how this is achieved?

The question is a little bit chicken & egg. The L-Acoustics sonic signature has become the benchmark for a premium listening experience of live music worldwide. It has become synonymous with how live music sounds. Which came first, the sound of L-Acoustics or the sound of live music?

It’s a difficult question!

What I can say is that our sonic signature is designed to be full-range, natural, dynamic, precise, generous and consistent in terms of frequency contour. Above all, we design a sonic signature which is transparent and presents content truthfully. Listeners should hear the musicality, not the loudspeakers or signal processing.

This consistency in sonic signature to give ‘the sound of live music’ is achieved through an iterative R&D process involving objective measurements of defined data points, field observation and repeatability. Hence while our loudspeakers may differ in terms of coverage, throw, power, size and price point, our sonic signature remains consistent, allowing us to assemble bespoke systems with a mix of loudspeaker references. I guess you could say you’re hearing the sound of science.

Could you describe the L-Acoustics Creations ‘sound’?

Our professional sound systems are designed to operate in large free-field spaces. By using the same products (speakers, amplifiers, electronics) for our L-Acoustics Creations range, they are prequalified for offering a sense of space and volume as if we were not limited by the size of a living room.

The Creations ‘magic’ consists in the domestication of this raw power to make it fit in a residential environment. The sound of a philharmonic orchestra through an L-Acoustics Creation should reflect the instruments’ nuances as well as the size or the stage!

Please promote her immediately.

Or make her Prime Minister.

The world needs more Abigails and Julies.

Find out more next issue with the concluding part of this exclusive interview.

L Acoustics l-acoustics-creations.com

Nick Sedgwick, Cre8tive Rooms

(loves our customer services)

Christian with Steven Tyler at Aerosmith’s Deuces Are Wild residency at MGM Park Theater in Las Vegas presented in L-ISA Immersive Hyperreal Sound in 360° spatial audio

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JUNE 2021 49

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//

CONNECT PEOPLE

ESSENTIAL DIGITAL SIGNAGE

WATERPROOF INFORMATION AND ENTERTAINMENT As we emerge from lockdown, there has been a significant increase in demand for digitised business solutions and home entertainment. ProofVision is stepping forward with waterproof electronics for commercial and residential settings.

The company reports that they are already helping businesses boost capacity and income using ProofVision waterproof TVs. Pubs and restaurants have increased their capacity by showing live events safely in outdoor areas, with a summer of sport to come, this should increase. Companies have also increased bookings and enhanced their customer experience by using TVs to answer frequently asked questions, share QR codes, offers, promotions and safety announcements by clearly displaying key messaging around the premises on large screens up to 75in - which are up to five times brighter than household TV screens.

These types of purpose-designed waterproof TVs can withstand even the harshest of weathers and can be wall-mounted or on a wheeled stand

52 JUNE 2021

for convenience, meaning it’s ideal for the typically unpredictable British weather. While most choose to purchase the TVs, outdoor TV rental is also available for additional flexibility, particularly when hosting events that have increased capacities.

The outdoor TV range offers the choice of purchasing (or hiring) all year round.

to enjoy movie nights with 4K Ultra HD TVs through their favourite apps and they’ve been able to entertain guests over a BBQ whilst people couldn’t mix indoors. ProofVision has helped bring entertainment to households while gyms, cinemas, theatres and festivals have been closed through lockdown, with many turning their back garden into a beer garden for sporting events as pubs struggled to accommodate patrons in limited outdoor spaces.

Homeowners and furloughed workers traded travel and commutes for home improvements and comfort, wanting to boost their property value at the same time, while many families have sought better use of their home by separating workspaces from living space. The outdoor TV range in sizes 32in to 75in has helped transform gardens to the ‘modern outdoor living room’, meaning a much-welcomed separation from indoor living spaces which have required adaptation for home working and home schooling. With longawaited social gatherings just round the corner, ProofVision provides a range of flexible options for businesses, homeowners and renters.

Installers can purchase the Lifestyle, Aire and Durascreen models from the outdoor TV range. Available as 4K Ultra HD outdoor TV from sizes 43in to 75in, wall-mounted or on a stand. Accessories include audio, smart TV and cable options for a tailored solution. Rental options are available for all commercial and residential use within our catchment area. There is also the option of the ProofVision Outdoor TV Casing which protects standard TVs from the elements.

BRINGING ENTERTAINMENT HOME With the majority of the country spending lockdown at home, it’s clear that having a comfortable home life has never been more important.

ProofVision says its Lifestyle TVs have been used in creative and diverse ways. They’ve helped families get fit outdoors with fitness videos on large, anti-glare TVs; enabled families

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SIGNS FOR PEACE OF MIND

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Tom Fenton, Senior Business Development Manager, Peerless-AV, examines the digital Signage opportunity for 2021 and beyond.

The pandemic has brought rise to digital signage applications aimed at easing public peace of mind and enhancing experiences by keeping users informed when going about their daily lives. For example, Klinikum Passau, owned by the City of Passau and teaching hospital of the University of Regensburg, is using outdoor kiosks to provide information to visitors about the clinic’s services.

The municipality of Bussigny in Switzerland has also installed outdoor kiosks in various locations to improve communication with citizens.

The opportunity for outdoor digital signage is especially pertinent as we enter summer and more hospitality establishments look to install outdoor AV solutions to attract and entertain clientele with the latest sporting fixtures. The demand for outdoor solutions is also increasing in sectors such as QSR to enhance the ordering experience.

Installers should look for all-weather outdoor displays that can withstand the elements, as well as offer anti-glare daylight readability with 24/7 reliable operation. Mounting solutions should also be carefully selected for outdoor. A mount installed outside could be prone to rust and corrosion damage if not designed specifically for outdoor use. Therefore, you should choose a mount constructed from weatherproof materials, including protective anti-corrosive e-coating (the same process used on most cars) that repels against damaging temperature-related and outdoor corrosive elements.

LED is another huge growth area in the digital signage market. In the indoor LED market, product is now more readily available via the channel, and distribution is better equipped to

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meet requirements for shorter lead times. There’s a movement towards standardisation on 16:9 aspect ratios and cabinet sizes of 27.5in. OEM investment into ultra-narrow pixel pitch LED, under 1mm for example, is increasing but the real game changer will be when LED brands release 0.3 – 0.5mm pixel pitch meeting the realms of LCD displays. This will open the doors to standalone FHD/UHD 55in and above LED displays, offering higher brightness, better contrast and longer lifespans.

There are many examples of LED innovation around the world, especially in the realm of outdoor and use of 3D content to create optical and anamorphic illusions, such as the world’s largest 3D wave in Seoul or the 3D Golden Ox Greeting for Chinese New Year in Kuala Lumpur.

Outernet London, the new immersive media and entertainment venue opposite Tottenham Court Road, is set to open later this year and features the world’s largest LED wrap-around screens that will be used for live broadcasting, immersive entertainment and advertising.

Of course, behind all successful LED installs are mounting systems that have also had to develop and evolve according to new creative and technical requirements. The choice of mounting system is fundamental and can make or break an install.

Not only do they need to pass strict UL2442 safety tests for wall loads that can be 11,000kg or heavier with an LED video wall, but they need to be flexible with the right level of adjustment to ensure seamless flat planes and versatile to allow for 90-degree corner, perfectly smooth curved installations and more.

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ESSENTIAL DIGITAL SIGNAGE

SOCIAL SIGNAGE Ed Qualls, CEO of Just Add Power, takes on a digital signage focused QnA. What opportunities exist coming out of lockdown?

After spending many months staying home and avoiding others, people are ready to get out and resume their activities. There is a great opportunity for installers to provide their target markets with digital signage tools to help them attract and retain customers as they return to the marketplace.

Where are the main areas of growth likely to be and why?

The pandemic has left people filled with uncertainty and insecurity. None of us will ever feel quite the same about the possibility of catching an illness from another person again. Consumers will be looking for places and activities that make them feel safe and in control. Because of this, there are going to be growth opportunities for digital signage - both indoors and outdoors.

Indoors, people want to know and understand safety precautions that are being taken. They want clear directions on how to move throughout the facility, understanding where others are moving and why. At the same time, they want this information to feel natural and connected to their experience, rather than as an imposition on their attention. There are a variety of ways to use digital signage tools to make this information feel integral to the venue. Strategic media placements will help make the indoors experience feel just as exciting as before and add the security customers are looking for.

The pandemic imposed a transition to offering outdoors experiences that have been fully embraced by the general public, and this will continue to be true going forward. In addition to signage that attracts customers as they pass by, locations that are able to make their outdoor services just as secure, exciting and immersive - as the indoors will be the ones that attract and retain consumers.

Are the hospitality and retail sectors keen to spend or is the market going to be tough for a while?

cases, these projects may be necessary to bring customers back and avoid losing them to competitors who have updated their customer experience.

The sad outcome of the pandemic is that some treasured spaces and experiences are just not going to return. The customers who used to support those venues will be looking for something to replace their past routines.

What are some of the most important technical advances of recent times?

It is now easier than ever before to manipulate the components that make up the digital signage experience. There are new tools to extract and control audio and break through devices that allow video content to be shown in a new perspective.

We are now able to support installers and designers with affordable tools to create mosaic ‘any angle’ displays that capture their customer’s eyes and imagination. It is also easier than ever before for installers to support their customers with a ‘wow’ experience that will make their companies stand out against the competition. Companies hoping to attract Gen X, Millennials and Gen Z will need to make use of these tools to meet their customers’ high expectations for technology that impacts their experiences.

What are some of the major obstacles that must overcome in terms of objections to purchase?

They can expect to encounter some hesitancy from owners worried about when revenue streams will pick back up. The installers should be coming to the table with an ‘If you build it, they will come’ mindset.

Every day you can find another article reporting the news that the greater population is ready to get back to normal. However, this new normal will not be exactly the way things were before. The pandemic shuffled the cards for everyone. The market is more than ready for installers who offer their target sectors thought leadership and innovative ways to make the end users feel safe and welcome in our new world.

Humans are social animals, so the isolation imposed

by COVID-19 has been debilitating. We want to have opportunities to be with other people, travel, share meals, share a drink in the bar and share activities.

During the slowdown associated with the lockdowns and avoidance of gatherings, we were witness to several companies who made a strategic decision to use the time to accomplish media messaging overhauls that would have been too disruptive whilst they were fully operational. There is still a window of opportunity for forward thinking facilities to reinvent their customer experience without impacting their reopening timelines. In many

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A BRIGHT FUTURE?

ESSENTIAL DIGITAL SIGNAGE

Jeff Hastings, CEO of manufacturer BrightSign, takes a look at what is next for the digital signage sector.

The market we are currently facing in the AV industry is the most challenging that we have ever had to deal with. Not since 9/11, has the business world been forced into such an abrupt halt on proceedings - followed by a very uncertain future. Establishments have invested heavily in touch-interactive AV infrastructure that hinge-on a customer’s ability to drive an interactive experience via a touchscreen. Now, customers are discouraged from touching these shared surfaces. Although the market is going to be tough for a long time, there were winners and losers in retail – and the winners, (classified as essential), won big and are now spending big to hold onto the new customers that they won during lockdown. Installers can create their own opportunities by showcasing to retailers how digital signage can be used to redefine interactivity and produce engaging experiences with a new range of ‘touchless’ solutions. It falls on us to help businesses understand how technology can help deepen customer engagement, while still keeping a safe distance in the unique circumstances we find ourselves in.

One of the main areas of growth is in BYOD (bring your own device) solutions. Interest in BYOD was already ballooning before the pandemic as a means of matching the personalisation that customers could achieve through an online shopping experience. Now, retailers are facing additional pressures on the existing challenge of how to entice customers into ‘bricks and mortar’ shops. BYOD solutions have previously been made possible through Bluetooth connectivity. QR technology is paving the way for a simplified means of enabling customers to engage with an interactive experience from their phone. By scanning the QR code on a display, customers can browse or interact with content as they normally would from their own device, eliminating the need for physical contact.

Additionally, there is no need for an internet connection or a new app, making QR-connectivity a possibility for smaller retail and hospitality establishments. Beyond two-way interactivity with digital signage, BYOD solutions provide businesses with the valuable opportunity to collect customer data, give details of loyalty programmes or showcase further purchase options.

There has also been increased interest in kiosks. Having already made their mark as selfservice solutions in supermarkets and airports; now restaurants, pharmacies and even more businesses are embracing the benefits of kiosk solutions.

For businesses that are concerned about the investment in time and effort required to roll out this kind of solution across a business, kiosk project management teams can take on the challenge by ensuring that devices are weather-proof, tamperproof and meet customer accessibility requirements.

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Kiosks provide the obvious advantage of reducing face-to-face contact within an establishment, creating a safer environment for both staff and customers. Furthermore, the kiosks can be sanitized and plastic barriers, such as Plexiglass, can be installed between devices to separate customers. In addition, the QR technology mentioned above can provide another way for customers to interact with a kiosk; placing orders or conducting transactions through their own device.

Innovative installations with proximity sensors have also paved the way for new methods of providing two-way interactivity with digital displays.

Sensors can function as touchless buttons, and can even interpret left, right, up and down swiping motions to enable customers to navigate digital content easily. Indicator lights illuminate to provide visual feedback that guides customer engagement.

Furthermore, the sensors can be synchronized with LED strip lighting to indicate direction, helping to create an even more immersive interactive experience. Proximity sensors can be integrated into existing displays with no need to replace existing hardware.

There is a certain irony that the interactive shopping experience that installers have worked to give establishments for so many years are now something that customers avoid. When touchscreens first came on the scene, the main challenge was encouraging customers to become accustomed to engaging with touch-interactive displays. We are at a similar crossroads today, faced with a customer-behaviour learning curve to overcome with these new touchless solutions.

However, having spent a long time indoors without social contact, it is likely that customers will welcome the opportunity to re-introduce interactivity into their lives, albeit in a new format, and this is something that installers must encourage businesses to take advantage of. By providing retail and hospitality establishments with new solutions based on ‘outside-the-box’ thinking, the industry can make an exceptionally valuable contribution to the COVID-19 recovery effort.

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COUNTING AGAINST COVID-19 Jon Raines, Corporate Account Manager at Sharp NEC Display Solutions, offers some insight into how digital signage can help with post-COVID recovery.

Retail and hospitality, perhaps more than any other industries, would prefer this subject was not on the agenda, but digital signage has a lot to offer in the battle against Coronavirus. Managing the virus into the future will be heavily reliant on people complying with government guidance – hands, face, space. Different countries have different rules, but the basic premiss is the same and the retailer is obligated to demonstrate their efforts to ensure their customers are compliant. Communication is absolutely vital here, but where the rules are constantly changing, it can be challenging to keep your safety protocols up to date alongside maintaining your brand personality. Digital signage delivers eye catching dynamic images which can be updated instantly in accordance with the latest government guidelines.

Limiting the number of customers entering stores is one universally encouraged measure in managing the spread of the virus, alongside ensuring a socially distanced queue outside.

Controlling access into stores and managing footfall in various zones within larger shops to ensure a smooth flow and reducing congestion presents retailers with a challenge. It can be managed by security staff, but this is costly long term and poses additional resourcing issues.

By combining digital signage networks with sensor-based technologies, retailers achieve an effective entrance flow management solution which also offers additional, potentially revenue generating benefits.

Located at the store entrance, camera-based solutions count people entering and exiting the premises. The screen displays the number of people for whom there is still space, much like a car parking system, and displays guidance to wait when the shop is at maximum capacity. There is ample opportunity to display multiple content alongside, including safety instructions but also customisable dynamic advertising and branding messages – the perfect infotainment antidote to reduce perceived waiting times and discourage shoppers from leaving the queue.

Once in store, sensor-based solutions monitor the movement and dwell time of shoppers within defined areas. Signage can redirect shoppers accordingly, encouraging them to visit other sections of the store first, maybe a visit to the coffee shop. Again, advertising and branding opportunities turn these screens into multi-use devices.

Beyond the control of customer flow, the data derived from sensor-based signage offers retailers a compelling opportunity to hone marketing campaigns with targeted advertising according to

audience demographics. A clear demonstration of the ROI to be gained from a well-managed digital signage network.

There is light at the end of the tunnel as regards the current health crisis, so whilst compliance with COVID-19 safety measures will remain for the foreseeable future, we can now anticipate life returning to a tantalising normal. At this point, digital signage hardware can be reassigned elsewhere, continuing to provide essential in-store communication and engagement with your customers.

NEC large format displays and projectors are designed to integrate seamlessly into the shop interior without impacting valuable retail space.

Along shelf fronts, on columns, in shop windows and at the store entrance; ceiling hanging, wall mounted or floor standing – we can help you get creative with your signage.

Sensor software such as NEC’s leafengine facilitates integration of various sensors, triggering content delivered via NEC’s numerous computing options. Onboard PCs or media players based on Raspberry Pi, Windows or Android enable upgradable and scalable content management solutions.

Our 8th generation E Series Large Format Displays offer a low cost signage solution for smaller retailers and restaurateurs who are just starting out on their digitalisation journey.

For added wow-factor, fine pitch indoor dvLED video walls deliver high bright, bezeless images, scalable to fit the space available. Our FE Series is a compelling alternative for large surface visualisation, delivering excellent viewing angles, consistent vibrant colours, superb brightness and long-lasting performance for signage applications.

Through collaboration with Intuiface and Nexmosphere, our Entrance Flow Management is an all-in-one solution providing retail systems integrators with a customisable, ready-toinstall solution.

Digital Signage can provide important control and information services to get business moving again

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OFF TO A STRONG START! In the second of our monthly rounds ups, EI brings the industry up to speed with what is happening in the world of Together For Cinema.

Joining the ranks of official supporters this month are Pulse Cinemas - as the company confirms its Gold Level Sponsorship, The Saville Group, taking out a Gold Level Sponsorship and James Johnson-Flint of the Audio Partnership, confirming his company’s Silver Level Sponsorship.

Also showing their support, Stephen Nevison of Intuitive Homes has confirmed a Silver Level Sponsorship for Together For Cinema from his company, Ian Claxton of Q Motion Shades is supporting the initiative with a Gold Level package and Gary Mills of Decorum Technology has confirmed a Bronze Level Sponsorship too.

Ian Claxton, Director at Q Motion Shades, explains that he first heard about TFC from Ian during a chance meeting in a bar at CEDIA 2016 in Dallas.

Ian underlines how getting involved has influenced his outlook on what can be achieved. “Bringing joy and fun to children affected by life limiting illness – having been present at an opening ceremony and seeing what a ‘Together for Cinema’ experience can bring to the kids faces was simply brilliant. Thereafter, I was hooked on supporting Together for Cinema and of course the fantastic drive and enthusiasm that Ian brings to this worthwhile cause.

“We as a company have decided to benefact one initiative and we felt that Together for Cinema was where we could bring about the best impact of what we can offer for the recipients. We support and collaborate with our integration partners on a daily basis, so to combine this into a worthwhile cause where we can have a direct impact on the recipients’ lives is hugely rewarding for all of us involved with each project.”

Distribution company RGB Communications, as reported in the last issue is supporting TFC with a Gold Level Sponsorship, the firm’s Managing Director, Caroline Britt, explains that the relationship with the initiative is a long one.

“I think we (RGB) were one of the first distributors to support TFC.” says Caroline. “Ian contacted us and asked if would be happy to donate to product – we were delighted to help and have been involved for many years. Participating in a scheme that gives a permanent feature in the facility and brings so much pleasure to children on a regular basis is amazing and very worthwhile. It’s a great cause, so please participate!”

Mike Beatty, MD of Pulse Cinemas echoes the feelings of many in the industry, “We of course know how powerful the cinema and AV experiences that we as an industry create as entertainment experiences, but also in many cases as therapy giving people escapism which helps them cope with whatever challenges they are facing in life.

“To be able to direct that power into areas that can provide so much pleasure and support through TFC is such a good idea, a classic no brainer, it’s what

we do, so let’s make sure we can keep the initiative going and roll it out to as many places as is possible.”

THE WORK GOES ON

Full time coordinator of the scheme Ian Morrish recently updated EI on where the scheme is with its current projects - there are currently four cinema room installations that are being worked on for 2021. All at different stages currently, the projects include Forget Me Not Children’s Hospice, Yorkshire, where Bespoke Home Cinemas is the installer involved. At this point, the design is approved, all equipment has been secured and the installation will start in June, with a projected completion date of the end June 2021. Also underway is a project at the Rose Road Association, in Southampton. This project is being overseen by install company Wessex AV, the designs have been drawn up and the majority of equipment secured, and installation is about to commence once the designs are approved by the venue. This project is scheduled to be completed by July 2021.

A project planned to take place at Claire House Children’s Hospice, in The Wirral is being PM’d by Glo Audio Visual. The initial visit is planned for the next few weeks and much of the equipment has already been secured. Completion date on this one is pencilled in for September 2021. Lastly, Reubens Retreat, Glossop, Derbyshire, has yet to be allocated an installer to project manage the scheme, however a visit is planned and most of the product is already in place. Completion on this one is likely to be October of this year.

Get in touch if you want to get involved!

Together For Cinema togetherforcinema.co.uk

Lesley Robbins – CEO, White Lodge, John Martin, Amy Amesbury (proAV), Ian Morrish (TFC) and Diana Moran BEM - model, fitness expert and journalist at the opening of the White Lodge cinema, more on this soon...

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IMAGINE A MEDIA ROOM MASTERPIECE This elegant media room combines an understated install with impressive, immersive audio and video performance.

Award-winning integrator, Imagine This, shows that captivating immersive performance is achievable in even a modest space.

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This was a comfortable family lounge, used for entertaining, listening to music, reading, playing board games and watching TV. As is very common, there were intelligent compromises to be made between the ideal design and placement of the home cinema elements, along with the aesthetics and demands of the room. The client wanted an immersive home cinema experience, in terms of picture and sound, but also wanted the room to function as a multi-purpose space, for listening to music and for suiting the demands of family life. Specifically, the client didn’t want the room to look like a traditional cinema - no dedicated screens or projection, but a set up that would still perform to a high standard.

The home was built in the early 1900s, with solid brick walls and a fireplace in every room.

Understandably, the client wanted to retain the open fireplace and the natural orientation of the room towards it as the main feature. The height of the mantel meant that the TV above would not be at the ideal height for viewing.

The client, therefore, asked Imagine This to find a compromise between the aesthetics and the placement of the TV. The client also expressed a wish for a Dolby Vision capable display and Dolby Atmos decoding for the audio. As big Apple TV fans, the family have an extensive movie collection on streaming services as well as physical media (UHD 4K Blu-

ray). Some members of the family love to play games, so the addition of a PlayStation 5 and Xbox Series X was vital. And lastly, they have a collection of legacy vinyl and an old record player that they wished to use in the system.

MEDIA ROOM DESIGN Applying their knowledge and experience in media room and home cinema design, Imagine This started working on the design and completed a quick CAD drawing to fully understand the space. The team then went on a full acoustic analysis, focusing on the modal response of the room – essential in a small room like this as acoustics can be very challenging.

Acoustic analysis of the room helped preempt any room issues and to get the very best performance from the media room equipment.

Using specialist software for room analysis and design, Image This ascertained the best layout with the least impactful compromises on performance.

AUDIO The client favours Bowers & Wilkins loudspeakers, and was keen to incorporate some of his own bookshelf loudspeakers into the new media room.

To ensure the system was timbre-matched to these, the team selected further high performing B&W speakers, which would fit with the client’s brief and the budget.

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The media room boasts a 5.1.4 immersive sound system – five B&W 805 and 804 speakers at the lower listening positions (front left, centre, front right, surround left and surround right), one subwoofer handling the low frequencies and four Bowers & Wilkins In-Ceiling Cinema 7 speakers as the height channels in the ceiling.

It was clear from the room analysis that the team would need to iron out some of the modal issues in the room. For plenty of ‘muscle’, the integrator used a Bowers & Wilkins DBB1 Diamond subwoofer at the rear of the room and two Bowers & Wilkins PV1D subs at the front. All three subwoofers were controlled via the small and mighty mini-DSP. Finally, (for crisp dialogue), a Bowers & Wilkins CCM8.5D centre speaker was used.

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The client wanted a display above the fireplace, which had already been chosen, but he understood the reasons why the TV would not be at an optimal height. This, from a technical perspective, was far too high for comfortable viewing. The install team specified a Future Automation EAD motorised advanced drop bracket to provide the best of both worlds – a TV located above the fireplace that at one press of a button on the Crestron remote. Therefore the picture-frame 65in LG OLED drops down into a much more acceptable, comfortable viewing height.

At the end of the evening, the client can simply press a button on the Crestron remote, and the TV motors its way back to position above the fireplace.

For times when the family wishes to have the TV on, but not necessarily be in full ‘movie’ mode, the TV can still be watched at the higher position, a good match for ‘football on in the background’ type occasions.

The key challenge in any media room is to maintain its full use as a comfortable living space, but also deliver on the performance. As Imagine This points out, they can be more challenging than

dedicated home cinemas, as there’s not as much freedom and flexibility to drive the performance aspect. Therefore, creative engineering problemsolving is a must.

PROCESSING AND AMPLIFICATION

In order to process the audio signals and to get the best performance from the loudspeakers, Imagine This installed a McIntosh MX100 audio processor, a McIntosh MI254 four-channel power amp and a McIntosh MI347 seven-channel power amp.

Using the McIntosh MX100, with room correction application Audyssey XT32, very careful planning, some great components and a whole lot of ‘calibration magic’, the results were sensational says the team.

CONTROL

Convenient control was a very important consideration for the client. A Lutron HomeWorks lighting control system was therefore a natural choice and allowed the beautiful Orluna light fixtures to really shine.

Imagine this used two Lutron QS processors and three individual Lutron lighting panels. Each panel housed multiple phase-adaptive dimming modules, plus several DALI and switched modules, for various other rooms and applications. This room, in particular, had DALI controlled shelf LED lighting, table lamps, a decorative pendant and a number of Orluna’s downlights.

Layering and controlling lighting allowed for the creation of lighting scenes for every application.

Movies, music, entertaining, gaming, relaxing and cleaning are some of the lighting scenes that can be instantly recalled from the Crestron touch panel and remote. The room also features the new Lutron Alisse keypad at the door.

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ESSENTIAL CASE STUDY: IMAGINE THIS In addition, for more convenience and to create a brilliant environment for viewing, Imagine This installed Lutron Sivoia shades.

This provided control of the lighting, both natural and artificial.

The Orluna fixtures were blessed with a very high colour rendering index. The client requested no red, green or blue lighting, favouring warm white and high colour rendering indexes from high-quality fixtures instead.

With one press of the Crestron remote, the screen motors forward, the lights set to the desired scene, the blinds come down and the amplifiers and processor trigger on. And thus, in no time at all, the movie is ready to watch in the right environment. Upon completion, the client simply presses a button to tuck it all away as discretely as before.

MUSIC TO HIS EARS

For times when the client wants to listen to music, whether it is Spotify, Tidal, CD, radio or vinyl, the team provided a Naim Uniti together with his Pro-Ject turntable with a Rega preamp/

soundstage. This provides the Naim Uniti with a beautiful, melodic and ‘analogue’ warmth.

Complemented with different lighting and room modes for listening to music, Imagine This ensured that the environment looked and felt as good as it sounded.

on standard TV speakers. With the new system

THE CLIENT’S FINAL WORD

www.imaginethis.co.uk

providing clarity from the centre channel, they can now hear and enjoy the dialogue like never before. An all-around success!

Imagine This

The client is thrilled with the system and says that it has reinvigorated his love of movies and music, giving him the perfect setup for both.

He is re-watching his favourite films and shows, discovering that the immersive experience provides him so much enjoyment. The client commented that with the screen down and the lights dimmed, he really feels as though he is ‘in’ the film and he loves the escapism that this provides. Additionally, the client’s wife is thrilled that the room could accommodate both her preference for a more discreet install and her husband’s wish for a ‘big’ experience. She says that it is the best of both worlds.

One of the family members has reduced hearing and often found it difficult to follow the dialogue

Essential Kit List McIntosh:

Crestron:

• MX100 audio processor

• MC3 3-Series control system

• MI254 four channel power amp

• HR-150 handheld remote

• MI347 seven channel power amp

• TSR-302 handheld touchscreen remote

Bowers & Wilkins:

The rest of the room

• 805 bookshelf speakers

LG 65in OLED TV

• 804 Diamond speakers • CCM8.5D centre speaker

Future Automation EAD-WB electric advance & drop with in wall box

• In-ceiling speakers

Kordz cables and extenders

• DBB1 Diamond subwoofer

Middle Atlantic Racks

• PV1D subwoofers speaker and sub

Orluna lighting Xbox Series X

Lutron:

PlayStation 5

• HomeWorks lighting control system

Naim Uniti

• Alisse keypad

Pro-Ject turntable

• QS processors

Rega phono pre amp

• Lighting panels

Focus sockets

• Sivoia shades

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JUNE 2021 67

MEMBERSHIP MEANS COMMUNITY Your CEDIA membership puts you in the centre of a thriving community of home technology integrators — a network of thousands dedicated to helping you build connections, stay competitive, and tap into new opportunities for growth.

Find out about all the benefits that come with being a CEDIA member – or renew to stay connected to those resources at cedia.net/membership.

PRODUCTS

MITCHELL & BROWN UNVEILS 2021 TV LINE-UP Bolton-based Mitchell & Brown has unveiled details of its expanded 2021 TV line-up, offering residential and commercial installers an exclusive range of TVs. Backed up by Mitchell & Brown’s seven-year warranty, UKbased call centres and robust margins; this year’s range is designed to offer installers a high performance, high quality alternative TV brand with “unrivalled customer support”, says the maker. The company sells direct to installer and commercial markets direct through partner company TVDB2B. Building on the success of its 2020 range, the new line-up boasts 30 new models covering 4K/Ultra HD, Smart, DVD Combi, Full HD and HD Ready TVs, offering a modern aesthetic with design cues that extend across the range.

“We have continually improved and refined our TV line-up over the last five years and now offer our strongest range to date, ideally suited to UK living rooms, bedrooms and kitchens,” says Dan Brown, Director of Operations at Mitchell & Brown. “With the market for installers buoyant and spending on the home at an all-time high, it is the right time for us to focus on brand awareness. As a proudly British brand focused on quality and service, we are perfectly aligned with the unique benefits of installers and our expanding network of independent retail partners across the UK.”

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The hero of the 2021 line-up is Mitchell & Brown’s UHD18114KBL 4K Smart NearBorderless series, available in 43in, 50in and 55in screen sizes. The design offers a super-slim bezel surround, Freeview HD and a range of WiFi connected services, including Amazon Prime Video, Netflix, FreeviewPlay, YouTube and Alexa voice control. The Ultra HD screens use the latest Dolby HDR (High Dynamic Range)

LED technology for strong visual performance and will smoothly upscale standard definition sources to make the most of its 4K resolution screen. The image is backed by a premium sound system, with a built-in subwoofer in the two larger models.

Michelle & Brown/TVDB2B tvdb2b.com

Residential or commercial installers interested in the Mitchel & Brown range should contact distributor TVDB2B

27/04/2021 15:12

PRODUCTS

LILIN RELEASES IVS2.2 HUMAN & VEHICLE DETECTION LILIN UK is pleased to announce the release of IVS2.2, available on the new 2 and 3 series camera ranges to upgrade the standard IVS capabilities including Tripwire and Tamper Detection.

IVS2.2 provides both human and vehicle detection features, which can be used simultaneously or independently of the other to refine and reduce the frequency of motion alarms to specific scenarios.

IVS2.2 can be configured in a multiple-ways, providing the client with plenty of flexibility to customise the solution to their requirements.

Impose further limits on when an alarm is received, by using lines to create a zone in your scene or with your home automation system to only receive notifications between scheduled times.

For example, a person approaching the front door in the day might not need to trigger an alarm- but it would at 2am!

Combine IVS2.2 with a home automation system to turn on lights, sound alarms or send push notifications to a mobile device.

The upgrade is available on all P2/Z2 and P3/Z3 cameras purchased after May 17, 2021- just request IVS2.2 at the time of placing your order.

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New functionality from LILIN

BLUESOUND LAUNCHES NEXT GEN NODE AND POWERNODE Bluesound has announced a new generation of

equipped with an array of digital and analogue

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Streaming

Amplifier. The upgrades include new DAC designs, more powerful processors, and touch panel controls with pre-sets and proximity sensors, while the POWERNODE also receives substantially more power. Both feature an easyto-clean satin finish in either black or white. In the UK the prices are Node: £549 SRP inc VAT, Powernode: £849 SRP inc VAT. Supply in the UK is from Anatech Distribution.

The new NODE and POWERNODE also feature a powerful ARM Cortex A53 Quad-Core chipset that processes audio eight times faster than previous generations of Bluesound architecture.

The NODE features a new audiophilegrade DAC design with improved performance that not only supports 24-bit/192kHz audio processing, but also MQA for studio-quality listening.

The Bluesound NODE and POWERNODE have received a significant upgrade

Powerful,

user-friendly

The POWERNODE is described as the Hi-Fi amp reinvented for the streaming age.

Source,

control,

and

amplification

come

packed into the compact and minimalist POWERNODE. With an audiophile-grade amplifier that features 80W per channel of zero-distortion power, the product is tested in real-world listening conditions and not just in a lab. A high-grade DAC delivers up to 24-bit/192kHz of hi-res, studio-quality music, including support for FLAC, MQA, and other popular file formats. Access all the music ever recorded through the BluOS Controller app, connecting to popular streaming services like Spotify, Tidal, Qobuz, SiriusXM, and dozens of others, or from a user’s own music library through Apple AirPlay 2, aptX HD Bluetooth, or even a network-connected drive or USB hard drive.

software

features like tone controls and subwoofer

Bluesound

crossover optimisation allow the customisation

bluesound.com

of listening preferences in detail. It is also

70 JUNE 2021

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PRODUCTS

ROAM FURTHER WITH FLEXSON FOR SONOS Known for its range of mounting solutions

Velcro straps as well as sliding spine fittings

for Sonos, Flexson has announced the

for attaching to a wall or a bike frame. The

launch of the brand-new SR-MTC Mountable

Mountable Travel Cover for Sonos Roam is

Travel Cover for Sonos Roam. Designed to

designed in the UK and is available in black.

Sonos is receiving further support from Flexson

optimise the Sonos Roam’s portability without compromising the sound quality, the Flexson

Flexson

Mountable Travel Cover has been created to

flexson.com

offer rugged protection and multiple mounting and hanging options.

The bespoke protective shell guards the speaker against any knocks and bumps that can occur both around the home and while out on adventures. The cut outs are positioned to ensure that the sound quality is not compromised by the casing, while also allowing connection to a charging dock, without the need to remove the case.

The travel cover comes complete with a range of mounting options including a carabiner clip, ideal for attaching to backpacks when out exploring, two loop-holes for accommodating

STORMAUDIO ANNOUNCES NEW PRODUCTS, FUNCTIONALITY AND A FIVE-YEAR WARRANTY This year, the company will launch key new

In many installations, due to physical

/ Ravenna protocol on 32 inputs and 32

products and features that will be available to all

constraints of a room or because of the

customers through upcoming software updates.

differences

outputs. This technology will be included in

In addition to this, effective immediately, the

placement recommendations, speakers might

entire StormAudio MK2 line-up is now covered

not be positioned in their ideal location.

by a five-year warranty.

StormAudio has been working on its own

between

different

codecs’

two new models, the ISP.32 Digital AoIP and the AoIP Upgrade module. Both models are currently being tested with various sources and end-points and they will be released at the end

Beyond natively decoding a large number of

proprietary solution to solve these challenges

channels, with the multiple formats available on

and will offer this to its customers as a software

of Q2 2021. StormAudio is also developing a

the market and their different recommended

upgrade on the ISP platform. More information

new HDMI card fully compatible with the HDMI

speaker placements, it is not uncommon to have

will come later this year.

2.1 / HDCP 2.3 protocol. The intention is to

silent speakers when playing certain content.

Until recently, AoIP was used in the

StormAudio has been working on this challenge

professional audio and video industry, and its

and developed a proprietary engine called

complexity made it difficult to be implemented

StormXT that works hand in hand with existing

in custom installation devices. To make the

up-mix algorithms to extract relevant audio

ISP platform universal and compatible with

signals from nearby speakers and redirect them

professional and residential applications of

StormAudio

to silent speakers. This new feature will be coming

AoIP, StormAudio created an optional module

stormaudio.com

to the ISP platform free of charge in 2021.

to add full compatibility with the AES67

pulsecinemas.com

72 JUNE 2021

offer this new card as an update to all MK1 and MK2 owners in late 2021. UK distributor for StormAudio is Pulse Cinemas.

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LIGHT FANTASTIC With Samsung 4K QLED smart TV technology, ‘The Terrace’ turns everyday viewing into an epic outdoor entertainment experience, even on the sunniest of days. Available from Habitech in 55, 65, 75-in sizes…

For further information or to arrange a demo, please contact the team: www.habitech.co.uk | 01256 638500 | sales@habitech.co.uk

The ONE team for Smart Installers.

To learn more about these brands or speak to our specialist team call 01256 378550 or email exertisone@exertis.co.uk