We are pleased to announce the launch of the first HDBaseT™3 matrix product to the market
Using HDBaseT™3 technology, these powerful HDBaseT™ matrix support uncompromised 4K 60Hz 4:4:4 resolutions over distances up to 100m over a CAT6A. The new HMX88-18G and HMX44-18G come into their own with advanced audio features specifically designed for maximising the integration of AV sources in the modern home. Enhanced audio routing is achieved through the integrated audio matrix. This enables the audio from displays (via HDMI ARC or Optical S/PDIF), and all other sources to be embedded and routed through the system at the users discretion. The inclusion of a 1Gb Ethernet channel allows for LAN serving to all HDBT outputs / zones as required, IR and RS-232 pass-through, advanced EDID management, and PoC provide the ultimate flexibility.
The combination of these technology features enable our installation partners the ability to create a truly immersive AV experience throughout the home.
NEW
HMX88-18G
8x8 HDBaseT™3 AV Matrix
• Uncompressed / unconverted 4K 60Hz 4:4:4 to 100m
Chris Allen, Chief Product Officer, Axion Lighting
Snap One examines a colourful opportunity
55 LIGHTING CONTROL. WHERE IS IT HEADING?
Peter Broome, Director Rako Controls
PROJECTORS AND SCREENS
56 EXPERT SONY ASSESSMENT
Ricky Jennings, Director and Owner of Kalibrate Limited
60 THE RISE OF PROJECTORS & SCREENS
Christopher Mullins, Head of BRAVIA Product Marketing at Sony Professional Displays and Solutions
61 WHY MORE PEOPLE ARE CHOOSING A BIG-SCREEN EXPERIENCE WITH PROJECTORS
Brendan Hoare, Product Manager, Epson Europe
66 CREATING THE FUTURE VIA CAREER CRAFTERS
Vincent McAtamney, Founder of Essex AV
68 ESSENTIAL CASE STUDY: INSPIRED DWELLINGS
Gorgeous Georgian Town House
GROUP HUG!
As we reflect on the success of this year’s EI Live! 2024 show, I want to extend a huge thank you to everyone who contributed to making it such a landmark event for the industry. To our exhibitors, visitors and the entire show team, we are truly grateful for your hard work, passion, and dedication. Your enthusiasm and expertise are what make EI Live! the UK’s premier smart building and AV event, and your commitment helps to drive the industry forward year after year.
The atmosphere at the Farnborough International Exhibition Centre was electric, as professionals from across the sector came together to share ideas, showcase innovation, and explore the latest technology shaping the future of smart building and integrated systems. EI Live! is always a highlight of the year, and this year was no exception, with the exhibition floor buzzing with activity, exciting product launches and engaging discussions. It’s these live events that are so vital to our industry, offering a chance for us to connect, collaborate and strengthen our community. Thank you to everyone who attended and supported the event — we are truly stronger together.
A SMART MOVE
A special mention also goes to everyone who participated in the Smart Building Awards. Whether you entered, attended, or simply followed along with the announcements, your involvement is what elevates these awards to such a high standard. This year, we saw an incredible range of entries, reflecting the creativity, technical excellence, and innovation that our industry continues to produce. Congratulations to all the winners; the project categories were particularly hard to judge this year, so high was the standard of entries. It was also fantastic to host the awards at their new home, inside the Farnborough International Exhibition Centre, further underlining how the awards are growing and maturing as an integral part of EI Live!
To all who attended EI Live! or the Smart Building Awards, thank you for helping to make these events such a resounding success. Let’s continue to build on this momentum and look forward to even more innovation, collaboration and growth in the years ahead.
We have big plans to continue to grow these events and who knows, maybe introduce some more! Rest assured our whole team is determined to keep offering the industry we serve the best ways to access information, innovate, learn and expand this fantastic industry.
GETTING IN TOUCH
EDITOR-IN-CHIEF
Daniel J Sait, dan@allthingsmedialtd.com
MANAGING DIRECTOR
Ian Kitchener, ian@allthingsmedialtd.com
SALES DIRECTOR
Kelly Byne, kelly@allthingsmedialtd.com
GROUP AD MANAGER
Claire Talty-Huelin, claire@allthingsmedialtd.com
CEO
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
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The editors and publishers do not necessarily agree with the views expressed by contributors, nor do they accept responsibility for any errors in the transmission of the subject matter in this publication. Whilst we make every effort to ensure that everything is factually correct, we cannot be held responsible if factual errors occur.
In all matters, the editor’s decision is final. Editorial contributions to Essential Install magazine are welcomed, and the editor reserves the right to alter or abridge text prior to the publication. All articles are copyright and remain the property of Essential Install magazine.
NEW MA SERIES AVRs
Stylish, intuitive, scalable, and attainable, JBL’s new Modern Audio (MA) Series of AVRs delivers classleading performance and lifestyle ease of use to a wide range of projects.
Developed by JBL engineers at Northridge, California, five affordable feature-rich models offer high-resolution AV processing, scalable power capabilities and channel counts from 5.2 to 9.2, combined with levels of lifestyle convenience new to the AVR market. Legendary JBL cinema sound has just become easier to access and enjoy.
To explore capabilities for your future projects and talk to us about help with system design and specification, please contact:
Fast, intuitive access to feature-rich capabilities
Effortless setup through the EZ Set EQ mobile app for iOS and Android
Gorgeous aesthetic and ergonomic design in white or black
CUK GROUP TO DISTRIBUTE CINEMA INNOVATIONS FROM DISPLAY TECHNOLOGIES AND C-ATS
AV distributor CUK Group has signed a deal to distribute the Display Technologies and C-ATS brands to residential and commercial integrators in the UK and Ireland.
Operating as synergistic companies within the umbrella of SRND Group, an established supplier of AV hardware and design support for luxury residential and commercial projects, Display Technologies and C-ATS will together provide CUK’s customers with the means to maximise the performance of their hardware choices in the widest range of custom design challenges.
Display Technologies Ltd specialises in advanced projector screen and mounting solutions. Its range includes projection screens for residential and commercial use, innovative projector mounts and mirrors, custom port hole solutions for discreet projector installations and effective airflow systems designed to cool audio/video components.
Complete Acoustic Treatment System (C-ATS) specialises in compact, highperformance acoustic treatment control panels and design services for residential and commercial room acoustic applications. C-ATS’ ‘3-Rs of Acoustics’ approach uses tailored control panel designs to limit the effects of
resonance, reverberation and reflection in any room. The shallow 50mm depth offers maximum performance across all frequencies for a minimal loss of valuable interior space.
SRND Group’s Neil Davidson said, “SRND Group is a specialist business helping our dealers and integrators deliver incredible results on their largest and most critical projects.
“For some time now, we have been seeking the right distribution partner to help grow our manufacturing brands in the wider install community. On meeting Stuart and the team at CUK, with their impressive combination of skills, ambition and infrastructure and the obvious
synergies between our companies, we realised that this would be the ideal partner to add as a distributor. This agreement has already led to great new opportunities for both companies to increase their business.”
CUK Group MD Stuart Thomson, added, “When every dedicated cinema room presents a unique custom design challenge, we’re delighted to be able to arm our customers with the peerless quality and innovation available from Display Technologies and C-ATS.”
CUK Group SRND Group cuk-group.com srnd.group
WEBRO PARTNERS WITH TRIOTRONIK
Webro Cables & Connectors is delighted to announce that the company has been appointed as the UK distribution partner for Triotronik SLIM Patch Leads. The innovative product lineup has been created to solve the long-standing problems of cable chaos and space limitations in server racks.
The portfolio carried by Webro is comprised of 90 lines in two main cable categories. First
up are Cat 6A SLIM Patch Leads, fully shielded and suitable for up to 10 Gigabit Ethernet and Power-over-Ethernet (PoE) applications, featuring an ‘indestructible’ plug. At only 3.8mm in diameter they are currently the thinnest on the market in the Cat 6A class.
Secondly, Cat 6 SLIM Patch Leads, suitable for up to 1 Gigabit and PoE applications, also featuring the same ‘indestructible plug’.
At 2.8mm in diameter they’re currently the thinnest on the market in the Cat 6 class, says the company.
All Triotronik SLIM Patch Leads are UL, CE, and UKCA certified. Cat 6 SLIM Patch Leads are available in ‘SLIM’, ‘SLIM LIGHT’ and ‘SLIM TOUGH’ options, and Cat 6A in ‘SLIM’ and ‘SLIM LIGHT’ options - in lengths from 0.15 to three metres.
Made with high-quality 100% copper wired, standard-compliant Triotronik SLIM patch leads are not only six times thinner than conventional patch cords, but they’re more flexible with a 90º bend radius - and they’re durable, says the supplier. They deliver fast data transmission up to 10 Gigabit Ethernet, and are a good option for PoE applications.
Webro Technical Lead, Gary Banfield said, “We’re delighted to have secured this exciting distribution partnership with Triotronik. Across the board the SLIM Patch Lead range delivers what our customers have been asking for –space saving solutions in network racks, and easy cable management. Finally, we have a solution to overcome cable ‘spaghetti’ clutter!”
Webro webro.com
New cable tie up
A new partnership for SRND Group and CUK Group
PUV-1082PL-4K22N
10x10 4K HDMI HDBaseT1 LITE Matrix with OAR, Audio I/O Zones and Full Audio Matrix
Unlock your AV potential with the PUV-1082PL-4K22N matrix! Seamlessly distribute stunning 4K video and rich audio from ten HDMI sources to eight HDBaseT and two HDMI outputs. Experience total control with advanced audio management, Optical Audio Return, and easy CEC automation. Perfect for any pro AV setup.
For product support contact: sales@cypeurope.com or vist our website: www.cypeurope.com
ANSELL LIGHTING LAUNCHES BESPOKE LED STRIP CUTTING SERVICE
Reducing installation time on site, Ansell Lighting has launched a new bespoke cutting service for its range of LED strip lighting.
Supplying product already pre-cut to required lengths, the new service is ideal for projects of all sizes and applications, explains
the company, with strips supplied pre-soldered or with all required joining accessories.
Offering personalised support, Ansell Lighting has a dedicated sales team on hand to guide customers through the bespoke cutting ordering process, ensuring every order meets
HENLEY AUDIO SECURES EXCLUSIVE PARTNERSHIP WITH PIEGA
Henley Audio has announced a new distribution partnership with PIEGA, a Swiss manufacturer of high-end loudspeakers. Effective immediately, Henley Audio will offer sales, technical support, service and marketing for all PIEGA products in the UK and Ireland.
PIEGA exports its products – known for PIEGA’s exclusive ribbon technology and seamless aluminium cabinets – to over 40 countries worldwide.
“We are delighted to work with Laurence and the Henley Audio team for the UK distribution of PIEGA loudspeakers,” said Manual Greiner, Managing Director at PIEGA.
“At PIEGA, we challenge ourselves and our customers to ‘Expect More’, and Henley Audio is a perfect extension of this philosophy thanks to its excellent reputation and skilled staff. We look forward to bringing more PIEGA products than ever before to UK customers who want to experience the best performance from their beloved music collection.”
“We are thrilled to be working with PIEGA,” added Managing Director of Henley Audio, Laurence Armstrong. “This announcement extends our commitment to the high-end audio sector with a brand that has a unique story to tell and an excellent global reputation. PIEGA’s ribbon technology, expert manufacturing
processes and familial approach to its staff make their products a worthwhile option for any customer interested in performance, aesthetics, and integrity. We can’t wait to get to work!”
Adding PIEGA to Henley Audio’s roster further enhances the distributor’s premium audio offerings in the UK, reinforcing its position in the high-end market. With PIEGA’s loudspeakers, Henley Audio can offer even more innovative solutions to discerning audiophiles.
specific requirements efficiently and accurately, says the company.
All bespoke LED strip orders are produced by Ansell’s in-house team and are both quality controlled and tested before shipment. Delivered within a maximum 72-hour turnaround time, they are also supported with a fiveyear warranty for peace of mind.
Ansell Lighting’s range of LED strip lighting incorporates eight different product lines, including C-CELL: COB, D-CELL: dim-to-warm, E-CELL: eco, H-CELL: high efficiency, K-CELL: single cut, P-CELL: professional, U-CELL: ultra long and Z-CELL: irregular bend.
All strip lighting is supplied with a selfadhesive back meaning no adhesive or fixings are required.
Mark Abbott, Managing Director at Ansell Lighting said, “We understand that off-the-shelf solutions aren’t always the most efficient for our customers on site. As part of our commitment to ensure product installations are as quick and easy as possible, we decided to launch the Bespoke LED Strip Cutting Service, providing tailored solutions that meet the exact needs of each project.”
Ansell Lighting ansell-lighting.com
In recognition of this growth, Henley Audio’s Ralph Ward, formerly Area Sales Manager at Henley Audio, has transitioned to the role of high-end specialist, highlighting the company’s commitment to delivering top-tier audio support.
Henley Audio PIEGA henleyaudio.co.uk piega.ch/de
New opportunity to interact with PIEGA in the UK
NEXUS AUDIO APPOINTED AS UK DISTRIBUTOR OF ESTELON LOUDSPEAKERS
Nexus Audio has been appointed as the exclusive UK distributor for Estelon, a manufacturer of high-end loudspeakers.
This partnership marks a significant step forward in bringing Estelon’s award-winning, state-of-the-art loudspeakers to discerning audiophiles and home audio enthusiasts throughout the United Kingdom.
Nexus Audio is recognised for its commitment to excellence in distributing premium audio and home entertainment systems. This new collaboration with Estelon enhances Nexus Audio’s product offerings, further establishing its position as a leading distributor in the UK’s high-fidelity audio market.
Estelon, headquartered in Estonia, has garnered global acclaim for its innovative loudspeaker designs, which combine cutting-edge technology with exceptional craftsmanship.
“We are incredibly excited to partner with Estelon and bring their extraordinary loudspeakers to our UK customers,” said Adam Curtis, of Nexus Audio. “Estelon’s commitment to pushing the boundaries of audio technology and design perfectly aligns with our mission to provide the finest audio solutions available. This partnership allows us to offer our clients
an unmatched audio experience with Estelon’s exquisite range of loudspeakers.”
As the exclusive distributor, Nexus Audio will offer an extensive selection of Estelon’s loudspeakers, including the flagship models, and provide comprehensive support services to ensure customers receive the highest level of service and technical assistance.
This collaboration is poised to elevate the UK audio market, offering greater access to Estelon’s innovative products.
“We are thrilled to collaborate with Nexus Audio, a company that shares our passion for high-quality audio and customer satisfaction,” added Ilias Koutromanos. “Their expertise and dedication to excellence make them the perfect partner to expand our presence in the UK market. We look forward to a successful partnership and to bringing the best of Estelon to a wider audience.”
Nexus Audio Estelon nexusaudio.co.uk estelon.com
CYP EUROPE ANNOUNCES TECHNICAL PARTNERSHIP WITH VISUALIZATION
CYP Europe has announced a technical partnership with Visualization, a provider of comprehensive AV services, specialising in delivering innovative and bespoke solutions for both residential and commercial sectors.
This collaboration represents an advancement in CYP’s commitment to delivering cutting-edge products that address the evolving needs of the residential and commercial sector.
Through this strategic partnership, CYP Europe will closely collaborate with Visualization, leveraging the company’s extensive expertise in commercial installations to test and refine its products in real-world scenarios, ensuring they meet the highest standards of performance and reliability.
This alliance also positions CYP products for specification within Visualization’s client projects, expanding their reach and impact and offering new, first-class solutions.
“Pioneering CYP as a viable option in the commercial sector is an exciting venture for us,” said Nick Pidgeon, Managing Director of Visualization. “We are eager to shape product development to meet our customer base’s specific needs, ensuring that the solutions we deliver are perfectly aligned with the demands of the commercial space.”
“Partnering with Visualization is an exhilarating opportunity for us,” added Marc
Waple, Managing Director at CYP Europe.
“Their unique perspective on the commercial installer’s mindset offers us invaluable insights. This collaboration allows us to rigorously test and develop our products in practical environments, ensuring they fulfil the needs of professionals in the field. It’s an exciting time for CYP, as we can now innovate and refine our solutions with direct feedback from experts who truly understand the demands of the commercial space.”
This partnership between CYP Europe and Visualization UK is poised to drive
significant advancements in AV solutions for the commercial sector.
By merging CYP’s expertise in product development and manufacturing with Visualization’s engineering heritage and industry insights, the collaboration aims to deliver innovative, precisely tailored solutions to the market.
CYP Europe Vizualisation cypeurope.com vizuk.com
Estelon performance now available in the UK
ESSENTIAL PEOPLE
Cornflake, a leading London audio-visual and home automation integration supplier for super-prime residential homes, luxury hotels and branded residences, has announced the appointment of Nate Hagemeier as a Consultant Strategic Board Advisor.
In his new role, Nate will leverage his extensive experience and deep industry knowledge to provide strategic guidance as Cornflake continues to expand its market presence and enhance its product offerings through new and existing channels. With a distinguished career that includes key leadership positions at Lutron and service in multiple overseas tours for the United States Army, Nate brings a wealth of expertise in technology, international operations and rigorous corporate and enterprise-level strategy that will be instrumental in driving Cornflake’s next phase of growth.
“Nate’s appointment marks a significant milestone for our company, and the beginning of a whole raft of exciting appointments and developments we will be announcing in the coming year,” said Robin Shephard, CEO of Cornflake. “His insights and proven track record will be invaluable as we continue to innovate and deliver cutting-edge solutions to our customers,
cementing Cornflake’s existing position as a market leader.”
Nate added, “I am excited to join Cornflake at such a pivotal time and look forward to contributing to its continued success and leadership in the sector.”
ANATECH Distribution has introduced Paul Bayliss as the company’s new National Sales Manager. Paul brings a wealth of experience in the custom install and Hi-Fi industry, with a strong background in sales management and a passion for delivering outstanding customer service. His expertise and commitment make him an excellent fit for ANATECH and a valuable resource to support the company’s partners.
L-Acoustics, experiencing record-breaking growth, has announced a strategic restructuring and significant expansion of its Europe, Middle East, and Africa (EMEA) sales team. This move, led by recently appointed Director of Sales EMEA, Tim Völker, introduces a new ‘Head of Sales’ management position and key hires designed to meet the increasing sophistication and scale of projects in the region.
Chris Mead has been named Head of Sales Middle East, India, Africa & Eurasia at L-Acoustics. The company has also announced the promotion of three other long-standing
team members to newly created Head of Sales positions, Paul McMullan (Northern Europe), Tim McCall (South-Western Europe), and Steffen Luuk (Central & Eastern Europe). With a total of 28 years of experience at L-Acoustics and a proven track record in the professional audio industry, this sales management team is positioned to lead the company in the future.
L-Acoustics also welcomed three new sales managers: Cyril Matar (Middle East), Thomas Williams and Tom Macklin (UK & Ireland).
The Head of Sales teams will work in concert under the leadership of newly appointed Director of Sales EMEA Tim Völker, an industry veteran with a proven track record in driving sales growth and market expansion at dynamic companies like Sony Music Entertainment and Sennheiser.
Swedish digital audio pioneer Dirac has announced the appointment of Anders Storm as Chief Executive Officer. Anders’ appointment as CEO comes at a time when the company is experiencing record breaking growth in the automotive and home audio markets, driven by new and expanded commercial partnerships with some of the industry’s biggest players – as consumer demand for premium sound across all platforms continues to grow.
Nate Hagemeier
Paul McMullan
Paul Bayliss
Tim McCall
Chris Mead
Steffen Luuk
ENTER THE IMMERSIVE WORLD OF INFRASONICS
SMSG50, 50-inch Active Infrasonic Subwoofer
Beyond the audible range and the limits of traditional subwoofers, infrasonic frequencies add a new dimension to the experience of home cinema immersion. For years Ascendo Immersive Audio has been perfecting their delivery, overcoming huge technical and performance challenges to create a range of infrasonic subwoofers that generates pressure waves as low as 5Hz, reproducing the hidden frequencies and harmonics in your film and music content you don’t hear but feel all around you. In this way, Ascendo defines the difference between merely listening and being there!
Infrasonic models include THE 24 SUB (24-inch driver), THE 32 SUB (32-inch driver), THE 50 SUB (50-inch driver) and the THE 80 SUB (80-inch driver).
Further information: 01423 358846, info@karma-av.co.uk, www.karma-av.co.uk
NEW SONY AND EPSON PROJECTOR LINE-UPS AT AWE
In September, Sony and Epson – the market leaders in home cinema projectors – announced new models for the CI market. AWE sums up the impact.
The features and quality presented by these projectors is outstanding, with hyper realistic imagery that pops on screen – like you can walk right into the picture. This is peak projector performance.
Visitors to EI Live! got the unique opportunity to experience the new projectors, and the reactions said it all.
James Drummie, Product Manager at AWE, described the response from installers after two days of demos on the show floor:
“The new Sony projector line-up is the best we’ve ever seen and the reaction at EI Live! has been phenomenal. The sushi demo looked so good, installers could almost taste the image. With comments from ‘wow’ to ‘when can I get one?’, we’re all very excited to have the new models in our portfolio at AWE.”
Chris Sullivan, Account Manager, Epson UK hosted demos in the Epson Demo Room at the AWE Village, he commented, “We had an incredible response to the new Epson line-up during EI Live!. Installers particularly loved the exceptional brightness and interchangeable lens options of the EH-QL Series, which now provide an even wider scope of installation possibilities.”
ALL THINGS BRIGHT AND BEAUTIFUL - NEW! EPSON 4K HDR Q-SERIES PROJECTORS
Hot of the press, Epson has released three superb high- end professional home laser projectors. These projectors will be available from November and bookings are now open to experience the new models at the AWE Performance Cinema demo room in Epsom.
The new EH-Q series brings cutting edge technology and large bright images up to 10,000 lumens for a superior home entertainment experience. Ideal for movies, sport and gaming, the line-up adds three brand new models to the range, each available in either black or white.
THE DETAILS
Each projector is powered by advanced 3LCD laser technology to deliver 4K images with exceptional colour for immersive big
screen entertainment – up to 300” (model dependent). The EH-QL7000 is 10,000lm for ultra-bright engaging experiences, while the EH-QL3000 has 6,000lm and the EHQB1000 has 3,300lm.
A 5,000,000:1 dynamic contrast ratio offers well-defined shadows and even deeper blacks, while a 4K frame interpolation ensures smooth images and super resolution to preserve detail in every scene.
ADVANCED FEATURES
Dynamic Tone Mapping enhances visual quality on a frame-by-frame basis, and HDR10+ for the EH-QB1000 and HDR10 for the EHQL3000 and EH-QL7000, provide more vivid and lifelike colours. With HDMI 2.1 connectivity, a 4K/120hz refresh and Auto Low Latency Mode, they offer a smooth gaming experience, while spectacular image quality and large screen size make them ideal for sport simulation.
The EH-QL3000 and EH-QL7000 are compatible with a wide range of interchangeable lenses and can be easily configured to provide the desired image size, at optimal quality, in any media space. Options such as an ultra-short throw, zero-offset lens that allows them to be discreetly installed on surfaces such as ceilings are included.
The motorised lens shift with large range, coupled with motorised zoom and focus, make the projectors fast and easy to set up, while its near-instant warm-up and cool-down times contribute to its outstanding convenience, energy-efficiency and long (20,000 hour) laser life.
POWERFUL PROCESSING – NEW! SONY NATIVE 4K SXRD LASER PROJECTORS
Big news for the industry, Sony has announced two new home cinema projectors which will be available from AWE later this year.
Visitors to the AWE Reference Cinema demo space in Epsom will have a unique opportunity to experience Sony’s BRAVIA Projector 8 (VPL-XW6100ES) and BRAVIA Projector 9 (VPL-XW8100ES) side by side, and enjoy a ‘Pro Cinematic HDR’ experience, thanks to the powerful new XR for Projector processor.
THE DETAILS
The new projectors from Sony feature a host of high-performance SONY XR Technologies, including:
• XR Dynamic Tone Mapping to optimise frame by frame brightness
• XR Deep Black to enhance dark scenes with even deeper blacks
• XR Triluminos Pro for improved colour volume, and
• XR Clear Image which analyses individual objects frame-by-frame and expresses textures as close to reality as possible, down to the finest details
ADVANCED FEATURES
The projectors are ultra-compact and lightweight and offer easy integration with all major control platforms. They also work seamlessly with industry standard remote management and monitoring systems from OvrC and Domotz.
Installers will also value Sony’s investment in a more sustainable design which sees each projector equipped with a mercury-free laser light source.
BOOK YOUR DEMO AT THE AWE SHOW APARTMENT IN EPSOM
As if you needed more reasons to visit the AWE Show Apartment, you can now see the new Sony and Epson projectors, as well as the latest products from Adeo, Bowers & Wilkins, Classé, Denon, HDAnywhere, HEOS, Hisense, LG, Marantz, Panasonic, Sanus, Silent Gliss, Stealth Acoustics and URC.
To book your visit, head to awe-europe.com
#TEAMTFC’S INSPIRING LONDON TO BRIGHTON JOURNEY CYCLING FOR A CAUSE:
On September 15, a determined team of 37 cyclists and one intrepid runner embarked on the iconic London to Brighton Cycle Ride, united by a shared mission: to support Together For Cinema (TFC). Their collective effort not only conquered the challenging 55-mile journey but also raised over £20,000, significantly contributing to TFC’s goal of installing cinema rooms in children’s hospices and other worthy causes.
The ride was organised by TFC founder, Ian Morrish, and the team was a collective of people from various corners of the AV industry. Each with their own reasons for taking part, but with the united aim of bringing a little joy into the lives of those facing difficult times.
Despite the range of cycling abilities, and the challenge of the climb up the infamous Ditchling Beacon just before the end of the race, camaraderie and a shared purpose propelled everyone to the finish line.
Chris Pinder, founder of OneAV and HDA, and a TFC Board Director, who has completed a number of challenging fund-raising runs for TFC, including the ‘world’s toughest footrace’, the Marathon des Sables, chose to run the entire distance, completing it in around nine hours. Reflecting on his motivation, Chris says, “Visiting a project at the Rose Road respite centre made me appreciate how fortunate I am. I wanted to use my abilities to help.”
Cyclist Phil Hardaway from Origin Acoustics delivered an impressive performance, finishing 55th out of over 7,000 riders with a time of 3 hours and 20 minutes.
Many participants were driven by personal connections to TFC’s mission. Young rider
Freddie Wilkins, aged 12, pedalled alongside his father, Ross Wilkins from KBO Security. “Dad told me about the children that TFC helps,” Freddie shares. “I really want to help raise as much as I can for them.”
“After seeing firsthand the fantastic work that Together For Cinema does, it was a no-brainer to help raise money,” adds Matt McLernon from LILIN. “I spoke to Ian about taking part in the London to Brighton in aid of TFC. The first time, it was three of us; now, it’s over 30, which is excellent.”
Adam Marshall of Monitor Audio highlights the importance of corporate responsibility. “Being a successful organisation isn’t just about products or profits, but how you can positively change people’s lives,” he says. “Together For Cinema makes a profound difference, and I’m proud to support such a fantastic cause.”
“The impact TFC has on families is remarkable,” echoes Matt Nimmons of CEDIA. “I’m proud to see our industry uniting for this fantastic cause.”
Some participants went above and beyond to support the cause. Hussein Jodiyawalla of Audioflow took on an extended challenge. “TFC is an excellent organisation that brings
An impressive turnout supporting Together For Cinema
L/R Chris Pinder and Ian Morrish
joy to children in need, and it’s a pleasure for Audioflow to support it. I rode from home in West London to the start and then from Brighton back home, totalling around 140 miles for this great cause.”
Others overcame personal hurdles, as Samsung’s Kris Hogg shares, “The work TFC does is utterly brilliant. Having had spinal surgery two years ago, I’m not fully recovered and in pain most days. It’s a proper challenge, but doing this for TFC and the lives they touch is inspirational.”
The event was bolstered by generous sponsorships. The team’s cycling shirts were sponsored by industry leaders including Monitor Audio, LILIN, KEF, OneAV, HDA, Dellicompagni, Audioflow, CEDIA EMEA, and Officina Acustica. Alltrade Distribution sponsored the post-race drinks reception, a welcome respite after the challenging ride.
The success of the event underscores the power of unity within the industry, as Dan
Winterton from Antiference emphasises, “Supporting Ian and the team was delightful. As a collective industry, if we all contribute a small amount of our time and money, this amazing initiative can make such a big difference.”
“The London to Brighton event was more than a physical journey for all of us who took part,” Ian concludes. “It underlined the industry’s commitment to making a positive impact. People’s willingness to not only donate their time and products for free, but to take the time to and effort to fund raise, never ceases to amaze and inspire me. This very welcome financial donation continues to support TFC’s ongoing projects, bringing joy and comfort to children and families who need it most.”
togetherforcinema.co.uk
Team CEDIA - Matt Nimmons and Steve Carter
A welcome respite after the challenging ride
Team Alltrade - Steve Simper, Nick Cornwall and Simon Hodges
Take your listening experiences to new heights.
The all-new 8” ln-Ceiling Speakers by Sonos and Sonance feature completely new acoustic components, offering natural, room-filling sound with discrete installation.
Pre-order now at your distributor
SMART BUILDING AWARD WINNERS ANNOUNCED!
The Smart Building Awards winners were announced on Wednesday, September 18 in their new home of the Inspire Suite at Farnborough Exhibition Centre, also the home, of course, of EI Live! 2024. With a new venue, this now larger event is increasing in importance and impact year on year; don’t forget to enter in 2025! (smartbuildingawards.com). For full story and pics, check out our sister website: essentialinstall.com.
PRODUCT CATEGORIES
Best Dedicated Touch Screen / Controller
Rithum Switch Pro
Rithum Ltd
Best Exterior AV Product
StingRay
Stealth Acoustics
Distributed By AWE Europe
Best In-Wall or In-Ceiling Speaker
KEF THX Certified CI Speakers
KEF
Distributed By One AV
Best Integrated TV Display
Barco Northern Light Series (Bi-Frost)
Barco
Distributed By DbM
Best Lighting Control
RLED30CV4+
Rako Controls Ltd
Best Matrix / Signal Distribution
MHUB S
HDA
Best Multi Room Zone Music System
HEOS Eco system
Denon
Distributed by AWE Europe
Best Projector
Nerthus
Barco
Distributed By DbM
Best Projector Screen
MASK Gen 5 Projection Screen
Cinema Build Systems
Best Rack or Mounting Product EAD-S
Future Automation
Best Security Solution
2N IP One Intercom
2N
Distributed By Aldous Systems
Best Standalone Speaker
Model S Soundbar
Steinway Lyngdorf
Best Software Release / Update Rako R1 App
Rako Controls Ltd
Best TV Display Conventional
Sony BRAVIA 9
Sony
Distributed By AWE Europe
PROJECT CATEGORIES
Best Commercial Integration Project
Joali Being Resort
Snap One
Best Home Cinema Project Over £50,000
Surrey Cinema
DPP Smart Home & Electrical
Best Home Cinema Project Under £50,000
The Uplands
Cinema Luxe & IndigoZest
Best Media Room Over £50,000
Leeds Family Media Room
Bespoke Home Cinemas
Best Media Room Under £50,000 Media Room – Surrey IndigoZest Ltd
Best Multi Dwelling Unit Harcourt House Inspired Dwellings
Best Rack Installation
KEF Music Gallery London Nucleus AV
Best Whole Home Integration Project Seahorses Moss Technical Services
COMPANY CATEGORIES
Installer of the Year Nucleus AV
Best Training Rako Controls Ltd
Distributor of the Year
AWE Europe
Manufacturer of the Year
Sanus
SPECIAL RECOGNITION AWARD
Ian Morrish
Together For Cinema
BORN IN THE USA!
It is an industry fact that the smart home and luxury AV industry was, in no small part, created in the USA. This is especially true for Pulse Cinemas and Invision, as several key brands are from the other side of the pond. So, it makes complete sense to make the annual trip to the CEDIA Expo. Pulse Cinemas’ Managing Director, Mike Beatty, and Michael Roberts, Business Manager at Invision UK, report back on the key events and news.
madVR had a storming show, the best ever, reported the company, picking up several awards for the new entry-level Envy Core, which continues to generate lots of interest from both established and new customers.
Michael explains, “madVR won an impressive three awards specifically for the Envy Core. The accolades included AVS Forum Best of Show, Projector Central Best of Show, CEPro Best Products of 2024, and the company also picked up AVS Forum Best of Show, CEDIA 2024, Demo Room with madVR Labs’ partners using the Envy Extreme MK2. This really underlines what the company has achieved with its new release, offering a new point of entry for this powerful platform. The product begins shipping this autumn, and orders have already been strong, so it’s highly recommended to get your order in early.
“We are holding another Pulse Cinemas Open day on October 4, where madVR and many other products will be showcased. Get in touch for more details and your chance to learn more about madVR and the complementary brands on show at Pulse Cinemas HQ.”
Over on the AVA stand, business was also brisk, with visitors checking out the recently released AVA Cinema Remote. Mike says,
“As the saying goes, ‘When America sneezes, the world catches a cold’. This phrase highlights the reality that, as a global leader, America’s actions have a profound impact on nations worldwide. “In this context, AVA has made waves, and for those committed to providing their clients with cutting-edge technology, it’s essential to take a closer look at this brand. Their innovations could very well shape the future landscape of the industry. If you’re interested in learning more about this brilliant company and how you can get involved, get in touch to find out when the next webinar is, where you can learn more about the brand and its products.”
Introduced last year, the AVA Cinema Remote has been designed to revolutionise home entertainment experiences. This fully programmable remote, based on the Android OS, boasts a combination of a dynamic keypad and 3D physical touch interface. When users switch from one function to another, the dynamic keypad reconfigures automatically and instantly. Macros are easy to create and configure, and it’s possible to launch a native app as part of a macro. The remote is powerful enough to control one room or the whole home.
L/R Richard Liftosky, CEO and co-founder, madVR, Michael Roberts, Business Manager, Invision UK, Mike Beatty, MD, Pulse Cinemas, Joey Peacock - madVR Labs
Shannon Gustafson, International Sales Manager Screen Innovations and Helma Paulson, Vice President at International AV Sales, welcome our team
The Kaleidescape stand enjoyed some genuine star power with a guest appearance from Hollywood director and writer Barry Sonnenfeld, who signed copies of his new book, which promises to lift the lid on how Hollywood really works. Barry directed The Addams Family and its sequel Addams Family Values, Get Shorty, and the Men in Black trilogy, among many others. Barry gave this year’s Expo keynote, sharing his views on filmmaking and technology—some really interesting stuff.
Kaleidescape was also a brand that picked up awards at the show. The recently announced Strato V won the CEDIA Manufacturer Product Award for Best New Hardware and was also recognised by Projector Central and TechRadar for the same product.
Mike comments, “A strong theme of the show for us, and I think for the industry in general, is high-performance brands adding more ‘affordable’ versions of their platforms to their line-up. This not only makes the technology available to a wider audience, but also makes the same abilities accessible to a larger number of projects, which has to be a good thing. “Installers can see the Strato V demonstrated at Pulse Cinemas HQ. The company also recently announced a slew of firmware upgrades that bring much of the promised functionality at launch to this new product.”
Trinnov made a big splash at the event with a highly impressive demo on the show floor, involving its own abilities in partnership
with madVR and Kaleidescape. Designed to show how WaveForming technology heightens detail and immersive experiences in a home cinema environment, the demonstration was one of the most impressive at the show. Michael underlines, “This technology is highly impressive. If you haven’t experienced it yet and want to find out more, get in touch—it can be experienced at Pulse Cinemas HQ. We are sure you will be impressed and will want to find out how to implement this next-level tech in your projects.”
The Screen Innovations (SI) stand was packed with visitors checking out the Zero G Pro and Black Diamond Fusion concepts.
Zero G Pro is an advanced ALR levitating projection screen that combines a massive size (up to 300 inches diagonally) with up to 16ft of levitation, delivering an immersive viewing experience. This technology is suitable for commercial projects but could also be implemented in large domestic situations as well.
The new Black Diamond Fusion picked up a CEDIA Best Of Show Award from Projector Central and was so new that few details were released ahead of the show.
Michael reveals, “Black Diamond Fusion continues with the company’s ability to cope with projection in high-ambient light conditions. The show was an excellent chance for the brand to showcase these abilities, with the new product performing extremely well even in the very bright space that is an exhibition hall.”
The Paradigm/Anthem stand played to packed houses with a demo that mixed the Founder Series floor-standers and the P1 from the CI Pro series. The company was also discussing new finishes available on the Founder Series, which include Ruby Frostbite, Frozen Charcoal, and Azure Ice.
Mike adds, “Paradigm also revealed details of a new in-wall subwoofer product, the SFC12SW, suitable for new build and retrofitting projects. Technology inside promotes strong bass production but lessens vibration. There is also a bezel-free grille design to promote good aesthetics. More news on this soon.”
The Krix team highlighted the advantages of the latest additions to the maker’s line-up, the OWX-50 and OWX-55. These high-performance, on-wall speakers have been created to deliver cinematic sound to any home without compromising on space or style. A strong choice for media rooms, games rooms or dedicated home cinemas, the OWX-50 and OWX-55 deliver the precision and impact Krix is known for, all from a compact, Australian-made design. Engineered for high power handling and sensitivity, every sound is delivered with power and dynamic range resulting in a more immersive, engaging experience. Ask for more detail on this exciting addition.
After a long day of checking out the show, what better way to relax and continue discovering than to stop by the Fortress Seating stand and experience the new CineMilano being featured at the show? Crafted with meticulous attention to detail and designed to elevate any cinematic experience to new heights, the CineMilano has been created to redefine the concept of relaxation. With sumptuous upholstery, tailored for maximum comfort during marathon movie nights, the CineMilano seamlessly blends into any modern home theatre, while its ergonomic construction ensures optimal support for hours of immersive viewing pleasure.
Mike enthuses, “Nobody makes better home cinema seating than Fortress Seating, and this new product just underlines that. Get in touch for more information.” Pulse Cinemas Invision UK pulsecinemas.com invisionuk.com
Film Director, Barry Sonnenfeld, meets Mike
L/R Tayloe Stansbury Kaleidescape CEO, Mike and Tim Barnes, VP International & Marine Sales, Kaleidescape
Gabbi Wolper, President, Fortress Seating, pictured with Mike
Mike meets Priscilla Morgan, Chief Operating Officer, Kaleidescape
COMPLETE YOUR CINEMA DESIGN VISION
Maximise performance and practicality of your cinema designs with a uniquely powerful union of Display Technologies screen/projector installation solutions and C-ATS room treatments, now available from CUK, says MD Stuart Thomson.
In an era of rising channel counts and AV resolutions, SPL EQ, acoustics, and RP22, designers need innovation to help them get the most from any space. Which is why we’re delighted to be strengthening our home cinema service repertoire with two new brands designed to do just that.
Operating as synergistic companies within the umbrella of SRND Group, an established supplier of AV hardware and design support for luxury residential and commercial projects, Display Technologies screen/projector installation solutions and C-ATS room treatments will together provide you with the means to maximise the performance of your hardware choices in any design scenario, making the end goal of ‘immersion’ much easier to achieve.
COVERT ACTION
Display Technologies Ltd (DT) specialises in advanced projection and display solutions focussed on delivering high technical performance and aesthetic results. Its range includes proprietary masking projection screens, innovative projector mounts and mirrors for discreet installation, custom port hole solutions, ‘hush boxes’, and effective airflow systems designed to cool audio/video components.
SMARTER MASKING
Available in a range of sizes (up to 1170cm) and with a choice of surface technologies, DT’s 4-way, 2-way side and top/bottom motorised masking screens employ the proprietary Mask Position Logic (MPL) system. It enables the screen to calculate the exact location where the masks should be positioned for any requested aspect ratio in the supported range (variable width 1.33 to 2.40:1; variable height 1.78 to 2.40:1). With MPL, setting mask presets is no longer required. What’s more, DT’s proprietary ‘Whispertec’ motor system is super quiet, running at a class-leading 30dB. IP and RS232 control comes as standard. Complementing the motorised masking products are two fixed-frame models with simple through-frame screw fixings and front-loading image surface fitting for easy installation: Contempo, with a micro-bezel surround, and Frontier, with a velvet surround.
PROJECTOR MOUNTS FOR TIGHT SPACES
There’s as much innovation opposite the screen. Alongside the DT Ceiling Mount, which is an adjustable, two-part mounting bracket designed for easy, low-profile installation, Display Technologies offers vertical on-wall projector mounts in two sizes for reduced install depth applications, featuring high-performance optical mirrors (with 97% reflectivity), a universal projector interface, and flexible configuration to handle all installation scenarios. Stepping up the aesthetic appeal, DT’s Motorised Mirror Drop mounts for in-ceiling installation incorporate a dual high-performance optical mirror system, which activates when the projector is operational. Only the mirror system, not the projector itself, is visible in use. And for spacecritical applications which demand that the projector be mounted parallel to the screen, the DT Side Mirror mount is available in two sizes.
SILENT RUNNING AND COOLING
To inhibit projector noise, DT’s range of ‘hush box’ projector enclosures in four sizes delivers effective dampening and a simple interface to the DT ‘Mistral’ air movement system, which comprises the Mistral Commander 2-zone, PID controller and a choice of three in-line fan modules. Mistral cooling is also an advantage when mounting the projector inside the wall, firing through DT’s double and single-glazed Port Hole designs, each featuring a magnetic faceplate and RAL colour finish options.
INNOVATIVE ROOM TREATMENT COMPLETES THE DOUBLE ACT
Complete Acoustic Treatment System (C-ATS) specialises in compact, high performance acoustic treatment design services, control panels and accessories for residential and commercial room acoustic applications. Its unique “3-Rs of Acoustics” approach uses tailored control panel designs to limit the effects of resonance, reverberation and reflection in any room. With an impressively shallow 50mm depth, the specialised control panels combine to create a comprehensive, repeatable, easy-to-install solution that offers maximum performance across all frequencies for a minimal loss of valuable interior space.
For space critical applications, DT’s innovative mirror mounts can locate the projector in-ceiling, vertically and side-on to the screen without compromising performance
NO MORE ‘IF ONLYS’
In a unique offering to our customers, Display Technologies and C-ATS will act synergistically to optimise practicality and performance in any design scenario while complementing JBL Synthesis, SIM2, Focal, Powersoft and Pavone seating within CUK’s end-to-end home cinema design offering, now available for handson experiences at our Ascot showroom and training centre.
For further information, please contact: +44 (0) 141 440 5333, enquiries@cuk-group.com cuk-group.com
With a depth of just 50mm, C-ATS’ specialised resonance, reverberation and reflection control panels combine in a comprehensive and repeatable solution that is easy to install and integrate
DESIGN & CONSULTING
With our experience of smart home integrations and BMS, we can bridge the gap between the AV and HVAC worlds, designing systems that take full account of how the client wants to use them. We offer a range of services from consulting to complete system design.
MONITORING & DIAGNOSTICS
All our solutions include advanced cloud-based monitoring for analysing system performance and fault reporting. Turn a reactive response into a proactive call to inform clients that their problem has been resolved, even before they knew they had one.
Multi-platform smart home integration tailors the experience to the client - whether that is elegant in-room controls, or virtually invisible sensors with App-based controls. All backed up with sophisticated installer tools.
AWE EUROPE DOUBLES DOWN ON HIGH-PERFORMANCE HOME CINEMA
EI presents a fulsome tour of the AWE Show Apartment with new additions and performance enhancements galore.
James Drummie, AWE’s resident Home Cinema Wizard, explains, “This year we celebrated the tenth anniversary of our Show Apartment, a facility that sets a high bar for a custom installation demonstration space within a trade supplier. It’s a lifestyle-orientated space, located in Epsom in Surrey, and has evolved in line with product development and the needs of our business and customers. It’s now an established go-to destination for UK integrators.
“The showroom first opened in 2014 and is updated each year to coincide with our annual Expo event. While product is continually upgraded, the apartment itself has also seen significant changes in its 10-year history. In the last 12 months alone, we’ve welcomed over 1,000 visitors to our show apartment.”
James adds, “We are fortunate to have a spacious and highly flexible showroom.
The footprint of the show apartment has largely remained the same, however we have added new features and changed rooms to accommodate new industry trends, for example our old music room is now the Boardroom, while our Training Room now doubles as an audio showcase space.
“The main apartment is open plan, making it a very adaptable space, and we have two different sized cinemas which perfectly showcase typical, high-end dedicated home cinema installs.”
The overall objective for the Show Apartment is to enable integrators to take projects to the next level and therefore increase order values. It is an informal space with great coffee and seating areas, helping integrators and home-owners to feel at home and relaxed.
TOUR TIME
The Show Apartment features the main apartment, which is divided into five areas, plus two dedicated cinema rooms, a board/ media room, a music room, product gallery and comms/equipment room.
The facility is controlled by URC, including automation from sensors and alarm status, handheld remotes, touchscreens, mobile devices and voice control.
The Main apartment includes five zones including a study, games room, living room and kitchen, each including multi-room audio, 4K video distribution, lighting control and window shading. Each zone can be individually controlled and demonstrated, but the technical team has also created apartment wide themes like ‘daytime’, chill out’ and ‘funky for a one touch experience.
The Performance Cinema is designed to showcase a dedicated home cinema space typical of a single garage or basement/loft room. Equipment installed is a 7.4.4 configuration with a price range from £25k to £50k SRP. This cinema is carefully designed to sit in the sweet spot price-range for a dedicated room, with all equipment located in the space.
The Reference Cinema was created to showcase a larger home cinema space typical of a more spacious home. Equipment installed is a 9.4.6 configuration with a price range from £80k to £200k.
This cinema is suitable for eight people and has incorporated upgrades giving consideration to the new CEDIA/CTA-RP22 Immersive Audio
Design Recommended Practice.
James underlines, “One notable feature is the triple projector stack located in the room - unlike a residential installation, we need to swap and seamlessly switch between multiple projectors for back-to-back-demos. All other equipment is in the adjacent comms
room which is separately air conditioned and noise isolated.”
The Music Room provides a tranquil environment in which to enjoy a variety of audio systems from £299 to £50,000 upwards. Demos can be anything from a turntable to uncompressed hi-res audio, all seamlessly switchable in an instant. The room also features a modest 5.1.2 TV-based media room installation with system SRP IRO £15k.
Both cinemas has undergone recent upgrades
The Board Room is new for 2024, and is used to hold meetings with staff, trade customers and their clients. This room features a ‘resimercial’ system, appealing to clients that may also own a home office or business premises, housed in a custom-made media wall. The room has laptop and Teams camera connectivity as well as a 3.2 audio system with a performance that the distributor says defies the mid-market price. Lastly, the Gallery is a versatile space featuring permanent and temporary displays that can be themed to different events.
Naturally all this investment and expertise has a purpose, James says, “The benefits of our Show Apartment are three-fold. Firstly, we distribute some of the best brands in the industry, whose products need to be demonstrated to their full potential. Integrators need to know the ins and outs of the individual products they specify, how these products integrate with other brands, and how they appear visually for the end client.
“Secondly, our facility provides an inspiring hands-on training environment for integrators. Throughout the year we host CEDIA training courses, brand-specific training events, as well as in-person training courses for integrators of all levels, incorporating all aspects of integrated technology, home cinema audio, home cinema projection, video distribution, home automation, and control.”
James concludes, “And thirdly, the Show Apartment inspires confidence from integrators and clients, providing an opportunity to experience the products as part of a solution before investing. Homeowners want to know what they are getting for their money and understand how it will enhance their lifestyle. There is nothing like sitting in an incredible audio or movie demo and having the hairs stand up on the back of your neck to seal the deal.
It’s a place for integrators and their clients to see, hear and experience every product in a true-to-life environment.”
PARTNERSHIPS
AWE works with all its distributed brands to ensure the Show Apartment is the ideal demo space to present each product at its full potential.
For the design and build of the project, AWE works with several external companies. In what was essentially a warehouse when the company took the building on, AWE worked with a construction company to develop the internal wall structure, air-conditioning and kitchen area of the show apartment.
However Jamies proudly remarks, “Every bit of electronics, from lighting, to control, to AV and rack-build, was designed and installed by our team of experts in-house. We consider this an integral part to the success of the facility and gives integrators and manufacturers great confidence in the design and support services we provide.”
In the cinemas, AWE has used a cinema fabric wall system supplied by Cinema Build Systems. Other partners include cinema video calibration performed by Christiaan Beukes at Cinema Lusso. In the Boardroom there is a custom media wall cabinet by Digital Furniture.
HOME CINEMA FOCUS
For strong impact, the AWE Performance Room Home Cinema includes an Epson LS12000 projector coupled with an ADEO screen. The audio package (7.4.4) is powered by a combination of Bowers & Wilkins 700 Series architectural loudspeakers and 600 Series in-ceiling speakers and inwall subwoofers. Bowers & Wilkins back boxes provide increased sound insulation and performance – ideal for refit and new projects alike. All of this is driven by a Marantz AV receiver plus Marantz AMP10 power amplifier. The four subwoofers are driven by Bowers & Wilkins CDA2-HD amplifiers, all discretely located in a Sanus rack within the room.
wifi6 wireless access point
Dual band WiFi6 access point
Gb ports for superfast broadband
Simple on-board set up
Long signal range
220+ users
In the Reference Cinema, you’ll find a 4m Adeo MovieMask LR Screen and three native 4K Sony Projectors including the powerful Sony VPL-GTZ380 with 10,000 lumens of brightness. The audio package is configured as 9.4.6 - ideal for larger rooms – which includes a Dolby Atmos 9.4.6 setup comprised of Bowers & Wilkins 800 Diamond Series speakers with dedicated backboxes. Powering this room is the Marantz AMP10. All this power is being processed by the muscular AV10 AV Pre-Amplifier with its 15.4 channel processing. For style and comfort, the Reference Cinema includes Front Row seating.
As for favourite demo clips? James says, “We like the old favourites, because even though we’ve seen and heard them many times, it’s often the first experience for the client. These are some of the best that we’ve found for demonstrating audio: A Star is Born, Top Gun Maverick, Bohemian Rhapsody
Ultimately, recent upgrades and additions to the Show Apartment have really expanded the company’s ability to show off its whole range and the cinemas in particular are very impressive and are well worth a visit. Customers can book a showroom visit at www.awe-europe.com or call to make an appointment.
AWE Europe awe-europe.com
The cinema rooms and other spaces to are always evolving
MARKUP VS. MARGIN: THE IMPORTANT DIFFERENCE
Many smart home professionals are guilty of using the terms markup and margin interchangeably. But should they? The easy answer is no. Markup and margin are distinct values and impact your bottom line differently. To better understand the costs and profits for your business, you need to keep the figures straight and separate.
WHAT IS MARK-UP?
The simplest explanation of a markup is that it is the difference between the cost of a material or service and the sales price a contractor charges for the material or service. The figure is always based on the cost of the job. For example, if you want to mark up the cost of material and labour by 1.50, then you would multiply the costs by 1.50 to reach the sales price. For example: £6,500 x 1.50 = £9,750.
Because the markup you use determines your sales price, it’s an incredibly important figure. Without a proper understanding of a markup, smart home tech pros won’t be able to give well-educated estimates and may be bidding on projects while missing an opportunity to increase their profits.
WHAT IS A MARGIN?
A margin, or more accurately a gross margin, is a contractor’s gross profit on a job and is a percentage of the sales price. While a markup is always based on job costs, a margin is always based on sales. A 50 percent markup, like the example calculation above, will not equal a 50 percent margin. The additional price above the job costs is only one-third of the sales price, therefore it’s a 33.3 percent margin.
MARK-UP VS MARGIN: DIFFERENT CALCULATIONS
This misunderstanding leads many contractors to use gross margin incorrectly, which will give them the wrong calculations. This can lead to inaccurate estimates and lost profits. Whatever
percentage of gross margin you want, you should subtract that number from one. Then, divide the estimated job costs by that figure.
For example, if you are seeking a margin of 35 percent, you would subtract .35 from one, getting .65. Then, divide the estimated job costs by .65 to find the amount needed to reach a sale price with the correct gross margin: £6,500 / .65 = £10,000.
HOW DOES THIS HELP ME PRICE JOBS?
Both markup and margin can be used to determine the price a contractor will charge for a job. If smart home professionals want to use a margin to price jobs, they must determine the goal they want to hit.
Above, the contractor wanted a margin of 35 percent, then used the reciprocal of that margin to determine the sales price. Contractors can also use a markup to make a profit on a job, but without the proper calculations, they may not hit their margin goal.
For more tips and expert guidance on smart home automation, join CEDIA today. Learn from industry leaders and stay on top of best practices. Visit cedia.org to learn more.
Designed to dovetail with Focal speakers, the Naim CI Series comprises the CI-Uniti 102 streamer/ amplifier and matching mono and eight-channel amp platforms, the CINAP 101 and CI-NAP 108.
Integrators choosing Focal for residential or commercial projects will further enhance speed of deployment and system performance by making them Naim powered. Their clients will enjoy the highest quality audio streams for cinema/media rooms, garden or distributed audio from a brand pairing globally recognised for fidelity and prestige.
A stunning home cinema that combines cutting-edge technology, expert system design and careful installation.
As part of an extensive renovation to an exceptional London home, Imagine This was commissioned to design and install a stateof-the-art private home cinema for a client who demanded the very best in audio-visual performance. Understanding the requirements for this project, and the products that would be needed to deliver such a result, Imagine This contacted DbM to discuss solutions from the likes of Barco Residential, Meridian and Trinnov.
The home was being lovingly refurbished to provide a London base for the client’s family. With meticulous planning, and an unrelenting eye for detail, the client and his team were
focussed on creating an elegant and lavish home, with all the modern benefits of the very best in home electronics.
The primary goal was to create an immersive, luxurious experience that surpasses the audio and visual quality of commercial cinemas. The client requested uncompromised audio quality with precise sound reproduction and support for multiple formats, including Dolby Atmos and high-resolution music playback.
PRODUCT SELECTION
Meridian Audio was selected as the speaker brand for this project, due to its reputation
for delivering outstanding audio quality and innovative engineering. Known for their Digital Signal Processing (DSP) technology and active loudspeaker designs, Meridian speakers offer supreme accuracy and performance.
The selected system components included three ultra-shallow Meridian DSP640.2 loudspeakers for the left, centre and right channels. These speakers were chosen for their powerful output, clarity and ability to handle the dialogue and high-energy sound effects. To create a fully immersive Dolby Atmos experience, Meridian DSP320.2 loudspeakers were used for the surround and height channels. These models offer exceptional accuracy and seamless integration with the front channels. To provide an understated aesthetic, the height speakers were painted with the ceiling fabric pattern and the rear speakers were mounted within bespoke artisan side-tables. Two Meridian DSW shallow depth, digital active subwoofers were installed to deliver deep, impactful bass, down to 24Hz.
“The Meridian speakers deliver crisp, clear dialogue, and a powerful, balanced low end, fully immersing the audience in music and movie soundtracks,” comments Guy Singleton, Managing Director of Imagine This. “The surround and height channels provide the enveloping sensation the client desired, making them feel as though they are truly in the middle of the action.”
To integrate all the digital active loudspeakers, Imagine This selected a Meridian Digital Theatre Controller, the 271. This high-resolution interface is equipped with Meridian’s (MHR) High Resolution Audio output and a simple IP control interface for the Crestron control system. A Trinnov Altitude 16 processor was used for the cinema processing, providing a Dolby Atmos immersive audio decoder and natively processes high resolution 24 bit, 96K audio.
A 4K Barco Balder projector and acoustically transparent bespoke screen were installed to complement the audio setup with a highperformance visual experience. To provide a discrete solution for the projector, the Balder was installed within an in-ceiling mount, which lifts the projector away into the ceiling when not needed. The mount was painted with the ceiling fabric pattern, to ensure that it was unobtrusive when not in use.
The room was treated with acoustic materials to optimise sound performance. Bass traps, diffusers and absorbers were installed to minimise reflections and ensure even sound distribution. Trinnov’s Optimiser system was employed to fine-tune the system, compensating for acoustical anomalies in the space.
PROJECT INSTALLATION
The installation was carried out in close collaboration with the client’s interior designer, cabinet maker and building contractor. The Imagine This team carefully specified the components to ensure that the technology complemented the aesthetics of the room, whilst not compromising on the technical performance.
The project required detailed calibration of the audio and video systems. Meridian’s built-in DSP and Trinnov’s Optimiser technology allowed the team to achieve an exceptional soundstage and immersive surround sound experience. Every detail, from the placement of the seating to the speaker axes, was meticulously planned to create an exceptional experience for all listeners.
This home cinema space embodies comfort and sophistication, centred around an unusually constructed sunken seating area, thoughtfully designed to immerse viewers in a luxurious and intimate environment.
Providing an unsurpassed technical performance was of the highest priority, so meticulous attention was paid to the challenges of the sunken seating position. The technical
design addresses the unusual requirements of the viewing position, using the correct placement of speakers, the clever use of acoustic materials and precise video calibration.
The rear speakers were cleverly integrated into the room by being housed in custom-made tables that were positioned behind the seating area. The bespoke tables were specifically designed to conceal the speakers, allowing sound to project freely, while maintaining the room’s sleek aesthetic. To avoid unwelcome resonance or vibrations, the integrator used dampening materials to isolate the speakers from the tables. This ensures that the audio remains distortionfree, whilst maintaining the room’s luxury aesthetic and ensuring the speakers blend seamlessly and imperceptibly into the décor.
“This exceptional project showcases how Barco Residential, Meridian and Trinnov products can be the cornerstone of a luxury home cinema installation,” concludes Guy. “The combination of cutting-edge technology available via DbM, our expert system design, and careful installation resulted in a cinema that not only meets but exceeds the client’s requirements for both performance and aesthetics. This project stands as a testament to what is possible when the highest standards in audio engineering, system design and expert installation come together.”
DbM Imagine This distributedbym.co.uk imaginethis.co.uk
A SELF-PERPETUATING CYCLE OF HARDER WORK
Data
reveals integrators are working harder to maintain the same levels of profitability to fend off inflation. Is it sustainable? asks EI columnist Jason Knott, Data Solutions Architect Evangelist at
D-Tools.
Does it feel like you and your custom installation team are working a lot harder just to maintain the same amount of business this year? Well, if so, you are not alone. New data from the D-Tools 2024 Midyear Market Report reveals that integration companies are having to produce significantly more proposals just to maintain the same number of installation projects, while at the same time fighting high inflation.
The entire situation is creating a selfperpetuating cycle that feeds upon itself and can eventually lead to burnout. Here’s how it goes: As inflation continues to occur, prices go up. When integrators have to pay more for products and labour, they have to charge their clients more. When those customers balk at the higher price tags, they either scale back the project scope or resist signing the contract at all. When integrators are faced with increased value engineering and lower closing rates, they have to generate more proposals just to maintain the same level of revenue and profit. When that happens, everyone is working at a frantic pace, and they eventually will burn out.
Now let’s dig a little deeper. The data is drawn from nearly 85,000 proposals and nearly 31,000 signed contracts originated in D-Tools Cloud for the first half of 2024 for both residential and commercial projects. The statistics are drawn predominantly from the U.S. market, but the economic conditions in the U.S. for the past several years are similar to what integrators in the UK have faced, especially in regard to dealing with inflationary pressures. In general, integrators are producing more proposals at a much higher average price, but executing roughly the same number of installations.
Specifically comparing the first six months of 2024 to the first half of 2023:
• The average number of proposals grew nearly 9% to 85 proposals, or about 14 per month per integrator.
• The average number of signed contracts grew 3.7% to 44 contracts, or about seven per month per integrator.
• The average signed contract value rose a whopping 19.6% to $18,224.
The data initiates a slew of questions that we cannot definitively answer because D-Tools’ aggregated data does not ask ‘why’ these trends are occurring. We can only speculate. First, the growing number of proposals means demand remains strong for professional installation. That’s good… it means the market is generally healthy. Another plausible explanation as to why integrators are cranking out more proposals could be due to the ease of using the D-Tools Cloud software itself. What might have taken them hours to produce in the past can now be done in a fraction of the time. (We hope that bit of speculation is true!) Lastly, the proposal growth could be due to the bounce back in the commercial market that was devastated by the worldwide COVID 19 pandemic.
But if the number of proposals is up, why aren’t the number of signed contracts correspondingly up by the same percentage rate? The average number of signed contracts by integrators rose only slightly in the first half of 2024 compared to the previous year. Again, we can speculate that customers are being gun shy due to economic and political uncertainty, and it could be that the market in general is more competitive with more security contractors and electricians branching into the smart home world.
The data also reveals that 52% of proposals that are being presented to customers are ultimately being converted into contracts. That is down from 55% over the previous two years. The lower closing rate seems to affirm that competition could be getting more fierce. Alternatively, the recent economic and political turmoil characterised by geopolitical disputes, fluctuating stock market, and political turmoil could have clients delaying decisions and generally proceeding with more caution.
As noted, inflation is taking its toll on pricing. The UK inflation rate is at historic highs, and the U.S. also had prolonged inflation. So, is that the sole reason for the 12% increase in average contract size? Not necessarily. Integrators may be expanding into new product categories, such as lighting fixtures, electrical and power. Again, we can only speculate.
Obviously, there are still several unknowns regarding these first-half-of-the-year trends, but one thing is for certain: Integrators are working harder than ever before just to maintain their current revenue and profit levels. The big question is will this be sustainable?
Note: The full 2024 D-Tools Midyear Market Report is available as a free download on www.d-tools.com in the Resources section.
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IT’S DONE WITH DM NVX.
Create a theater. Not a distraction. DM NAX® Audio-over-IP Edge Devices bring the freedom of Bluetooth® connectivity to any room. Built on the DM NVX® AV-over-IP platform, they’re the easiest way to give clients high-quality entertainment everywhere — so they can choose between quiet time and epic immersion. Or both.
SCAN FOR SPECS AND DIAGRAMS
CREATING EFFECTIVE AC FOR HOME CINEMAS
Sophie Davenport, Co-Founder and Managing Director at SFE Services, providers of air conditioning, commercial refrigeration and mechanical ventilation (HVAC), discusses how air conditioning is tailored to work in home cinemas and the considerations that must be made to ensure the system blends seamlessly with the environment.
Air conditioning is often a must in home cinemas, with projectors and screens emitting high levels of heat. However, the system itself will depend on the size of the space and the level of existing ventilation. Specialists at SFE Services always ensure that a home visit is made early on to allow them to tailor the system to the customer’s needs. The design stage of such installations is not a standard application, and special measures are needed to combat the impact of noise and appearance of the unit.
Air conditioning, especially larger systems, can compromise the aesthetics of the room if not thought through. Installers need to ensure the system is discrete and in keeping with the environment. SFE Services works to hide the indoor units by using vertical or horizontal ducted units. These are installed in false ceilings or very often in joinery works such as cupboards or screen surroundings. Linear or circular grilles are then installed to supply and return air.
Being specialists in this application, SFE Services is very aware of the need for grilles to have minimal visual impact in the room. As a result, the company offers options to colour code these elements to the room or recess the grilles with the internals being coloured so as not to be seen.
As with traditional cinemas, sound levels from air conditioning systems must be kept to a minimum to mitigate competition with the speakers, which can ruin the experience. The average noise of a ducted indoor unit at low fan speed is 30dB. This is well below the average air conditioning volume of 40dB to 60dB. To further assist with noise levels, it is important to think about the location of the indoor and outdoor units and the settings of the system.
Using the correct controls and settings, the client can decrease noise and improve comfort levels upon installation. SFE Services recommends that air conditioning systems are turned on in a room 30 minutes before it is to be used to get the area down to a comfortable
21°C. Once at this temperature, the client can reduce the fan speed down to its minimum to maintain the comfort level. This will also help with energy efficiency by not making the system work harder to get the room down to temperature once it is occupied and the screen and projector are switched on.
With technology becoming a central part of the home ecosystem, air conditioning systems can be linked to wider smart home systems. This automation is very common and if a client requires this, it is vital the contractor is made aware early on. By doing so, a compatible system can be selected in the design phase. At this stage it is also important that the controls company and contractor converse to ensure a seamless integration of the system upon set-up.
Overall, it is essential to maintain both performance and comfort levels when installing an air conditioning system for home cinemas. Minimising the appearance and noise can go a long way to improving the environment.
Image courtesy of Sony
Truly versatile choice of complete highperformance architectural systems.
Turnkey solution involving patented technologies and the most advanced electronics and loudspeakers.
All JBL Synthesis products offer the performance data required for CEDIA RP-22 recommended practice.
Two Certified JBL Synthesis systems will be showcased at our new Ascot demonstration facility.
With a lineage that can be traced back to the earliest days of cinema sound, JBL Synthesis has become a global leader in immersive home theatre audio, offering some of the most advanced multichannel systems available in the world.
Today it provides a truly versatile choice of complete high-performance systems comprising matching architectural speakers and electronics for discreet, dynamic, object-based immersive sound in a wide range of projects including the largest dedicated private cinema and media rooms.
To explore capabilities for your future projects and talk to us about help with system design and specification, please contact:
THE PERFECT INTERVIEW
Jan Abildgaard Pedersen, architect of the RoomPerfect correction system available across Steinway Lyngdorf and Lyngdorf Audio systems and serial audio inventor/consultant, takes on our audio-focused interview.
Tell us about how you first became interested in audio quality and the concept of ‘Room Correction’.
I got absorbed into the audio world first when I started to listen to the large Hi-Fi system that my older brother had in his room back in the days when we both lived with our parents in their house. I was absolutely fascinated by the emotions that BIG and AUTHENTIC audio can give you. During my studies at Aalborg University in Denmark I was blown away by being exposed to the dramatic changes of experienced performance of a loudspeaker when moving it from room to room or even just different loudspeaker positions inside the same room. This happened when I was researching into MAA (Minimum Audible Angle). Here I manufactured 28 identical loudspeakers, that were meant to be placed close together in a linear array such that the angle towards a predefined listening position was varied in small increments. Just the fact that each loudspeaker
was not placed identically in the listening room meant that the loudspeakers sounded very differently even when the angle difference was compensated for. This was the time that I realised that any loudspeaker MUST be adapted to the listening room and loudspeaker placement.
Can you tell us about how you set about coalescing your knowledge into a coherent package for installers to follow via RoomPerfect.
I was first studying several other room correction systems and I found that extensive acoustics skills, knowledge and experience was needed to have a chance to make those room correction systems work. This was a main reason for most people not to use the systems in the first place and also the main reason that most people that actually tried room correction had a poor experience. This is why I set out to develop a fully automatic
room adaptation system. But this called on many very advanced technologies to be invented and perfected.
What are the key ways in which RoomPerfect achieves its goals?
In RoomPerfect, measurements are performed both at the listening position and in a small number of random positions throughout the whole listening room. This gives RoomPerfect much more comprehensive and meaningful information about the interaction between your loudspeaker and your listening room. This way, RoomPerfect is sampling the energy in the 3D sound field and provides a local optimisation guided by the global characteristics of your listening room. A very advanced algorithm is automatically calculating a new Target Curve every time that you perform a RoomPerfect calibration. This enables RoomPerfect to preserve all the main characteristics of YOUR loudspeaker while compensating for the
L/R Steinway Lyngdorf team at recent RoomPerfect seminar; Anker Haldan, CCO, Simon Schino, Sales and Operations Manager (UK), Jan Abildgaard Pedersen and Thomas Birkelund CEO/CTO
influence of the listening room. Upper and lower cut-off frequency together with sensitivity and directivity characteristics are the main parameters that RoomPerfect is identifying for YOUR loudspeaker and including into each Target Curve. A certain part of the influence of a listening room is natural to the human ear: the Room Gain. This is why the measured Room Gain in a standard listening room is an integral part of the generated Target Curve. This ensures that RoomPerfect will not remove the natural increase of SPL at lower frequencies. Finally, RoomPerfect uses a dedicated Test Signal during measurements with the custom developed microphone. This together with an internal Quality Control ensures that RoomPerfect always works on a robust, detailed and comprehensive set of information about YOUR loudspeakers and YOUR listening room.
How easy is Room Perfect to use?
What is the process?
First you connect the microphone and place it on the microphone stand at the listening position. Here a first measurement is performed and then the microphone is moved through a minimum of three random positions, where also the measurement height is varied in a random way. On the display a ‘RoomKnowledge’ value between 0% and 100% guides you as to how many of the random positions is necessary. As soon as RoomKnowledge reaches 90% (probably after three or four random positions) the system will ask if you want to stop the measurement procedure. If you stop the measurement procedure - the system will automatically calculate the RoomPerfect filters and be ready to start enjoying your music in few seconds and without any involvement from the user. The system is a truly Fully Automatic Room Adaptation System.
Away from Room Perfect, tell us about some of the most interesting consultation projects you have been involved with.
As an audio consultant I do experience quite different tasks, like as the strategic advisor for the Board of Directors, sound tuning a loudspeaker, solving impossible audio problems, development of advanced dsp algorithms, acoustic measurements and more. On of the most interesting tasks involved development of the audio subsystem of a break through concept, i.e. a first of its kind system.
Tell us about your involvement with the Audio Engineering Society?
I have been a member of the Audio Engineering Society (AES) since 1994 and I was part of the AES Board of Governors for nine years where I was the President for three years. I used to be a reviewer of the Journal of the Audio
Engineering Society and I was chair of the Conference Policy Committee for a long period of time, where I was part of deciding which International AES Conferences should take place - in which countries, what technical area and who should form the organising committee. I also chaired five International AES Conferences myself on topics like ‘DSP for Loudspeakers’, ‘Class D Audio Amplification’, ‘Automotive Audio’ and more.
How healthy is the home cinema/media room and Hi-Fi sector right now?
Both the home cinema/media room and Hi-Fi sectors are in a good development helped by the trend that quality audio is coming back now. It is not only about convenience anymore - we also want high quality and authentic audio.
Away from work, what are your interests and hobbies?
For many years tennis has been a great sport for me - both for watching and for playing myself. I used to be the chair of the local tennis club for more than 10 years - but that is quite a while back now. I am also quite interested in politics and the whole structure of a society. So, becoming a board member of many different boards is only natural for me.
Do you have any favourite films or music you are enjoying currently?
The great movie Titanic holds for me so many of the elements of a great movie experience - even so many years later. The story is fascinating, dramatic and highly emotional. The very fact that the movie story closely follows a real history always makes a movie stronger and more relevant. Both picture quality and the extreme use of sound makes this movie stand out.
RoomPerfect
ILLUMINATING LUXURY
The UK Country Managers from Theben Automation explore the latest trends in lighting control and discuss how human-centric lighting and energy efficiency are redefining luxury residential settings.
ENHANCING WELLBEING THROUGH LIGHT
Human-centric lighting (HCL) is more than just a technical innovation - it’s a revolution in how we interact with our living spaces. HCL allows residents to experience the benefits of natural lighting cycles, even in spaces where daylight is scarce. By mimicking the changing quality
of sunlight throughout the day, HCL supports the body’s circadian rhythm, helping to regulate sleep patterns, improve mood and boost overall well-being.
For instance, in a bedroom suite, smart lighting systems can simulate the warm hues of a sunrise to gently wake the homeowner, promoting a more natural start to the day.
In contrast, cooler, blue-enriched lighting in home offices can increase alertness and productivity. In the evening, softer lighting can encourage relaxation and prepare the body for restful sleep.
HCL is especially powerful in spaces such as wellness rooms, yoga studios, or spa bathrooms, where lighting can shift to create a calming, rejuvenating atmosphere that supports mental health and relaxation. For AV integrators, embracing human-centric lighting, driven by KNX and DALI control solutions, offers a chance to go beyond mere functionality and deliver a truly elevated, wellness-focused home environment.
CREATING IMMERSIVE LUXURY EXPERIENCES
The potential for AV systems to collaborate with lighting control is vast, particularly in residences where creating immersive, multi-sensory environments can make all the difference. The integration of lighting control with AV systems has the power to transform ordinary rooms into extraordinary experiences, providing a deeper level of personalisation and enjoyment for homeowners.
Imagine a high-end home cinema, where the lighting gradually dims as the movie starts, perfectly timed with the rise of the opening score. Presence sensors can detect when someone enters the room, triggering a soft fade of the lights as they take their seat, enhancing the cinematic experience without any manual adjustments. Or consider a lavish dining room where ambient lighting subtly shifts colours and intensities in harmony with background music, creating a vibrant, welcoming atmosphere for guests.
In outdoor spaces, motion detectors, such as the Theben theLUXA passive infrared motion detector and exterior lighting theLeda can be integrated with pool and garden lighting, automatically illuminating pathways or accentuating architectural features as someone approaches. As the sound system blends with the lighting, the outdoor area comes alive, offering a seamless mix of relaxation and entertainment under the stars- without the need for constant interaction with control panels.
The use of smart lighting systems, combined with presence and motion detection allows for this kind of artistic, choreographed integration. In many cases, lighting scenes can be tied directly to AV controls, enabling homeowners to effortlessly manage both with the press of a button or even through automated triggers based on movement. This not only enhances the user experience but also adds an air of sophistication that appeals to your clients.
ENERGY EFFICIENCYTHE QUIET LUXURY OF THE FUTURE
As sustainability becomes more important to homeowners, energy-efficient lighting solutions are a key selling point in high-end properties. Advanced lighting control systems like KNX and Theben’s DALI 2 Room Solution provide
precise control over energy usage, enabling integrators to offer luxury clients the perfect balance of comfort and conservation.
For example, lighting systems can be programmed to automatically adjust based on occupancy, time of day, or natural light levels. In rooms with large windows, automated shading systems can work in concert with lighting to maximise daylight while minimising energy consumption. This integration helps reduce the reliance on artificial lighting during the day, ultimately lowering energy costs without sacrificing comfort.
BRINGING IT ALL TOGETHER
The integration of lighting control systems, AV setups, and other smart home technologies is key to delivering a seamless, intuitive experience for homeowners. DALI technology has become a cornerstone of this integration, offering a robust platform for controlling and automating lighting across luxury residential environments.
Theben’s range of DALI 2 products brings an additional layer of sophistication and control
to luxury homes. By integrating Theben’s solutions, AV contractors can offer their clients a smart home where all elements – lighting, shading, audio-visual, and even climate control— work together in perfect harmony. Theben’s DALI 2 control modules allow for seamless management of lighting zones, dimming levels, and even scene-setting capabilities, all from a single interface.
THE FUTURE IS BRIGHT
Lighting control is no longer just a practical necessity; it is a central component of creating immersive, comfortable, health conscious, and sustainable living environments. By collaborating with lighting specialists and incorporating the latest technologies, AV integrators can unlock new possibilities and ensure that their clients enjoy a seamless, sophisticated, and elevated lifestyle.
As we move into the future, those who understand the power of light - and its ability to transform a space - will be the leaders in shaping the smart homes of tomorrow.
JUST PEAR-FECT!
Fruit co-operative hits sustainable goals and becomes ‘first in the world’ to use vast lighting controls system.
A pioneering fruit and vegetables growing company in Belgium has become the first in the world to have a huge multi-purpose intelligent lighting controls solution installed at its premises.
BelOrta is a co-operative that works with almost 1,000 local growers from the Voer region, via Antwerp to Zeeland, growing the ‘tastiest vegetables and the juiciest fruit’.
The Belgian company is very ambitious and has been described by the United Nations as a pioneer in implementing sustainability goals. With the construction of a new fully automated sorting centre, BelOrta was able to centralise the three sites in Borgloon, Visé and Fernelmont in one location in Borgloon.
As part of the plans for the new building, the company, which experienced exponential growth from producing five million kilos of fruit at the packing station to 27.5 million and from three million fruit sorting to 42 million a year, needed a sustainable lighting control solution that would fit with the ethos of reducing energy consumption to help save the planet.
BelOrta turned to B.E.G. who implemented a state-of-the-art lighting control solution that included a DALI lighting control system called DALI-LINK with detection. The benefits of such
a system were that it would be easily adjustable and controllable, while the occupancy sensors could measure ‘perfect’ light at high altitude on the ground, with a wide detection range.
B.E.G. used a range of sensors for the project including detectors that could withstand low temperatures and condensation
for BelOrta’s refrigeration cells where DALI was necessary, as these are closed rooms without daylight. The German manufacturer also ensured that when the forklift trucks would drive in and out of the sorting centre that the sensors switched the lights off to save additional energy.
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GROWING PARTNERSHIPS
B.E.G. also oversaw the installation of lighting control sensors and detectors in storerooms, toilets, stairwells, corridors, canteens, offices as well as all outdoor lighting.
Paul Jones, Sales Director of UK & Ireland at B.E.G, says, “The BelOrta project was a fine example of what the B.E.G. DALI-LINK system is capable of as a multi-purpose intelligent lighting control solution. It comprehensively reached all the touchpoints required at this massive new sorting centre in Belgium and we’re very proud of this ‘world first’.
“The DALI LINK solution provided an easy way to provide a flexible, scalable DALI lighting control system and, because it is a Bluetooth-enabled system, it meant it was easy for BelOrta staff to configure and change as room uses evolve, from changing scenes to adjusting the lights’ brightness.”
B.E.G. beg-luxomat.com
HOW SMART LIGHTING SOLUTIONS ARE SHAPING THE FUTURE
Jason Lu, founder and CEO of CECOCECO, innovative provider of lighting solutions, shines a light on the future.
Lighting is a powerful design element, impacting how we perceive our surroundings. A study published in the Journal of Environmental Psychology revealed that carefully designed lighting can improve cognitive performance by as much as 20%. By leveraging smart lighting, managers of spaces ranging from building and office lobbies, restaurants, hotels and public spaces, have full control over brightness, colour, and temperature.
This adaptability allows users to tailor the atmosphere to suit any setting. Smart lighting also contributes to the success of many businesses. In retail, smart lighting can attract customers to visit areas of the store they might otherwise overlook. In restaurants, smart lighting can make food look more appetizing. In an industrial setting, smart lighting can contribute to security by making a facility look occupied when it isn’t. Smart lighting also allows users to schedule lighting usage, reducing unnecessary energy consumption.
LIGHTING CONTROL TRENDS
There are numerous trends in smart lighting and lighting control, including voice and gesture control, easy integration with existing management systems, security/privacy and sustainability. Voice and gesture control allows users to dim, shut off and on, or switch colours with simple commands such as waving or tapping. Lighting systems with built-in sensors, such as infrared, microwave and dual technology motion sensors, can detect a person’s presence and adjust the lighting accordingly, e.g., when a room is unoccupied and dimly lit to save energy, it can automatically brighten the room when someone enters.
Smart lighting systems have become popular within homes in part because they integrate with existing smart home alarms, virtual assistants and other systems. The Business Research Company reports that the smart lighting market will grow from $15.55 billion in 2023 to $18.37 billion in 2024, a compounded annual growth rate (CAGR) of 18.1%.
Smart lighting contributes to security by making spaces appear occupied when they are empty and signaling any detected suspicious activity. Users can also install smart lighting systems to flash a specific colour when an intruder attempts to enter.
Smart lighting can reduce environmental impact. The U.S. Energy Information Administration’s Commercial Buildings Energy Consumption Survey notes lighting accounts for 15%-20% of a building’s energy consumption. Adjusting the brightness and usage of lighting, replacing incandescent or fluorescent lighting with LEDs, and improved management of systems can cut costs and contribute to reducing carbon footprint.
An exciting and new area of smart lighting is luminous wall panels. High-quality luminous wall panels integrate animated LED displays and natural textures. These panels provide aesthetic appeal to upgrade the appearance of any space, are attractive when they are off as well as on, and can supplant traditional lighting, which reduces energy costs.
ENHANCING LUXURY
Lighting influences wellbeing and enhances the overall experience in luxury architectural settings such as hospitality venues, retail spaces, spas, rooftop terraces, and restaurants. Lighting defines the ambiance of different areas of hotels, enabling hotels to encourage guests to take designed actions. For example, lighting in a hotel with a casino can actively draw guests over to the tables. In luxury retail environments, lighting plays a crucial role in optimising the display of merchandise, guiding customers throughout the store and creating an ambiance that reflects the brand and its products. In spa retreats, natural lighting incorporated into the room’s layout significantly impacts patrons’ biorhythms, while dimmable smart lighting creates tranquil atmospheres.
The implementation of biophilic design, i.e., design that connects us to nature, even in a modern built environment, can enhance the ambiance for customers. For instance, using lighting installations in a rooftop lounge that mimicks flowing rivers and blooming flowers can create a serene natural atmosphere that positively impacts guests’ experience. In restaurants, lighting enhances dining experiences, highlighting the food’s visual appeal. Warm lighting encourages customers to linger, whereas harsh lighting, often seen in fastfood restaurants, aims to speed up the dining process. Lighting not only supports food quality but also contributes to staff safety.
THE FUTURE
Many businesses operate in highly competitive environments. Solutions such as smart lighting can assist in generating additional sales, keep customers in their venues longer, as well as decrease energy costs. As a result, Grand View Research estimates the smart lighting market will grow at a 22% CAGR between now and 2030. At the same time, smart lighting companies will continue to innovate to create more attractive and effective solutions.
One company innovating new luminous wall panel solutions in a sleek design is CECOCECO, which has introduced ArtMorph, a wall panel that integrates LED displays with natural textures. ArtMorph panels feature high-quality animated LED displays, customisable surfaces, replaceable covers, low power consumption, intuitive controls and easy installation and maintenance.
THE NEW ERA OF LIGHTING
Aaron Severtson, Product Manager, Vantage, argues tunable lighting and flexible control is shaping the future of home design.
The evolution of lighting technology over the past two decades has dramatically transformed the way we light homes. What began as a drive toward energy efficiency has now shifted toward creating dynamic and customisable lighting environments. The result of which has created new technology and opportunities for installers.
In the early 2000s, energy efficiency was addressed with the emergence of LED. Where lighting used to be about 14% of a utility bill, LED decreased it to about 3%. There was, however, a lot left to be desired both in their output and dimming control. Their incompatibility with dimming control resulted in the notorious flickering, pop-on, and dead travel. The other problem was the colour of LED lamps was fixed. The essence of the incandescent became lost with the dimming of the LED. Users could select from a few different colours: warm, white, and cool, but the natural glow of an incandescent wasn’t available.
Technology eventually caught up and introduced a simulated incandescent behavior with LEDs with a dim to warm feature. This emulates the traditional incandescent, providing nice lighting in a home, but they have a limited range of colour temperature shifts.
First finding use in the commercial space, the introduction of tunable fixtures with independent intensity and colour control have become more prominent in residential lighting. These fixtures typically offer a wider range of natural colours in dim to warm and can provide better colour rendering. One big difference between the tunable light and the dim to warm feature is their ability to control intensity and colour independently. With dim to warm, these two aspects are linked together.
While the most recognised form of tunable light is for accent and under cabinet applications, there’s a continuously growing portfolio of recessed ceiling fixtures offering this level of controlling the output. There are some tunable fixtures that allow for controllable, raw saturated colours in addition to the tunable mixed outputs. These fixture types can provide better colour rendering and additional colour tuning features for interior spaces. Full-colour, tunable fixtures tend to have the widest range of tunable colour selections and are typically controlled digitally, making them the most modern fixture type to date.
Tunable white lighting solutions are becoming more known with full-colour lighting with tunable white growing at an unprecedented rate. In retrofit applications, wireless lighting products have been growing since the Philips Hue was released in 2012. Certainly, there are more accent and dazzle products on the market, however, these don’t necessarily contribute to better architectural lighting.
Today’s aesthetics of lighting products provide a wider selection of form factors than ever before that help lighting designers and integrators achieve the look and function that’s needed in the smart home. With the small size of LED, manufacturers have been able to produce smaller aperture luminaires and provide better output than previous LED products. Homeowners are also turning to lighting solutions to improve the exterior of their homes and outdoor living space. To that end, exterior LED solutions have improved to accommodate even the harshest environments and climates.
Aside from the accents that dazzle, better quality lighting products have been introduced even as recently as four years ago that improve the ability to illuminate living spaces. Compatible and flexible lighting controls are giving users more options for visually shaping their living spaces — a key element of the custom luxury home. Vantage created KolorTune as part of its LHUMAN human-centric lighting control with the goal of providing lighting designers and integrators with optimised control of lighting colour to bring out the best in any brand of luminaire.
Technology integration of controls and luminaires includes a variety of options, from single-brand all-in-one solutions to control compatibility that spans the market of today’s luminaire manufacturers. The best path forward in working with designers and delivering on client expectations is a lighting control solution that enables one of the widest selections of tunable fixtures to be used in a lighting system.
Ask any lighting designer and they will tell you how essential it is that fixtures are tested to ensure they deliver the exact colour temperature for the room. Vantage has been working hand in hand with certified lighting fixture partners to ensure that pre-tested, tunable lighting fixtures and lighting control products are fully interoperable to achieve seamless integration. On the integrator’s end, this helps to ensure super simple and fast programming with the correct colour mix across the entire design plan that’s cohesive from fixture to fixture, even when mixed and matched. For the first time, there’s a bridge between the world of lighting and that of AV.
The future of lighting is bright and flexible. With advancements like tunable lighting fixtures and the ability to independently control intensity and colour, residential lighting has moved far beyond energy efficiency. Homeowners now expect customisable lighting environments that can enhance both the aesthetics and functionality of their spaces. For AV installers, this presents a tremendous opportunity to integrate intelligent lighting solutions that meet the demands of modern design while simplifying control for users. As technology continues to evolve, the possibilities for shaping light in the home will only expand, offering new ways to transform living environments with precision and creativity.
Humans are developing new relationships with light
SWITCHING UP?
Integrators are embracing DMX-Controlled low voltage lighting for enhanced, affordable solutions, argues Chris Allen, Chief Product Officer, Axion Lighting.
In today’s fast-evolving smart home market, custom integrators are turning to robust and cost-effective DMX-controlled low voltage lighting systems to offer high-end lighting solutions at accessible price points. These advanced systems allow for seamless control and customisation, enabling integrators to expand their offerings to a wider customer base while delivering premium-quality lighting for a variety of applications. Companies like Axion Lighting are helping to drive this transition while making it as simple for installers as possible.
WHAT IS DMX-CONTROLLED LOW VOLTAGE LIGHTING?
DMX is a standardised protocol widely used for precise lighting control that has been around and used commercially for the past 30+ years. Originally developed for stage lighting, DMX has become a staple in both residential and commercial projects due to its ability to manage complex lighting setups, including colour control, dimming, and scene programming. When paired with low voltage lighting systems— typically 12V or 24V—these systems offer an energy-efficient and cost-effective solution for modern lighting needs.
VERSATILE APPLICATIONS FOR INDOORS AND OUTDOORS
DMX-controlled low voltage lighting offers tremendous versatility, making it ideal for both indoor and outdoor installations. Custom integrators can deploy these systems in various applications:
• Recessed Lighting: With low voltage recessed lights, homeowners can create the perfect ambiance in living rooms, kitchens, and hallways. The ability to control both intensity and colour temperature ensures adaptable lighting for every occasion. Support for enhanced routines like circadian rhythm also offer health and productivity benefits over traditional high voltage fixtures.
• LED Strip Tape: This is a staple, often used for under-cabinet lighting, accent walls, or shelving, becomes even more powerful when combined with DMX control. Integrators can offer dynamic colour options, from soft whites to vibrant hues, allowing homeowners to easily switch between practical lighting and decorative illumination.
• Accent Lighting: DMX-controlled accent lighting, whether for artwork, architectural features, and in both residential and
commercial applications, adds a new layer of customisation to interior design. Integrators can create dynamic lighting effects that can be adjusted based on mood or time of day, all while maintaining energy efficiency.
• Landscape Lighting: Outdoor spaces also benefit from the power of DMX. Integrators can install low voltage landscape lights, including pathway lights, garden accent lights and floodlights, to transform outdoor areas into visually stunning environments. The flexibility of both white and colour output ensures that lighting can adapt for every occasion—from warm evening gatherings to festive holiday displays.
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FLEXIBILITY AND CUSTOMISATION FOR EVERY OCCASION
One of the major advantages of DMXcontrolled low voltage lighting is the flexibility it provides. These systems allow integrators to create customised lighting scenes that can change at the touch of a button. Whether homeowners want crisp, bright white lighting for day-to-day tasks or colourful, immersive lighting for special events, DMX control offers endless possibilities. Leveraging a DMX Controller like the Axion PoE & Wi-Fi unit, dealers are able to
quickly and easily integrate the entire system with platforms such as Control4, Crestron, RTI, Elan and even Home Assistant.
With RGBW technology, lighting can be tuned to virtually any shade or hue, offering unparalleled flexibility for customers who want their lighting to reflect their personal style or suit the occasion. Whether indoors or outdoors, the ability to control both colour and brightness makes DMX-controlled lighting a perfect solution for customers looking for a high level of customisation or to future-proof their installation.
EXPANDING CUSTOMER REACH WITH COST-EFFECTIVE SOLUTIONS
Thanks to the affordability and efficiency of low voltage systems like those offered by Axion Lighting, custom integrators are now able to offer these advanced lighting solutions to a broader demographic. What was once seen as high-end technology reserved for luxury projects is now attainable for a wider range of clients. Whether upgrading a home’s lighting with dynamic, customisable options or designing a new outdoor landscape with flexible, colourchanging lights, DMX-controlled low voltage lighting systems are helping integrators meet the needs of more customers than ever before.
LIGHTING SOLUTIONS FOR THE FUTURE
As lighting technology continues to evolve, the adoption of DMX-controlled low voltage systems is expected to grow. Integrators who embrace this technology can offer clients not only the benefits of modern, energy-efficient lighting but also the enhanced convenience and customisation that come with DMX control. From sleek indoor installations to vibrant outdoor displays, these systems are reshaping what is possible in lighting design while making it accessible to a broader audience.
By embracing these advanced yet costeffective lighting solutions, integrators are not only enhancing their service offerings but also helping a wider range of customers experience the benefits of modern, energy-efficient lighting systems. As the demand for smart, customisable lighting solutions grows, so will the opportunities for integrators expand their offering and deliver standout results.
Domestic and commercial projects can benefit from DMX technology
COLOUR THERAPY: THE IMPACT OF COLOUR AND LIGHT ON WELLBEING
Wellbeing and mood-based lighting offers interesting opportunities for integrators, argues Snap
One.
A home is nothing without light and colour but far from being mere design choices, light and colour also have an enormous impact on emotional wellbeing. Affecting our mood, productivity and health, the right choices can transform our living spaces. Embracing fully customisable lighting options, from voice-activated programs to motion-triggered illumination, means that integrators can seamlessly harness the positive effects of different hues and brightness to increase wellbeing for their clients.
Award-winning interior designer Cinzia Moretti of Moretti Interior Design explains the link between light and colour and our body and brain. “Colour affects our brain and how we feel because our human body follows the circadian rhythm, the body’s natural pattern of alert and rest over a 24-hour period. We’re used to colour intensity changing through the day and need to emulate that feeling with lighting because if we stay with one colour and one brightness all day then our brains won’t connect with what is natural for us.”
As well as connecting to these rhythms, childhood and formative experiences can also impact the colours and light patterns we’re
drawn to. “Where we are born and our early memories also affect how we feel about colour”, explains Cinzia. “For example, if you are born near the seaside you’ll be attracted to blues, greens, and teals, because they will feel familiar and comforting to you, if you were born in the countryside it might be greens and yellows or maybe you have warm memories of sitting by a fire with your family as a child so it’s these warmer tones you gravitate towards.”
Whatever the customer’s personal sense of wellbeing, integrators can provide a technological solution. Whether that’s mimicking circadian rhythms, creating spaces for entertaining, or giving rooms multiple emotional functions.
Control4 Vibrant Linear Lighting from Snap One is a multi-dimensional, light diffusing LED solution that can provide almost endless colour, hues and temperatures.
According to Naim Cohen, director of NGC Systems, an award-winning Control4 certified showroom, “A smart home consultant ensures clients either get more out of the system they have or that they’re choosing what’s exactly right for their needs. A good example is something
like choosing good quality LED strips. This makes more of a difference than most clients would realise as with cheaper technology you might have two strips both giving off a slightly different hue and just like a wonky picture up on the wall, that will start to feel distracting and won’t create a restful environment.”
Beyond tones and brightness, colour and light bring functionally that can enhance wellbeing. “We can help you use light in place of sound for situations where sound can feel intrusive or disruptive,” explains Naim. “If relaxing in the bath or listening to music in a living space, then customers don’t need to be taken out of that mood by the harsh noise of a doorbell or alarm. Integrators can program lights to pulse or change colour instead which feels much nicer. I have one client where we programmed his lights in his home office to change to a warmer, more relaxing hue when it was time for him to finish work, so even though he was in a home office he still got that sense of switching off for the evening and it helped him start to relax.”
Everyone has a slightly different colour pallet that appeals to them
LIGHTING CONTROL. WHERE IS IT HEADING?
Peter Broome, Director Rako Controls, takes a look at how the sector is shaping up.
We have read in these columns before about the exciting industry that is lighting control.
We have spoken about the importance of lighting design, considering lighting early in the planning process and how the evolution of LEDs has opened up new opportunities with light fittings available in various forms, allowing detailed lighting of architectural features. LED strip, in various forms, be it in profiles, ceiling coffers, single colour and RGB play a part in most lighting design schemes.
The last few years have seen a greater understanding of circadian rhythms and as a result a greater use of colour temperature control to vary the amount of blue light to suit individual lifestyles and for different times of the day.
The question now is what is going to be the next big thing in lighting and lighting control? With AI accelerating at a frightening rate of
knots, what are the effects likely to be on the lighting industry?
LEDs are likely to get smaller, even being built into or part of furniture, power supplies could become more distributed in the building’s infrastructure using LV DC directly from green energy sources such as PV Cells, battery packs or your electric vehicle. Systems will automatically select the most efficient and cost effective method to draw energy supply at all times.
Maybe all fittings will become intelligent with built in LiDAR (Light Detection and Ranging) able to detect who and where people are in a building – not only turning lights on and selecting scenes depending on the time of day and where someone is in a property, but also being able to build knowledge based on previous usage. With AI also having a building layout we could see scenes being selected depending on line of
sight so you are never looking at dark spaces. As you walk into a garden room or kitchen, or any room with garden views, the exterior lighting could automatically come on in the evening!
With Matter support being installed in thousands of consumer devices including TVs, fridges, washing machines, cameras and lighting with a common communication app, then all this could be used in conjunction with your lighting control algorithm….so when your washing machine finishes, not only will it give you the infuriating beep to let you know it has finished, it will also interrupt your favourite movie, flash your lights and select a pathway of light to your utility room switching on the iron in anticipation. Oh great!!
As people’s familiarity and expectations change regarding voice and gesture control we may see this transfer even more to the control of lighting. Just a few years ago many of us will have experienced those frustrating moments in our cars with voice control where it really didn’t work. Now it’s getting pretty good and as more of us use it reliably, then it may likely become even more commonplace in the home. With a largely wealthy, ageing population in the UK this is a growing market where this technology and simplified controls could also be welcome.
This is all wonderfully exciting stuff and it may well be where we are heading in years to come, however, we are not there yet. Integrators need to be specifying and installing systems that are relatively simple and robust for their clients and most importantly, ones that do not require return visits for random anomalies. At Rako we are continually investigating this new technology but ultimately we aim to provide a great end user experience with ease of install, reliability, support and facilitate greater margins for the installer.
Maybe the halfway house is the next step that could use AI being built into the press of a button, so that it can be disabled easily, but when a button is pressed the AI will gradually build its knowledge base, selecting the appropriate scene based on the user’s previous usage. On this note the ‘humble’ scene control panels still have life left in them yet and are still the most reliable way of controlling lighting. Despite requests from end users that they do not wish to see any panels on the wall, it’s still not something we would currently recommend.
EXPERT SONY ASSESSMENT
To much fanfare, Sony recently launched the new 4K HDR laser BRAVIA Projectors with XR Processor, the BRAVIA Projector 9 (VPL-XW8100ES) and BRAVIA Projector 8 (VPL-XW6100ES), promising significant upgrades in performance and installation ability. Experienced home cinema installer and calibrator Ricky Jennings, Director and Owner of Kalibrate Limited, casts his expert eye over the new launches and finds much to be positive about.
We were privileged to be invited by Sony and Invision/Pulse to have a look at the forthcoming Sony projectors. The two new units, BRAVIA Projector 8 (XW6100) and BRAVIA Projector 9 (XW8100), will replace the XW7000 and sit alongside the XW5000. The XW6100 (RRP £15,999) will deliver 2,700 lumens, while the
XW8100 (RRP £25,999) has 3,400 lumens. They share the same lens and chassis, with the main difference being the 700 extra lumens on the XW8100 and the presence of Live Colour Enhancer. Early impressions reminded me of Brilliant Colour on DLP, but further testing is required.
Going back 10 years, we sold and installed a lot of Sony projectors, but (it is no secret) that over recent years we have been critical of some of Sony’s models, as they missed some very basic features. However, with these models, the manufacturer has addressed much of that criticism. During the launch event at Sony HQ in Weybridge, I spent some time with the XW8100 (I did not have time to spend much time with the XW6100) but saw enough to warrant the addition of one to our demo portfolio once released.
INITIAL IMPRESSIONS
There are now five lens memories rather than three, allowing us to add options like IMAX. Along with this, the blanking options offer more flexibility to accommodate a 2.40:1 screen. There is no 3D support on either of the new units.
Sony is expecting to ride the wave of new functionalities introduced with its new models
Cinema is coming home
Elevate your home entertainment with the new BRAVIA 9 (VPL-XW8100ES) and BRAVIA 8 (VPL-XW6100ES).
Offering brightness at 3,400lm and 2,700lm, these models provide a Pro Cinematic HDR quality allowing for the perfect home cinema experience. Powered by our XR processor for projector, enjoy precision and clarity with rich gradations, deep blacks, and vibrant colours, enhanced by our class-leading laser light source.
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Both projectors available in black and white
UNIQUE SOLUTIONS
We specialise in home cinemas and distributed audio systems that deliver exceptional quality and unparalleled performance.
DESIGN & SPECIFICATION
Our complimentary design & specification service provides integrators with a customised, expertly designed, and integrated AV solutions.
DEMONSTRATION FACILITIES
We specialise in designing high-end audio-visual systems for luxury homes and residential spaces.
COMMISSIONING AND CALIBRATION
Providing expert calibration and commissioning services, we ensure your systems are set up for optimal performance and user experience. Book your experience at sales@distributedbym.co.uk
The new units have an HDMI 2.1 chip with four 12 Gbps pipelines, allowing for 4K120 and ALLM (Auto Low Latency Mode). This was tested and verified, making it a perfect companion for a PS5. This combination has been further enhanced with the Low Input Lag (which has been reduced further this year). I was unable to test this on the day, but will do so once we have our demo unit. However, based on Sony’s history with Low Input Lag, I don’t expect there to be any issues.
SDR (Standard Dynamic Range – Bluray/Sky) has not been an issue for Sony for some time. We calibrated and tested the XW8100 unit using our reference Spectro and Colorimeter and achieved very good results.
In the past, in our opinion, Sony has been too faithful to the EOTF (Electro-Optical Transfer Function), meaning HDR has often appeared darker than it should, even though Sony
projectors have a good amount of light output. Sony has added Dynamic Tone Mapping to the new units, and I am pleased to confirm that my testing showed this gives much more brightness to the overall image. There are three modes of Dynamic Tone Mapping, each releasing a bit of extra brightness. More testing will follow once we have our demo unit. These modes did not appear to be available in Reference or User mode, but the Tone Mapping also worked on HLG (Hybrid Log-Gamma), as tested and verified. It appeared that the Dynamic Tone Mapping remained activated during the low-lag option. The only obvious options that disappeared were NR and Motionflow, but further testing is needed to determine if that increases the lag.
One other note is that even in HDR modes, the Gamma Correction function remains available in the options. In prior generations, it would disappear; this new functionality should
allow for better accuracy and control during HDR calibration.
Native contrast for our XW8100 unit measured at around 15,000:1 and using Cinema Mode gave around 3,000 lumens after a quick calibration of the white point/ greyscale. Colour Gamut reached around 91% of DCI-P3. Please note these were only quick measurements, completed on one unit and in one position, without time to check all the colour spaces, so there may be some scope for improvement. Measurements on the ANSI will be completed once we have our demo unit.
In conclusion, with the limited time we spent with these projectors, we are pleased to see Sony has listened to technical feedback. We can clearly see this reflected in the image quality, which we believe any viewer can appreciate. We look forward to receiving our demo unit in due course.
Sony’s new projectors are expected to be available in November
THE RISE OF PROJECTORS & SCREENS
Christopher
Mullins, Head of BRAVIA Product Marketing at Sony Professional Displays and Solutions charts recent progress.
The B2B world has long understood the appeal of projection solutions. They offer organisations the option for large-scale, easy-to-install, and immersive solutions for even the most challenging spaces. However, there is also continuing demand for projection within home cinema and media room applications thanks to the technology’s cost to image size ratio that is unachievable with large format displays and LED walls.
There have also been advancements in projection technology. Take, for example, the latest Sony BRAVIA Projector 9, which achieves 3,400 lumens of brightness and the more affordable BRAVIA Projector 8 which achieves 2,700 lumens. While the brightness specification of the projector is important, how that brightness is utilised is critical for an optimum 4K HDR experience. This is where our new XR Processor For Projector comes in, offering viewers unparalleled 4K HDR images thanks to the XR Dynamic Tone Mapping that analyses the content frame by frame to offer the optimal gradations and shadow details.
Millennial and Gen Z homeowners, who are avid gamers, particularly value high performance. Our latest home cinema projectors offer 4K resolution at 120fps with a 12ms input lag, along with Auto Low Latency Mode via 2x HDMI 2.1-compatible inputs. This provides the smooth and clear movement necessary for responsive and immersive gameplay. The compact and light weight chassis for their class, and the fact that they come in black (home cinema room) and white (media room) adds further appeal.
When it comes to immersive experiences, projection is a great option, but it is not the only one. Large-scale displays have also improved and are well-suited for many applications, including media rooms. The blurring of lines between traditional markets is evident in the popularity of our 98in BRAVIA 4K Ultra HD HDR Professional Display in high-end residential and marine applications. Another example is the increasing use of our business projectors for at-home sports simulator applications, such as golf and driving.
PROJECTORS V DISPLAYS
Previously, it was accepted that the only way to achieve a large-scale experience was with projection in a dedicated home cinema room with controlled lighting and a projection
screen or with expensive C-LED walls that provide impeccable picture quality even in the brightest rooms. However, Sony’s BRAVIA 98in Professional Display (FW-98BZ53L) offers a compelling alternative. With its deep black nonglare technology, the screen’s brightness is less affected by room lighting, while maintaining image quality which is typically compromised with these type of filters. This makes it suitable for many installations that do not meet the requirements of a projector. For media rooms that cannot be completely darkened and for users who still desire an immersive experience, large-scale display solutions may be a better option than projection.
One significant advantage of large-scale displays, such as the Sony BRAVIA 98in display, is their resilience to ambient light. Unlike projectors, which can require a controlled lighting environment to maintain image quality, large displays are designed to perform well even in well-lit rooms. This makes them a versatile choice for spaces that may not have the luxury of complete light control.
MAINTENANCE AND INSTALLATION
Large-scale displays eliminate some of the common challenges associated with projectors, such as the need for regular maintenance and bulb replacements. With a display, users benefit from a consistent, maintenance-free viewing
experience. Additionally, the installation of large displays is typically more straightforward compared to projectors, which often require precise alignment and screen placement. The ease of setup and reduced maintenance can make large displays a more appealing choice for some users.
THE APPEAL OF PROJECTORS
On the other hand, the immersive experience provided by a high-quality projector and audio system is unmatched when it comes to creating a true home cinema atmosphere. The ability to project images onto a large screen can make movie-watching feel like a cinematic event, and the latest advancements in projector technology ensure that this experience is sharp, vibrant, and authentic to the creators’ intent when watching movies or streaming, and responsive even in the face of modern gaming demands.
THE RIGHT SOLUTION
In conclusion, both projectors and large-scale displays offer compelling advantages for home cinema and media room installations. Sony’s diverse product lineup addresses various needs, whether users seek the expansive, cinematic feel of a projector or the robust, maintenance-free performance of a large display. Ultimately, the decision will hinge on individual preferences, room conditions, and the desired viewing experience.
WHY MORE PEOPLE ARE CHOOSING TO HAVE A BIG-SCREEN EXPERIENCE AT HOME WITH PROJECTORS
Brendan Hoare, Product Manager for home cinema projectors at Epson Europe, looks at the potential reasons.
Today’s consumers are seeking ways to enhance their home entertainment, and as a result, the quest for a cinematic experience has evolved beyond simply buying a larger TV. Instead, many consumers are turning to projectors to take their movie nights, gaming, and even their everyday viewing to the next level.
Currently valued at $16.24 billion, the global projector market is set to reach $21.74 billion by 2031. Yet, the debate between TVs and projectors is far from settled.
While projectors may offer advantages for creating the best cinematic experience –especially when it comes to screen size – some consumers remain sceptical as TV technology is continuously improving.
For any consumers looking to upgrade their home entertainment systems, enhanced image quality is always going to be a top priority, as arguably it has the most significant impact on the viewing experience.
While TVs have historically been seen as superior in this regard, projectors have undergone significant advancements in recent years. High-end models now offer 4K resolution, and more budget-friendly models continue to get brighter and offer improved contrast and colour capabilities, positioning projectors as a compelling alternative.
That said, to ensure projector image quality remains on par with TVs, brands like Epson implement testing processes to assess the following factors:
• Contrast and colour performance –Maintaining vivid, accurate colour reproduction even at maximum brightness is crucial and using animated films like Toy Story, can be a good way to test how projectors handle high brightness without compromising on colour integrity. To test contrast, it’s ideal to use films with a mix of low-light and well-lit environments to assess detail in both dark and bright scenes.
• Sharpness & resolution – High-definition projectors produce sharp, detailed images that hold up even on large screens. Testing these limits requires brands to use films with intricate textures, such as Lion King (2019 – Live Action).
• HDR performance – HDR enhances the viewing experience with greater detail and contrast levels between bright and dark scenes, delivering deeper blacks and more vibrant colours. To test this, it’s important to use films that have dynamic lighting with darker contrast, and detailed settings that can highlight the improved contrast and colour depth compared to SDR, such as The Amazing Spider-Man
While large TVs often max out at 85in, projectors offer an affordable path to much larger screens – up to 150in or more. Therefore, for those seeking larger-than-life images and a superior cinema experience, projectors provide excellent value in terms of cost per inch.
This larger scale allows for a fully immersive experience without the steep price tag associated with similarly sized premium TVs, and projectors come with the bonus that they can be moved or hidden.
Unlike TVs, which require fixed placement, projectors offer versatility in setup. Features like motorised zoom, keystone correction, and lens shift allow users to adjust the projector for various room layouts.
Whether placed in a dedicated home cinema room or for an outside cinema, projectors are easy to install and can adapt to different environments, providing a level of flexibility that TVs cannot match.
There are also two technical advancements that are setting new benchmarks – smart capabilities and ultra-short throw.
Today’s projectors often come packed with advanced functionalities like voice control, built-in streaming services, and seamless device connectivity, making them a strong alternative to TVs. The second significant factor is the introduction and advancements of ultra-short throw. These projectors are transforming how people can use projectors, especially for those still wanting a big-screen experience despite having less space. For example, there are projectors on the market that can project a screen of up to 150in with the projectors sat just inches away from the wall. These projectors use a combination of wide-angle lenses and mirrors to ensure a high quality, undistorted image that allows everyone to enjoy a projector.
Ultimately, the debate between projectors and TVs comes down to personal preference and intended use. For those prioritising screen size, immersive experiences, and versatile setups, projectors offer significant advantages – but as with any tech purchase, the right choice will depend on the individual’s unique space, budget and entertainment goals. It is my opinion that projectors will continue to nip at the heels of TV users as technological advancements continue. The latest innovations from Epson for example — the EF-21 and EF-22 mini laser projectors — highlight how far projector technology has already come in offering a true alternative to TVs without compromise.
ALLSEE OVERVIEW
Dr. Baoli Zhao is the founder and Managing Director of Allsee Technologies Ltd and Vieunite Ltd. In the second part of this interview, he speaks to EI about his life and the B2B potential of the recently launched Vieunite Pro concept.
What do you see as the potential for digital art within the home and the workplace? What are its advantages over traditional art forms?
To answer this, we really need to address the two markets, the home and the workplace, separately.
For consumers, one of the key pain points is the inaccessibility and expense of artwork. Vieunite gives users access to hundreds of millions of pounds worth of expertly curated artwork, thanks to the partnerships with worldrenowned galleries that we have established over the last few years. This is enhanced by the ability to admire and experience these masterpieces in an authentic way that is faithfully replicated, due to the texture-accurate display technology that we have pioneered, all from the comfort of your own home.
On the business side of things, it’s widely accepted that digital signage is losing some of its passive impact as a novel display medium. Not only does Vieunite Pro provide all of the benefits that traditional art does when used in commercial settings, but creates a brand-new digital medium. This is achieved by capturing the attention of customers using stimulating artwork, then converting this engagement to deliver promotional messaging to a much more captive and inspired audience. Another huge challenge for businesses is the lack of an effective internal communications channel. Many medium to large businesses find it very difficult to effectively communicate key
messages, such as strategy, vision and the latest company direction to employees. Even when using existing methods like posters, emails, sharing social media posts or even using platforms like Slack or Teams, often employee engagement is still very low. I have faced this issue personally and even when I discuss this challenge with associates of mine who run much larger companies, the problem is universal. If anything, this is a bigger problem for larger companies given how many more staff and separate teams and departments there are.
In spite of significant investment of finances, resources and time, most staff feel as though the company does not communicate with them.
Vieunite Pro combines art, which also raises morale – increasing productivity and reducing stress, with these key messages that are notoriously difficult to deliver. In both of these ways Vieunite Pro creates a completely new and unique digital communication channel.
Tell us about your PhD in Speech Recognition; Where are interfaces between machines and humans going next?
My project in Speech Recognition was to develop a telephony system for transport. Intended for Nottingham City Council to allow travellers to check bus timetables; at the time in 2002 smartphones did not exist and the internet was not what it is today. This was the very early stages of a voice-based interface between humans and computer systems.
Obviously in recent years this has come a long way with commercially successful products such as Alexa, Siri and Google’s smart home products. I believe this type of interface will continue to improve and grow in popularity. Back then, speech recognition technology was based on grammar and statistical language models. Now, through the adoption of neural networks, particularly with large language models, this kind of interface has become significantly more accessible as it can be utilised by users with various regional dialects. This allows a much broader range of users to engage with electronic devices more effectively.
Pure Simmetry
Exceptional HDR design for every model, from luxury to affordable, involving advanced image processing perfected over seventeen years
Class-leading brightness up to 6000lm
Crystal glass lenses and optical components made for high contrast, detail-rich images
Advanced ventilation delivers quiet operation from smaller, more beautiful crystal glass cabinets
High-quality build for enduring image quality
A brilliant balance of high brightness, contrast, colour and practicality will deliver peerless HDR performance to projects large and small.
SIM2’s acknowledged leadership in perfecting High Dynamic Range (HDR) as the ‘real revolution in video imaging and home cinema performance’ can now be utilised in almost every custom application, not just the luxury, award-winning integrations for which it is justly famous. Today, SIM2 offers you the opportunity to enhance the great majority of your projects with a single high-quality brand.
To explore capabilities for your future projects and talk to us about help with system design and specification, please contact:
Seamless Connectivity From One Elegant, Compact Device
Looking away from speech, and other more traditional types of interfaces such as keyboard, mouse, touch screens and even eye trackers, there are now brain-computer interfaces, pioneered by companies like Neuralink. These developments will be relevant in our industry with the of systems that enable the use of a brain-computer interface alongside sensors for factors like light and heat that predict your needs or preferences without requiring explicit commands. It combines your brain signals with environmental data and records of past behaviour to anticipate what you want and respond accordingly. This can include recommendations for software to use, content to consume or even apps I should engage with.
Pro AV installers need to stay abreast of developments with this technology so that they can effectively integrate systems for their customers. A deep technical understanding of how each aspect of these systems operate is crucial to make the end user’s life as easy as possible and so they can truly realise the benefits of this technology.
Tell us about your work with Oxford University ‘Innovation and Be the Business’ initiative?
Through my involvement with Oxford University Innovation, I have been able to work closely with and mentor several innovative companies, many of which have been involved with deep tech. These companies, who are all spinouts from Oxford University, have been heavily focused on innovation and research. In turn this has inspired me greatly to maintain a personal focus on innovation. These Oxford University spinouts are typically led by PhD students or professors who have breakthrough research results that they want to commercialise. I have given guidance to these companies in their early
stages, which has been incredibly rewarding and stimulated me to start Vieunite.
With Be the Business my main objective as a mentor is to use my knowledge and experience to help other SMEs to increase their productivity, engaging daily with a group of UK based SME owners.
I’m extremely hopeful for business growth and ground-breaking new companies in the UK! The UK is still one of the top countries in the world for innovation, and I have witnessed many of these innovations coming out of the academic world. Working with the new business through OUI really gave me the confidence that the UK will continue to lead the innovation of technology on the world stage. There is a lot of hope for the direction of UK business.
From my experience working through Be the Business, owners of UK SMEs are still fighting, really fighting to increase productivity, for new ideas and new products to gain a competitive advantage over global competitors. Entrepreneurship is still very much alive in the UK and there is certainly an innovative spirit among founders and business owners. I am confident that the UK will continue to be the top European country for thriving in the technology business sector.
Do you have any thoughts or predictions about the AV/Pro installer market?
From my perspective, in the early years, AV installation companies didn’t focus much on the potential of digital signage solutions. In fact, most of the installers we worked with were traditional signage companies and shopfitters; both of which still make up a relatively large proportion of our reseller network. In more recent years, following an increased involvement with digital signage projects, AV installers have
become one of the biggest contributors in this industry; facilitating the growth of the digital signage market. In turn, this has contributed to the growth of the overall AV market.
The sky really is the limit. Investment in new technology, such as flexible digital wallpaper, will become a reality in the near future, and not exclusively only on large commercial buildings, but also in the home.
Even presently with technology such as DV-LED, the market growth is being led by an improved fundamental understanding of this tech by an increasing number of integrators. Any technology that is at the cutting edge of innovation will continue to require expertise to integrate and therefore this expertise will continue to facilitate the growth of the AV market.
Away from the world
of work, what are your interests and hobbies?
Unfortunately, between work and volunteering there isn’t a lot of time left for much of a social life! I love to engage with young people’s education and get genuine satisfaction from this. In my spare time I contribute as an Associate Fellow in Peking University and a mentor at Oxford University Innovation. I feel that this keeps my mind active and also exposes me to fresh ways of thinking. At heart I am a very curious and inquisitive person that loves to learn.
Family is very important to me. Since Covid my parents have travelled from China to stay with me in the UK for extended periods of a few months at a time. I have loved being able to reconnect with them in this way following the disconnection most people felt during the pandemic.
In the free time that I do have I love spending time with colleagues and friends playing poker and pool as well as enjoying a nice meal. I also enjoy watching comedy classics like Only Fools and Horses and Faulty Towers!
Combining art and information is seen as a growth area
CREATING THE FUTURE VIA CAREER CRAFTERS
Vincent McAtamney, AV consultant, industry veteran and Founder of Essex AV, takes on role in government backed training for the CI sector which represents an important first for the industry.
In late 2022 the government launched an exciting new apprenticeship course, one a long time in the making. The Audio-Visual Technician Tier 5 Apprenticeship is now in motion. Working with training providers Career Crafters based in Essex, Vincent McAtamney has embraced the role of AV Tutor and is navigating apprentices through this comprehensive two-year course which leads to an independently assessed academic qualification amongst the first of its kind and represents a significant milestone for the AV industry.
Who is this course for?
• Apprentices in AV Support, Event, Lighting and Pro Audio
• AV Companies with Trainee Apprentices
• Organisations with expanding AV departments
What is the academic qualification?
• The Tier 5 Apprenticeship is an equivalent to a Higher National Diploma (HND)
• AV Tutorship typically runs for 18/20 months
to bring student to gateway assessment
• Final assessment is scenario and portfolio based and conducted by an independently approved academic board
• Course duration is 24 months
What topics does it include?
Vince explains, “This is a fully comprehensive course teaching a wide span of topics particularly AV distribution, video control, lighting and equipment operation and maintenance. It is beneficial to all AV sectors leaning mostly toward those working in corporate and commercial. The syllabus is divided into monthly teaching modules which teach Knowledge, Skills and Behaviours (KSB’s) via workshops, at-work training and personal research. This prepares each student for final assessment conducted by an approved academic board.”
A full list of skills and further detail regarding government funding can be found at https:// findapprenticeshiptraining.apprenticeships. education.gov.uk/courses/684
Skilled Delivered By The Course Include
• Operate a video camera and vision mixer
• Integrate a projector and/or display as part of an audio-visual presentation
• Audio mixing; loudness, timbre, spatialisation, and channel management
• Apply and problem solve video signal flow for live production
• Operate and program lighting control software/hardware
• Root cause analysis & problem solving
• Collate, compare, and synthesise information from various sources
• Work collaboratively; Building and maintaining positive relationships with stakeholders (such as performers, public speakers, presenters, clients and event organisers)
• Communicate technical concepts with clarity in person and in writing to end users of all skill levels and seniority
• Install, test, and commission relevant hardware
• Configure and manage remote participation systems
• Edit audio and video content
• Prepare, maintain, and manipulate audio and video assets through post-production
• Create digital assets for video workflows
• Manual camera operating for a range of contemporary S35mm digital cameras
• Audio capture
• Deliver virtual event technical operations
• Clearly advise and guide event participants
• Devise a learning program intended to cover a particular device/system
• Identify personal training and professional development needs via research and investigation
• Organise appropriate personal professional development activities to develop and enhance own role and skills
• Use collaborative online environments to schedule and update projects and tasks
• Complete risk assessment documentation
• Accurately assesses level of risk to health and safety of themselves and others
• Test and maintain audio-visual equipment, cables, and connectors: substitute items where necessary
What are the benefits of the course?
Vince explains, “For employers they nurture well qualified, extensively trained competent staff less likely to leave and more likely to develop their own career within the organisation. For apprentices, this qualification is not easily acquired. The continuous development akin to around 24 hours per month within work training rewards them with academic recognition comparable to their peers in other industries such as finance, digital marketing, development etc. setting them up well for a lasting career in AV.
“And of course end users both commercial and residential benefit from trained, competent knowledgeable staff who truly have chosen AV as a qualified, trained career vocation, it’s good for the industry as a whole!”
How do AV manufacturers, distributors and organisations get involved?
Vince explains, “Each month we host Workshops which train the KSB’s outlined in the course syllabus, typically a three hour workshop uses training aids including videos, discussion, challenges and questionnaires. I am seeking opportunities to align with trade showrooms willing to open their doors to welcome our next generation enabling more hands on tactile product sessions. “White-papers, industry training aids and content all may find themselves into the course workshops. If you wish to explore ways your organisation may assist please make contact with myself or Ziggy Pindoria via Career Crafters. Of course, trade bodies CEDIA and AVIXA are already doing much to promote this and wider academic training. Within the industry whether apprentice or seasoned pro, it does well to support trade based training and personal development, let’s all ‘raise the bar’!”
“We have already been encouraged by the response from the wider AV industry. Reflecting on my own career along with many others sporting a decade or two under their belts, we have to wonder how might ‘our careers’ have evolved
with such a recognised academic qualification early in our journey? This apprenticeship training no doubt paths the way for a more refined, reformed and highly qualified AV workplace.”
For logistics, finance and information about Career Crafters contact Ziggy Pindoria via: careercrafters.co.uk
Those interested in getting involved or understanding more about the AV skills taught, contact Vincent McAtamney at vince. mcatamney@careercrafters.uk
GORGEOUS GEORGIAN TOWN HOUSE
Inspired Dwellings entered this beautiful and technologically-advanced renovation project into this year’s Smart Building Awards. We take a gander at this opulent and high functioning home.
Sarah Sutherland, Director at Inspired Dwellings, explains, “Our client restored a neglected Georgian townhouse in London’s Belgravia, part of a Grade II listed early 19th-century terrace. Spanning seven floors, the property retains its original layout with rooms such as a grand salon and formal dining room, which was critical for preserving its character and meeting listed building criteria.
“The main challenge was integrating state-of-the-art technology into the highly ornate design. This was achieved by blending old and new elements, including invisible plastered-in speakers, TVs concealed behind
mirrors, and hand-painted CCTV cameras to match each room’s décor. The cinema room featured a hand-painted motorised chinoiserie screen and matching speaker grills.”
Sarah explains that unlike most contemporary refurbishments, the house retained its multi-room layout, necessitating individual room controls and switches. Over 70 keypads, each customised to the room’s scenes and finished in antique bronze, controlled 220 lighting zones. The small cinema room required mounting the projector vertically, reflecting the image off a mirror to achieve the desired range.
A NEW GENERATION OF SOUND.
The JBL Modern Audio A/V receivers consist of five models based on a platform of fundamental connectivity with the latest features for video and music, with additional premium features as you move up in the line. All models feature similar technologies to focus on high performance sound including Class D amplification to power all channels, Dolby and DTS decoding and high resolution 192kHz 24-bit digital signal processing. With premium audio quality and a focus on ease-of-use, the MA Series models offer the flexibility of a wide range of input sources and listening modes so you can enjoy your content easily and quickly with the fewest number of steps, all from a product with a unique and modern appearance. Check them out at www.improducts.co.uk.
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To deliver performance and practical for family living, a Crestron system, supported by industrialgrade Wi-Fi, provided an easy user interface for controlling audio, TV, lighting, security, heating and cooling. The system was customised with distinct functionality for family and staff, including fingerprint recognition with individual schedules.
Budget considerations focused on investing in proven technology to minimise future replacements and impact on the custom décor. The design aimed to create the ultimate integrated home with subsystems tailored to the client’s needs, each with standard characteristics and unique customisations.
MAKING IT HAPPEN
Key Systems included a wired and wireless enterprise-grade network with a gigabyte leased line, 14 Zyxel 6E repeaters and over 100 data points. Fiber optic cables were installed behind each TV.
The Crestron Home system accessed via nine in-wall touch panels, handheld remotes, tablets and a mobile app integrated numerous TV sources, 34 audio zones, 220 lighting zones, 35 CCTV cameras and door entry from three external stations. All the screens were customised with property details.
A home with this level of finish obviously needed extreme care when it came to integrating the technology
The home also includes Crestron - distributed audio to 34 zones with streaming services like Spotify and Apple Music. A 4K- compatible HDMI matrix connects five TVs and the cinema. VPNs enabled access to Arabic TV subscriptions and the TVs were discreetly installed behind bespoke joinery and antique mirrors.
A home cinema system in the family TV room includes a 75in 4K TV and a 5.1 surround sound system, whilst the main cinema uses a Barco projector and Meridian speakers with unique design elements, including a vertically mounted projector and a motorised masking screen.
Lutron controls 220 lighting circuits with 70 keypads, Crestron touch panels, tablets and smartphones providing access. The system manages everything from downlights to a converted 200-year-old crystal chandelier.
For security, a 2N Door Entry system delivers video and audio intercoms and 35 hand painted Lilin CCTV cameras match the room décor. A personalised fingerprint recognition programcontrols access.
For heating and cooling, the team integrated a Polar Bear system using Crestron Home and SIMPL with BACnet protocol. The system has also been designed for future upgrades and since completion has been improved with ZyXel WiFi 6E repeaters. An ongoing service agreement includes regular maintenance and remote monitoring to ensure top performance.
Inspired Dwellings inspireddwellings.com
The speakers are skillfully hidden within the living spaces
Essential Kit List
• Wired and wireless network with a gigabyte leased line, 14 ZyXel 6E repeaters, and over 100 data points
• Crestron Home System: Controlled various systems via nine in-wall touch panels, handheld remotes, tablets and app
• Audio and TV Distribution: 34 zones with streaming services, a 4K HDMI matrix for five TVs
• Media Room 75in 4K TV
• Barco projection
• Lutron Lighting Control: 220 lighting circuits with 70 keypads and Crestron touch panels
• 2N Door Entry system
• 35 hand-painted Lilin CCTV cameras
• Integrated the Polar Bear system with Crestron Home and SIMPL
ADDING VALUE EVERYWHERE
Almost two decades of success in commercial and residential AV gives us the versatility to support your projects in residential, marine, retail, hospitality and beyond, in spaces large or small, no matter how complex the challenges.
A proven track record of brand and technology introduction ensures that the solutions provided are uniquely featured and backed by industry leading system and technical support.
In these ways we help our partners to stand out, flourish and grow.
More than the sum of the brands we proudly represent, CUK supports our partners with complementary services including system specification and design, RP22 design support, acoustic modelling, commissioning support, and training.
FARNBOROUGH INTERNATIONAL EXHIBITION & CONFERENCE CENTRE
L-ACOUSTICS INTRODUCES HYRISS: ONE SPACE, ENDLESS EXPERIENCES
L-Acoustics has unveiled HYRISS (Hyperreal Immersive Sound Space), described as a groundbreaking audio solution set to redefine how users experience spaces through sound. L-Acoustics says HYRISS represents a paradigm shift in design, elevating the role of audio to match the importance of visual aesthetics in creating truly immersive, emotionally resonant environments.
This new system combines L-Acoustics’ hardware, software and services to create adaptable, high-quality sound environments suitable for a wide range of applications, from luxurious residences and yachts to high-end hospitality and corporate settings.
HYRISS enables full control of the sonic environment, from creating serene atmospheres for relaxation to transforming spaces into dynamic entertainment venues, says the concept’s creators. It has been birthed to eliminate the need for dedicated media rooms by allowing a single space to effortlessly become a concert hall, sports stadium, or cinema.
HYRISS supports a wide range of audio formats, from mono to Dolby Atmos soundscapes and beyond. Its high-resolution, three-dimensional network of loudspeakers provides exceptional listening conditions
and absolute acoustic comfort, says the manufacturer. The system can enhance voice for presentations, immerse listeners in music through chosen speakers, and dynamically adapt a space’s acoustics for various activities.
By integrating discreet in-wall speakers, high-power amplification, and advanced spatial audio processing, HYRISS is capable of concert-level sound quality while maintaining aesthetic elegance.
HYRISS leverages three core L-Acoustics technologies: L-ISA precisely positions instruments in space, mimicking live concert settings, Ambiance uses state-of-the-art
CRESTRON HOME FORGES AHEAD WITH FRESH FEATURES
Crestron Electronics has announced new functionality delivered by the latest Crestron Home OS 4 update.
Enhanced programming capabilities and branding opportunities include new smart home conditional sequences which introduce the ability to create ‘if-then, when’ statements to the automation process to further personalise scenarios and create dynamic experiences. The addition of conditional logic gives dealers the ability to create complex and nuanced automation scenarios with a defined set of conditions that must be met before an action is triggered. The update also introduces a branding feature that allows dealers to personalise their projects by adding their logo to the Crestron Home app.
In the lighting sphere, native Lutron Ketra lighting integration has been introduced which expands the range of lighting options available within Crestron Home. Another notable addition is the release of the Crestron Home SIMPL Integration Modules – described as a powerful and innovative feature that enables seamless integration of the Crestron Home OS lighting configuration with custom Crestron control processors programmed via SIMPL. This means dealers can leverage the speed and simplicity of Crestron Home OS lighting while
maintaining the flexibility and customisation capabilities of SIMPL programming for projects that require a custom solution.
For security, enhanced user management of door locks is available for Crestron EX Locks, including the new Yale Pro 2 Deadbolt Lock, allowing each family member or guests to receive access to specific locks for convenient home entry.
The company is also introducing more control over the security of touch screens as
sensing microphones and the L-ISA Processor II to transform room acoustics. Finally, Anima uses advanced algorithms and machine learning to localise, spatialise, separate and immerse audio content.
The magic of HYRISS, according to its creator, lies in its flexibility. A space equipped with HYRISS can transition between various acoustic environments, from an atmosphere for relaxation or meditation to a dynamic entertainment space.
L-Acoustics l-acoustics.com
pin code protection now allows chosen touch screens to be locked down.
The update also includes increased integrations including with the Crestron Digital Graphics Engine 1000 (DGE-1000), Horizon Glass Keypads and Saros PoE Speakers. The update also adds Sonos Line-In Support, enabling better audio control and switching capabilities.
Crestron crestron.com
Crestron Home OS can now instruct Sonos devices to switch between eARC or line-in inputs
The HYRISS solution is available now for custom installations to dealers and end users
STEINWAY & SONS MODEL S SOUNDBAR
The Steinway & Sons Model S Soundbar redefines soundbar performance, delivering extraordinary clarity, outstanding musicality, and exceptionally powerful bass. Made from machined solid aluminum panels, available in immaculate high gloss black with gold details, and with signature strings at the sides, the Model S Soundbar is as beautiful as it is timeless, built to last for decades.
ENJOY AN APPLE COURTESY OF CONTROL4
Native integration of Apple Music brings millions of audio choices to new and legacy Control4 users and a compelling, easily accessible selling feature to Snap One Partners.
Snap One, now part of ADI, has announced an integration partnership with Apple Music, unleashing even more streaming audio variety to enjoy throughout the home, all accessible and controllable via Control4’s customisable architecture and range of intuitive user interfaces. Control4 Partners now have the ability to infuse Apple Music into scenes, routines and automations with the touch of a button, voice command, or automatically via schedule and wake up.
Control4’s audio capabilities enhance the clarity and dimensionality of Apple Music’s toptier features including Listen Now. Along with the Control4 app, users can also select favourite media and access playback controls through an Apple Watch.
Using the Control4 interface, customers can browse through the curated mixes, recommended playlists and their own personal music library. Ultra-fine EQ controls cater to user’s personalised listening styles, and the Sessions page provides easy media transfer, sharing and control across multiple zones. Through the Control4 platform, professionally programmed scenes enable customised experiences that include Control4 lighting,
Users can add Apple Music via Manage Music, or installers can add it remotely or locally via Composer Pro or Composer Express
shades, and temperature control to complement the music selection and ambiance. For example, via the Control4 operating system, one personally curated Apple Music playlist could start streaming through the bedroom speakers as the Wakeup scene executes, while a different predetermined Apple Music ‘Recommended For You Mix’ can stream to speakers in the kitchen at eight in the morning to keep users on time as they go through their morning routine.
JVC IS LASER FOCUSED ON NEW PROJECTOR MODELS
JVC is promising ‘unrivalled’ picture quality in a sleek new design with BLU-Escent Laser and third generation 4K D-ILA devices delivering high brightness, superior resolution and exceptional contrast.
Billed as the ‘world’s smallest native 4K projectors, the DLA-NZ700/RS2200 and DLA-NZ500/RS1200 arrive in late November 2024. These complete the new line up which includes the DLA-NZ900/ RS4200 and DLANZ800/RS3200 already available.
This compact size was achieved by redesigning almost everything from optical unit, lens and circuit board. Each is equipped with third generation 0.69in native 4K D-ILA device with enhanced screen uniformity, and a highefficiency BLU-Escent Laser light source for strong contrast, resolution and high brightness. They both also have second-generation Frame Adapt HDR technology, which is equivalent to the higher-end models, realising high quality HDR images, and Vivid mode, which reproduces SDR content in rich colours. Now, the entire D-ILA lineup is equipped with laser light source, allowing users to experience full-scale highdefinition images in a compact design.
A few other key features include JVC’s proprietary laser light source technology, BluEscent with a blue laser diode to achieve a high brightness of 2,300lm for DLA-NZ700/ RS2200 and 2,000lm for the DLA-NZ500/ RS1200. Both models have a laser life expectancy of approximately 20,000 hours.
DLA-NZ700/RS2200 has two times brightness per watt of effective power comparing with the first model DLA-Z1 equipped with BLU-Escent Laser released in January 2017 with 3,000lm brightness.
The integration of Apple Music is available to new and legacy Control4 customers with a Snap One Control4 CORE controller or Triad SA1 Streaming Amplifier, the latest Control4 OS 3.4.2 software, an active Connect or 4Sight subscription and an Apple Music subscription.
Snap One snapone.com
By using a laser light source, harmful substances found in lamp light sources are eliminated.
A newly designed large aperture (80 mm, 11 groups, 15 lenses) 4K compatible lens delivers full native 4K D-ILA resolution to every corner of the screen. Fully electric (Zoom, Focus, Shift), with 70% vertical and 28% horizontal shifts allows for easy, installation, while a lens memory function is available for convenience to use a cinemascope-sized screen.
JVC uk.jvc.com/projectors
Frame Adapt HDR Generation 2 analyses the maximum brightness of each frame of any HDR10 content by proprietary algorithm
SONY BACKS BRAVIA PROJECTORS WITH XR PROCESSOR
Sony has introduced two 4K HDR laser BRAVIA Projectors with XR Processor, the BRAVIA Projector 9 (VPL-XW8100ES) and BRAVIA Projector 8 (VPL-XW6100ES).
These new machines are the latest native 4K laser projectors from Sony designed to bring a professional-grade cinematic HDR experience into the home. Equipped with an XR Processor for projector and Sony’s unique Laser light source, they deliver images with rich gradation in 4K HDR alongside deep black and brilliant colours, says the maker.
The BRAVIA XR Processor for projector optimises Sony’s BRAVIA TV video processing for projection. The new projectors are the first models that make up part of Sony’s BRAVIA home cinema line-up. The new designs have been created to suit moviebuffs, sports fanatics or an avid gamers alike. XR Dynamic Tone Mapping, XR Deep Black, XR TRILUMINOS PRO and XR Clear Image are on board to deliver a professional-grade cinematic experience. XR Dynamic Tone Mapping analyses peak brightness frame by
AMINA SHINES A LIGHT ON 25 YEARS WITH SAPPHIRE SERIES
As Amina Technologies commemorates its 25th anniversary, the company has unveiled its new range of invisible speakers, the Sapphire Series.
The launch of the Sapphire Series marks Amina’s most significant product introduction since the Mobiusi Series in 2019.
The combination of the Symphony Cell composite panel and newly updated drive components sets a new benchmark for invisible audio, says the manufacturer.
The series includes three speakers at different performance levels, tailored to fit various environments.
The first two products will be available for global shipment beginning in November 2024, with the third product following in January 2025.
The Sapphire Series showcases Amina’s latest innovation: the Symphony Cell composite panel. This newly developed in-house material features a unique resin-impregnated cellulose pulp core that reproduces warm, natural tones while maintaining the clarity Amina’s products are known for.
Additionally, Amina’s new anti-warp composite skin ensures the panel surface
remains stable during installation, plastering and operation, even in extreme conditions of heat and moisture.
The new Sapphire series features redesigned, more powerful exciters and upgraded electromagnetic components, enhancing overall performance. Both the panels and exciters benefit from advanced high-temperature-rated bonding techniques, significantly expanding their application to challenging environments such as saunas, steam rooms and outdoor settings.
Reflecting on the company’s journey, company founder Richard Newlove states, “With the Sapphire Series, we’ve not only enhanced the performance and durability of invisible speakers but also broadened their potential applications. Whether in a luxury home, a commercial spa, or a high-end hospitality venue, these speakers provide pristine audio quality with high reliability while remaining completely out of sight.”
Amina Technologies aminasound.com
frame, and delivers optimal tone mapping, showcasing images with rich gradation, high brightness and brilliant colours. XR Deep Black controls powerful laser dimming in dark scenes, bringing deeper blacks while maintaining tone and colour expression. Plus, over a billion colours are brought to life by the XR TRILUMINOS PRO feature and refined by XR Clear Image technology, which upscales all imagery to 4K quality by using a large database to intelligently recreate lost texture and detail, all while minimising noise.
Designed to offer enhanced brightness in Sony’s compact lightweight designs, there are 3,400 lumens from the BRAVIA Projector 9 and 2,700 lumens from the BRAVIA Projector 8. For gamers, the 4K 120fps at a 12ms input lag plus Auto Low Latency Mode via 2x HDMI 2.1 compatible inputs, provides the necessary smooth and clear movement. The BRAVIA Projector 9 is also equipped with Live Colour Enhancer to provide more vivid and vibrant images even in brighter environments.
Sony pro.sony/en_GB/home
Amina products are designed exclusively for the custom install, commercial and architectural installation markets
The BRAVIA Projector 9 replaces Sony’s existing VPL-XW7000ES projector
THE INSIDE STORY FROM STEINWAY LYNGDORF
Steinway Lyngdorf has launched the BWS-110, a high-performance in-wall woofer specifically made for Steinway & Sons speaker installations requiring the most shallow woofer solution. The BWS-110 is the brand’s sixth woofer model in a portfolio ranging from stackable installation woofers to the in-room woofers featuring the trademark high-gloss piano lacquer.
BWS-110 stands for Boundary Woofer Shallow, incorporating one 10in bass driver and designed as a high-performance in-wall woofer for custom installations that require a shallow woofer solution yet with the best bass performance. The BWS-110 utilises a patented high excursion shallow woofer design, customised for Steinway Lyngdorf and based on an innovative voice-coil/cone geometry and suspension, which allows the highest excursion from the most space-saving construction.
A four-layer voice coil, an ultra-rigid dual aluminium cone, a very powerful neodymium magnet, and an extremely rigid cast aluminium basket provide strong bass performance, matching the sound quality of Steinway & Sons speakers.
The rigid and sealed enclosure is easy to integrate and fits 4in/10cm cavity walls, while the extended height provides the large inner cabinet volume required for high-performance
SUPER-SIZED ARTCOUSTIC
Artcoustic has announced the launch of the new SL Multi Soundbar XXXL – one of the largest standard-size LCR soundbars in the world.
At 2180mm wide, this impressive looking soundbar is specifically designed for 98in TVs, providing a high-quality audio experience.
The maker says users will experience exceptional audio with the new Artcoustic SL Multi Soundbar XXXL. Whether watching movies, listening to music, or playing video games, the XXXL Soundbar delivers every note, dialogue and sound effect with stunning clarity and depth, says Artcoustic.
The slim profile and elegant design ensure it fits into any interior, demonstrating that premium quality doesn’t require compromising on aesthetics.
Artcoustic underlines that its soundbars are handcrafted in Europe using the finest speaker components. This meticulous attention to detail guarantees that each product meets high standards for performance and durability, says the maker.
Users can choose from a wide range of cabinet and screen colours to create a soundbar that matches any preferred interior design with the SL Multi Soundbar XXXL. The product has also been engineered for Dolby Atmos
bass extension. In combination with the powerful 10in bass driver, the BWS-110 delivers an outstanding bass performance, says the maker. It is a strong solution for any media room and home cinema with no space for placing subwoofers in the room. It comes with a paintable, magnetically held grill to cover the woofer front.
As with every Steinway & Sons loudspeaker, the BWS-110 is part of the company’s Integrated System Approach, ensuring all parts of the system, from the speaker to the woofers, to
the digital amplifiers and the stereo or surround processors, work perfectly together as one.
Steinway Lyngdorf’s incorporated RoomPerfect technology acoustically calibrates the speaker and woofer performance to the room acoustics, while the unique Bass Management achieves the best sound integration between the chosen Steinway & Sons speakers and the BWS-110 woofers.
Steinway Lyngdorf steinwaylyngdorf.com
systems, delivering strong sound pressure levels and clarity.
Key specifications include an operating range of 80 Hz (-3 dB) to 40 kHz, sensitivity of Mono 100 dB / Stereo 91 dB and a maximum power handling of two hours of 6 dB crest factor
pink noise. The speaker weighs 10kg and has dimensions of H: 100 W: 2180 D: 80 mm.
Artcoustic artcoustic.com
BSW-110 production will start in October 2024 at Steinway Lyngdorf, Denmark
Made for the bigger TVs out there, the Artcoustic SL Multi Soundbar XXXL
Control4 X4, Coming 2025
Control4 X4, the latest iteration of the Control4 OS, revolutionises smart living with its redesigned interface, curated routines, powerful home screen, and Apple HomeKit integration.* It offers a personalised experience by adapting to user preferences, redefining smart technology possibilities.
