TURN TO P.4 FOR THE AWE INSIGHT
HOME CINEMA INSIGHT AN
2019
P U B L I CAT I O N
WINNER Distributor of the year AWE
WINNER Best Projector Sony VPL-VW870
WINNER Best Television Sony AF9
Sony True 4K Home Cinema Projectors and Master Series Televisions Available now from AWE
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WINNER Distributor of the year AWE
WINNER Best Projector Sony VPL-VW870
WINNER Best Television Sony AF9
A NEW TV EXPERIENCE AWAKENS
Sony Master Series Televisions and True 4K Home Cinema Projectors Available now from AWE
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Home Cinema Insight | Contents
Inside… 2 Habitech
Create home cinema experiences
4 AWE Europe
The home of home cinema
6 OneAV
Let’s focus on Focal
8 CEDIA
An update from the association
Hooray for home cinema!
Daniel J Sait, Editor-in-Chief
Has there ever been a better time to sell home cinema? Probably not. With all the improvements in technology (Dolby Atmos, Auro 3D, and now IMAX Enhanced), as well as advancements in the kit with better screens, stronger more powerful projectors and speakers, the clued-up installer can these days deliver a really strong package at a whole range of prices. Many of the manufacturers and distributors have also upped their game in terms of training, support and demonstration facilities, offering installers further chances to deliver the right result and makes those sales in the first place. Here we offer an insight into some of the movers and shakers in the home cinema world, all of whom are keen to underline the type of support, advice and equipment they can offer. EI’s own thoughts on the sector right now? It’s a great time to be involved or get involved if you are not already. The ability to now offer a much larger range of price points and the choice between dedicated spaces and those that fit around the client’s existing living spaces, means market potential is higher than it has ever been. Stop and think for a minute, how many people or clients do you know who don’t like music and films? Not many, is it? So the potential audience for cinema experiences in the home is very large. Yes, its not easy getting people to sign on the dotted line, but suppliers have made big efforts to help there with training, a rash of new demo spaces and the technical support to get the job done right and create customers for life. So, we hope you enjoy this insight into some of the help that is out there, and more importantly you find success in this expanding and exciting market.
10 Meridian Audio
Meridian gets emotional
12 Indigo
The right stuff
14 Pulse Cinemas The power of SIM2
16 Invision UK
A strong cinema line-up
18 Penn Elcom
Rack ’em and stack ’em
20 Barco
The launch of Bragi
22 Monitor Audio Top speaker tech
24 Custom AV Distribution A Marvel in Marlow
26 Redline Distribution
Backpack packs a punch!
28 Home Entertainment Solutions Handy installer problem solvers
EDITOR-IN-CHIEF: Daniel Sait, dan@allthingsmedialtd.com EDITORIAL COORDINATOR: Jordan O’Brien, jordan@allthingsmedialtd.com SALES DIRECTOR: Ian Kitchener, ian@allthingsmedialtd.com PUBLISHER: David Kitchener, david@allthingsmedialtd.com ACCOUNTS: susan@allthingsmedialtd.com CIRCULATION: carol@allthingsmedialtd.com STUDIO MANAGER: Ben Bristow, ben@allthingsmedialtd.com GRAPHIC DESIGN: Jon Appleton, jon@allthingsmedialtd.com Essential Install magazine, Suite 14, 6-8 Revenge Road, Lordswood, Chatham, Kent ME5 8UD. T: +44 (0)1634 673163 F: +44 (0)1634 673173 Whist we make every effort that everything printed in Essential Install magazine is factually correct, we cannot be held responsible if factual errors occur. All articles are copyright and remain the property of Essential Install magazine.
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Home Cinema Insight | Habitech
This attractive Sonance based living room cinema allows customers to imagine what their own home cinema experience will be like
Create home cinema experiences with Habitech Daniel J Sait, Editor-in-Chief
In a mature market offering, Habitech now supplies the products and the support required to help installers create high-end home cinema experiences in customers’ homes. EI’s Dan Sait meets Sales Manager Timmi Thorsen and Cinema Specialist Craig Wheeler at the company’s impressive new suite of demonstration spaces to discover how. The process of creating the fulsome home cinema offering Habitech delivers today began three years ago when the company embarked on a major investment plan targeting its versatile, valued-added proposition at the widest range of home cinema designs, from the highest-end dedicated cinema to ever-so-discreet media room installations. This has involved partnerships with world-class brands such as Wisdom Audio, Sonance, JVC and Projecta, some very serious demo facilities and the exclusive design expertise of Texas-based CinemaTech. Timmi explains, “Habitech has been on an important journey to develop a turnkey solution which offers an immersive cinema experience in any residential space. There is still demand for dedicated cinemas, and we cater for that, but today there are more customers who want to experience the joy of a home cinema in the comfort of what is recognisably a ‘living’ environment. “The way people consume content has changed in recent years. Rising demand for TV series such as ‘Game of Thrones’ has created a wealth of very high production value content, which benefits hugely from a proper cinema experience. People want a way to enjoy that content (as well as movies and music concerts) over many hours in a space that still feels
like home. At CEDIA they used to talk about the concept of ‘nesting’ at home, well today it’s happening big time.” Craig argues, “Yes, lots of consumers, especially the wealthy ones, are put off going to a commercial cinema: the quality of the experience is often very poor. They’d rather stay at home, but they’re missing out if they’re watching content on tablets or even phones. There is huge ‘wow’ potential in offering them all the great content they love through an immersive experience they simply will not have had before.” Timmi continues, “As a value added distributor, we need to make sure we are offering our customers something unique. Home cinema experiences do exactly that. The performance is better than in any commercial setting, it’s something the whole family can appreciate, and for dealers the margins are strong. We have seen lots of price erosion in the sectors which installers used to rely on; look what Sonos has done to multi-room music. The answer is to sell and support experiences that customers cannot get elsewhere. This is why Craig has come on board. He brings real expertise to the job of creating the best cinema experiences and is able to liaise with our installer partners at every level to ensure great results no matter whether the installer is experienced or just getting started.”
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Home Cinema Insight | Habitech
Habitech’s large dedicated cinema room featuring Wisdom Audio delivers an immersive high-end performance that creates desire of ownership
The CinemaTech difference
Craig enthuses, “Very simply cinemas are storytelling spaces. The customer does not care about what is ‘under the hood’ so to speak, they care about the emotions and experiences the system is going to offer them. So, in terms of creating the business, that is what we concentrate on.” Habitech now has two high-quality demonstration spaces at its Basingstoke HQ. One is a large dedicated home cinema and the other a comfortable living room based system. There is also a new demonstration space opening in London in Q4 of this year, which will offer the opportunity, by appointment, to experience what a half million-pound cinema is like. Timmi explains, “Our demonstration spaces are a vital part of the equation. Installers bring their customers here to build their desire. The experience helps them to understand what is possible in their homes and we don’t have to ‘sell’ the concept. Instead we ‘educate’. We show people what the immersive cinema experience is like and that generates the desire to buy.” Craig underlines the point, “When I was an installer, one of the hardest things was ‘selling’ the idea of what a home cinema experience really feels like. With our demonstration facilities, that difficulty disappears. We show customers what a real cinemascope image looks like, what their favourite concert footage sounds like and how the entire experience can feel comfortable and inclusive. When that’s been achieved you’re a long way down the road to a signature.” The team also underlines that by combining improvements in projector quality, architectural speaker systems, integrated window treatment systems and ambient light rejecting screens, a wider range of rooms can be modified for a high quality cinema experience. Along with access to Habitech’s own demonstration spaces, the company is also offering big incentives to installers wanting to create their own demonstration experiences.
In helping to create the ‘ultimate’ cinema experience at company’s HQ and in the field, CinemaTech is now a huge part of Habitech’s offering. Its range of easy-to-fit acoustic treatment products deliver a relaxed and acousticallytuned environment long before any of the kit goes in. By treating every room first, the need for room correction at the system is reduced, keeping the signals pure and delivering a better and more natural experience. Timmi, remarks, “Having visited some of the top content producers in the world, we know just how much is added in post-production, so you are already dealing with content that is ‘designed’ for impact. The less technical adjustment that can be made after the cinema is fitted, the better the original impact is resolved. CinemaTech delivers exactly that result.” Support from CinemaTech is on three levels. Installers can buy the treatment panels and fit them straight to the wall using CinemaTech’s innovative track system, or they can submit plans to Habitech and receive a complete design, indicating where all the treatments and equipment should go. The top level involves the CinemaTech team taking leadership of the project to deliver a complete interior and technical design for the space. The team liaises with other trades involved with the project, leaving installers the job of installing the system. CinemaTech has a strong track record in offering installers a way to up-sell to a more sophisticated level of cinema design. Craig explains, “The CinemaTech approach is extremely effective. Not only are the panels very thin and easy to fit (there’s no need to create false walls), they create a room which is inspiring to experience. Acoustically the room is cinema ready, but it’s not ‘dead’, and customers can have the décor designed just the way they want it without compromise. Many people who visit our living room cinema love the quality of the space even before we run the demo. Room design was never in the gift of the installer, now we can offer you the complete package.” Timmi sums up, “It’s really important to underline that this is not a ‘me too’ concept from Habitech. Like everything we do, we’ve thoroughly researched this area and built a team and choice of products and services that we know will deliver what installers need and what end users will love. It’s these experiences that keep people coming back. If we can create something that inspires our customers every day, together we’ll generate repeat business for years to come. And that’s an experience we can all sign up for.” Habitech 01256 638500, habitech.co.uk
CinemaTech provides a complete design service to installers
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Home Cinema Insight | AWE
AWE’s Performance Cinema demonstrates what can be achieved in a more compact space and on a limited budget
AWE: the home of home cinema James Drummie, Product Manager at AWE, explains the fulsome product lines and support available from AWE for home cinema projects. Home cinemas are seen as the ultimate in residential entertainment systems and can be installed at a wide range of budgets. It is for this reason that we designed and installed two cinema rooms at two different price points at AWE’s HQ in Epsom — a Reference Cinema costing approximately £80,000 and the Performance Cinema that comes in under the £20,000 mark. Hardly a day goes by that we aren’t hosting a demo session in these rooms to integrators and their customers. And the benefit in doing so is that the customers often turn around to their integrator saying, ‘I want this in my house.’
The IMAX® Enhanced program, developed by IMAX and DTS®, demonstrates the very best at-home entertainment experience
Our cinema rooms showcase the wide range of systems that we distribute and are constantly being upgraded so that they feature the most up to date products. We also use the spaces to demonstrate the latest technologies – such as IMAX® Enhanced , which we previewed at the AWE Expo in October last year and showcased at EI Live! recently. So, let’s dive a bit deeper into the equipment that is currently installed in these two rooms. Featuring a 7.6.6 speaker configuration, the Reference Cinema Room delivers the most immersive experience yet. The front sound stage includes the KEF Ci5160REFTHX speakers which are built to the same exacting standards as the KEF Reference models. And, like all Reference speakers, the Ci5160REF-THX comes with the Reference Build Certificate signed by the craftsman who built it. Two of Definitive Technology’s SuperCube 8000s are installed to deliver 1500 watts each of explosive, precise bass performance. The huge 133in picture is delivered by Sony’s VPLVW870ES 4K HDR projector, that features an ARC-F (All Range Crisp Focus) glass lens to ensure the highest quality image reproduction and exceptional clarity. The screen uses Draper ambient light rejecting ReAct fabric, which allows viewing to occur even when the lights are on.
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Home Cinema Insight | AWE
Product Corner
AWE’s Reference Cinema is the perfect space for customer demonstrations
The Performance Cinema Room features the Epson EH-TW9400 PRO-UHD, HDR capable projector, which is matched with an acoustically transparent Draper 110in Clarion screen to ensure audio is not compromised for the centre speaker placed behind the screen. To complement the visuals, we have used Definite Technology’s Ultimate In-Wall Reference Series speakers in a Dolby Atmos 7.4.4 configuration. The speakers are fully enclosed units with a depth of less than 10cm, meaning they will fit in standard four inch stud walls, including the subwoofers — each of which houses two 10in drivers. The Marantz SR8012 drives the sound system. The receiver provides enough amplification to drive all 11 speakers, with subwoofers operating on their own power amplifiers.
The art of demoing
Developed with the ultimate in music and movie soundtrack performance in mind, the KEF Ci5160REF-THX speaker combines gorgeous design with ease of installation
With a regular flow of people coming through our doors for demos, we’ve developed a format that works well with most visitors. Here are my tips for demoing cinema rooms. Before you start a demonstration, making the customer feel comfortable and relaxed is very important. I will always offer the customer a drink and have a chat with them before I start a demo. You need to tailor the demo to the customer’s needs, so use this time to find out key information from them, such as whether they are interested in using the cinema room for music or movies. Preparation is key. Know your music and movie clips, know where you are going to finish each clip, explain why you are using that clip, and point out what the customer should be listening to or looking out for. The larger the group being demonstrated to, the fewer
The Sony VPL-VW870ES 4K HDR projector, delivers incredible home cinema entertainment, and was recently awarded Best Projector at the Smart Building Awards. The long-lasting laser light source boasts a powerful 2,200 lumen output for cinema-quality picture performance, even in larger home cinema rooms and well-lit living spaces. Featuring the latest 4K processor for home cinema projectors, Reality Creation technology analyses and radically enhances Full HD content. With generous connections and interfaces, it also offers great flexibility for smooth integration in any home cinema set-up. Meanwhile, the KEF Ci5160REF-THX speakers, which feature in the Reference Cinema Room, won Best In-Wall/ In-Ceiling Speaker at the Smart Building Awards. The KEF Ci5160REF-THX has been engineered with the design characteristics of professional studio speakers for impressive, impactful sound. These ultimate in-wall speakers feature three key innovations drawn from KEF’s signature ‘Reference’ technology, including the most advanced version of the Uni-Q point source MF/ HF driver array to give the speaker enhanced dispersion characteristics. Originally designed for the KEF Blade, this revolutionary technology gives the KEF Ci5160REFTHX the performance of a floor-standing unit, with all the aesthetic benefits of an in-wall speaker.
questions you will be asked. With this in mind, you want to be able to cover all points, as you won’t be prompted by questions. Prepare some bullet points for each clip, know the benefits you’ll be highlighting, and stick to the plan. Picking the right demo material is hugely important. Choose content that highlights different features. When you explain the technologies, always remember — ‘features tell, benefits sell.’ There’s no point in mentioning a feature if you can’t demonstrate the benefit, and steer away from talking about products. People often wonder how to finish the demo, and hopefully close the deal. Well, a good demo should sell itself, and does not require any used car salesmen tactics. We like to give the customer something to take away, so we have developed a Smart Home Technology guide, which features a number of home cinema solutions for the home. This resource is perfect for customers once they have attended our demo. To arrange a visit to the AWE HQ in Epsom, contact AWE on 01372 729 995 or visit awe-europe.com
Integrators are encouraged to visit AWE HQ for a demonstration of the full cinematic experience in either the Reference Cinema or Performance Cinema
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Home Cinema Insight | OneAV
Focal – CI is hi-fi!
OneAV points to the positive qualities of the adaptable and high-performance range of speakers from Focal. How does an integrator choose which loudspeakers to use? It could be down to the fit and finish, ease of installation, the margin gained through the sale or even the relationship with the brand. However, how often is the choice determined by the performance and, in particular, the individual needs of the client? For example, does the client just want a total flush-mount solution or do they also want to make a statement with sound? At Focal, the belief is that regardless of the application, the customer should receive the very best performance, particularly when combining stereo audio and multi-channel home cinema. If we take a dedicated media room, for example, the customer might well want centre channels, surrounds and subwoofers built in. But, for dedicated stereo, they might also want to use conventional loudspeakers to achieve the very best performance for music. To achieve this, Focal has spent considerable time in matching the technology and sound characteristics of its flush-mount models with its traditional home audio speakers, enabling integrators to create systems that can be mixed and matched yet still attain the high performance level that will keep the client entertained regardless of whether they are watching a movie or listening to music. Whilst designing its recently introduced 300 Series of flush-mount speakers, Focal utilised technology that had been designed for its home audio speakers to create a flawless interface between the two. Most obvious is the introduction of its Flax drive unit cone material. Created using high-quality flax fibres to create the core and then enclosed by two thin layers of glass fibre, Flax cones satisfy the key criteria of a high-performance diaphragm: high internal damping, high velocity of sound and high flexural rigidity. For the tweeters, again Focal has utilised its trusted technology by employing magnesium and aluminium to create an alloy that offers great damping and rigidity. The result is a tweeter that is both extremely light for quick response, yet rigid to reduce signal break up. This combination enables the tweeter to extend its frequency response beyond 28kHz (-3dB).
But it is not just about the drivers. Managing the crossover between the two is taken care of by a crossover that utilises the same high quality components taken from its home audio speaker range. The result is a range of flush-mount speakers that span a wide range of sizes and applicational use; for in-wall or in-ceiling use, there is the circular ICW4, ICW6 and ICW8, whilst the IWLCR5 and ICLCR6 add greater sound presence for front-left, -right and centre channel duties. Crucially, though, it is the integration with Focal’s traditional home speakers that makes the real difference. Models from both the Aria and Kanta Series utilise the same technologies and, therefore, can be seamlessly integrated into the system to achieve the best stereo performance. Why is this important? It allows integrators the chance to upsell by offering a greater level of performance. To complete the discrete look, Focal’s IWSUB8 in-wall subwoofer system features an 8in Polyglass speaker driver and a front vent with a streamlined inner frame to guarantee no-noise operation. With a shallow in-wall depth (33/8in), a highquality bass reproduction (bass cut-off frequency: 30Hz to -6db) and covered with a low profile magnetic grille, which can be painted, it is as high-performance as it is discreet and can be driven by Focal’s dedicated easyinstall amplifier specially tailored for the IWSUB8. So why should you be interested in Focal? The brand offers a wide range of speakers for integrators to create systems regardless of the client’s application and/ or needs. It is totally flexible as, most importantly, any combination of discrete and traditional loudspeakers can be used together to create truly class-leading systems – either for home cinema or stereo music. For CI inquiries, please contact OneAV: 01684 576348 / sales@oneav.co.uk / oneav.co.uk / focal.com
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When Hi-Fi & CI Combine Three ranges are available: the entry-level 100 Series, the mid-level 300 Series and the range-topping Electra Series. Order today from OneAV.co.uk
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Home Cinema Insight | CEDIA
AVXcellence has used TCD on no less than 20 projects already
Excel with The CEDIA Designer Anand Lulla from Pune-based CEDIA Member AVXellence explains how The CEDIA Designer (TCD) software has transformed the way his company does business. We subscribed to the TCD software quite soon after its launch in June 2016. TCD is a cloud-based, interactive, standards-driven online tool. We thought that it could significantly help our business, and we’ve been proved right. Preparing design quotes has always been very time consuming and since it is just a proposal, there is a chance that we do not land the project. The TCD tool reduces this time drastically and enables our design proposals to look very professional. Using TCD, we can produce a complete 30+ page cinema design proposal including audio and video calibration reports, aesthetic renders accurately reflecting the finished room, and 3D CAD drawings of the room. It brings the entire cinema design process into one place: we can enter in the dimensions of the room and then work methodically through the entire cinema design. TCD specifies the precise location of the loudspeakers, screen,
seating, projector, provides amplification and processor requirements, calculates the RT60 value, and much more. TCD improves our company image as the client is always impressed with our efforts. We use TCD only for dedicated cinema rooms and have used it for approximately 20 proposals so far. In one particular project we used TCD to design a highperformance theatre room that a client wanted to create in the basement of his villa. The total area was around 10m x 9m, but the client was unsure if he wanted a dedicated home theatre, created by splitting the area into two to create a cinema space and a separate entertainment area, or if he wanted a multi-purpose open plan entertainment room. After much discussion, the family decided they wanted an open, large multipurpose entertainment room which included a home theatre system.
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Home Cinema Insight | CEDIA
The company is a fan of the way the system keeps evolving
Customer impact at the planning stage can be greatingly increased with TCD says Anand
The client was super impressed when we shared our design proposal. He had enquired with a few other AV dealers for this project. However, after seeing the complete design and the layout that we had recommended for the dedicated cinema room, the client decided to go with us, simply because the quality of our proposal impressed him. As a result, the system that was finally installed was quite different from the original TCD proposal but has been an excellent solution for the client and a proud design and installation for our team.
In our view, it’s clear that other integrators should take advantage of what TCD offers.
Constant improvement
TCD is also a product that’s getting better all the time. For example, the latest software update enables integrators to quickly email their clients an immersive 360° render file of any proposed theatre room — supportive of, but without the need for, specialist viewing equipment. The TCD user designs the technical elements of any dedicated theatre room using the software, then selects the way the room will look by choosing from a plethora of décor and equipment options in TCD’s render tool. The immersive render is generated automatically by the software, taking just 1520 minutes to create the file. The client can open the immersive render file directly from an email and view it on an Android or iOS phone, tablet, computer, or VR headset. If opening and viewing on a phone or tablet, all the client needs to do is download a free panorama viewer app such as Photosphere or Panorama 360 Camera, then open the file using the chosen app to view their cinema room. The demand for well-designed home theatre systems is increasing. Easy access to quality movies and TV shows from Netflix, Prime Video, Hotstar and Apple iTunes is fuelling this demand. It is time that integrators take a professional approach to servicing their clients’ needs. TCD helps integrators like us present our solution in superb fashion and eliminates the guesswork. AVXcellence avxindia.com, TCD thecediadesigner.org
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Home Cinema Insight | Meridian
Meridian’s advanced Reference Digital Theatre
Meridian gets emotional
Home cinemas remain popular in residential properties, with customers wanting a dedicated room where they can escape to enjoy a film in all its cinematic glory or an arena concert where their favourite artist is performing. The new DSP640.2 In-Wall Loudspeakers are perfect for immersing viewers in sound
As the pioneer of high-resolution audio, Meridian believes that the listener should feel every emotion associated with their favourite music and movies, and the best place to experience this is in the home cinema. Thanks to powerful loudspeakers, state-of-the art audio controllers, bright and silent projectors, flexible and clear projection screens, and the right acoustic treatment, Meridian can support integrators in designing and installing a room that delivers the best experience for their clients.
compact size, delivering a bass performance similar to a passive speaker that is four times as big. The whole range is timbre matched for seamless integration and easy to install with only 100mm mounting depth. Each speaker delivers full-range sound with no need for an additional subwoofer, perfect for delivering high quality, lifelike sound discretely in any home cinema.
Extraordinary Sound
The award-winning 271 Digital Theatre Controller provides the perfect link to integrate any analogue or digital AV processor or receiver with Meridian’s DSP loudspeakers, delivering the best, immersive, hi-res audio for home cinema. This breakthrough product allows integrators to deliver the most exceptional and immersive home cinema experience yet to their customers, complete with the highest quality dynamics and clarity, in analogue, digital and 3D format applications. The 271 offers 16 unbalanced inputs, 16 balanced inputs, and the option of 16 digital inputs, depending on the choice of processor. This enables the connection of any Atmos, Auro, or DTS-X processor to Meridian speakers. The 271 also features a super low jitter Meridian High Resolution (MHR) output.
Meridian has recently introduced new models within its Architectural range of Loudspeakers enabling integrators to deliver the authentic, superior audio performance that customers want in their home cinema. The DSP640.2 and DSP520.2 come with the all new Class-M DSP engine, which has been designed by Meridian to maximise SPLs and fidelity. Each drive unit within these speakers boasts a pair of powerful high bandwidth, ultra HD amps for guaranteed performance and complete control. The DSP320.2 offers great flexibility as both an in-ceiling and in-wall speaker and its performance far exceeds its
Seamless Control
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Home Cinema Insight | Meridian
Powerful Projection The Barco Loki CinemaScope offers the same Ultra HD enhancements as the Barco Loki projector, coupled with a high-capacity 2.37:1 aspect DLP engine. Its exceptional design allows a 2.35:1 film to be shown without requiring an anamorphic lens. The projector also provides Barco’s renowned single step image processing and low latency scaling technologies.
On Screen The latest in Meridian’s Architectural range, the new DSP320.2 In-Wall Loudspeaker boasts unrivalled power, accuracy, and incredible performance
With a knitted, white, wide viewing angle, highly acoustically transparent image surface, the Reference Display Technologies range of screens from Display Technologies Screens are the ideal solution, which can be installed with ease thanks to their easy build technique. They can be installed straight onto the wall thanks to their front-loaded image surface, reducing the risk of dirt and
damage as the screen frame is already mounted before the screen surface is fitted. This allows integrators to save time and money, whilst Transparent Reference image surfaces deliver stunning, vibrant images without any moiré effect.
C-ATS Eyes
Cinema Acoustic Treatment System (C-ATS) is a unique acoustical treatment system designed to offer maximum performance with minimal loss of space across all frequencies. While many solutions already exist, none of them combine performance with a minimal loss of valuable wall space as effectively as C-ATS. It’s designed to treat the key problems encountered in every room, by addressing resonance, reverberation, and reflections with a holistic approach. Foamsorbers and scattering panels ensure that the system has a large sound stage, great vocal clarity, and a good sense of scale, but without any distracting reflections.
Here to Support
Meridian’s dedicated media room featuring a Display Technologies screen for incredible image quality
Meridian’s complementary Design and Specification Service integrates all the aforementioned technology to make it quicker and easier for integrators to specify the right products for the perfect installation. To utilise this service, integrators need to simply discuss upcoming projects with Meridian’s design experts who will then take care of the rest, producing detailed wiring diagrams and a precise room plan showing where the technology should be positioned. Meridian 01480 445 678, meridian-audio.com
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Home Cinema Insight | Indigo Distribution
The right stuff!
Indigo introduces installers to Klipsch and Krix speaker brands. A well-designed horn loaded speaker offers around 30 to 40% efficiency
Indigo Distribution favours low distortion speakers from Klipsch and Krix with a wider dynamic range and controlled directivity
We all know there is no shortage of options when it comes to what speakers to choose for your custom installation multi-zone audio projects and theatre applications. The choice seems to be limitless, with new solutions from all corners of the globe arriving every month on our shores. Brands you’ve never heard of offer those never-before-seen features and too-good-to-be-true installation methods, and often present difficult to decipher model vernacular and material sciences. It’s time to say stop and get back to the basics, in order to deliver the best possible audio solution to your client. Partnering with the right loudspeaker supplier is now more imperative than ever as constantly depleting margins on electronics are sadly a way of life. Savvy integrators are therefore looking towards speakers and theatre solutions to maintain margin and offer their clients a truly unique solution. With this in mind, Indigo Distribution has had a complete rethink of its audio category and had a monumental shift towards more efficient, lower distortion speakers that give a wider dynamic range and controlled directivity, as well as the all-important profits you deserve. With the addition of both Klipsch home theatre and custom audio solutions, and Krix high-end theatre options and traditional hi-fi loudspeakers, Indigo Distribution has hit the nail on the head and can now offer everything to the UK custom installation market and its discerning clients.
Horn Technology
If we take a moment to look at efficiency and low distortion, the majority of loudspeakers available in the UK today with a conventional assembly offer about 1-2% efficiency. If we compare that to a well-designed horn loaded speaker from companies like Klipsch or Krix, that number increases to about 30% to 40%. A more efficient speaker does not only sound better, but also takes less energy and power to produce great quality audio from even a modest amplifier. A great example is a modern energy efficient light bulb. It can produce the same amount of light as a traditional light bulb but uses a fraction of the energy. The same principle is applied with horn loaded loudspeakers: less power required, yet still a great low distortion sound. Do you find yourself turning up the volume during a quiet dialogue scene of the movie? Then having to quickly turn it down again during an action scene? This is due to the dynamic range of your speakers. The dynamic range is the speaker’s ability to reproduce both the loudest and the softest passages with equal detail and clarity. The solution is to opt for a product with a wide dynamic range. If we take a moment to examine some of the products available from both Klipsch and Krix, the wide dynamic range is weaved into the DNA of both brands, allowing all loudspeaker products (from entry-level custom installation speakers to high-end home and commercial theatre options) to play even the loudest passages with clarity and power, and the softest passages with richness and detail. For more information about the range of products available from both Klipsch and Krix please take a moment to look at indigodistribution.co.uk or contact the Indigo team on 02891 455565
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Home Cinema Insight | Pulse Cinemas
Massimo Zecchin, International Sales Director at SIM2, takes dealers through some of the finer points of the range
Pulse Cinemas’ SIM2 Seminar As part of the Pulse Cinemas out-reach and education programme, an event was held at the company’s Stanstead HQ to introduce dealers to recent addition SIM2 projectors and explore some key performance curves. As well as the Pulse Cinemas team, in attendance were Massimo Zecchin and Domenico Toffoli from SIM2 to help installers understand the strengths of the products. Attracting 20 dealers, the group gathered to bring dealers up to date with the varied SIM2 product range, focusing on the cutting edge 4K models. On the technical side, there was particular emphasis on the benefits of HDR and on the abilities and advantages of anamorphic lenses to achieve 2.40:1 ratios on screen. These areas are vitally important to get the best from modern projection and screen systems. 4K power is of limited use without the focus and lifelike images of HDR. More pixels, unless those pixels are used wisely, does not deliver the step-change that HDR delivers to the audience. The other part of the presentation focused on the adaptability of an anamorphic lens working with SIM2 delivering 2.40:1 ratios as well as the SIM2’s own digital zoom abilities. Simon Schino, Pulse Cinemas Internal Sales Manager, who hosted the day, explains, “We were really pleased with the event. We had a selection of great supportive dealers who wanted to gain further knowledge and experience with SIM2. It’s really important for us to get time with dealers and not just show them why we feel the products are so good and how to use them, but also offer our support now and into the future to make sure we are adding value at every stage. Explaining how technologies work and how to get the best of them is a huge part of that.”
Delivering the detail
If you have not properly looked into the advantages of HDR as yet, or High Dynamic Range, HDR’s real bonus is the ability to deliver a wider range of colours in a closer way to how the human eye perceives light in the real world. Our eyes and brain adjust continually to adapt to the wide range of luminance present in the real world. HDR’s trick is basically to mimic those changes in luminance levels so images look more lifelike and feel more ‘natural’. SIM2 has always had a strong reputation for vibrant imaging and strong colours, so has built on this by being one of the manufacturers to really embrace HDR. The presentation also covered how to create different aspect ratios via digital and optical methods. Pulse Cinemas
has access to the Prismasonic range of anamorphic lenses so can take advantage of the 2.40:1 Cinemascope format that many motion pictures are created in. However, SIM2 has also created a feature called Perfect Fit, a lens zoom feature which can produce similar results. Basically, the SIM2 feature uses zoom, focus and lens shift adjustments to fill the screen for different formats, these can then be stored and recalled. Simon was keen to explore the pros and cons of these different methods. Like many of these types of choices it comes down to the client and what their expectations are. Perfect Fit’s plus points include the ability to manage more aspect ratios without the cost of an anamorphic lens, handy if budget constraints are an issue. The without lens approach also has aesthetic advantages and of course it takes up less space. However, there are issues to consider when using Perfect Fit, the throw range is limited when in this mode and not all of the pixels are used for delivering the image. Also, the expanded image can sometimes be visible overlapping the screen if the walls are not dark enough. Another disadvantage of course is that there is no margin to be had on the lens. Simon also went over the pros for using the anamorphic approach which include delivering the full brightness of the projector; all of the pixels delivered are used in the active image and the throw range is greater. There is also the extra margin to be had when selling a system of this type. Disadvantages of the lens approach include an aesthetic impact on the projector, it can manage less aspects than the digital zoom function and it requires space in front of the projector. Which method is most appropriate is going to vary from job to job, but Pulse Cinemas says its team is determined that installers should have the information and knowledge to make informed choices. Simon explains that the SIM2 event was just one of many more initiatives to deliver cinema knowledge. Simon says, “For those dealers fully engaging with Pulse Cinemas, one of the advantages will be access to a range of bite size presentations on key elements of cinema design that dealers can access from our new website. “Anything from technical stuff covering calculations, to making sure your cinemas meet all the recommended ratios, or ways of selling the experience to the end user, loads of subjects will be covered.” Pulse Cinemas 01279 647 039, pulsecinemas.com
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Home Cinema Insight | Invision
A wise investment
Available from Invision UK, Trinnov Audio is renowned for pumping a significant amount of resources into research and development, which has led to the creation of a state-of-the-art loudspeaker/room optimiser and exclusive remapping technology, while its work in 3D audio has gained it fans around the world. The company’s reputation in the audio industry is such that it counts firms such as Technicolor, Fox, the BBC, Globo and NHK amongst its clients. Steve Totterdell, High Performance Audio Product Manager, explains what makes it so special? Built to last
Trinnov says that it takes a different approach to other manufacturers by taking advantage of the flexibility of an Intel CPU and bespoke Linux OS instead of relying on DSP chips. By adopting this approach, it has the ability to offer free software updates to customers to implement new features, and most importantly, new 3D audio codecs such as DTS:X Pro. Having processing headroom to adopt new formats and add new features means Trinnov’s hardware is typically as much as 12-18 months quicker to market than its competitors. In addition, existing customers aren’t forced into reinvesting in new hardware as they can gain new features through software updates, meaning buying Trinnov is a long-term investment. It’s certainly a wise long-term investment, as Trinnov takes attention to detail very seriously. Take its calibration microphone, which is the product of 15 years of R&D, and allows the optimiser to capture all the information from a room’s speakers with incredible accuracy. Trinnov can pinpoint the position of a speaker to within +/-2° and 1cm in a 3D space and measure its output to +/-0.1db. Thanks to the four capsule Tetrahedral configuration design, Trinnov can determine what is direct sound from the speaker and what is energy provided by the room. This allows these two parameters to be corrected separately and importantly displayed to you in the graph data. This gives you the information to make informed decisions about a room or speakers.
Power at your fingertips
Beyond the technology itself, what makes the optimiser special is its power, unrivalled flexibility and the fact that Trinnov controls the entire chain: microphone, test tone, converters, algorithms – all in the same box. This gives repeatable and reliable measurements for optimum correction of; amplitude, phase, group delay and impulse. Trinnov includes built-in professional-grade acoustic measurement and analysis to allow installers to actually see how the system behaves, and consequently make the right decisions in terms of fine-tuning. This is crucial information for getting the most out of a high-end installation, as every system is unique and requires very specific adjustments to be optimally tuned. In addition, the company has paid close attention to bass management, which it says is the most advanced and flexible on the market. While other firms may put artificial limits on the number of subwoofers allowed in a system, the only limit installers have with Trinnov is the number of channels available. Installers can tailor the crossover settings for each subwoofer and assign any speaker to any subwoofer or subwoofers in the room. This way the bass can be placed exactly where the director intended. With separate settings for low- and high-pass filters, a speaker can play to its capabilities while still sending chosen frequencies to the nearest available bass speaker; whether it’s a surround speaker with decent low range or a subwoofer or multiple subwoofers. Trinnov treats bass management and LFE separately so you can have subs assigned to either bass management, LFE or both, such is the flexibility of the settings.
Keeping up with the changes
Given Trinnov’s policy of rolling-out new and exciting features as part of a software update, it’s important that installers are kept abreast of all those changes. Thankfully, the company offers countless training opportunities both at its facility in Paris, France, as well as in the UK through its partnership with Invision. At the new facility in Paris, dealers can experience the 18.4.10 setup including three-way active speakers for LCR. This system gives the opportunity to use all the features, including Active X-Over setup and see the Altitude32 with the Altitude 48 extension in action. Invision invisionuk.com email training@invisionuk.com.
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THE GATEWAY TO GENUINE, IMMERSIVE CINEMA AT HOME.
Immersive Audio Decoders • Dolby Atmos™ (16 discretely-rendered channels). • Auro-3D™ (supports Auro’s full 13.1 layout). • DTS:X™ (all configurations of its 11.1 format).
JOIN THE TRINNOV IMMERSIVE 3D AUDIO TRAINING AT CEDIA HQ ON 25TH - 26TH JUNE
Trinnov Speaker/Room Optimizer • Calibration wizard for initial setup & management • Process high-resolution 24bit/96kHz audio • Four-way active crossovers & unlimited subwoofers • Ready for audio over IP
TRINNOV
HIGH•END
T: 01359 270280 W: www.invisionuk.com E: sales@invisionuk.com
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Home Cinema Insight | Penn Elcom
Penn Elcom 19in racks – the AV installer’s ace card For system integrators, the joy in building a media centre isn’t just choosing the system - sometimes it’s simply admiring the beauty of a finished cabinet. Ask an experienced installer and they will no doubt tell you that after the more glamorous task of assembling the devices is done, it’s important to recognise they will be spending many years in their housing, working hard. It’s a professional’s duty to ensure the system continues to operate at day-one performance, so crafting the right enclosure is the hallmark of a job well done. Tradesmen take pride in building a rack that keeps devices secure, easily accessible and properly cooled, but many interior projects also require tasteful design, should they be in view or even a centrepiece. This is why they come to Penn Elcom time and time again, fulfilling projects from its feature-rich range of UK-built 19in rack hardware. Penn’s reputation of working closely with its customers to understand what it takes in satisfying the demands of an ever-evolving industry has earned it a name synonymous with success. Over the last decade, its range of wall mounted and floor standing enclosures has become a go-to choice not only for projects on a budget, but crucially where technical requirements are demanding.
Even at first glance, its expertly engineered enclosures are assuringly modern, suited for the cutting-edge technology they will home. Look closer, and you can see why - they’re designed by installers, for installers, providing standard features often premium in other brands. Those who use Penn’s cabinets enjoy the choice of either square or threaded holes in any rack, with the wall mount range even built using clever reversible rails which include both types. Add to that built-in cable management, top fan vents intelligently situated for effective cooling, and knockouts to accommodate all manner of rack panels and cable entry ports, and you have an enclosure that truly does it all. It seems natural then, to learn Penn Elcom’s high-tech UK factory is a hub of advancement in the industry, a key location in its global depot network shipping hand-built racks worldwide alongside a much-loved catalogue of accessories. Perhaps best of all, its website often runs offers on its newest ranges at pennelcomonline.com.
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DESIGN AT THE SPEED OF THOUGHT.
Every project begins with an idea. With The CEDIA Designer, transform your media room and home theater projects from idea to rendering in a matter of minutes. Developed by renowned designer Guy Singleton, The CEDIA Designer begins with your specifications, and then perfectly calculates every inch of your design, including the top technology brands for seamless integration. 3D CAD model, complete scale rendering, full documentation, technically perfect math—weeks of design work finished as soon as you can imagine it.
Visit TheCEDIADesigner.org for more information.
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Home Cinema Insight | Barco Residential
Introducing Barco Residential’s new Bragi Cinemascope LED Projector Barco Residential recently introduced its new Bragi Cinemascope projector as the latest addition to its Cinemascope projector family, which features the unique ability to natively deliver this classic and beloved cinema format. Native Cinemascope (5,120 x 2,160 resolution) is not the only exciting thing about the new Bragi Cinemascope projector however...
Bragi’s new light source uses HLD LED technology combined with regular LEDs
in a compact chassis. A wide range of nine lens options (including ultra-wide on axis or off axis long throw), free rotation options, a built-in Warping Engine and a liquid cooling PID regulation system give Bragi Cinemascope near unlimited installation and integration flexibility. Bragi Cinemascope shares the Pulse hardware and software platform of its Medea, Balder and Loki siblings, ensuring a consistent feature set and user experience for the integrator across the different products. This includes Prospector, a unique and powerful user interface that offers a full overview of all the advanced features you find inside the projector. It offers monitoring options as well as setup options. Full setup of the projector can easily be performed from the best seat in the house on any PC, tablet or phone with touch control and Wi-Fi access. Bragi’s native Cinemascope functionality features Barco Residential’s automatic aspect ratio detection function. The projector will scan for cinemascope content in 2.2:1, 2.35:1 or 2.40:1 aspect ratio and automatically scale the image to fit its 5,120x2,160 resolution, then revert back to 16:9 aspect ratio (3,840x2,160) for content in that format. It will also change aspect ratio when a 2.40:1 format movie has menus outside the active picture frame. You can also switch manually between the different formats. In summary Bragi Cinemascope offers unrivalled image quality in its category for smaller dedicated home theatres with near unlimited flexibility in installation and architectural integration, in a low noise package with a solid state LED light source with up to 50,000 hours life expectancy. Contact Barco Residential to find out more about using this exciting new projector in your installations. Barco barco.com/residential
Image courtesy of Archimedia, Dubai
Bragi Cinemascope produces a stunning, wide and extremely consistent colour gamut with a rich, vibrant color rendition
Apart from its new optical engine using custom designed aspherical glass elements and enhanced low dispersion glass lenses, Bragi also features a brand new light source, and this time it’s not laser… Instead Bragi’s light source uses HLD LED technology combined with regular LEDs. HLD LED is unique in that it works around the ‘law of etendue’ (property of light in an optical system, which characterises how ‘spread out’ the light is in area and angle...) to deliver a superb colour experience and incredible brightness while enabling new levels of resolution. HLD LED combined with regular LED provides colours that are more saturated, which ‘tricks’ our eyes into interpreting this as richer and brighter colours than physical measurements would indicate. Projector brightness is determined by two main characteristics of the light source: the output and the distribution of the light. The distribution should be very narrow, to collimate the light rays efficiently into a controlled beam that will bring full intensity to the imaging device. By combining multiple LEDs and pumping it directly onto a phosphor rod (light tunnel), the light of the LEDs is combined through the rod into a very narrow light beam, creating an extremely bright point source of light which perfectly fits projection requirements and without any loss of light. All this results in Bragi Cinemascope producing a stunning, wide and extremely consistent colour gamut with a rich, vibrant color rendition, bringing a new level of quality and performance to its category. Add to that its quality build and Barco Residential’s hallmark flexibility in installation and architectural integration, and we are looking at a unique and exciting new product for the custom integration industry. Bragi Cinemascope’s frame and core are built in aluminum and magnesium, making it a powerful and robust projector
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Photograph Courtesy of Eagle Sentry, Las Vegas
Love movies? Meet Barco Residential. Barco Residential brings the pinnacle of image technology to the high-end home environment. With our partners, we create experiences to be shared with loved ones.
Experience the difference.
www.barco.com/residential
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Home Cinema Insight | Monitor Audio
Top speaker tech from Monitor Audio
Innovation keeps coming with Monitor Audio’s cutting-edge designs, which deliver install flexibility and high performance in one package. Monitor Audio Super Slim In Wall (WSS) speakers demand just 50 mm depth in a new ingenious design. The threedriver layout helps keep the frontal profile slender yet provides a similar surface area and performance to a typical 61/2in driver. At just 50 mm (2in) deep, it opens up a raft of installation scenarios. This smart design is hugely flexible when it comes to placement for the most technically demanding applications. All three models share the same footprint and pre-construction bracket, providing simplicity as well as the option of specifying a higher performance model in the range before completion. Featuring three models, the WSS line offers a refreshingly simple ‘good, better, best’ performance levels. Each model features the same layout, but uses different specifications. The entry-point WSS130 features MMP II cone drivers, augmented by a 25 mm Gold Dome tweeter and is likely to excel in many general home theatre and music applications. This MPP cone technology allows for a simple crossover design and smooth overall sound character. The mid-point WSS230 features Monitor Audio’s renowned C-CAM metal cone drivers and is ideal for set-ups where even more critical music reproduction is required. It offers a step-up in performance in increased precision and detailed sonic characteristics, when compared to the WSS130. The WSS430 offers supreme audio performance, drawing on design principles, and materials from Monitor Audio’s flagship Platinum speakers. Almost every component is unique to this model. Employing dished C-CAM cones, the WSS430 design ensures ultimate diaphragm rigidity – the main aim here being to reduce distortion. High strength Neo magnets and larger voice coils provide incredible driving force, low magnetic leakage, and slim profile. The MPD high frequency transducer technology – also from Monitor Audio’s flagship Platinum designs – ensures incredibly low distortion, delivering clear high frequency to over 50 kHz. Remove the model’s magnetic
front trim and you can rotate the tweeter to provide the optimum dispersion when using the model in a landscape orientation. The possibility of operating in constructions featuring 2in studs slips effortlessly into view. Mounting in areas restricted by AVC ducts, cabling or pipework is also perfectly feasible. A further attraction is the WSS line’s ability to be installed between a standard 14in stud bays, when used in a horizontal (landscape) orientation. This means that the same speakers can be installed around a screen, keeping the same neat visuals, as well as identical L-C-R performance. The trim-less grille provides protection, as well as adopts an incredibly discreet and low profile aesthetic appearance. These covers can be painted to achieve seamless décor integration, with the supplied replacement scrim maintaining the stealthy presence of the speaker once decorating is done. The WSS range features Monitor Audio’s patented ‘tri-grip’ mounting system, as used over the last decade in the CT and WT ranges, meaning you get a robust fixing. The innovation keeps coming with Monitor Audio’s CSS230 Super Slim In-Ceiling back-box design which delivers full-frequency performance with wide installation versatility. Space, they say, is the final frontier, especially in the real world where the lack of it can be a real challenge to custom installers. Now there’s an answer to a perennial headache in the high-performance form of Monitor Audio’s Super Slim CSS230 In-Ceiling speaker. The CSS230 is a brilliantly innovative back-box design with an impressively shallow 50 mm (2in) mounting depth, custom built to offer hi-fi levels of performance in spaces where no high quality speaker has gone before. Between 2in stud frames or where pipework or cabling reduces mounting depth, the CSS230’s hybrid back-box construction and proprietary full-range driver array combine to deliver consistent audio quality with exceptional installation versatility. As Monitor Audio’s long-established and acclaimed Controlled Performance (CP) range of architectural speakers demonstrates, back-box designs enclose a specified air volume/driver relationship in order to generate high quality audio (especially bass) and reduce inter-room/floor transmission where mounting depth will allow. Alternative open backed (box-less) designs are more flexible to install, but their bass is far less defined. The CSS230’s hybrid back-box provides the best of all worlds for installer and customer. By integrating a slender 2in back-box with a radial array of specialised mid-bass drivers around a 19 mm C-CAM gold dome tweeter, the CSS230 offers full-range audio accuracy from the tightest of stud clearances; but with the removal of a rubber plug in the back box, it reproduces the full-some bass of a ported design, superior in quality to the output of open-backed speakers and just as flexible to install. Combined, the CSS230’s three proprietary 3in mid-bass units achieve the bass output of a 61/2in driver, all from a super-stealthy flush-fitted profile. Monitor Audio 01268 740580, monitoraudio.com
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Movies, Music, and Gaming Five satellite speakers and a subwoofer bring an entirely new level of performance and aesthetic with 360ยบ sound.
Discreet and Stylish Available in Midnight (blue/black) or Mist (white/grey) finishes, MASS has been designed to blend into any environment with matching MASS Stands with cable management or MASM Speaker Wall Mount (both sold separately).
Monitor Audio is a wholly British owned and managed loudspeaker designer and manufacturer. Since 1972 it has been at the leading edge of loudspeaker design and technology. Learn more about the MASS Surround Sound system at monitoraudio.com
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Home Cinema Insight | CAVD
A marvel in Marlow
In a new occasional feature, EI showcases some of the best showrooms in the UK that installers and their customers can access to make their AV, home cinema and automation dreams come true. This month, Marlow based Custom AV Distribution. Jamie Pullen made the move to form Custom AV Distribution (CAVD) in August 2014. His relationship with AV and home cinema product manufacturers and installers alike meant that it was a natural decision. A typical day for Jamie involves sales meetings, writing proposals for luxury AV projects and showroom demonstrations. A more recent recruit, Wayne Hyde, is CAVD’s technical manager. Wayne’s extensive background of working in live sound, sales and as a residential systems designer means that the CAVD team can provide technical support, audio calibration and training for their dealer network. Claire Pullen runs operations for CAVD and is also considered as one of the UK’s leading professionals in projection technology. Claire takes care of the back office on a day-to-day basis, but also supplies UK installers with projection solutions. Once you have found the company HQ tucked away in the beautiful countryside and admired the spectacular population of Red Kites that also live in the area, the inside of the showroom is no less impressive, packing loads into a relatively compact space. Completed in the summer of 2017, the CAVD showroom is available to residential AV dealers to experience the brands and products the company represents. Installers often also take up the opportunity to bring their clients, which of course can be especially useful if they do not have demonstration facilities of their own. At the CAVD showroom, there are three main areas where visitors can experience immersive surround sound, stereo multiroom sound, video projection and mirror TVs. Wayne describes ‘The Lounge Zone’, “Surrounded by a luxurious interior featuring traditional oak beams, cosy seating and smart lighting, our Lounge Zone has been set up to demonstrate the immense Dynaudio ‘Studio’ series speaker system. Switchable between a stereo mode for multiroom audio and surround sound for media rooms, sit back and let yourself be transported into a truly impressive audio experience.”
Having experienced this zone recently, EI has to say, the Dynaudio speakers are particularly worth checking out. All the performance that the brand has been known for down the years is now available in an accessible format for installers.
The Lounge Zone: Installed Products
• Lode Audio LA4-D four zone music streamer • Datasat LS10 audio processor, 15 XLR outputs (13+2LFE), Atmos, DTS:X, Auro,Dirac, 2.0/2.2 • ADA SAK 16X150, 16 channel x 150W at 8 Ohms power amplifier • Dynaudio S4-LCR65 modular speaker system for Left, Centre, Right duties • Dynaudio S4-C80 ceiling speakers for surround/stereo • Dynaudio SUB6 subwoofer for LFE As for the Home Cinema Zone, Wayne explains, “With a combination of high-performance products, this zone hits a price point that’s in-line with typical private theatre installations. Dealers will be treated to a demonstration of 4K, and HDR projection onto the best acoustically transparent screen on the market. “Surround sound has been configured as a 7.2.4 speaker layout optimised for Dolby Atmos playback whilst also supporting DTS:X. Bass and dynamics are rarely represented so well at this price point and this authentic sound system is the way to deliver great audio to a movie loving family.”
Home Cinema Zone: Installed products
• Home Theatre Environment (HTE) La Fenice and acoustic design panelling • JVC DLA-N7 projector • Screen Excellence Reference Fixed Frame 16:9 with Enlightor NEO S 4K Fabric with black backing • V width: 2680mm/105.5in V heights: 1506mm/59.3in V diagonal: 3074mm/121in • Datasat LS10 audio processor, 15 XLR outputs (13+2LFE), Atmos, DTS:X, Auro, Dirac, 2.0/2.2 • ADA SAK 16X150, 16 channel x 150W at 8 Ohms power amplifier runs surrounds and both LFE subwoofers in parallel mode – 300 W per subwoofer • Audio Excellence Quattro 06 DSP power amplifier, four channels x 600W at 8 Ohms for L,C,R + Bass Extension • Audio Excellence Vertex 2 speakers for Left, Centre, Right • Audio Excellence Raijuu 1 subwoofers linked for Bass Extension to L,C,R • Audio Excellence Raijuu 1 subwoofers linked for the LFE channel • Audio Excellence Vertex 1 speakers for surround, rear surround and Atmos • Audio Excellence In-Wall mounting kits for (3) V2s and (6) V1s
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Home Cinema Insight | CAVD
Dining Room Zone: Installed products • AGATH 49in TV from the In-Wall T2 range with separate Media Module option with standard fit Super Clear Glass option • Nakymatone ECHT invisible ‘plaster over’ loudspeaker (pair) • ADA PTM 1645 16 channel, eight zone power amplifier
Representing a totally hidden AV solution, the Dining Room Zone has been created to deliver the true ‘wow’ factor that so many clients seek. Wayne says, “The totally hidden 49in TV hides behind a beautiful super clear mirror finish and comes to life with a vibrant image when recalled by the control system. Popular for residential bathrooms, dining rooms and commercial spaces such as hotel lobbies and bathrooms. “Clear, precise audio envelopes the listener, emanating from two completely ‘invisible’ loudspeakers either side of the mirror. Plastered and then painted over, the ECHT Nakymatone speakers transform the wall into your source of music. This is luxury custom installation at its best and both brands, AGATH and Nakymatone, prove why they are so popular with installers across the UK.”
So after spending all the hours needed to create this impressive space, what is the team’s favourite part? Wayne enthuses, “I think the newly finished Dynaudio demonstration in the Lounge Zone is now my favourite. Visiting dealers constantly comment ‘That’s without a subwoofer?’ when we demonstrate the surround sound system with the subwoofer disconnected before we connect it! The Left, Centre and Right speakers provide a rich and deep bass experience whilst retaining clear dialogue, sound effects and fast timing. It’s typical of Dynaudio.” Integrators are most welcome to call CAVD on 01628 563344 or email infoatcavd.co.uk to make a booking, and yes, absolutely installers are welcome to bring clients. A warm welcome awaits! CAVD 01628 563344, cavd.co.uk
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Home Cinema Insight | Redline Distribution
Backpack P-5 packs a punch
Now available from Redline Distribution, the Artison Nano Backpack P-5 has been created to deliver a big boost to any media room project. The Backpack delivers lots of power from a compact and easy to install package
Featured at EI Live! recently, this clever and compact bit of kit delivers a 5.1 audio boost from a cool running and easy to install package. Its creator describes the Artison Nano Backpack P-5 as a game changing product, and claims it is the smallest AV Amplifier on the planet delivering new ways of re-defining media system design. Crafted from extruded aluminium and satin black ABS plastic, this small AV Amp is well-featured and powerful enough for most media room applications. Redline also points out that installing backpack locally with the TV will bring savings in rack space, HVAC, cabling and complexity, allowing installers to deliver a more cost effective and reliable audio system. The Artison Nano Backpack P5 also has multiple digital and analogue inputs for flexibility and measures just 1.1in H x 11.75in W x11.5in D. The unit can be mounted on the wall, in the wall, or behind a flat panel display. The product also leverages five Class D amplifiers, three of which offer 75W per channel to the right, left and centre speakers, with the last two each delivering 30W to the rear surround channels. The Backpack can decode Dolby Digital, DTS, and Dolby ProLogic II/IIx soundtracks, and features 2.4/5.8 GHz antennas for Wi-Fi and Bluetooth 4.0 connections.
Connectivity includes three HDMI and single optical and 3.5mm stereo inputs, while the HDMI output allows for 4K, ARC and 3D passthrough. There are also LFE and RCA outputs on board. The Artison Backpack is priced at ÂŁ1195, get in contact direct with Redline Distribution to find out more. Redline Distribution 01268 858 222, red-line.co.uk
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Home Cinema Insight | Cinema Build Systems
Build it and they will come
Cinema Build Systems is winning friends and awards with its well-thought-out Ultimate series of fixed frame acoustically transparent projection screens and associated products. The new Cinema Space Frame System
Created using direct in-field experience, The Ultimate Screen range by Cinema Build Systems emphasises strong performance coupled to very easy and innovative assembly and installation of award-winning fixed frame acoustically transparent projection screens. With class-leading ease of installation and exceptional picture performance its screens are the first choice for any premium home theatre. The screens come in WIDE, EDGE and SLIM variants. The first product to be launched was the WIDE version, which offers many of the key features the screens have become known for; including the innovative magnetic bezel and front fabric mounting system, which not only make fitting in the field very straightforward, but protect the screen from damage at the same time. All of the Fixed Frame screens are available in both 16:9 and 2.35:1 aspect ratios, with other ratios available on request. Also available is the company’s Cinema Space Frame System, which is a modular concept to give installers the building blocks they need to create immersive and high-performance environments without the need to create walling components from raw materials each time. The different configurations can be easily fixed direct to the existing wall in a way that is scalable and repeatable, allowing the installer to easily control the complete build
process. Designed to work with the Cinema Build Systems 18mm fabric walling track, and with an extensive range of accessories, incredible room designs can be achieved easily and for a huge variety of projects. All the company’s hard work paid off recently when the Best Projector Screen category was awarded to Cinema Build Systems for the Wide Fixed Frame Screen from the Ultimate range at the Smart Building Awards held in May. A well-deserved win for a genuinely innovative product. Cinema Build Systems; hello@cinemabuildsystems.co.uk, @cinemabuildsystems, cinemabuildsystems.co.uk
2019
BEST PROJECTOR SCREEN
PROJECTOR SCREENS
CINEMA SPACE FRAME SYSTEM
Cinema build systems produces the Ultimate series of award-winning fixed frame acoustically transparent projection screens.
To further enhance the home theatre experience our cinema space frame system is a modular product to give cinema designers the building blocks they need to create immersive and high-performance environments.
With class leading ease of installation and exceptional picture performance our screens are the first choice for any premium home theatre. hello@cinemabuildsystems.co.uk Instagram @cinemabuildsystems www.cinemabuildsystems.co.uk
The space frame system is scalable and repeatable. This allows the installer to easily control the complete build process. Designed to work with our 18 mm fabric walling track and extensive range of accessories incredible room designs can be achieved.
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image courtesy of www.realmcontrol.com
the benchmark for luxury theater seating
Acoustical Designer Fabrics Our designer-friendly, specially-woven and tested collection of acoustical fabrics features a wide variety of exciting design patterns and colors and can be used safely over both acoustical treatments and speakers.
cineak . com Antwerp, Belgium +32 (3) 354 03 66 - Los Angeles, USA +1 (866) 458-0529
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