Noteworthy Product Introductions from CEDIA EXPO in Denver
CEDIA EXPO’s return to Denver energized attendees and exhibitors alike September 25-28. There was a palpable enthusiasm on the show floor as crowds navigated the latest in integrated home technology, and show organizers reported positive gains in attendance, exhibitor participation, and training registrations.
More than 470 exhibitors and 17,900 attendees from 84 countries participated in the 2013 event in Denver. Professional and overall attendance both grew by six percent while new exhibitor participation grew by 20 percent, and first-time attendees increased by 50 percent year over year. CEDIA training also experienced record growth with more than 6,300 course registrations representing a 50 percent participation increase. Here’s an editor’s selection of highlights from EXPO.
Jeff Singer, director of global marketing, Crestron, with the company’s shading solutions. Talking to the industry about the next step in its evolution was one of Crestron’s main focus areas this year at CEDIA EXPO. And in discussing these next steps, Crestron is encouraging dealers to not just “interface,” but “integrate,” emphasizing the distinction between these two seemingly similar terms. The massive space front and center of the exhibition hall was divided into various areas that comprised each element of a fully integrated home automation system, from shades and lighting control, to DigitalMedia and 3-Series control systems, touchscreens and remotes, to loudspeakers.
For instance, Crestron showed that its DigitalMedia technology is 4K ready. Its new extenders, the HD-EXT3-C and HD-EXT4-C, transmit HDMI via HDBaseT and support 4K resolutions. Each HD extender is comprised of a transmitter and receiver that sends and receives 4K signals via DM8G+ Cat-5e cable. The latest DigitalMedia matrix switchers, including the 8×8, 16×16, 32×32, 64×64, and 128×128, are also 4K-compliant.
Crestron’s new TSW touchscreens are available in 5-inch phone (TSW-550), 7-inch mini tablet (TSW-750), and 10-inch tablet sizes (TSW-1050) in white or black. The ultra-thin TSW is available in-wall mount or tabletop models. Crestron’s new CLW-DELV wireless dimmers, the latest addition to its Cameo infiNET EX line, provide in-wall RF dimming of electronic low voltage fixtures, available in 120V, 230V, and 277V models, supporting LED dimming.
Crestron’s shading solutions made their second appearance at CEDIA EXPO. A digital QMT motor with a brushless DC unit allows for the shades to fit into smaller spaces with more torque. Crestron’s shades can go down to 17 inches wide. A new power supply can diagnose wire issues and email alerts if something goes down.
Crestron’s DigitalMedia switching platform has been expanded with a 128×128 device, along with new output cards, and HDBaseT extenders. The DMCO 7-Series output cards can combine two signals over the same stream to enable picture-in-picture and picture-by-picture display.
Celerity returned to EXPO with its Fiber Optic DisplayPort with support for multi-view video processing and displays. The company’s other introduction was its Fiber Optic Gateway for RS232, IR, Gigabit network, and HDMI over a single Celerity fiber optic link. Decora wall plate and modular TX and RX connection hubs will be available to suit different installation needs with this product.
Draper is tackling the challenge of ambient light on projection screens with its High Performance XS850E and ReAct MS1000V materials. The XS850E is an ambient light rejecting optical screen surface incorporating multilayer film technology to provide precise resolution, high contrast in all conditions, and a vivid color palette. ReAct MS1000V offers enhanced color contrast even in ambient light. React MS1000V has a gain of 1.0 and, is available on motorized tab-tensioned screen models, so it can be retracted into ceiling-recessed or wall mounted housings when not in use.
Honeywell previewed a significant update to its Tuxedo home automation/ security platform. A forthcoming Tuxedo standalone product from Honeywell will address builders that may not want security as part of an initial solution because they don’t want to commit to a multi-year monitoring contract. Another new product, the Tuxedo Automation Module (TAM) provides the same Z-Wave or Wi-Fi control over locks, thermostats, video cameras, and lights, at a lower price by eliminating the Tuxedo touchscreen interface and using a smartphone, tablet, or PC instead. The new products will be available in the first quarter of 2014.
KEF Ci product development manager David Kroll KEF introduced a range of new loudspeaker offerings, including the Ci Series, the X300A wireless desktop speakers, and additions to its V Series soundbars. KEF added its name to the short list of companies offering THX-certified architectural speakers. The lineup consists of two THX Ultra2 inwall LCRs, an Ultra2 round in-ceiling speaker, and an in-wall subwoofer. Two subs used together will qualify for Select2 status, and four will deliver Ultra2 performance.
Lutron highlighted five new products focusing on lighting control, motorized shades, and LED control, all under the theme of “leadership counts,” a nod to the lighting pioneer’s 52-year history. The Sivoia QS Horizontal Sheer Blinds are part of Lutron’s Gallery Collection and combine the aesthetics of sheer fabric with the control of a blind. They are available in 2-inch and 3-inch vane sizes in neutral, light-filtering, and room-darkening fabrics. Sivoia QS Triathlon is a fashionable, flexible, and affordable motorized shading system. Power options include battery or 12V wired power. The company also noted that its C•L Dimmers for RadioRA 2 and HomeWorks QS Total Home Control Systems control a variety of dimmable CFLs and dimmable LEDs, as well as incandescents and halogens.
Proficient Audio made the largest introduction in its model lineup in the company’s history with the Protégé Series, an extensive selection of flangeless in-wall and in-ceiling speakers. Each of the new models in the Protégé Series is an adaptation and retooling of an existing design. The acoustical and electrical design is not changed, only the appearance. The Protégé Series includes 18 in-ceiling speakers, 10 in-wall speakers, two in-wall subwoofers and an in-ceiling subwoofer.
Planar Systems shifted the spotlight at CEDIA EXPO away from its Runco line by showcasing the Planar PS5580, a narrow bezel LCD video wall display aimed at the growing number of budget-conscious customers that want to create high-impact video walls. The LCD video wall displays can be tiled together to create a large, visually stunning video wall intended for various digital signage applications.
The DaVinci Group’s Jeff Francisco The DaVinci Group, led by Daniel Kippycash, Alex Chiou, and Jeff Francisco, made its first CEDIA appearance representing architectural audio brands TDG Audio, Vanguard Dynamics, and Blue Aura, demonstrating Blue Aura’s newest line of powered wireless speakers, the X-Series. It includes bookshelf, stereo tabletop, and tower speakers in faux leather finish in Sahara and graphite colors.
Leon Speakers has transformed its soundbar lineup with the Horizon OTO, the first active soundbar in Leon’s Horizon Series, combining a dynamic audio platform with customization. Not only is the Horizon OTO soundbar custom built to match the display, but it offers 50 watts of clean power and easily connects to the TV and subwoofer with digital optical inputs and wireless outputs. Leon also has redesigned its Axis Series AX-61 and AX-81 in-ceiling speakers to include both a round and square magnetic grille that can be custom painted in-house.
Designed to offer 3D or 2D, the new 3LCDbased Epson PowerLite Pro Cinema 6030UB delivers up to 2,400 lumens of color brightness and 2,400 lumens of white brightness. In addition, the Pro Cinema 6030UB 3LCD projector offers 1080p native resolution and a contrast ratio of up to 600,000:1.
Tom Dixon, SunBriteTV vice president of marketing demonstrates the SB-HDWT. CEDIA marked the official debut of the Outdoor Entertainment Alliance (OEA), founded by SunBriteTV and Soundcast Systems. Bringing together outdoor televisions and wireless outdoor audio systems, the OEA was formed to increase consumer awareness of the outdoor entertainment phenomenon through traditional marketing and social media outreach. SunBrite also debuted its SB-HDWT outdoor high-definition wireless transmitter.
Gary Klasmeier, JVC product engineering manager, D-ILA Systems, Visual Systems Division, introduced the Reference Series DLA-RS6710. Native 4K input is available on all eight new projectors from JVC. A sixth generation D-ILA (direct drive image light amplifier) marks the new models, boasting up to 150,000:1 native contrast ratio. An intelligent lens aperture has up to 1,500,000:1 dynamic contrast ratio for deeper blacks. JVC’s e-shift technology, which provides four times the precision of HD while maintaining high contrast, has been upgraded to support native 4K inputs, opposed to previously up-converted HD, allowing 4K and 2K sources to both be displayed as 3840×2160 images.
Simon Wehr, director of marketing, Dana Innovations Dana Innovations, parent company of Sonance, iPort, and TRUFIG, touted CEDIA as its “biggest, best, and most significant” in its 30- year history. Sonance showcased the full range of more than 50 new Visual Performance models on the exhibition floor and a dedicated listening room. All speakers include independently pivoting drivers, forward-placed high-excursion woofers, and linear suspension and magnetic fields. Sonance also has evolved its trim-less flush Architectural Series design with a new smaller form factor that will match the size and shape of high-end zero-sight-line downlights. The Architectural Series lineup will feature satellite speakers and subwoofers to deliver a discrete system approach and will utilize the same grille size and shape to deliver a consistent aesthetic. Sonance also introduced two new soundbar solutions that feature a patent-pending tool-less width adjustment system.
Mitch Witten of Core Brands presented the Korus next-generation whole-home Korus audio matrix controller, a modular whole-home system based on DTS Play-Fi technology for wirelessly streaming music to architectural speakers from multiple sources.C.H. Chee, general manager of DVDO, demonstrates the Air3 wireless HD adapter. DVDO released its new wireless HD adapter, the DVDO Air3, which delivers full 1080p60 HD content not only from HDMI and DVI sources, but also from MHL-enabled smartphones and tablets to a big screen. It is ideal for gamers and home entertainment enthusiasts to play their favorite video games or watch action-rich full HD video content on a big screen without stringing a cable across a room.
Arlington’s new, non-metallic enclosure boxes were built to protect and secure power backups, security devices, and other valuable equipment in a debris-free environment. Made of heavy-duty, UV rated nonmetallic material, the enclosure boxes are available in three sizes: 7x8x3.5 inches; 11x11x3.5 inches; 12x12x4 inches. For added security, Arlington’s enclosure boxes are lockable.
JBL showcased its S3900 loudspeaker, a three-way floorstanding tower that utilizes professional-grade drivers and components to deliver better musical realism in a dual 10-inch woofer design. The S3900 can be used in high-end stereo music systems or as an LCR loudspeaker in a JBL Synthesis multichannel home theater installation. JBL also showcased its Synthesis SDP-45 surround processor, featuring a 7.1-channel processor, eight HDMI inputs, compatibility with all popular surround sound formats, balanced and single-ended connections, and easy-to-use setup menus. Sister brand Revel showcased its 2-Series in-wall and in-ceiling loudspeakers, a line of custom installation-ready models that employ the company’s new C-2 dog-leg-type clamping mechanism, which quickly and securely locks the speakers into place and can be used with materials up to two inches thick. All feature zero-bezel magnetically removable paintable grilles.
Paradigm Electronics introduced the third generation CS Series in-wall/in-ceiling speakers. Models feature the new GRAB Glass-Reinforced ABS Baffle that uses high-strength ABS clamps replacing the polymer mounting brackets of previous series. The lineup also provides a bezel-free aesthetic. Sister brand MartinLogan unveiled the slender Motion SLM XL, which features dual four-inch, ultraslim fiber cone woofers and quad four-inch high-velocity passive bass radiators, paired with a Folded Motion tweeter–all in an ultra-slim profile designed expressly for super-thin TVs.
Vantage Controls and NuVo Technologies teamed up to provide installers with a comprehensive driver for integrating their systems. By letting users select zones, manage sources, and adjust volume settings with the NuVo Audio System, this module will help elevate whole-home projects without burdening installers with time-consuming, laborious programming.
Niles’ Systems Integration multi-zone amplifiers–the SI-250, SI-2100, and SI2150– feature audio circuitry constructed using one percent metal film resistors, high-quality capacitors, and oversized heat sinks that ensure proper cooling without the need for a noisy fan. The amps deliver 50W, 100W, or 150W RMS per channel at 8 ohms and 100W, 220W, or 270W RMS per channel at 4 ohms respectively.
Platinum Tools launched its new Smart Remote Kit for the VDV MapMaster 2.0 voice, data, and video tester. It now combines cable length measurement with continuity testing, mapping, and tone generator functions into a single unit. The VDV MapMaster is capable of identifying and mapping 19 locations at one time.
Bose, exhibiting for the first time on its own, showcased its exclusive BUILT-INvisible product line that is unique to the custom channel. Also featured was the VideoWave II entertainment system, an all-in-one HD display, home theater system, and music system, as well as the first soundbars from Bose-the Lifestyle 135 and CineMate 1SR systems. Bose is now certified control partners with Crestron, Control 4, and RTI.
Savant Systems returned to the show floor to launch several new products, including its SmartLighting Wi-Fi 802.11-based lighting control products that can be used as both a standalone lighting control platform or as part of a complete Savant automation system. Featuring a dimmer inside each Wi-Fi-connected keypad, Savant has created a customizable solution for both new construction and retrofit lighting control that can be integrated without rewiring the home or commercial facility.
TruAudio introduced its new yellow SubTerrain subwoofer based loosely on a song made popular by the Beatles. The subwoofer was purposefully designed to produce deeper bass, higher volume, and a better sound. Maximizing the airflow maximizes the bass volume produced by the SubTerrain’s 10-inch injected polypropylene driver.
Autonomic demonstrated new features of the Mirage Audio System (MAS), including its compatibility with Gracenote. The new service automatically cleanses metadata in a customer’s digital music collection, and improves album art in the library by adding artwork and replacing poor quality album art with high-resolution images. The addition of Slacker Radio provides free and subscription-based access to millions of songs, hundreds of expert-programmed stations, and customizable news, sports, and weather.
Wyrestorm’s James Meredith with the Enado interface. To the end user, Wyrestorm’s Enado will appear and act like a traditional app designed to enable familiar, easy access via any iPad, Android device, or smartphone. Behind the scenes, however, the Enado interface is a software/ hardware product that is powerful enough to offer total control and intuitive enough to be installed without programming experience–all offered at a competitive price point. It is a 1U professional 19-inch rack mounted controller that features 16 assignable IR ports, 8x integrated IP ports, an array of contact closures with built-in secure Wi-Fi for connection to any local internet-enabled devices.
Atlona showcased its new PRO3HD66M 6×6 HDMI to HDBaseT matrix switcher. Designed as a cost-effective solution to connect and route sources to displays for media to be shared in multiple spaces simultaneously, the unit is also equipped with locking HDMI and power connectors for reliability.
Richard Gray’s Power Company demonstrated a new lineup of performance-enhancing solutions for residential and commercial applications, including the IPAC-8 Remote IP Power Management System.
IC Realtime’s Immersive View 360-degree cameras represent the next major breakthrough in video surveillance and security technology. By utilizing a single multi-megapixel sensor combined with high-resolution optics, the company’s Immersive View cameras are able to display a 360-degree vantage point with no blind spots and no moving parts.
Elite Screens launched its DarkStar ambient light-rejecting “black” projection screen material for its Elite Prime Vision dedicated custom install product line. This is the flagship product of Elite’s expanding line of ambient light rejecting projection screens that includes the PolarStar angular-reflective 3D-2D screen. The Dark Star is professionally engineered to incorporate optical filters that actively reflect a projected image while preventing indirect or ambient light from “washing out” the picture.
Gefen introduced two new modular matrix switchers for HDMI that come with built-in signal extension to be used to access different audio/ video sources in different rooms. The GefenPRO 16×16 and the 32×32 Modular Matrixes for HDMI w/HDCP offer cross-point routing of one or more sources to one or all displays with HDCP compliance. Both include Gefen’s FST (Fast Switching Technology) that significantly improves the HDCP authentication process and essentially minimizes latency when switching.
Séura co-founders Gretchen and Tim Gilbertson Séura displayed a number of new innovations, including 27-inch versions of both its TV Mirror series and Hydra Indoor Waterproof lines, the Storm series of all-weather outdoor TVs, and an Enhanced Series of TV Mirrors.
NEAR’s Jeff Kussard (left) and Bill Kieltyka NEAR returned to CEDIA EXPO after a 14-year hiatus, recognizing consumers’ growing interest in outdoor audio with an entire line of high performance all-environment speakers and a purpose-built amplifier. The new NEAR lineup will include four models of full range bracket mount speakers, three models of full range partial burial speakers, and a partial burial 12-inch subwoofer.
RTI’s Pete Baker (left) with Lutron’s Blake Deal In addition to touting its T2x controller with 47 programmable hard buttons and 2.8-inch color TFT LCD flush-mount, edge-to-edge touchscreen with improved gesture support, RTI’s Pete Baker teamed up at CEDIA with Lutron’s Blake Deal to promote the two companies’ upcoming partnership on the Clear Connect Interface Module (CCM- 1). The module allows installers to easily integrate select Lutron RadioRA 2 dimmers, switches, sensors, and plug-in devices into RTI’s control systems while programming the devices natively from RTI’s Integration Designer programming software.
BlueBOLT introduced a network management feature to its cloud-based power and energy management platform. The new feature allows users to ping any device with an IP address on a network from a BlueBOLT-enabled component with a BlueBOLT-CV1 card. In the event of a failed ping response, BlueBOLT can send email notifications, reboot an outlet, reboot a series of outlets in sequence, or any combination of the above.
First Impressions Theme Theatres showcased its new CineGatsbyLounger (pictured), a full-motion recliner featuring an original 1930s pattern “Fun Swirl” satin material that defines the chair’s overall deco ambiance. Coordinating high-nap “Movie-House” velvet arms with signature block-style era-correct Olive Burl drink holders round out the design. The Miami-based company also unveiled its newest CinePalaisLounger, a full-motion recliner with hand-carved solid Mahogany corbels and signature block-style drink holders with Mahogany “crown” trim on the headrest.
Some custom integrators have considered adding central vacuum systems to their product offerings but have shied away for fear that installing the systems may be difficult and time consuming. BEAM Central Vacuums put the myth to rest with 20-minute installation demonstrations at its booth. In addition to the demonstrations, Electrolux Central Vacuum Systems also introduced the new BEAM Alliance System, which the manufacturer says delivers one of the highest margins for dealers of any product in the installed electronics category.
Bang & Olufsen indicated that it would offer the industry’s first WiSA-certified wireless audio products. President Zean Nielsen (pictured) also announced the company’s Professional Program, which will offer select integrators the opportunity to become authorized resellers through partnerships with B&O-owned stores and with independently-owned B&O stores. Under the new program, the company will be more proactive in finding integrators for the independently-owned stores to team up with.
THX unveiled a THX Retailer Program that it said will help educate and promote specialty retailers that sell THX-certified AV equipment. To participate in the program, retailers must meet such requirements as running a brick-and-mortar location, displaying THX-certified products, offering an up-to-date website, and passing an exam on the benefits of THX technology.
With a software update designed specifically for custom integrators, Sonos offered its new SONOS CONNECT:AMP feature, which will power third-party speakers as rears in combination with PLAYBAR and SUB to create immersive 5.1 surround sound. Sonos entered home theater this year with the launch of PLAYBAR, a nine-speaker soundbar that fits seamlessly into the broader wireless HiFi system. With the new software update, custom integrators can more easily integrate the Sonos PLAYBAR home theater experience into existing systems.
Stewart Filmscreen demonstrated how all of its front- and rear-projection materials are Ultra HD ready, ensuring the screen quality will be optimized for 4K, 8K, and any subsequent improvements in projector resolution for years to follow. Among these offerings is the FireHawk G4, which is now shipping. This flexible, ambient-light-rejecting, front-projection screen surface is made of completely opaque material, preserving light from the projector and preventing artifacts due to reflection from a flat-panel or other sources of ambient light coming from behind the screen.
The Control4 leadership team (L-R): Martin Plaehn, Paul Williams, Jim Arnold, Susan Cashen, Will West, Eric Smith, and Paul Nagel. This biggest news from Control4 was certainly its pivotal role in developing Nest’s first home automation API for its popular thermostat line, as well as its partnership with DISH’s Hopper whole-home HD DVR system, but the company was also busy celebrating its 10th anniversary while introducing its first 8×8 HDMI matrix switch and its lighting system overhaul.
Krell Industries’ Foundation is a 7.1-channel AV processor with 10 HDMI 1.4a inputs, balanced audio outputs, automatic setup, and room EQ. Its Wi-Fi-equipped Connect high-resolution audio streaming player is available in two forms: digital only or with a built-in Digital-to-Analog Converter (DAC) module. From FLAC to WAV, Apple Lossless, MP-4a, MP3 and WMA, the Connect plays back up to 192kHz/24- bit audio, plus internet radio.
Brigitte McCarthy, VP of marketing, Clare Controls, showing off the CLIQ product line. Although there are 24 new products on display in total, the big introduction for Clare Controls focused on its CLIQ line modules, designed to unify AV and control experiences and snap together when the units are stacked. A single point of power, data, audio, and control interface between stacked CLIQ modules, the ClareBus eliminates the need for external wiring between components. This speeds and optimizes integration, sidestepping common problems caused by missing, improperly placed, and/or defective jumper cables.
TiO’s Bert Culpepper, Michael Anderson, and John Anderson TiO’s Bert Culpepper, Michael Anderson, and John Anderson showed off the company’s Dealer Kit, which includes a Nexus 7 Android tablet and the company’s StealthStream 1, an in-wall amplified streaming audio player. This kit makes setting up the company’s Wi-Fi based home automation, which also includes lighting and climate control, simple and easy for dealers.
Tributaries showed off its new Clarus Crimson USB cable, manufactured from heavy-gauge PCOCC copper. The USB features 20AWG power conductors to ensure there is adequate current flow to USB audio devices. Tributaries also unveiled the AC300 DAC, digital optical to analog L/R audio converter with Dolby Decoding.
Hunter Douglas, having made its first appearance with a booth in several years, introduced the Platinum Gateway and Repeater System, designed to operate the entire spectrum of its motorized shading products, controlled via the Platinum App and third-party systems via serial and IR communication. The Platinum App features a timer for users to schedule customized scenes.
Bryston, known for its amps, showed off its first loudspeaker offerings. The eight-model line consists of the floorstanding Model T, Middle T, and mini t, as well as the T powered sub, two center channel solutions, and an in-wall and on-wall loudspeaker.
LED lighting is a huge part of Energy Squad’s story. The distributor offers 35 different brands of lighting, mostly LEDs. Jonathan Stovall, founder and CEO, said that Energy Squad has created 30-point margin lines for LEDs. The next step for Energy Squad has been educating dealers about how they can sell them.
RoseWater the Residential Energy Storage Hub, a smaller version of which was introduced at CEDIA EXPO. The energy hub uses a range of battery solutions to accommodate the multitude of electronics occupying most homes today, along with their high-energy demands. The new Model 1012 is less than half the size of its predecessor.
At Yamaha, the “separates” category reappeared for the first time in 25 years, as customers have been requesting individual preamp and amp offerings. The CXA5000 11.2 channel preamp and the MX-A5000 11-channel power amp with 300W per channel. The preamp features dual high-performance ESS Technology SABRE32 Ultra DACs, for accurate sound imaging.
AMX showed off its new Alero Power Amplifier (ALR-AMP-8), the Modero X Series G5, which feature sizes up to 20.3 inches in a panoramic aspect ratio, and Modero S Series touchpanels. Featuring a single rack unit (1RU) height and drawing on ICEpower audio technology, Alero delivers integrators more design options, making it an ideal choice for acoustically demanding and environmentally sensitive installations. And to ensure a completely unified, whole-home distributed audio source switching and amplification solution, Alero complements the AMX Precis DSP Distributed Audio Matrix Switcher. The Modero X Series now features the ability to run apps and browse the Web, while simultaneously utilizing traditional home automation capabilities.
Middle Atlantic RCS For integrators looking for a simpler way to build a professional AV rack, the new Residential Configured Rack System (RCS) from Middle Atlantic Products has begun shipping fully assembled with pre-installed shelves, fans, a locking reversible glass door, locking removable side and rear access panels, and locking swivel casters and leveling feet for greater integration flexibility. Built on a professional rackmount foundation of fully welded-steel construction (UL Listed), RCS Series racks accept both professional rackmount and consumer shelf-mounted components.
Vutec’s SilverStar 2.2 high-gain screen is the first in its class to be certified by the Image Science Foundation (ISF), according to Dan Drook, national sales manager, a big breakthrough for a 2.2 screen. Silverstar 2.2 joins five other screens in the Vutec lineup that have been qualified by the display standards organization. The 4K optimized, high-gain surface incorporates recent enhancements to the SilverStar line, including ultimate picture definition, vivid colors, high contrast, and brightness in ambient lighting conditions. Since the material is now more flexible, it is available in fixed, multi-panel, and motorized versions.
Officially dubbed the Home Awareness System, enerG’s product line allows homeowners to control, customize, and automate all connected devices in the home and receive important system notifications on their Android and iOS devices. The enerG starter package consists of a gateway hub, a thermostat, and two smart enerG switches at an MSRP of $429, with additional fees for installation and enerG’s monthly service plan (starts at $29.99). The system can be expanded to include lighting control, garage door access, keyless entry, and wireless HD viewing.
The SANUS Trillium furniture collection was designed to allow media components to operate well and stay cool within a modern piece of furniture. Trillium cabinets offer wide, extra-large shelves to hold all components and neatly contain and hide soundbars and media players. Cables are tidily routed through numerous cable pathways in the back of the piece, while hidden compartments keep smaller components out of sight, yet accessible.
Video Interviews from the Show
Check out these brief video demonstrations recorded by RS contributor John Sciacca during CEDIA EXPO 2013.
• MechoShade showed that no window is too big for its MagnaShade system, capable of covering a window up to 40-feet wide and 20-feet tall.
• What if you want a true, native 4K video projector but don’t have $24,999 to drop? Today Sony has you covered with the introduction of the new VPL-VW600ES.
• Suddenly, everyone owned a touchpanel and often multiple of them. This iPad dock from iRoom has a snazzy keypad for security.
• While Kaleidescape’s big news at the show was the company’s new sub $4,000 Cinema One server, the company also had some other news. An update to the Kaleidescape iPad app adds cover art browsing.
• Samsung Smart TV owners that also have a Crestron automation system in their home are about to enjoy a whole new world of control via the new Crestron app available from the Samsung app store.
• DarbeeVision introduced a new technology designed to improve the video quality of CCTV cameras. Fog, haze, snow, and poor lighting conditions are automatically compensated for, enabling targets of interest to be seen more clearly.
• Integrators learned at last year’s CEDIA that owning the home meant owning the network. And owning the network means using robust, enterprise-grade networking routers, switches, and Wi-Fi hardware, such as those offered by Pakedge.
• Definitive Technology’s flagship Mythos ST speaker received a ground-up makeover and reemerges as the Mythos ST-L, with the L standing for Linear. Virtually every part of the speaker has been completely re-engineered for a maximum improvement in sound.
• Digital Projection International boasted a new industry first at CEDIA 2013 with the introduction of its new Titan 1080P LED 3D video projector, which features a combination of three-chip DLP imaging and solid-state LED illumination.
