Michael Restrepo, owner Restrepo Innovations, took time away from his high-end integration business in Paramus, N.J., to spend a few days at Infocomm 2018 and share some of the goodness with CE Pro. Check out some of his highlights below.
SnapAV
I had to pass by the SnapAV booth and ask about the latest version of the Araknis Router. We’ve put their Araknis line to the test in some of our largest installs including robust Crestron NVX solutions, and their products stands tall in a line of others, including Cisco.
AudioControl
AudioControl made their InfoComm debut this year in the Integrated Life Pavillion. Famous for their AVRs and amps, their DSP amps were on full display this year. The way AudioControl allows you to manipulate and mold the audio to sound as robust as possible in the space, combined with their price, point makes them a solution even the biggest audiophile can appreciate. They’re one of the best kept secrets in A/V, and I’m looking forward to seeing them again at InfoComm next year.
Alex Camara, the CEO of AudioControl, graciously gave me the SA-4140i SPL, their highest measurement tool. I’m looking forward to testing it out and reviewing the product.
Barco
Barco’s award winning UniSee video wall did not disappoint. I was able to see the revolutionary bracket in action on the showroom floor. They’ve taken servicing video walls and revolutionized the process. Although these walls are more common in a commercial setting, we’re seeing the luxury end of AV move towards videos walls. As they end up in private homes, it’s safe to say you’ll see Barco’s solution present.
DyanScan
Passing by DynaScan, I almost needed to break out my sunglasses. The have some of the brightest outdoor displays available and being that they are a commercial digital signage solution, their products are perfect for the luxury residential market. If you’re looking for an outdoor display solution where quality and size are your two biggest factors, DynaScan has your solution.
Hikvision
With security and the news swirling around the brand, it was great to talk with Hikvision face-to-face and see the steps they're taking to make sure they stay compliant. Security issues in the high-end residential market come with heavy expectations, and there is no greater task than keeping a family secure.
Crestron
Crestron’s next generation NVX is proof that even the biggest company can pivot and innovate in a fast way. DM-NVX-352 now has Dante integration, and for luxury homes and estates with extensive amounts of audio zones and source, expansion wars are now a thing of the past.
Of course, Crestron’s Swirl Party at the Brooklyn Bowl was one of the highlights of InfoComm. Mark McGrath and the Royal Machines were there, along with other performers and a surprise appearance by Blink 182. Even Randy Klein made his way on stage (above) for the final performance getting into the excitement that is Crestron Swirl.
Michael Restrepo is owner of Restrepo Innovations, based in Paramus, N.J. Restrepo Innovations is a concierge A/V and Automation company driven by its extensive knowledge and experience, passion for technology, and dedication to client satisfaction. Specializing in complex systems, large scale homes and estates, Restrepo is an Authorized Crestron Dealer and Programmer delivering award-winning technology to CEOs, corporate professionals, and luxury home owners throughout the country.
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