EI Outdoor Systems Supplement 2023

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GETTING IN TOUCH

EDITOR-IN-CHIEF

Daniel J Sait,

EDITORIAL ASSISTANT

Beatrice Lee, beatrice@allthingsmedialtd.com

SALES DIRECTOR

Ian Kitchener, ian@allthingsmedialtd.com

GROUP AD MANAGER

Claire Talty, claire@allthingsmedialtd.com

PUBLISHER

David Kitchener, david@allthingsmedialtd.com

STUDIO MANAGER

Mark Weller, mark@allthingsmedialtd.com

ACCOUNTS

susan@allthingsmedialtd.com

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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.

CELEBRATING THE JOY OF SOUND

At EI we are thrilled once again to embrace the return of an alltime favourite product category: loudspeakers, as we present another major focus on this area. Join us as we prepare to once again delve into the realm of home cinema, multi-room, two-channel and exterior audio systems. This special supplement provides an opportunity for some of the best suppliers around to share their knowledge of and enthusiasm for this sector.

Loudspeakers have long been at the heart of creating immersive audio experiences of course,

transforming ordinary spaces into captivating auditory realms. Whether it’s the thundering bass that shakes a home cinema, the crisp and detailed sound that transports listeners to a live concert, or gentle melodies that infuse every corner of a home, loudspeakers hold the power to elevate our daily lives. They have the ability to turn a mere room into a sanctuary of sound, a space where emotions are stirred and memories are forged.

As technology advances, we find ourselves at the forefront of an audio revolution. With each passing year, loudspeakers become more refined, delivering audio quality that rivals the best live performances. They offer a seamless integration with smart home systems, enabling effortless control and customisation, making the

listening experience truly personalised. Whether the customer is a cinephile, an avid music lover, or simply someone who appreciates the beauty of sound, there has never been a better time to explore the world of loudspeakers.

At EI, we take great pride in curating and presenting the latest innovations and trends in the industry. We understand that every audio system is unique, and our mission is to provide our readers with the knowledge and insights they need to make informed decisions.

So, join us on this journey as we dive deep into the world of loudspeakers. Let us guide you through the labyrinth of options, unravel the complexities and showcase the very best that the market has to offer.

TV MOUNTS

MODEL VODLF125-B2

FOR TV’S 40 " -85 " AND UP TO 54.4KG. EXTENDS 25 " TILT, SWIVEL, AND EXTEND YOUR OUTDOOR TV.

MOTION LOCK KNOBS TO HOLD TV IN DESIRED POSITION (ONLY ON FULL-MOTION MOUNT)

CORROSION-RESISTANT COATING + STAINLESS STEEL HARDWARE

MODEL VODLT1-B2

FOR TV’S 37 " -95 " AND UP TO 81.6KG. TILT YOUR OUTDOOR TV.

ADD A PADLOCK FOR ADDED SECURITY (NOT INCLUDED)

EASILY ADJUST LEVELING AND HEIGHT AFTER INSTALLATION

L-ACOUSTICS CREATIONS: TO THE MANOR BORN

Creating this ultimate Cotswolds party house was a joy for all those involved, with the help of high-performance products from L-Acoustics Creations.

Custom integrators Homeplay recently undertook a complete, entertainment-based luxury home audio install at a stunning property in the Cotswolds, utilising a full array of L-Acoustics Creations audio solutions throughout the house. Following discussions with Homeplay, the client also specified the same exceptional L-Acoustics Creations sound for the outside living areas so that he could enjoy immersive music, movies, and big parties with friends alfresco.

As a huge lover of music, the client had specified a huge audio system within an outbuilding of his home, complete with a DJ/ party set-up and golf simulator, called the ‘Studio’. That area of the installation scooped a coveted CEDIA EMEA Award this year for ‘Best Integrated Media Room’.

When the client went to the L-Acoustics Creations London showroom they were introduced to ‘Immersive audio’, the client wanted to replicate the immersive experience of object-based audio formats like Dolby Atmos outside, in his pool and party area. As a fan of the Ibiza nightlife scene, the system also needed to recreate the power and SPL of the big European club experience at his Cotswolds property.

Clearly, basic residential CI amplification and low-cost waterproof speakers would not fit the bill.

Homeplay had recently been to visit the L-Acoustics Creations London showroom themselves when this client approached them, and L-Acoustics Creations became the obvious choice for its range of high-power integration amplified controllers, high-volume capable, weatherproof colinear array and coaxial loudspeakers, and its extensive experience in spatial audio. L-Acoustics L-ISA immersive audio technology and revolutionary L-ISA Ambiance active acoustics system are used extensively throughout the pro-audio industry for creating immersive audio soundscapes for live and recorded productions. L-Acoustics speakers are also often seen on some of the world’s biggest stages used by the most famous of artists, so for this client who wanted to have their own performance space, it all made sense.

So, as well as delivering the ultimate in audio within the property, an expansive, multiproduct L-Acoustics Creations outdoor system enabled Homeplay to deliver impressive immersive/spatial audio and surround sound to the sound spaces of the client’s substantial alfresco setting – centred around a covered, waterproof Samsung Terrace QLED TV. The entire installation required control and it is part of the home’s larger Control4 installation.

TOTAL ENGAGEMENT

While ‘height’ channel loudspeakers were not an option for the open, outdoor AV installation, the challenge was creating a fully engaging, immersive sound experience with movies, sporting events and music. Using the L-Acoustics Soundvision 3D sound mapping tool, the main pool zone was created as a 13.1 channel system comprising two Syva colinear speakers for the left and right channels, one X8 point source coaxial centre speaker and two Syva Low subwoofers, fitted into the custom joinery under the Samsung 75in Terrace TV.

Syva is a colinear source loudspeaker that leverages L-Acoustics expertise in linearray loudspeaker technology into a cabinet just 1,300mm tall, less than 150mm wide and protruding just over 200mm from the mounting wall.

Despite its compact dimensions, with the correct amplification, Syva can produce up to 137dB at 1m, with a broad 140° horizontal dispersion pattern for maximum area coverage. The IP54 of ingress rating of Syva ensures living and working outdoors in the UK weather is not an issue.

The X8, which was used as a centre channel, is a coaxial point source speaker originally designed for stage and studio monitors, so vocal reproduction is excellent. It also has an incredibly wide dispersion, so there is excellent coverage throughout the garden area.

Side, rear and back audio channels are handled by 10 L-Acoustics Creations X4i loudspeakers mounted on customised ground spikes. These are distributed within the bushes around the garden pool, with six standard Syva subwoofers for LFE, all hidden from view. The X4i is a compact two-way coaxial driver loudspeaker measuring under 120mm on all three sides of its cube shape. Like the Syva, it brings L-Acoustics pro audio expertise to bear, offering SPLs up to 110dB at 1m and a range of installation and mounting options.

In addition to the main pool area, the client wanted stereo music in two other outdoor zones for smaller, more intimate gatherings.

In zone two, the sun deck, a smaller secondary area for more intimate entertaining – four X4i speakers are positioned in each corner of the decking, with two Syva subwoofers hidden beneath. Again, all are RAL-coloured to complement the house’s stone.

Zone three – or sun deck two – faces a grassed area including a fire pit, and utilises two X8 speakers, mounted on a wall – also matching the Cotswolds stone of the house. These speakers throw out onto the open area of grass field to the side of the house, where the client and his family spend time around the fire pit and listing to stereo music.

All amplification for the outside installation is housed within the property, as you might expect and again the kit list is substantial.

Essential Kit List

L-Acoustics Creations loudspeakers

• Zone one: pool area

• 1x X8 centre + 2 x Syva Low subwoofers

• 2x Syva loudspeakers

• 10x X4i loudspeakers

• 6x Syva subwoofers

• Zone two: sun deck one

• 4x X4i loudspeakers

• 2x Syva subwoofers

• Zone three: sun deck two

• 2x X8 wall-mounted loudspeakers

Four L-Acoustics Creations LA2Xi amplified controllers, each boasting 4 x 580W per channel, power the 14 X4i speakers in zones one and two and the two Syva subwoofers in zone two.

In addition, four LA4X amplified controllers, each delivering 1,000W per channel, drive the X8 centre speaker, the two Syva loudspeakers and all of the subwoofers in zone one, alongside the two X8 speakers in zone three. AV processing comes courtesy of a Storm Audio ISP Mk2, with everything inside and out controlled via a Control 4 system. All outside audio is linked to the internal sound system, alongside the client’s Sky Q, Apple TV+ and Apple Music setups. The entire system is RAL matched to match the local Cotswolds stone of the house.

The outside system comfortably delivers 105dB SPL around the pool area, and 100dB to 110dB in the smaller zones, so Ibiza has definitely come to this particular part of the Cotswolds.

All L-Acoustics Creations loudspeakers are IP54 or IP55 ingress proof, UV-stable and can be RAL painted to order, so this was arguably the ideal system for this integration job. Homeplay clearly understood the importance of delivering on the client’s requirements and creating an impressive immersive audio system for an outdoor setting.

This huge project was recognised at this year’s CEDIA EMEA Awards. While the media room garnered Best Integrated Media Room in the EMEA region, alongside Best Global Media Room, the entire installation also received ‘Highly Commended’ status for Excellence in Innovation and Excellence in Documentation in the Integrated Home category.

Music, movies and parties – inside and out –this Cotswolds-based family has it all. Homeplay and L-Acoustics Creations have delivered an exciting alfresco system with luxurious immersive spatial audio and AV surround sound at its core. It’s no wonder that CEDIA heaped so much praise on the installation: this is a system like no other – one that brings the inside out, allowing the client to enjoy entertainment throughout his home, and not just within the beautiful walls of his Cotswolds stone home.

L-Acoustics Creations amplification

• 4x LA2Xi amplified controllers

• 4x LA4x amplified controllers

The rest

• Storm Audio ISP Mk2

• Control 4 system

• Samsung 75in Terrace TV

• Sky Q

• Apple TV+

• Apple Music

All images courtesy of Maria Zhytnikova/ L-Acoustics Creations

GETTING GARDENS RIGHT

Saying all this, we have made outdoor TVs sound like a tricky purchase, right? There are some very good ‘outdoor’ televisions on the market that are ideal for shaded areas and must be covered up in the winter for protection. This may be fine for some installations and fit with some budgets, but we don’t see that as acceptable as it isn’t necessarily capable of doing all that you require.

An outdoor television is a great addition to any outside space, whether it is for the garden, terrace, pool area, boat or outdoor commercial space. Making sure any television is the right one for the viewing area is hugely important, especially if it’s going outside, says Alastair Benn, Owner and Managing Director at Aquavision.

It obviously needs to be waterproof, but is that it? No, there are lots of other things you need to consider when purchasing and installing an outdoor television. Outdoor spaces are mostly high ambient light environments, so the unit would need to be high brightness. Although this can sometimes be misleading, as some high brightness TVs can be vague and have not much more than standard brightness. Whilst high brightness is something you need to consider, you also need to think about what happens at dusk or when viewing the television at night.

No one wants to sit staring a TV so bright that you need your sunglasses at night.

Not only is the light in the environment an important factor but so is the temperature. If the television will be in extreme conditions, you would need automatic thermal management, this means that heaters or cooling fans turn on when required. Controlling your television as part of the smart home system will mean that IP control of the TV would need to be considered.

In basic terms, LCD technology is based on pixels changing format to show a colour which forms part of a picture. Your TV is made up of many thousands of these pixels, depending on the resolution. When the crystals in an LCD exceed a certain temperature they will invert, meaning that pixels will temporarily turn black until the TV has cooled down enough to a safe operating temperature. This may sound high but with the display placed behind a piece of glass to ensure it is waterproof this will create a greenhouse type effect.

We believe that we have produced the best outdoor television, by looking at all the features an outdoor television requires to work in different locations and to have the best viewing experience. Our Horizon Outdoor Television is not ‘off the shelf’ and ensures that all important features are covered so we can offer you the perfect product for your outdoor environment.

Our Horizon Outdoor Television, has a custom anti-reflective glass to enhance the viewing experience, purpose-built and high brightness 4K LCD panels which can withstand temperatures of up to 110°C eliminating pixels inverting, IP control for total integration with third party control systems. With the built-in audio amplifier this enables the TV to be connected to an outdoor audio system, giving you a more immersive experience just as you would expect in a living room or media room.

To combat the changing light levels, we have developed our own ADST (Advanced Daylight Sensing Technology) which constantly monitors and adjusts screens brightness to ambient light levels. We have also installed internal fans and heaters which automatically activate if the screen gets too hot, too humid or too cold.

With full IP control, with Crestron, Control4, RTI, AMX and Savant, on our Horizon screens you will be able view real time read outs of features, of internal temperature, humidity, screen temperature and more.

Not only does Horizon come with all these features it also comes in a massive range of sizes, from 43in to 100in screens. All our screens are hand assembled and packed at our UK factory, ensuring that every Aquavision model is finished to the same high quality as the last.

Aquavision aquavision.tv

Aquavision Horizon TVs come in a wide range of sizes with many added technologies to make them suitable for the great outdoors

TAKE OUTDOOR ENTERTAINMENT TO THE NEXT LEVEL

With Summer on the horizon, what can installers do to grow their business in outdoor technology installations? Snap One explains the market opportunity for garden entertainment systems and looks at Radiance, a unique, new range which will help partners enhance the experience for their customers and save installation time and cost.

Outdoor entertainment continues to be a growth category for integrators. According to the latest Integrated Home Market Analysis 2021 report by CEDIA, over two-thirds of integrators participating in the study said they now install outdoor entertainment, with many expecting the segment to grow in the future.

The appetite for inside-outside living that was boosted by various lockdowns during the pandemic years is set to continue. By spending more time in their gardens, people rediscovered their beauty and also appreciated more the benefits that they could provide. This has fuelled an interest in more thoughtfully designed outside spaces, where garden areas could function as additional rooms to the house.

In recent times, clients have shown a willingness to invest in a whole range of features to help them extend hours of use and the enjoyment that an outdoor space can provide. Quick-drying, comfortable outdoor furniture, fire pits, lighting and waterproof pergola roofs and canopies are all now potentially realistic investments. With research from American

Express released in March suggesting that 42% of people in the UK are planning to improve their garden in 2023, integrators are well placed to help transform these spaces and breathe new life into garden entertainment for their customers.

Primarily, integrators have a growing range of technology options to enhance the outdoor experience. At Snap One, we already offer an extensive selection of outdoor audio products across two speaker brands – Triad and Episode.

The Triad Garden Array is a family of premium, all-weather landscape speakers that

are the perfect combination of elegance, sound, and durability. This family includes the unique GA4 Satellite and powerful GA10 Subwoofer speakers, designed to be placed throughout flowerbeds or around the garden, blanketing outdoor spaces with rich, beautiful audio.

Meanwhile, Episode outdoor speakers include a broad selection of landscape, mounted and rock speakers, all-weather soundbars and burial or hardscape subwoofers for great sound and installation flexibility across 8Ohm, 70V or hybrid systems.

At Snap One we recognise that it’s important to stay ahead of outdoor trends and invest to make sure that our partners can meet their customer’s expectations and maximise a business opportunity. For this reason, we’re launching Episode Radiance, a completely new outdoor bollard-style solution that combines audio and lighting on a single wire, opening up new possibilities in landscape installation and control.

There is nothing else available quite like Radiance. It’s designed and engineered to enhance not only the entertainment value for customers, but also improve safety, security, and the overall aesthetics of the property.

RANGE BUILDING

The range is built on our exclusive, patentpending technology which combines both an audio signal and a low-voltage lighting signal on a single, easy-to-install two-conductor burial wire. The design of the bollard speaker will allow for a 360° radiating sound signature compared to the more focused directional sound signature of today’s landscape product offerings. Perfect for small to medium-size outdoor environments (under 3,000ft²) but scalable to suit any size space, Radiance is a modular solution where the lighting can be added to speakers or speaker blanks for flexible placement and usage.

To simplify installation, the full range of bollards within Radiance are designed for 70v amplification. Selectable 70v tap settings allow for detailed tuning and balancing of the sound at each bollard, which means the individual volume can be set while the entire system is adjusted as a whole. The subwoofer utilises a 10in long-throw woofer mounted in a completely sealed cabinet, allowing for both above-ground (hardscape) and in-ground (burial) installation. The line-up is offered in either black or white finishes to complement a wide variety of tastes and designs.

And, for a lifetime of dependable entertainment, each model is finished in a UV-protected finish and IP66 certified.

The lighting installation is just as simple as the speaker. Power for the lighting can be supplied from any off-the-shelf lowvoltage transformer, delivered over the same two-conductor wire used for the audio signal. The patented technology supplies distortion-free audio signals while delivering ample power for the lighting modules. Multiple LEDs in the light module will output up to 300l depending on the setting (path, spot, or both). From wall wash to direct path lighting, the options offer a wide variety of lighting solutions with the simple, classy shape of the speaker working well in any landscape lighting design.

As an additional benefit, the Radiance System does not require any special control programming to operate. Each feature, lighting and audio, are separate functions and can be independently controlled and integrated into a Control4 automation system.

By combining audio and lighting into a single, quick and easy-to-install and control solution, Radiance is a game-changer for outdoor spaces. Radiance will be available to Snap One and Control4 partners in EMEA very soon. Existing partners can learn more at www.dealer-emea.control4.com. To enquire about being a partner, please visit www.c4community.force.com/SnapOne/s/ newpartnerapplication.

SHIELD YOUR DISPLAYS FROM THE ELEMENTS!

Do You Need the Right Protection and Security for Your Displays, TVs and monitors?

Then look no further that The TV Sheild

The great news is we live in a time when amazing TV and digital signage protection is available. But like all good things it is important to learn the important variables for consideration to pick the best solution.

Here are the actors to look for:

• Unbeatable protection

• Crystal-clear picture quality and anti-glare options

• Ensuring the longevity and performance of the screens

• Innovative solutions

• Security systems

• Affordability, quality and precision engineering

• Shatterproof front panels

• Water-resistance

• Moisture control solutions

• Thermostatic hot and cold temperature regulation available

• Dust resistance

• Pest control

• Cable pass-throughs

• Room to protect additional devices like mini pcs if needed

Is it possible to find all those important factors in one?

The TV Shield has the perfect solution. The TV Shield specialises in protective enclosures for television screens and a wide range of digital displays. Looking for TV protection with unbeatable clarity and security? The TV Shield provides unbeatable protection with crystal-clear picture quality. At The TV Shield, we understand the challenges you face in ensuring the longevity and performance of the screens you install. That’s why we work tirelessly as a specialist protective enclosure company to deliver innovative solutions that prioritise affordability, quality and precision engineering. Our range of enclosures cater to a wide range of environments and applications, whatever the weather or conditions.

Our flagship product is The TV Shield PRO. Designed to be weatherproof and tamper-resistant, all our enclosures offer unrivalled protection against the elements and unauthorised access. With a shatterproof polycarbonate front shield and powder coated aluminium housing, our enclosures provide crystal-clear views of the screens behind, ensuring that your audience enjoys an immersive visual experience without compromise.

What Sets The TV Shield Apart?

Commitment to quality and security sets The TV Shield apart. The TV Shield’s enclosures are equipped with a security screw system, adding an extra layer of protection for use with almost

any standard TV Screen or monitor. With The TV Shield’s enclosures, you can have peace of mind knowing that the screens you install are safeguarded against vandalism, theft, accidental damage and wild weather.

As a trusted industry leader, The TV Shield understands the importance of versatility. These enclosures are available in various sizes and configurations, accommodating different screen types, manufacturers, dimensions and locations. Whether you’re installing screens in public spaces, outdoor venues, educational institutes, or commercial buildings, The TV Shield has the perfect solution for nearly any needs.

Don’t miss this opportunity to discover how The TV Shield can revolutionise most installations with top-of-the-line protective enclosures. Visit The TV Shield at EI Live! (Farnborough Exhibition Centre, September 13-14 - eiliveshow.com) to experience the unbeatable combination of clarity, security and affordability that sets The TV Shield apart.

We look forward to meeting you and seeing how we can help to enhance the longevity of your screens, whilst maximising viewing pleasure. Remember, when it comes to protecting your screens, trust The TV Shield – the experts in ultimate display protection. Come and see us on Stand 136!

The TV Shield is the ideal outdoor TV protection; it’s a uniquely designed, universal, and secure TV enclosure, suitable for almost any kind of Plasma, LCD, or LED flat-screen television.

The specially designed casing is a fantastic alternative to an expensive outdoor television, allowing you to watch, protect and secure most televisions in almost any environment, to enjoy your TV viewing outdoors for more information meet us on:

Stand 136 at EI Live! 13-14 September 2023

LET’S HEAR IT FOR EXTERIOR AUDIO!

DbM Partners with Ambisonic to bring high-performance outdoor audio solutions to installers.

Industry leading distributor, DbM, has announced a new partnership with US-based Ambisonic Systems to supply the company’s audiophile-quality outdoor loudspeaker range to professional integrators.

“Ambisonic is an established brand renowned for high-quality speaker engineering, thoughtful design and superior audio performance,” says DbM Director of Sales, Barry Sheldrick. “This makes the company a great, natural fit for DbM and we’re delighted to make Ambisonics’ exceptional outdoor audio range, so popular in the US, available now to DbM customers over here. We’re confident it will be an equally huge hit with them.”

ULTRA HIGH-PERFORMANCE LOUDSPEAKERS FOR OUTDOOR SPACES

Ambisonics’ fully scalable, weatherproof audio solutions for outdoor spaces are discreet but

capable of delivering serious SPLs. DbM will offer the loudspeakers partnered with powerful Ambisonic amplifiers to ensure peak performance.

THE LANDSCAPE RIBBON (LSR)

Ambisonics’ Landscape Ribbon LSR6 and LSR8 loudspeakers pack a big audio punch from a compact size. Available either as an 8-Ohm solution or with a high-quality transparent 70v transformer on board, the LSR range can be free-standing or buried into the ground and partnered with either a 10in or 12in subwoofer for outstanding performance.

6.5HD-AW COMPACT LOUDSPEAKERS

For larger entertaining spaces, outdoor cinemas or party zones, DbM will provide the super versatile Ambisonic 6.5HD loudspeaker. Featuring larger planar magnetic ribbons and woofers than the LSR series, the 6.5HD can be used individually or as a part of a line array solution where it can deliver over 130dB continuous output at 1m.

ALSB106 BOLLARD SERIES

Ambisonics’ ALSB106 Bollard series combines a 10in woofer, with a 6.5in mid-range woofer and 1in HD ribbon in the same enclosure. Available from DbM in a black, bronze or silver finish, these loudspeakers offer 360-degree dispersion from an attractive-looking design.

The new Ambisonic Big Bollard 10 delivers incredible performance from a stunning aesthetic design for any residential or commercial outdoor application. Available with round or square aluminium sleeves in silver, black, or bronze finish. Each speaker contains a 10in subwoofer, a 6.5in polypropylene mid-range woofer and a round planar magnetic ribbon tweeter. The round ribbon

tweeter design allows 360 ° dispersion and is treated with a Kapton coating using a special application process that allows the product to stand up to the outdoor elements without affecting the sound. The Bollard 10 speakers are built tough for the outdoor elements and are available in 180 ° & 360 ° sonic dispersion options.

Each speaker has an adjustable impedance setting for 8 ohms, along with 70v/100v with multiple wattage taps for each. This allows for installation flexibility with nearly 300 watts of peak power handling and the ability to play from 32Hz to 20kHz.

The Ambisonic Bollard 10 will surely provide greater performance and unstrained listening at further distances than other products in this category.

“DbM was the perfect fit for our Ambisonic line in the UK, with their project-driven approach and design expertise, delivering high-quality products and immersive experiences, which can now be delivered outdoors through our high sound, high-quality line of Ambisonic products.” Comments Jose Coelho, International Business Director at Origin Acoustics, the parent brand of Ambisonic.

Ambisonic is the latest high-quality loudspeaker brand supplied to the professional installation sector by DbM, joining Amina, Meridian and Waterfall. For more information about Ambisonic and its exquisite range of powerful outdoor speakers, please contact DbM at sales@distributedbym.co.uk or visit www.distributedbym.co.uk.

OUTDOOR LIVING REDEFINED

Videotree showcases the thriving trend that is outdoor entertainment.

In the ever-evolving landscape of societal norms and lifestyle trends, one trend is becoming increasingly prevalent - the desire for luxurious and functional outdoor spaces. Recent data indicates that an impressive 58% of homeowners are ready to elevate their outdoor environments, with spending on such ventures expected to grow by 8.6% this year.

This trend is not merely a fad, but a substantial shift, fueled by a yearning to experience cherished moments with loved ones while appreciating the tranquillity of the outside. Videotree, a leading name in outdoor entertainment, explains how their television technology can really enrich outdoor living experiences.

THE RISE OF OUTDOOR LIVING

The trend of outdoor living is all about extending the familiarity, comfort, and convenience of our indoor spaces to the outdoors. More and more, property owners are taking the initiative to transform their gardens into personal sanctuaries. These are no ordinary gardens, but rather sophisticated spaces complete with state-of-the-art outdoor kitchens equipped with modern grills and pizza ovens, inviting fire pits that offer a warm gathering place on cooler evenings, lush manicured gardens teeming with life, and innovative entertainment systems that bring a touch of technology to these natural havens.

This fresh perspective on outdoor living is not only about aesthetics but also about promoting

familial bonds and the creation of lasting memories. It serves as the perfect backdrop for everything from quiet family dinners to larger gatherings and parties, ensuring that every event is memorable.

CRAFTING THE ULTIMATE OUTDOOR HAVEN

Entertainment is a crucial component of any outdoor living space. After all, the essence of outdoor living is the blending of relaxation and enjoyment. With the increasing appeal of outdoor living, the demand for high-quality outdoor televisions is also surging. This is where Videotree, a pioneer in the field of outdoor entertainment, steps up to the plate, with the much awaited launch of their groundbreaking Aquiom Outdoor TV.

SPOTLIGHT ON VIDEOTREE’S AQUIOM OUTDOOR TV

Videotree’s Aquiom Outdoor TV is more than just a television; it’s a statement of style and an exemplar of modern engineering. It is tailored to endure even the most severe outdoor conditions, making it a perfect fit for any high-end outdoor living space. Its 4K UHD resolution, HDR 10 compatibility, and remarkable brightness level of up to 2000 nits ensure pristine visuals even under the harshest sunlight. This makes it perfect for enjoying your favourite films, catching the big match, or your favourite documentaries in any weather conditions.

The Aquiom Outdoor TV is not just about superior performance, it’s also about

longevity. It boasts an IP66 waterproof rating, ensuring it can weather rain, humidity, and even spontaneous pool splashes. This degree of durability and performance ensures that your investment in outdoor entertainment is not just for a season, but a lasting addition that will continue to yield benefits for years to come.

Optical bonding is also an integral feature, reducing glare from sunlight by adding a layer of resin between the screen and glass panel. In addition the high TNI TV display ensures that colour and contrast of your TV’s display remains unaltered, regardless of the weather condition, delivering a premium viewing experience all year round.

ENDLESS OUTDOOR FAMILY ENTERTAINMENT

The ideal outdoor living setup isn’t about having the fanciest appliances or the most beautiful garden, it’s about creating opportunities for meaningful experiences. The Aquiom Outdoor TV serves as a centrepiece for these experiences. From open-air film nights, watching the big matches or even binge-watching your favourite TV shows, during a cosy outdoor picnic.

Embracing the outdoor living trend is about more than just investing in a luxurious outdoor space; it’s about crafting an environment that you can really enjoy. With Videotree’s Aquiom Outdoor TV, you can seamlessly incorporate an element of elegance and entertainment into your outdoor living space, making it the ideal destination for family gatherings and memorable moments. To learn more about Videotree and its innovative outdoor TV solutions, visit www.videotree.com.

THE BOX OF DELIGHTS

Thinking ‘outside the box’ may be a cliché business management phrase, however moving outside the confines of the house walls can generate additional project revenue and Instagram-worthy results in even the smallest of green spaces, says Aldous Systems.

As the weather warms up and more people are looking to spend time outdoors, garden audio systems and outdoor entertainment spaces are becoming increasingly popular. In today’s fastpaced world, having a relaxing and entertaining outdoor space can be a welcome escape from the stresses of everyday life.

One of the main benefits of garden audio systems is that they allow you to enjoy your favourite music while you’re outside. Whether you’re relaxing on your patio, cooking in your outdoor kitchen, or hosting a backyard barbecue, having high-quality sound can enhance the experience. The right audio system can create a beautiful and immersive soundscape that complements the natural beauty of your garden.

There are a variety of garden audio systems available on the market, ranging from simple, portable speakers to complex, multizone systems that can be customised to suit your specific needs and preferred aesthetic. These solutions offer a range of products that are designed to withstand the elements, deliver high-quality sound, and be seamlessly integrated into your outdoor space.

In addition to garden audio systems, outdoor video spaces are also becoming more popular. Several options now exist from patio (covered area) screens to models that can survive fully exposed, and multiroom video distribution manufacturers are stepping up to offer HDBT and VoIP receivers that are designed to coexist in these outdoor areas with protection against the elements.

For installers, there are many opportunities to make money with these types of projects. As more homeowners invest in their outdoor spaces, there is a growing demand for professionals who can design and install custom audio and video systems that meet their specific needs sympathetically and in collaboration with landscaping, designers, and the physical build of the outdoor space.

In order to be successful in this field, installers need to have a solid understanding of the latest audio and video technologies, as well as a keen eye for design. They also need to be able to work closely with their clients to understand their specific needs and preferences. By offering a range of services that are tailored to each client, installers can build a loyal customer base and generate repeat business.

When it comes to specific products, Speakercraft, Cerasonar, and AVProEdge all offer a range of high-quality solutions that are well-suited for outdoor entertainment spaces. Speakercraft, for example, offers a range of outdoor speakers that are designed to deliver clear, high-quality sound in any environment. These speakers are available in a variety of styles and sizes, making it easy to find a solution that fits your specific needs. Cerasonar, on the other hand, best known for invisible speakers, have created a unique

solution for the ‘industrial’ designed outdoor space with a natural concrete coloured speaker and subwoofer. Finally, AVProEdge offers a range of video distribution and control products that can be used to create a complete outdoor entertainment system including receivers with Sealoc treatment to protect against the elements.

In conclusion, garden audio systems and outdoor entertainment spaces are becoming increasingly popular as more people look for ways to enhance their outdoor living experiences. For audio visual custom installers, these types of projects offer many opportunities to make money by designing and installing custom audio and video systems that meet their clients’ specific needs. By staying up-todate with the latest technologies and offering a range of services that are tailored to each client, installers can build a successful and profitable business in this exciting field.

Aldous Systems can help you navigate the many options and specify the right solution, from a simple pair of outdoor rated cabinets, through to the largest zoned outdoor system in both residential and commercial environments.

Aldous Systems

sales@aldoussystems.co.uk

01296 719582

Ourvastselectionofspeakersblendintotheirsurroundingsand elevatevirtuallyanyoutdoorenvironmentbringingqualitysound tooutdooraudio.Rockspeakersareavailableingranite,speckled granite,sandstone,andshalebrown,whiletheplanterspeakerthatcanbeusedwithliveplants-comesinaweatheredconcrete finish.Cerasonar'sinnovativeConcreteseriesspeakerand subwooferblockscomeingrey,anthraciteorwhitewithasmooth orroughtopfinish.

Needsomethingalittlemoretraditional-we'vecabinetsinblack andwhiteinmultipledriversizes.Plusburialsubwoofersto completethemostdiscreteofinstallations.

ScantheQRCodetofindallouroutdoorspeakeroptions

HDBTorVoIPReceiverfromAVProedge.

AC-EX70-444-RNE-SEA-70m4K HDBTReceiver

AC-EX40-444-KIT-SEA-40m 4KHDBTExtenderSet

WATER WORLD!

RTI has the perfect solution for when customers want to control their equipment from the hot tub or the pool.

Outdoor season is here and that means homeowners are looking to elevate their outdoor home experience. As we head outside to the pool or hot tub, we should be reminded of two things that don’t go together well: electrical components and moisture. One exceptional solution for control of outdoor entertainment, lighting and more is the water-resistant U3 remote from RTI. The U3 removes the worry of a drop in the pool or getting left out in the rain, making it the perfect companion for outdoor entertainment areas such as hot tubs, pools, patios and decks. And it’s not just water-resistance; the electronic paper display is easy to read in bright sunlight, so it’s right at home in the great outdoors.

The U3 is also ideal for indoor applications where water and standard remotes don’t mix, such as kitchens, bathrooms, garages, gyms and

many work environments. Picture the restaurant bartender, responding to an urgent customer request to switch from tennis to the football game on the big screen before the coin toss.

between charges, the U3 is a profitable addition to any outdoor or wet environment project. Learn more at rticontrol.com

LET’S TAKE THIS OUTSIDE!

Garden Audio has always been a struggle to provide for customers as there has only ever been two options. Cheap, portable bluetooth speakers - which anyone can buy and use, or expensive systems that need separate amplification and control.

Well, American Audio Co and OSD Audio are setting out to change that in 2023. Their unique, bluetooth, on-wall and in-garden speaker packs give the luxury of built-in audio, without the traditional set up headaches or silly costs.

Simple to install and use, you just mount them on the wall or hide them in the garden, wire the speakers together, plug in the waterproof power supply and they wake up with a bluetooth connection for you to play from your phone, tablet or even via an OK Google/ Alexa command.

With the Bluetooth built into the speaker housings, they look good too. The modern, rounded design of the 5in and 6.5in on-wall patio speakers wouldn’t look out of place on

the wall of your favourite bar’s patio, whist the 5.25in or 8in Bluetooth rocks easily melt into the foliage of a garden boarder.

Then we have OSD’s super cool Sub/Sat system, again with bluetooth built in. Power the 8” subwoofer, connect to the Bluetooth and the sub and up to four smaller satellite speakers will have your garden dancing in next to no time. Perfect for parties, around a pool and hot tub or sharing tunes to different areas in your garden.

With a Sub/Sat system there is no need to deafen those on your patio area, just to be able to hear the music further down the garden and because everything is mounted low down, in amongst the foliage, you won’t be entertaining the neighbours at the same time.

The design suggestion is to position the main subwoofer (bass) somewhere in the middle of the garden boarders and fan the supplied waterproof speaker cable out to the left and right for the satellite (mid/high range) speakers.

American Audio also recommend feeding both a left and right channels in either direction

to give an even distribution of sound as you move around the garden and prevent any unusual sound imaging. This is best achieved in a L/R/Sub/L/R style of configuration.

With trade prices starting at £189.75 for the smaller 5.25in on-walls, only climbing to £399.25 for the Sub/Sat kit, these simple garden systems are an easy system addition and install for anyone working with smart home systems, garden rooms, lighting and electrics.

Contact

13–14 SEPTEMBER 2023

FARNBOROUGH EXHIBITION CENTRE

THEUK’SONLYDEDICATEDAVANDHOMEAUTOM