So many product news items come across the CE Pro desks, and we don't want to miss them. Neither do our readers. This is the place where we tell you what's now shipping, which reps and distributors picked up what new products, which products are newly compatible, how public companies are faring, and other briefs in custom electronics.
SEE MORE NEW-PRODUCT BRIEFS, PAST & PRESENT
December 27
eDist Security will now offer DSC’s new Iotega, a next-generation wireless security solution that boasts a secure, simple and scalable technology for home and business.
eDist Security has a long-standing partnership with DSC, offering 28 categories of DSC accessories and systems ranging from control panels to communications.
DSC’s new Iotega incorporates PowerG wireless technology—providing a fully encrypted security system with end-to-end 128-bit AES; two-way proximity sensors; built-in siren; visual verification; and 99 user codes—all accessible by remote, interactive smart services.
December 14
Media Solutions, a design house for the AV industry, announced that Pacific Radio (PacRad) will distribute the Media Solutions MS-TestPro hand-held HDBaseT.
Pacific Radio serves the needs of a multitude of industry markets, including film, TV, radio, multimedia, recording, post production, networking, home integration and live entertainment. Pacific Radio will distribute, support and generate 24/7 online sales opportunities for Media Solutions in the U.S.
NAD Electronics, a manufacturer of home audio and video products, has announced the latest module in its Modular Design Construction portfolio: the MDC HDM-2. Available now with a U.S. MSRP of $299, the MDC HDM-2 affordably adds HDMI switching and audio capability to five of NAD’s models: the M12, M32, C 368, C 388 and C 390DD.
Based on the latest 6GHz HDMI chip, the MDC HDM-2 includes full support for UHD (4K) video pass through to a video monitor. While no substitute for a full-blown AVR in a home theater setting, adding video capability to a stereo system is often the better solution for customers who prefer simplicity, but demand high performance, according to the Canadian company.
The module offers Consumer Electronic Control (CEC), Audio Return Channel (ARC) and High Dynamic Range (HDR10) support. The MDC HDM-2 and its host NAD Amplifier, can be controlled by the TV’s remote control for seamless integration and ease-of- use.
December 13
MoFi Distribution has announced the addition of the My Sonic Lab brand to their product lineup. Founded by Yoshio Matsudaira in 2003, his goal with the company was to pursue and develop the ultimate dream cartridges.
The distributor says Matsudaira has been a highly sought after OEM designer of high performance cartridges since 1959, with a client list that has included respected brands such as Koetsu, Air Tight, Miyabi, Supex and Audio Craft.
My Sonic Lab’s lineup is comprised of six moving coil cartridges, ranging in price from $3,995 for the Eminent EX to $10,995 for the Signature Platinum. All My Sonic Lab cartridges feature very low internal impedance between 0.6 and 1.8Ω and output from 0.3 to 0.5mV.
December 8
Bluesound now includes Amazon Music, to let users listen tens of millions of songs, thousands of stations and curated playlists from music experts ad free. Amazon Music Unlimited allows users to import their entire music library to the cloud, then play it on Bluesound in every room of the home.
PS Audio has launched its new OS called Redcloud. The Colo.-based company says its latest OS improves upon its Huron's OS's performance by better linearizing low-level signals, and reducing residual noise and THD.
Simultaneous with the release of Redcloud is the release of an update for PS Audio's network Bridge II that provides more streaming capabilities and improvements to the product's stability and operational characteristics.
Full details of the Redcloud Operating System can be found here. Redcloud will be available at the same time as a freedownload for DirectStream; download for DSJ will follow shortly. Redcloud will also be available for purchase, preloaded onto an SD card (DirectStream) or a USB stick (DSJ).
The Bridge II network card is optional on the DirectStream, and is standard with the DSJ. Bridge II allows a wide range of streaming and network options. Instructions on upgrading Bridge II to allow use of Spotify Connect, VTuner, Tidal, Qobuz, MQA, and Roon can be found here.
Luxul has issued firmware updates for its XAP-810 and XAP-1440 wireless access points (WAPs).
The firmware updates are available here, and Luxul says that integrators should follow these steps to initiate the updates:
- Open the APs' web interface by entering the IP address of the AP in your computer’s browser and select Administration >> Firmware Update.
- Note: If you need help getting your computer connected to the AP on the same wired LAN, please refer to the IP Addressing help page at luxul.com/ip-adressing.
- Select the Choose File button and navigate to the firmware file you downloaded, then select Open.
- Select the Update button. You will see a status indicator letting you know the firmware update is in progress.
- Once the upgrade process is complete you will see a message that reads, “Firmware has been updated successfully.” If you haven’t seen the message after a few minutes, check to see if your computer is reconnected to the AP. You may need to reconnect and refresh the page to see the message.
December 7
Honeywell, a connected home solutions provider, announced that its Lyric Controller Home Security System is now certified for use with Apple HomeKit. Honeywell’s offering is the first professionally installed and monitored security system to support Apple’s smart home platform, which enables homeowners to control their Lyric Controller security system with the Apple Home app or by simply asking Siri.
“Smart home technology has made consumers more reliant on their mobile devices to manage their homes,” says Scott Harkins, vice president and general manager of Connected Home, Honeywell Home and Building Technologies. “The addition of HomeKit support to the Lyric Controller improves the connected home experience for consumers, and provides new opportunities for dealers. Dealers can leverage the Apple ecosystem of HomeKit partners to expand their connected home offering and deliver a robust interface to manage the home.”
The free software update, which is available to both current and future Lyric Controller consumers, allows even more consumers the opportunity to connect the Lyric security system without interrupting their current Connected Home platform of choice.
CalMAN 2017 R2 has been released and is available for download from the SpectraCal web site.
The HDR analysis workflow is designed to test and evaluate the performance of any HDR display device.
The HDR Analysis Workflow includes grayscale testing, peak vs. small window luminance testing, peak luminance stability tests, several varieties of color gamut sweeps, and excellent gamut coverage measures.
SpectralCal also says significant improvements to the core algorithms in CalMAN’s 3D LUT engine have improved accuracy in several ways.
The upgrade is compatible with Konica Minolta CA-410, Konica Minolta CS-150 and Konvision monitors, and SpectralCal adds the software also includes a newly improved report generation feature.
Simply Reliable, a developer of cloud based business process management solutions, has added an e-commerce platform into its SmartOFFICE online application.
In SmartOFFICE, the designer or salesperson can create a gorgeous digital proposal and with a simple link to email to prospective customers. The prospect opens the Digital Proposal, which is like a mini-website, and can have a completely new immersive experience. The prospect can then click to accept and pay the automatically created digital invoice using the SmartOFFICE ePayment system. Once the customer has accepted the proposal, they’re provided with a login to the client gateway, allowing them to review proposals and view and pay invoices. SmartOFFICE provides a simple way to propose, get paid, and do the work.
Digital proposals, a game changing feature in SmartOFFICE, has gained significant popularity. To complete the process, Simply Reliable made it easier for the integrator to get paid. SmartOFFICE now includes an e-commerce platform. The integrator can send out a digital invoice, and/or digital proposal and get paid very quickly.
December 6
Azione Unlimited (AU), a custom installation industry education and buying group made up of custom installers, and manufacturers, has announced a nationwide cybersecurity initiative for members. Dealers now have access to Azione’s exclusive cyber liability insurance program and rates through Alper Services, a trusted business insurance and financial solutions provider.
“Security is a key concern in today's smart homes. Not only do our dealers need to protect the intellectual property and financial data that resides on their own networks, but they also need to ensure the security of clients' installed systems,” says Richard Glikes, president of Azione Unlimited. “As news reports of recent data breaches have shown, no business is immune to a cyber-attack.”
In spite of enhanced cybersecurity measures, the frequency of cyber-attacks has grown by 30 percent each year since 2005 and increased by 38 percent in 2015. As the fastest growing crime in the U.S., cyber-crime damage costs could reach $6 trillion annually by 2021, according to experts.
December 5
ProSource, a national audio, video, and integration buying group based in the U.S., announced ProjX360 as a new vendor. ProjX360 Management Software has been developed for the custom integration market by a veteran integrator with over 20 years of experience in the industry.
The national distributor explains ProjX360 can manage every aspect of a project from the sales process to creating proposals and ordering products, all the way through completion and service within a single platform. The mobile friendly interface allows all employees easy access to the cloud-based software from anywhere, anytime, and on any device.
“We're delighted to have ProjX360 on board as a new vendor that brings value to our members,” says Dave Workman, CEO and president of ProSource. “Time is money and the efficiency gained from ProjX360, a sophisticated platform that streamlines the sales, proposal, and service processes, is a welcome addition for our members.”
Texas Instruments (TI) has introduced its latest 4K ultra-high definition (UHD) technology solutions with an expanded family of chipsets to bring 4K UHD technology to new applications. Building on the introduction of the DLP660TE chipset, the first affordable 4K UHD offering in the industry, the portfolio now includes two smaller chipsets, the DLP470TE and DLP470TP, to expand the image capabilities of 4K UHD into a broader range of end equipment.
TI explains that developers can now design DLP 4K UHD technology into a variety of products such as laser TVs, mobile smart TVs, digital signage displays, smart home displays, pico projectors, business and education projectors and more. The chipsets span a wide range of power, size, brightness and performance levels to help designers achieve any 4K UHD end-equipment objective.
Each DLP 4K UHD chipset exceeds the Consumer Technology Association (CTA) definition for 4K UHD technology, displaying over 8 million pixels on the screen.
Some of the key functions of the new chipsets include:
- The DLP470TP is the most compact 4K UHD solution from DLP Products, and is optimized for size and power. Measuring 17 mm by 24.5 mm, and supporting brightness levels up to 1,500 lumens, the DLP470TP can deliver 4KUHD quality to equipment such as mobile smart TVs and pico projectors.
- The DLP470TE is optimized for projectors needing over 1,500 lumens. This chipset is in a larger package, 22 mm by 32 mm, which enables it to withstand the heat generated by brightness levels up to 4,000 lumens.
- The DLP660TE is the most powerful of the three 4K UHD chipsets. This digital micromirror device (DMD) is designed to enable projection applications up to 5,000 lumens.
Developers can get started immediately with the DLP660TE, which is available now, and TI adds the DLP470TE and DLP470TP will be in production in early 2018.
Legrand, a global manufactuarer of electrical and digital building infrastructures, has announced its On-Q radiant RF (radio frequency) Lighting Control and adorne Wi-Fi Ready Lighting systems have integrated QMotion motorized window shade control.
An automatic version 3.0 or later firmware update enables control of QMotion shades via the Legrand LC7001 RF Lighting Controller hub. Corresponding 3.0 updates to the Legrand Lighting Controller app will be available from the iOS and Google Play app stores. This software integration allows integrators and their clients to easily add shading into their projects without installing new wires or undergoing programming training. In addition to simple installation, another benefit is ease of use with control from a single app and user-friendly interface.
With new software, the On-Q radiant and adorne lighting control systems can operate QMotion Zigbee shades connected to the QMotion Qube. Compatible shades include QMotion’s Qadvanced with ZigBee Home Automation version 1.2 (HA1.2) battery–operated Roller and QMotion Qadvanced Intelligent System (QIS) Hardwired shades.
ASSA ABLOY has announced that it has completed its acquisition of August Home, Inc., a provider of smart locks and smart home access products and services.
As previously announced, August Home strengthens ASSA ABLOY’s residential smart door strategy with complementary smart locks, expansion into video doorbells and comprehensive solutions for home delivery.
“I’m excited by what lies ahead for us. August’s development skills and customer experience excellence combined with our locking platform expertise allows us to move closer towards our goal of being the leading smart door and home access provider in the market,” states Thanasis Molokotos, president, ASSA ABLOY Americas.
Martin Huddart, managing director, U.S. & Canadian residential and August Group, adds August's products will complement Yale's line of products.
“What the August team built in delivery, doorbells and smart locks really complements what the Yale Residential team built in connected locks and digital door viewers,” notes Huddart.
Additionally, the two brands will explore collaborative sales opportunities such as the addition of delivery solutions to existing multi-family access solutions; international channel expansion for August; and shared customer opportunities in the retail and professionally installed channels like security and vacation rental.
AVAD LLC, a national distribution provider of solutions for the residential and commercial custom installation market, has announced its new Interactive Catalog – Video Edition. AVAD says its new Interactive Catalog provides dealers with videos, spec sheets, installation details, tools and other product information, accessible to dealers through their computers, tablets and mobile devices.
AVAD points out that its digital catalog, which debuted in 2015, provides dealers with more product details than ever before while highlighting the top video manufacturers and vendors in the industry, including Samsung, LG, JVC, Vivitek, Screen Innovations and more. Highlighting residential and commercial displays, the newVideo Catalog is updated with the latest products and vendors to provide dealers with the convenience of accessing product information and details with the touch of a button.
“We are very excited to launch our newest Interactive Catalog, with our Video edition. It compiles the very best video brands and products in the industry and puts them all in one spot for dealers to view,” says Seth Evenson, director of customer experience management, AVAD. “Dealers can access everything they need from a jobsite, their office or on the go through desktop or mobile devices. As we continue to invest in cutting-edge tools and solutions for our dealers, the Interactive Catalog – Video Edition will serve as a platform for the Audio, Home Automation and Accessories Edition to debut in the coming months.”
November 29
VIZIO, Inc., has announced the addition of the NBC app to VIZIO SmartCast TV. The NBC app will join other apps such as Amazon Video, Crackle, FandangoNOW, Hulu, iHeartRadio, Netflix, Pluto TV, Vudu and XUMO1 on the SmartCast TV home screen.
Available on 2016 and 2017 VIZIO SmartCast P-Series, M-Series and E-Series Ultra HD Displays, SmartCast TV is the latest way for viewers to quickly access content from popular apps right on the big screen with just a tap of the remote.
November 28
The latest firmware update to Oppo Digital's UDP-205 4K UltraHD disc player adds MQA high-resolution audio decoding to the UDP-205’s digital audio file playback. Oppo Digital explains that when a user navigates through music files using the UDP-205’s music app, the player will be able to identify and decode files encoded with MQA.
Listeners can enjoy the full benefit of MQA-encoded music with studio-quality sound. This firmware update is OPPO’s first step in supporting MQA. OPPO states that it is continuing the work on MQA-CD support, as well as adding MQA decoding for the USB DAC and coaxial/optical inputs.
Integrators can update their existing clients' UDP-205 players directly using the online firmware update feature if the player is connected to the Internet. The firmware is also available for downloading at OPPO Digital’s website.
November 20
Lenbrook, and its brands, which include Bluesound, have announced their new BluOS software and apps, version 2.14, for smartphone and tablets.
“We want BluOS to continue to serve as a destination for music lovers, increasingly becoming the center of their music experience in the home,” says Andrew Haines, product manager, BluOS. “The possibilities for BluOS to bring the music experience to life and make it more engaging for users are quite literally only limited by imagination.”
Using the new BluOS app, the PULSE SOUNDBAR and SUB can be wirelessly connected with a pair of PULSE FLEXs to act as a dedicated rear wireless surround speakers for an immersive high-resolution listening experience.
Other features include: Deezer HiFi support, a smarter music engine, and additional filters.
Sonic Studio has announced the release of Amarra 4 Luxe v4.1, and according to the company its latest software integrates Master Quality Authenticated (MQA) high-resolution audio support. MQA is engineered to deliver the sound of the original master recording. MQA files are fully authenticated and small enough to stream or download, while also being backward compatible, sothey can be played on any device.
Amarra 4 Luxe supports local MQA file playback and additionally supports TIDAL MQA Streaming for HiFi subscribers. Amarra users without an MQA-enabled DAC can enjoy MQA decoding at 2x sample rates (88.2kHz or 96kHz), while users with an MQA-enabled DAC will hear full MQA with the original sample rate, platform-specific DAC compensation and sample rates up to 8x (352kHz or 384kHz).
Kwikset, a popular residential door hardware brand and part of the Hardware and Home Improvement (HHI) division of Spectrum Brands Holdings, Inc. has teamed up with Amazon to offer renters and homeowners two smart lock solutions to choose from when purchasing an Amazon Key In-Home Kit. Amazon Key is a new service from Amazon that allows Prime members in 37 cities and surrounding areas across the U.S. to receive in-home delivery and grant secure home access for guests using the Amazon Cloud Cam and a compatible smart lock.
Kwikset SmartCode 914, a touchpad smart lock, and Kwikset Convert, a smart lock conversion kit, are two options that customers can choose from when purchasing an Amazon Key In-Home Kit.
The independent label ECM Records ha announced that it is expanding its partnership with long-standing distribution partner, Universal Music Group (UMG), a leader in music based entertainment to bring the entire ECM catalog to major streaming platforms.
Known for contemporary, jazz and classical music, ECM's catalog is curated by its founder Manfred Eicher, and the company says it has maintained a high standard of artistry and production. The music and its accompanying artwork have been the subjects of books, films and exhibitions around the world. Music from the likes of Keith Jarrett, Jan Garbarek, Paul Bley, Arvo Pärt, András Schiff, Kim Kashkashian, Anouar Brahem, Jack DeJohnette, Tomasz Stanko, Avishai Cohen, Nik Bärtsch, Vijay Iyer, Gidon Kremer, Meredith Monk a.o. will now be available on Apple Music, Spotify, Amazon Music, Deezer, Qobuz and Tidal.
November 16
Sonos has announced that TIDAL subscribers can now directly control their ability to play TIDAL content through their Sonos systems directly from the TIDAL app.
“You can control your Sonos home sound system directly from the TIDAL app,” says Sonos in a marketing email.
“So if you love starting off your Monday with The Weekly Brew or discovering up-and-coming artists on TIDAL Rising, stream the music straight to Sonos—without ever opening your Sonos app.”
MuxLab is finalizing a new application that offers an intuitive way to control its AV over IP sources and displays. MuxLab's upcoming app comes with smart options like custom graphics of color-coded equipment for easy, instant identification, and it allows users manage the connectivity of any source to any display to create comprehensive video walls.
The app enables multiple sites and zones to be managed with the touch of a finger using graphical floor plans to simplify the location, identification and control of complex AV installations. Systems can also be configured with presets to handle repetitive or scheduled tasks. Setting up the App requires a simple download to get started, available on both iOS and Android smartphones and tablets.
The App also works with the MuxLab ProDigital Network Controller (model 500811) to manage the entire MuxLab AV over IP product family.
AudioControl, makers of high-performance audio solutions for the residential, commercial and automotive markets has added support for Dolby Vision HDR to its entire line of A/V receivers and preamp/processors, including the new Maestro M5, which was introduced at the 2017 CEDIA Expo.
“Dolby Vision is currently the only HDR format with dynamic metadata”, comments Chris Kane, vice president of sales at AudioControl. “This means that the brightness levels of HDR content can vary between shots, giving filmmakers finer control over how the image looks. With sales of HDR-capable displays expected to grow 300% over the next 4 years, supporting a premium HDR technology like Dolby Vision was a natural for AudioControl.”
Dolby Vision HDR is now a standard feature on all of AudioControl’s home theater products, including the Concert AVR-7 and AVR-9 receivers, and the Maestro M5 and M9 preamp/processors.
Dealers can access new firmware for the company's products at the AudioControl website to update their clients' products.
November 15
CEDIA has announced a partnership with Houzz.co.uk, the online platform for homebuilding, renovation and design, to help CEDIA members use Houzz’s technology and marketing capabilities to connect with a large community of homeowners actively building, renovating, and investing in new technologies in their homes.
As part of the partnership, Houzz will create an authentication mechanism for active CEDIA members to verify their CEDIA membership on the Houzz platform. With verified badges, homeowners can identify CEDIA members who have specialized expertise in electronic design and installation.
November 14
The television and cable service provider Dish, has announced that its new voice-enabled remote control is now shipping with its Hopper set-top boxes (STBs).
The new voice remote was designed with customer input, and it features motion-activated backlighting and customizable buttons that can be easily programmed to create shortcuts to frequented menu destinations.
As part of the company's rollout of the remote, DISH has launched a new TV commercial starring St. Nicholas and his attempt to find his favorite holiday movies. Check out Santa using his new Dish remote here.
Bedrock Learning, an independent training provider in the smart home industry, states that it now offers a number of online courses from their online curriculum that have been approved for CEUs, (Continuing Education Units), by state licensing bodies in Delaware, Louisiana, Mississippi, New Jersey, and Tennessee.
CEUs are required to maintain certification and licensing, and Bedrock’s online courses offer an economical and timely manner to earn CEUs while enhancing knowledge and expanding skill sets.
In addition, the following online courses are also accredited by the Electronic Security Association, (ESA), National Training School, making these courses recognized for CEUs in Alabama, Florida, Louisville, Kentucky, North Carolina, and Texas.
- The Connected Home 4 ESA credit hours #16-4767
- Home Networking for Technicians 8 ESA credit hours #16-4762
- Multi-Room Audio Technology and Distribution 6 ESA credit hours #16-4760
- Home Theater Technologies Explained 4 ESA credit hours #16-4766
- Residential Lighting Control 8 ESA credit hours #16-4764
- Project Management for Residential Installation 6 ESA credit hours #16-4765
- Fundamentals of Structured Wiring 6 ESA credit hours #16-4761
- Home Theater Design and Installation 8 ESA credit hours #16-4763
“Our commitment to help everyone in the industry succeed drives everything we do. By 'Bedrock-izing' complex information we simplify technology, write at an 8th-grade level, and offer affordable, effective solutions for new careers ignited by the digital revolution. Users love learning with Bedrock. We are proud of the breadth and depth of our online, vendor-neutral training and appreciate long-time customers who keep coming back asking for more,” says Helen Heneveld, president of Bedrock Learning.
The PowerHouse Alliance has expanded its proprietary A2V product line. Adding to its existing line-up of racks and TV mounts, A2V now includes a line of custom installation speakers, available from PowerHouse Alliance warehouse locations across the country.
“We have seen tremendous success from the A2V line since its launch at CEDIA,” says Dennis Holzer, executive director for the PowerHouse Alliance. “And just like the first two categories, all PowerHouse Alliance distributor members and many of their dealers were involved in the design and also determining which category we should expand into next. The vote for a line of in-wall and in-ceiling speakers was unanimous.”
The A2V line of custom speakers consists of 11 SKUs that are distinguished by driver size, configuration and grille type. Four models feature a 6.5-inch woofer and 1/2-inch soft dome pivot tweeter, with micro-perf press fit grille or micro-perf magnetic grille, available in both in-wall or in-ceiling configurations. For deeper bass, there are four identical models available with a larger 8-inch woofer. For detailed highs, two models include a 6.5-inch woofer with a larger 3/4-inch soft dome pivot tweeter, available with micro-perf press grilles only. And, for the ultimate in performance and ease of installation, the A2V line also includes an in-ceiling speaker with 8-inch woofer, 3/4-inch soft dome pivot tweeter and micro-perf magnetic grille.
ProSource, a national audio, video, and integration buying group, has announced a partnership with Portal, the web-based proposal and purchasing platform for dealers through Expert Warehouse, the exclusive national distributor to ProSource members. The partnership melds Portal's data with Expert Warehouse''s logistics, making it easier than ever for ProSource members to propose and purchase ProSource vendor products from Expert Warehouse.
Middle Atlantic Products, has announced that it has been awarded patent number 9,648,771 from the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office for its RSH Series 1 RU Custom Rackshelf.
The 1 RU rackmount solution features the series' snap-together assembly that speeds up integration and a front-face design that addresses the need for quick and easy last-minute equipment installation and upgrades, and for performing ongoing system maintenance.
November 13
Synaptics Incorporated, a developer of human interface solutions, has announced its AudioSmart CX21988-THX. According to the San Jose, Calif.-based company, the product is the industry’s first USB-C audio codec solution to achieve THX Approval.
November 10
Key Digital, a manufacturer of digital video and control systems, announces integration with the full line of Sonos wireless audio products via Key Digital's Compass Control Pro system. Compass’s bi-directional drivers with Sonos offer EQ Control, Audio Control, Playback Control, Now Playing Information (including Artist Info, Album Info, Title Info, Album Art), Music Browsing (Browse and play user music library), and Queue Control (Play/Add/Remove Queue items).
November 8
The network equipment manufacturer Luxul has announced that it is introducing its KRACK firmware updates. Luxul says it will starting releasing the updates in mid-November, and it will announce the updates as they become available through mechanisms that include social media. The updates are available here.
November 7
Media Solutions has announced that ANIXTER Canada, a global supplier of communications, network and security systems, will now offer its products.
November 6
Wisdom Audio, a designer and manufacturer of loudspeaker systems, has announced the launch of its newly redesigned website. The company says its newly redesigned site provides visitors with a new way to experience the technology behind its audio systems and get the technical information they need for any installation.
November 3
CoreBrands has notified integrators and homeowners that the issue that caused some BlueBOLT users to experience reboot errors with their BlueBOLT-enabled devices has been corrected.
The company advises integrators that in order to reactivate auto-reboot they must be at the device level and click on the Device Admin tab. On this page integrators can modify the auto-reboot settings in the Auto-Reboot Configuration field.
November 2
BlueDog Data Services, a provider of comprehensive data management services supporting the tools, processes, and standards necessary for integrators, has announced reduced pricing to new and existing customers.
Effective immediately, customers can take advantage of BlueDog’s Database Management and Administration for D-Tools at a fraction of the cost of hosting and managing their D-Tools catalog internally. For companies that do not have full-time data management staff, the BlueDog Data Services Plus Program features a fully-managed product and labor catalog starting at $250 per month. For companies with full-time data management staff and a high-level of customization requirements, the Essentials Package offers a non-managed product and labor catalog starting at $200 per month.
Both programs include proposal and engineering ready data with Amazon Web Services server hosting, OS and D-Tools updates, database backup, and much more. The one-time setup fee for both plans has also been reduced to $1,299 and $999 respectively.
November 1
Audio Authority states that as the audio market continues to evolve it has discontinued many of its custom integration products that longer fit current market trends. Keeping pace on the sales side of the audio business, the company has announced that as of Nov. 15, its audio and video products will be available by phone order only.
The Ky.-based company emphasizes that support and downloads will still be available on its website to aid integrators.
CasaTunes, a whole-house audio equipment manufacturer has announced that CasaTunes music can now be controlled by Lutron lighting control devices, including RadioRA 2 and HomeWorks QS system keypads, Pico wireless controls, and timer events. According to CasaTunes, its newly announced Lutron integration makes it easier for homeowners to access and control their music. CasaTunes integration is available on CasaTunes music servers.
Using the CasaTunes App, users configure a CasaTunes action to take place when a Lutron keypad button is pressed, or a timeclock event occurs. Actions include powering rooms, changing the volume, rotating through sources, songs and playlists, and various transport controls, such as playing and pausing music. To simplify setup, CasaTunes automatically discovers all Lutron keypads and timeclock events, and updates this information whenever the Lutron configuration changes.
Draper has released an updated window shade price list for commercial and residential AV dealers, along with information on Draper's FlexShade Recharge battery-operated shade that debuted earlier this year. The new price list is available for download here.
Draper has also announced it is joining forces with Herman Integration Services to provide project management, field measuring and verification for every shade, installation services, and programming and integration experience. Dealers will still contact Draper for a quote and get basic sales training from the company. Once a dealer has the quote, the dealer can contact Herman for pricing on everything from field verification to installation and programming explains Draper.
Just Add Power (J+P), a manufacturer of Ultra HD over IP solutions, is now offering integrators an inside look at all the solutions introduced at CEDIA 2017 in a custom web-based 3D booth experience. The versatile demonstration showcases J+P's Wall Plate Transmitter with the new Plug-Play-Present control firmware built in, 3G+4+ Tiling Transmitter, and the Switch Please web-based control application, as well as the video wall capabilities available within the Ultra HD over IP platform.
October 27
Kwikset, a brand that is part of the Hardware and Home Improvement (HHI) division of Spectrum Brands Holdings, Inc., has teamed up with Amazon to offer renters and homeowners two smart lock solutions to choose from when purchasing an Amazon Key In-Home Kit.
Amazon Key is a new service from Amazon that allows Prime members in 37 cities and surrounding areas across the U.S. to receive in-home delivery and grant secure home access for guests using the Amazon Cloud Cam and a compatible smart lock.
Kwikset Convert, a smart lock conversion kit, and Kwikset SmartCode 914, a touchpad smart lock, and are two options that customers can choose from when purchasing an Amazon Key In-Home Kit.
October 26
Kaleidescape has announced that movies from Paramount Pictures are now available on the Kaleidescape Movie Store in 4K Ultra HD with high dynamic range (HDR) and lossless Dolby Atmos soundtracks, as well as Blu-ray quality.
Seventeen of Paramount’s titles are available now, including Arrival and Fences, Transformers: The Last Knight, the spy drama Allied, the family-friendly Monster Trucks and Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles: Out of the Shadows and more.
Upcoming additions will include Paramount’s iconic franchises such as Indiana Jones, Star Trek, and The Godfather, plus classics like Chinatown and Sunset Boulevard.
October 25
DISH has introduced its Hands-Free TV for the entire home by extending its support of Amazon Alexa voice control to all Joey clients. Now, DISH customers can ask Alexa to control all TVs in the Hopper whole-home ecosystem by pairing each set-top box with an Amazon Echo, Echo Show or Echo Dot. In April 2017, DISH became the first pay-TV provider to natively integrate Alexa voice control when it enabled compatibility on its Hopper DVR and Wally single-tuner HD receiver.
When connected to a Hopper, DISH’s Joey clients extend Hopper functionality to other rooms in the home. Hopper 3 supports up to six Joeys simultaneously, while previous Hopper generations support up to three Joeys.
“DISH is again championing TV voice control, this time by extending our Alexa compatibility to create a more fully-integrated experience throughout the home,” explains Niraj Desai, vice president of product management, DISH. “Our customers now have the freedom to ask Alexa for help finding shows and movies in every room where their families enjoy watching TV.”
With its latest announcement, DISH’s list of Alexa-compatible products includes Hopper (all generations) and its Joey, Wireless Joey, 4K Joey and Super Joey clients, as well as DISH’s Wally single-tuner HD receiver. To enable Alexa voice control, each DISH set-top box must be paired with its own Echo device.
Lyngdorf has released a software update for the Lyngdorf Audio MP-50 surround sound processor which will offer full support of the latest DTS:X formats, including DTS Neural:X post processing and DTS Dialog Control. This means the MP-50 processor will support all the major contenders in the immersive surround sound market such as Dolby Atmos and AURO-3D. In addition, the company says new software has been released for the TDAI-2170 that fixes some fixes, including updates to the HDMI protocols for passing HDR from Apple TV 4K.
Western Electric Select, a division of Western Electric, has announced that Western Electric Select is now the distributor for Gauder Akustik, a speaker company based in Renningen, Germany. The Western Electric website offers direct sales of four select Gauder Akustik speaker systems in various configurations and finishes; the Arcona 100, the Cassiano MK II, the Berlina RC 7 MK II and the magnificent Berlina RC 11. Designed by Dr. Roland Gauder, the speakers are engineered through the latest computer design processes with the goal of providing low distortion and wide dynamics. All Gauder Akustik speakers are equipped with an adjustable room equalization systems.
DAS Companies Inc., a Mid-Atlantic distributor, has been selected to represent additional territories by Sony Electronics. This strategic change provides additional territory and now makes DAS the “exclusive” authorized SONY car audio distributor for the Mid-Atlantic.
Effective immediately, DAS has added Northern New Jersey, the five boroughs of New York City, Long Island, and Westchester County, New York to its existing Southern New Jersey, Delaware, Maryland, Washington DC and Virginia territories.
October 24
DTS, a wholly owned subsidiary of Xperi Corporation, has announced Amazon Music support via DTS Play-Fi with added music search functionality and further global expansion beyond the U.S., U.K., Germany and Japan into France, Italy and Spain.
Amazon Music customers can now search by station, playlist, album and song on their DTS Play-Fi devices. Additionally, DTS Play-Fi users will be able to enjoy their “My Music” libraries via the Amazon Music app across DTS Play-Fi wireless multi-room music systems, regardless of brand. DTS Play-Fi support for “My Music” is effective on the same date as the rollout of Amazon Music via DTS Play-Fi. Availability in additional countries will continue throughout 2017 and 2018.
The Wireless Speaker and Audio (WiSA) Association, an industry group dedicated to bringing high resolution, wireless, multi-channel audio products to the home theater market, has announced the video gaming brand Xbox as its newest member.
DTS, a wholly owned subsidiary of Xperi Corporation, has announced the availability of the Phorus PS10 ($249), the first DTS Play-Fi enabled wireless speaker with Amazon Alexa Voice Service.
The Phorus PS10’s built-in far-field microphone array allows users to access information, play music, and control other home automation devices via the Amazon Alexa Voice Service. With the inclusion of DTS Play-Fi technology, the PS10 can connect to more than 200 DTS Play-Fi-compatible products to form an Alexa-powered whole-home audio system, regardless of brand.
Dynaudio recently launched its Cinema Master 60 high-end home theater loudspeakers at the 2017 CEDIA Expo in San Diego, where the company partnered up with companies, including Datasat, JL Audio, Barco, Wireworld, and Russ Berger Design Group to showcase the Cinema Master 60s in a home theater system. Less than two months after the premiere at CEDIA, the first full Cinema Master demo system in the world has now been installed and is on active display at Boca Theater & Automation in Boca Raton, Fla.
The newly conceived demo system features a partnership with Datasat for the use of Datasat's RS20i processor and RA2400 and RA7300 amplifiers. Dynaudio points out that Boca Theater & Automation basically replicated the Cinema Master system Dynaudio showcased at CEDIA in its showroom, and will be unveiling the new Cinema Master system as part of their two-year anniversary event on Oct. 30, 2017.
The global audio manufacturer adds, that because many integrators in the Florida region were unable to attend CEDIA due to hurricane Irma, Boca Theater & Automation is also using its anniversary to make the Cinema Master demo system available to those who were unable to make it to San Diego this year.
The Dynaudio Cinema Master system is designed to serve as a professional-grade home cinema system for both films and music. Dealers interested in experiecing the Boca Theater & Automation demo system can click here for details.
October 23
Phase Technology, an American loudspeaker manufacturer, has been awarded a new patent (#15265773) on its new Bass Extending Technology for architectural speakers. Phase Tech’s two new in-wall models, the CI120 and CI130 incorporate the patented technology.
The new technology extends bass lower than an acoustic suspension or bass reflex in-wall or in-ceiling speaker in the same size enclosure. Phase Technology explains that in-wall and in-ceiling speakers generally have rear enclosures that are too small to produce low bass. With this technology advancement, a speaker with the same size rear enclosure will have bass output that extends up to one octave lower than a comparable speaker.
Phase Technology points out that its Bass Extending Technology provides two solutions: It incorporates a back box to reduce sound transmission to an adjacent room and lowers the resonance of the speaker.
“This is a real-world problem solving advancement for achieving deeper bass while reducing sound transmission through the rear wall of the room.” says Ken Hecht, vice president of research and development, MSE Audio. “The patent bass extending hybrid enclosure design produces much deeper bass compared
October 19
PowerHouse Alliance has announced a list of new vendors: Samsung, eero, Luma and MSE Audio, including its six audio brands (Induction Dynamics, Phase Tech, Rockustics, Solid Drive, Soundsphere, and Soundtube).
The networking company Luxul has announced several product firmware updates:
Luxul ABR-4500 router version 6.0 firmware offers improvements for these items:
- Internet monitoring and recovery of WAN interface
- Removed the “Hidden Beta Page” and added an “Advanced” menu to the administration submenu
- Added the import setting to the backup/recovery option
- Improved the VLAN setup, editing and deleting options on the VLAN Page
Luxul is also offering a firmware update for its XMS-1010P PoE switch (v1.0.0.3), and its XFS-1816P PoE switch (v1.0.0.5).
To check out all of Luxul's firmware updates click here.
Skywalker AV Supply has completely revamped its website. The new site delivers a contemporary look and feel with enhanced shopping and navigation features.
Skywalker AV explains the overhaul of its online store is designed to offer users clean aesthetics and a comprehensive browsing layout that organizes Skywalker’s more than 6,000 SKUs.
“After winning three consecutive Quest for Quality awards for our website, I couldn't be more proud of our team. They've put in countless hours to develop what we believe is the best website in the industry,” says Randy Criebaum, president of Skywalker AV Supply.
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