to - SVI Magazine

Transcription

to - SVI Magazine

WHAT'S NEW IN
SOUND
A N D
ISSUE 22
APR 05
V I S I O N
www.soundandvisionmagazine.co.uk
Full details inside - see page 30
See The Light
Intelligent control
unveiled
At Your Service
Audio and video
distribution
uncovered
The latest stories from CEDIA • Comprehensive contact book
An abundance of AV industry news • What’s new in CI • Events Diary
IN THIS MONTH'S
ISSUE
4 WHAT’S NEW
The latest batch of releases
making waves in the AV arena
11 OUT AND ABOUT
Track our team’s movements
as they chart a challenging
course around the world of
sound and vision
12 EYE ON THE
INDUSTRY
Be part of the ongoing
debate attempting to shape
the future of our industry
and keep in touch with
everything else you need to
know
21 TECHNOLOGY
CORNER
The CRT is dead, long live
the CRT… SARAH ADCOCK
looks at the SuperSlim
technology breathing new
life into the tube
22 A HEALTHY
SERVING
If some commentators are
to be believed, we will all be
benefiting from multi-room
systems before long.
DARREN HARVEY takes a
look at audio and video
distribution…
26 THE FUTURE’S
LIGHT
Rather than focus on a
solitary install, this month
KATIE BATES tackles the
wider topic of intelligent
light control
29 MERGING
FORCES
What do commercial
installations have to do
with the residential
sector? Find out, courtesy
of SAM FULLER...
SPRING IN OUR STEP
It seems only a day or two ago that we were on our way back from the ISE show in
Amsterdam. However, since then we’ve slotted in a trip to Bristol, more launches than an
American airbase near an oilfield, and still managed to bring you a number of wholesome
issues, packed with all the latest news, reviews and debates pervading our industry. The snow
of last month has turned into spring, the sun is in the air and the CEDIA Expo is on the lips of
the industry, including the association’s operations director who gives you a rundown on what
to expect from this year’s event herein.
Elsewhere, we pay homage to the growing synergy between the AV and installation
markets with a look at multi-room distribution and servers available via the install route and,
on occasion, off the shelf. We also look at the significance that the proliferation of automation
in the commercial sector has had on the development of the residential market. Moving back
into the world of AV, this month we explore the latest technology set to challenge the
seemingly unstoppable rise of plasma and LCD-TVs. Founded upon the ageing principles of
the Cathode Ray Tube, which has been written off more times than Sven Goran Erikson, yet
retains the same remarkable pulling power, the new SuperSlim options could become
incredibly big business.
Of course, this is just a selection of the array of educative features we’ve put together
this month, in order to help keep What’s New readers ahead of the game. As ever, we serve
up the biggest portion of industry news about, having pulled out all the stops and brow beaten
everyone we know into confessing their secrets. I can already sense you are trembling in your
boots because you are next in line; therefore if you have any news or personal views to add to
an industry debate that you’d like to see in print, don’t hesitate to contact me. Oh go on… it
makes my job so much easier…
Hamish McNair-Wilson, Editor
[email protected]
01/07/03-30/06/04: 4,255
12
21
22
26
32
34
30 WHAT’S NEW?
INSTALLER
Our regular rundown of
the smartest new
products about
32 INSTALLER
INDUSTRY
Find out about the latest
developments in the
custom installation sector
here
34 STORIES FROM
CEDIA
CEDIA’s operations director
WENDY GRIFFITHS lends
us her ear, and her writing
abilities, to bring you news
of 2005’s Expo and beyond
36 THE BUSINESS
Consult our ever-expanding
contact book for the details
you just can’t place
42 DIARY
Find out where you’re
supposed to be and when,
courtesy of our handy
events diary
PLEASE SEND ALL CORRESPONDENCE TO: WHAT’S NEW IN SOUND AND VISION, CASTLE HOUSE, 97 HIGH STREET, COLCHESTER, ESSEX, CO1 1TH
>
SOUND & VISION ALL THE AV NEWS FIT TO PRINT
What’s New?
COMPILED BY DARREN HARVEY
WHAT’S NEW IN SOUND AND VISION’S ROUND-UP
OF ALL THE VERY LATEST PRODUCT NEWS
STRIKING THEME
Last month Optoma announced the launch of a world class projector for the home - the ThemeSceneTM H78. Delivering discernibly improved images over its
predecessor - the award-winning H77 - it boasts newly developed technology by both ThemeScene and Texas Instruments. Improvements include enhanced PAL
colour accuracy on a wide range of signal types, further optimised PAL and 50Hz High Definition (European High Definition) image quality, improvements to the
PAL grey scale linearity, especially in the important low light, dark areas of images, and enhanced brightness and contrast ratios thanks to a faster pixel
response time. The resultant images offer a great balance of colour, prove exceptionally accurate and the motion fluidity is particularly commendable. The H78
benefits from an astounding 3800:1 contrast ratio, which makes even standard definition TV look the business. Another contributing factor to the great visuals is
the HD2+ DLP chip from Texas Instruments, which helps produce the impressive brightness and ensure an appreciable depth of black levels. Just a hint of the
raft of features housed within its sleek shell, the H78 is available now, retails at £3,495 and should ensure ThemeScene continue to rack up those awards.
For further information contact: +44 (0) 192 369 1809 www.themescene.tv
IT’S PLAYTIME
InFocus have announced the release of the ScreenPlay 7210, available in
the UK through CSE Solutions. A sterling route to high definition visuals,
this offers a crisp 2800:1 contrast ratio and improved black levels for
enriched colour saturation and excellent native 720p video performance. Its
performance is founded on Texas Instruments’ renowned DarkChip3 DLP
technology, a proprietary seven-segment colour wheel and the Faroudja
DCDi 2310 de-interlacer. Also included is an all-glass, Carl Zeiss 1.3x
zoom lens with a 72mm filter thread and optional neutral density filter.
This is bolstered by InFocus’s own award-winning engineering to offer
buyers amazing image clarity. According to Scott Hix, Senior Vice President
of Worldwide Sales at InFocus, it is “a powerhouse projector that enables
stellar HD images and is the ideal choice for the enthusiast who has done
their homework.” And we certainly can’t argue with that.
For further information contact: +44 (0) 142 335 9054
www.csesolutions.co.uk www.infocushome.com
4
HITTING THE MARQUEE
The new C720BEE from NAD is a great product highlighting that, even in
this progressive era, there is a place for two-channel audio. This stereo
receiver offers the same sleek looks of the award-winning C320BEE
Stereo Integrated amplifier with an RDS AM/FM tuner and multi-source
Zone 2 capabilities. Like many of NAD’s most innovative products, the
720BEE comes from the creative mind of Bjorn Erik Edvardsen, Director
of Advanced Developments, with its BEE moniker a clear indication of his
contribution. This option comes packed with the finest technology
including NAD’s PowerDrive topology and switchable ‘Soft Clipping’
circuit. The C720BEE has seven line inputs and the pre-amplifier section
can be separated from the power amplifier for easy upgrades or adding
ancillary equipment, ensuring it is sufficiently flexible to meet future
system needs. It is available next month, will retail for around £399.95
and comes sharply dressed in either a titanium or grey finish.
www.lenbrook.co.uk
WHAT’S NEW?
ONE BOX CLEVER
Panasonic’s 1000W SC-HT880 and SC-HT880W all in one home cinema
systems offers buyers a straightforward route to immersing
entertainment. These particularly attractive off the shelf solutions
include a DVD-player, boasting multi-format playback. Both models
offer a striking level of audio output, but differ in their speaker
systems, with the SC-HT880W offering wireless rear speakers. Their
slim, slender, elegant looks are befitting of the most modern
environments and as 2-Way, 2-Speaker, Bass-Reflex designs, they
offer a level of clarity rarely found in a package deal. The SC-HT880 is
available this month, whilst the SC-HT880W will hit the shops in July.
www.panasonic.co.uk
WATCH THE ECLIPSE
Atacama have established an excellent reputation in the specialist furniture
market and they are set to extend this with the release of the Eclipse 1 LCD
stand. Available now, with further models in the series to be introduced later
in the year, this is an elegant and striking option. It will cater for models of
up to 20kg in weight that utilise the 75mm or 100mm VESA mount. The
Eclipse 1 incorporates a single elliptical extruded aluminium column with a
matching elliptical toughened glass base plate. To keep things looking as
minimalist as possible, there is an adept system of cable
management to keep all the unsightly wiring hidden
from view. The Eclipse 1 is being launched in a voguish
metallic silver finish, with an arctic frost glass base.
Other colours will be available later in the year, as will
the option of an additional add-on shelf (seen here),
allowing the buyer to smoothly stack up all their AV
components. This great value option is available for a
tasty £119.99, with the optional add-on shelf likely to cost
around £29.99 when it hits the market.
www.atacama-audio.co.uk
DRESSED TO A CRT
JVC has introduced its finest CRT IDTV line-up yet,
comprising the HV-32D40, HV-28D40, AV-32EX5,
AV-28EX5, AV-32E50 and AV-28E50, as well as the
TU-DB1 set-top box. Each of these is a wideaspect ratio TV and comes equipped with a
receiver that allows reception of digital terrestrial
TV signals. JVC were the first manufacturer to
introduce the widescreen format TV and now they
are leading the way in the digital arena. With the
transition to a full digital service by 2010 well
underway in the UK, these new models assure
users their purchases will have a future. Fittingly
they boast the up to the minute EPG (electronic
programme guide) helping viewers surf through
their channels and plan their viewing with the
utmost ease. Several of the new options also
come equipped with JVC's renowned D.I.S.T.,
HDTV compatibility, 100Hz DigiPure Pro and
Oblique Cone Speakers. With the CRT TV
continuing to outsell any other format, these welldressed models are more than worthy of stocking.
For further information contact:
+44 (0) 870 330 5000 www.jvc.co.uk
5
>
THEY GOT THE POWER
The Brahma is one of four power cables from Nordost, first shown on
these shores at the Bristol show. Priced between the Vishnu and
Valhalla, at a competitive £899.95 for a two-metre length, this new design
increases the power transmission whilst lowering the noise floor without
restriction or filtering. This is achieved thanks to the proprietary Micro
Mono-filament FEP technology, which unlocks the powerful dynamics
frequently lost in reproduction equipment when using conventional A/C
power cables. Improved signal speed, better power transfer and
increased thermal efficiency are just some of the advantages this affords,
while strand interaction, hot spots and carbonisation are eliminated,
thereby minimising mechanical vibrations. The result is discernibly
improved, excellent clarity sound and picture quality.
For further information contact: +44 (0)135 273 0251
www.nordost.com
WHAT A DISPLAY!
Anyone who has ever doubted that CRT had a future may well be forced
to eat their words, thanks to a stunning piece of innovation from
LG.Philips Displays. Since late last year, the firm have had a new
innovation in production, founded upon unique technology. The
Cybertube+ SuperSlim models are the world’s thinnest TVs founded
upon the Colour Picture Tube and are breathing new life into a
technology that, with the advent of the PDP and LCD-TV, has been widely
considered moribund. The current products available are the 21-inch
Real Flat SuperSlim TV and the 32-inch Widescreen Real Flat
SuperSlim. At only 352mm in depth, these prove incredibly slender, offer
impressive performance and, thanks to the technology behind them, will
offer buyers outstanding cost benefits thanks to the myriad of savings
they afford in the total logistic chain. With more models under
development, we welcome this impressive and potentially marketshaping new player to the visual entertainment arena.
For further information contact: www.superslim.com
www.lgphilips-displays.com
6
WHAT’S NEW?
IT’S A LONG HARD DRIVE
DVD Recorders are a growing business and, increasingly, they are something everyone is seeking to add to their stack of components. As a result, this
season JVC have been adding to their range. One model sure to catch the eye is the DR-MH50. This comes equipped with a 250GB Hard Disk Drive (HDD),
the largest introduced by the company yet. This permits recording and playback in DVD-RAM, DVD-RW, and DVD-R formats and playback in the DVDVideo, WMA, MP3, JPEG, and CD formats. Large amounts of video content can also be stored on the built-in HDD, for either playback or copying to DVD. A
number of unique and innovative technologies have been deployed to improve picture quality both in recording and playback. The result is impressively
high-resolution images with
minimal MPEG compression
noise, even when pictures are
recorded in long-time modes at
reduced bit rates. Riddled with
functional features, this excels in
the usability stakes and should
prove a sure-fire success.
+44 (0) 870 330 5000
www.jvc.co.uk
BEAUTY AND BRAINS
JVC’s DR-M100 is a new, improved
and restyled version of the muchlauded DR-M10. This slender,
stylish unit allows for the recording
of high-quality, high-resolution,
PAL Progressive pictures, with
versatile compatible formats and an array of user-friendly functions. Like its predecessor, it can record and playback in DVD-RAM, DVD-RW and DVDR modes, as well as playback DVD-Video discs, CD, CD-R/RW and Video CDs. Capable of catering for WMA and MP3 audio files or JPEG digital still
photos into the bargain, it really is a dynamic option. Quality pictures are assured thanks to an array of clever inclusions such as PAL Progressive
technology, a Motion Active Progressive Scan Output, Digital Direct Progressive Scan technology, Block Noise Reduction Circuit and Hadamard Noise
Reduction System and the Super MPEG Encode Pre-Processor. The DR-M100 offers as much functionality as it does performance and has the capacity
to memorise data from up to 1,300 programmes and actually tell the user which disc to load when seeking a particular show. Intelligent, easy to use
and racked with desirable features, this modish model is another healthy step forward for JVC.
For further information contact: +44 (0) 870 330 5000 www.jvc.co.uk
The elegant Profiles DLP TV
SETTING THE SCENIUM
Thomson’s great new Scenium LCD-TVs are as advanced as
they come. This range, which hits the shop shelves this
spring, boasts 11 models of 32,27 and 23-inches. The
Scenium selection comes ridden with the latest technology
and is equipped with speakers delivering clear and absorbing
sounds.
Also new to the firm is the 50DSZ645 - a striking 50-inch
DLP ‘Profiles’ Screen. At only 18cm in depth, this sets new
standards for elegance and sleekness in this area. Featuring
an array of appreciable bonuses - including Thomson’s
exclusive image enhancing H-Pix and speakers offering 80W
of audio output - this is an exceptional, large screen option.
www.thomson-europe.co.uk
d
Y
tee
an
ar
DA y
Gu
XT iver
NE Del
)
ms
ite
ck
sto
ll
ra
(Fo
Totally Universal Mounts
LCD Mounts
Plasma Mounts
I n n o v a t i o n - S t y l e - Ve r s a t i l i t y
from Europe’s leading supplier
Projector Mounts
Tel: +44 (0)2476 614700
email: [email protected]
www.mounts.com
7
>
ALL IN ONE
RECEIVED OPINION
The RX-V457 from Yamaha is a 6.1-channel digital home
cinema receiver that promises both high-performance
audio and video output. The former is taken care of by
Digital ToP-ART and high-current amplification, features
that highlight the use of the latest technologies,
components and circuitry, and 192kHz/24-bit DACs for
each channel. High-quality video is available thanks to
two HDTV compatible component video input and output
terminals, allowing a user to connect up to two separate
source components at a time. Other notable features
include virtual CINEMA DSP, realistic surround sound
and 40-station preset tuning,
making the RX-V457 a multitalented product. It will be
available for £299
For further information
contact: +44 (0) 192 323 3166
www.yamaha-uk.com
For consumers looking to find a comprehensive home cinema
solution and seeking to avoid hassle Yamaha's DVX-S250 should
prove popular. A DVD home theatre system, it can provide highquality sound and vision thanks to a 55W x5 Yamaha Original Digital
Amplifier and 100W YST subwoofer, and a Progressive Scanning
DVD-player and component video output terminal respectively.
Surround sound is delivered by Quad-Field CINEMA DSP and a
powerful 32-bit Yamaha LSI, whilst YPAO, an intuitive GUI and wide
disc compatibility ensure that the system can be set-up and enjoyed
with the minimum of effort.
www.yamaha-uk.com
LOUD AND CLEAR
Yamaha's UK Tuned DSP-AX757SE is an improvement of the
acclaimed DSPAX750SE. It is a 7.1-channel amplifier that benefits
from seven 100W channels and a host of performance-boosting
features. Advanced facilities such as YPAO allow a user to
automatically optimise performance for a specific environment,
by analysing the acoustic properties of a room and adjusting
speaker parameters to suit, whilst Quad-Field/Tri-Field CINEMA
DSP technology and an array of surround sound programs
guarantee realistic soundscapes for the living room. Also in
attendance is Night Listening Enhancer, which boosts the quality
of low-volume listening, and a user-friendly remote-controlled
interface that makes use of on-screen menus. With myriad
connectivity options into the bargain, the model should be ideal
for Hi-Fi and home cinema
set-ups alike. It retails for
£499.
contact:
+44 (0) 192 323 3166
www.yamaha-uk.com
ON THE RECORD
PROGRESSIVE THINKING
Versatile and convenient are two words that Yamaha use to describe
their CDR-HD1500, a CD-R/RW and HDD digital audio recorder.
Benefiting from 24-bit DACs and boasting a sizeable 250Gb hard disk
capacity and a high-speed ripping (10x normal speed) function, the
device is ideal for users seeking to access and enjoy their CD collection
in a flexible manner. With space to store over 400 CDs worth of tracks,
the ability to easily manipulate them and the components to deliver
high-quality playback, the model looks certain to appeal to music
enthusiasts who are sure to appreciate the impressive range of editing
and burning features. The buyer will certainly get a lot for their £599.
www.yamaha-uk.com
This Progressive Scan DVD-player is Yamaha's DVD-S657, a slim-line model
with both DVD-Audio and SACD functionality. Incorporating a 108MHz/12-bit
video and a 192kHz/24-bit audio DAC, high-quality audio and video are
promised no matter what disc format is employed. Ease of use is another
important aspect of the player, with a Graphical User Interface delivering
user-friendly menus via a TV screen or monitor and a comprehensive
remote control included. Other features include a sleep function,
simultaneous JPEG/MP3 playback for user-created slide shows and
multiple zoom settings, resulting in a DVD-player that looks certain to make
an impact on the high street. The DVD-S657 is a snip at £159.
www.yamaha-uk.com
8
GOING SOLO
British firm Arcam are exceptionally well regarded for their commitment to
quality. With this in mind, we eagerly await their every release and back at
Bristol’s Sound and Vision their new Solo system certainly made the right
impression on the team here at What’s New. Comprising an audiophile
quality CD-player, a 50W per channel amplifier, a DAB digital radio receiver
and a high quality FM tuner, all in the one exceptionally sleek, slender,
aluminium dressed component, the Solo is quite something. It registers
well up the scale in the performance stakes and is all that we’d expect
from Arcam in this area. The CD-player itself has exceptional credentials,
having been based on the award-winning DiVA 73, incorporating a 24-bit
Wolfson DAC. However, the Solo system also boasts an array of practical
features, including CD Text, a clock with four alarms and a host of inputs,
including an RS232. Hitting the shelves at a very reasonable £999.95, you’ll
struggle to find as dynamic a system offering such a high class of
performance in as compact and alluring a body.
For further information contact: +44 (0) 122 320 3200 www.arcam.co.uk
5700
GOT THE GIG
Portable audio players are a growing business and last week Toshiba
chose the plush surroundings of a country manner house to introduce an
assorted bunch of journalists to their attractive contribution. Named the
Gigabeat, their range comprises the MEGF10S, MEGF20S, MEGF40S and
MEGF60S. Following a tried and trusted format,
these have a familiar feel and boast hard
drives of between 10 and 60GBs. The 20GB
version seen here is, like the rest, WMA, MP3,
WAV, Windows DRM9 and DRM10 compatible.
The Gigabeat range offers users a wholesome
16-hours of battery life and each model boasts
a 2.2-inch full coloured QVGA screen of
240x320. This will display album artwork,
which makes browsing through the tunes both
convenient and attractive for the prospective
buyer. Everything can be uploaded through the
two USB ports (2.0 and 1.1) and, with all the
necessary accessories included, those on the
move can be privy to a substantial library of
songs in no time. And, at only 160g or 170g in weight, Toshiba’s Gigabeat
certainly won’t weigh them down.
For further information contact: +44 (0) 870 442 4424 www.toshiba.co.uk
4805
PLATINUM CHOICE
The LCD-TV might be starting to eat into the market share plasma has
established in the larger flat-screen arena, but it shouldn’t stand in the
way of Loewe’s Xelos A 42 plasma. This is the latest addition to an awardwinning family and it offers the same brilliant picture that characterises
its siblings. Herein you’ll find the German
pioneer’s new DigitalPlus platform and
high resolution HD plasma technology.
This is ably supported by a host of
innovative picture improvement
technologies such as Diagonal Contour
Control and Luminance Transition
Improvement, all of which make for
some of the sharpest, most flicker-free
images the firm has ever served up.
Fully fit for the digital age, buyers are
given the option of an integrated digital
decoder and integrated digital
terrestrial tuner (DVBT). Dressed
in an up to the minute,
platinum finish, the Xelos A 42
appears to have it all.
www.loewe.de
7205
essential solutions from
Tel: 01423 359054 • Fax: 01423 359048
www.csesolutions.co.uk
choose from over five hundred audio, video, lighting, multi-room solutions
The industry event of the year
27-30 June 2005
International Convention Centre, Birmingham
CEDIA Expo 2005 is the only specialist trade
event dedicated to the fast-growing home
technology sector.
Placing home technology
under your control
Home Cinema
A unique mix of high quality training, new product
demonstrations and networking events, CEDIA
Expo is a must for anyone connected with
residential custom installation.
The Opportunity . . .
Networking
Security
Lighting Control
to broaden your skills and increase your
knowledge by attending any one of the 70 plus
specialist seminars and 12 product training
courses.
Integration
Audio/Video Solutions
Structured Wiring
The Exhibition . . .
The Chance . . .
that brings you all the latest technology and
service innovations from over 100 manufacturers
in the sector. Plus a range of added-value feature
attractions, including a dedicated architects’
conference hosted in conjunction with AJ The
Architects’ Journal and FutureVisions – our special
demonstration area for architects and interior
designers.
to meet and share information, thoughts and
ideas with over 3,000 visitors from the world of
custom installation and make new contacts with
other visitors in the building specification chain.
HVAC Control
Dates for your diary
Training:
27-30 June
Exhibition and
product training: 28-30 June
or to pre-register, please visit
www.cedia.co.uk
or email [email protected]
®
>
SOUND & VISION OUT AND ABOUT
Out And About
OUR ENERGETIC EDITOR KEEPS YOU UP TO PACE WITH ALL THE INDUSTRY’S LAUNCHES,
SHOWS AND SHENANIGANS…
Getting to all the major launches can be a tough business, particularly
when your boss has shackled you to your chair, double locked the office
and commanded you not to leave until yet another issue of the magazine is
whirling its way to the printers, your expansive website is updated and
Panosonic’s stunning
new Viera
GOOD IDEAS
In the past Panasonic hasn’t always been regarded as the company most
supportive of these dealerships and retailers, but this has certainly
changed of late. The 900 or so stockists they have in the independent
sector in the UK have recently been officially rewarded for their endeavours
to promote the brand and its products on the shop floor with a 10%
discount for everything sold face to face. This should certainly help them to
improve their lot, relative to the Internet traders who have previously been
able to comfortably undercut them, forcing prices down. This is an
important measure, particularly in light of the products Panasonic officially
launched last month. As you’d expect for their annual Ideas For Life
spectacle, held once again in one of Heathrow’s plushest hotels, there was
a vast array of kit to catch the eyes of the sizable selection of journalists
that made the trip across London. Perhaps the most appealing of the
selection were the flat-screen TVs on display.
These included the new TH50PV500, which not only boasts Panasonic’s
fantastic colour management technology, but offers high-definition
broadcast capabilities into the bargain. Offering viewers an impressive,
lifelike 8.6-billion colours – some five-billion more than previous models –
the visuals are really something to behold. As part of the Viera range it
retains the elegant look we are familiar with, has that all-important HDMI
connection and incorporates compact 16mm wide speakers into both sides
of the panel. This 50-inch screen is joined in the range by the 37-inch TH37PV500 and 42-inch TH-42PV500. Of course the Viera range also extends
to LCD-TVs and the TX-26LXD500 and TX-32LXD500 certainly created a fine
impression, serving up visuals to match anything seen on this format.
There were a couple of slick, more affordable solutions and plenty more
worthy of note to boot, including some sound progression in the DVDrecorder sphere. Panasonic’s fresh selection of ideas certainly created the
right impression and this, alongside their recent measures to help the
retailer, should assure them of successes aplenty in 2005.
TOTAL HOME TECHNOLOGY
There’s so much more to Crestron:
0208 439 7272
www.crestron.co.uk
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
you’ve scoured the web to find him the best deal on a crate of Guinness, a
new AV receiver and a mail order bride. Actually, that last bit is a lie - in this
tough time for electrical retailers, we couldn’t endorse the very Internet
dealers currently eating into the business of our beloved readers...
NICE ONE SONY
It was a big month for the big guns. Sony Europe chose the clement
surroundings of Bordeaux to introduce journalists from across the continent
to what the year holds in store for them. Billed as their Media Experience, the
event included a dinner at the town’s Chamber of Commerce, a network
clubbing party and a number of technology workshops and activities to choose
from. Personally I used this opportunity to fully scrutinise Sony’s new HDTVcompatible kit and learn about their global strategy for the Blu-Ray format,
which they are so avidly backing. With sleek, functional products with
intelligent recording and playback already en route it would be difficult to bet
against this option really making it into the big time. The trip also offered us a
chance to explore the preserved and natural environment of Arcachon Bay,
taste wine and get to grips with of Sony’s most functional recording equipment
along the way.
Another of the industry’s major players to take the press under their wing
this month, get them well and truly toasted and attempt to take advantage of
their better nature in the early hours of the morning were Toshiba. While I was
in France, it was our Editor-in-Chief Stuart Pritchard who was out in rural
East Anglia with this particular crowd and he’ll have a full report of what
transpired next month.
BUILT TO SERVE
Cambridge Audio serve
up a treat
They might not have the budget
of the giant Japanese
corporations, but back in
London at The Ivy, Cambridge
Audio had a very serious product for the press to scrutinise. The Azur 640H
has already been grabbing the attention of the nationals, and so it should. This
160Gb music server includes a CD burner, offers wireless connectivity to a PC,
Mac or another 640H and offers top quality CD playback. With the capacity to
store between 300 and 3,000 CDs and serve out files music files stored on a
computer, it rewards the consumer with one hell of a lot for their £500
investment and I’m sure than more than a few of the journalists present tried
to make off with one!
Of course these weren’t the only opportunities we were afforded to get out
of the office and aside from scaring off Burberry cap sporting, bolt cutter
wielding Essex boys from the bulging company bike racks we’ve also had the
chance to scrutinise technologically enabled yachts and see how the other
half are living at the Smart Home Show at the NEC. We’ll have a full report on
the latter next month, as well as all the details from a host of other key events
– including the BFA’s AGM and the latest subwoofer technology from Velodyne,
which Redline are all set to present.
TouchPanels
Control Systems
Audio & Video Distribution
Digital Home Theatre
7.1 Surround Sound
Lighting Control
Dimmers & Keypads
Thermostats & Intercom
11
>
SOUND & VISION EYE ON THE INDUSTRY
Eye On The Industry
THE WHO-WHAT-WHERE-WHEN-WHY OF AV...
ATTENTION PLEASE!
If you have news of any industry appointments or dismissals, achievements or crises, acquisitions or
additions, and you’d like to see them in print, email the details to [email protected]
FATE, UP AGAINST RETAIL
Panasonic’s new range could come
with a 10 percent discount for you..
SOUND IN THE ROUND
SACD may well have not witnessed the rapid growth many
predicted since its inception, but according to Linn’s Managing
Director, Ivor Tiefenbrun MBE, the multi-channel audio formats
remain a strong part of the future of home entertainment.
“I believe surround sound,” he began, “will become an
essential aspect for all home entertainment systems for music
and cinema.”
“It will,” he continued, “eventually become universal.
Compatibility with 5.1 cinema systems is very important for all
music formats. SACD’s surround capability also lets us record
music in more authentic ways. Much of the music we enjoy today
was originally performed and enjoyed in the round. The modern
concert hall stage and ‘stereo presentation’ is not the only, nor
the best, way for music to be presented. It is just one that we have
grown accustomed to over the last 100-years as technology made
the construction of cheap, large span concert halls possible and
widespread.”
In their 30-years of business, Linn have remained committed
to the reproduction of superior sound and attempting to relay,
with the utmost realism, the thrills and emotion of a live
performance. Linn isn’t, however, just a manufacturer of audio,
home theatre and multi-room systems; as an independent record
company, the firm retains a unique relationship with global music technology and its application in the
recording studio. As a result, Linn’s MD believes his team have a responsibility to help its customers
eek out the highest quality sound reproduction: “High-quality formats,” he explained, “are an
essential pre-requisite for better sound and the Hi-Fi industry relies on quality formats to enthuse
customers who seek the most involving systems and the most accurate music reproduction.”
Linn have a healthy relationship with SACD, supporting it both through their record label and the
release of components with SACD compatibility. “Sound quality and security together with
compatibility with CD make SACD very attractive,” Ivor explained. “A high-quality multi-channel
music format is what our industry needs to secure its future. We hope that the SACD market will
continue to grow, but it depends on on-going support and enthusiasm from the format champions and
the record industry. There is a limit to the commitment a small company like Linn can make no
matter how committed we are. I believe the audio industry will support SACD if we can demonstrate
that the format is attractive, secure and reliable.” Clearly the array of bonuses it offers are apparent
to those of us in the know, and continuing to push this format could prove thoroughly beneficial to both
the listener and our industry.
For further information contact: www.superaudio-cd.com.
12
The disenchantment within the AV industry, it
would seem, is ongoing and the latest reader
of ours willing to put his thoughts into print is
Dave Leatherbarrow of MTV, Glen Vine, Isle
of Man. “My belief,” Dave begins, “is that the
dealers had already lost both their faith and
trust in certain manufacturers, but now feel
a loss of loyalty as well.” He went on to
eloquently expound his proposed way of
dealing with the situation:
“Whilst certain manufacturers deny any
involvement in the offerings made on the
Internet, which reflect prices offered to the
public way below those which the
manufacturer invoices us, having deducted
our off invoice terms and retros we cannot
even buy at those prices. Logic would say, if
the product offerings on the Internet bear
the brand name and same model number of
those manufactures who supply us directly,
then the manufacturer MUST have supplied
the product to those making the offerings
on the Internet. When we try to apply that
logic through dialogue to the manufacturer
they wish to dissuade us from this basic
thinking pattern by saying it is the dealers,
disguised as Internet traders, who are
promoting such prices. I couldn't find any
dealer whose net terms could reflect prices
such as those offered on the Internet, let
alone adding a profit and VAT! If the brand
name etc. advertised on the Internet is the
same as those supplied to the
manufacturers’ "preferred" dealers, then
that manufacturer must be in a position to
trace how the product has got into the
Internet market channel - they provide
similar information to GFK for their tracking
service.
We clearly have a situation that is
causing a great deal of not only distress to
the dealerships, but also a great deal of
mistrust toward the manufacturers. It is very
easy to just jump on the bandwagon, hurling
innuendo and comment to and fro, but the
main issue won’t be addressed. The issue is
that the public are having prices offered to
them via the Internet that suggest the
traditional electrical retailer is trying to rob
them of one hell of a lot of their hard earned
money and making a colossal profit. This is,
as we all know, far from the truth.
The only realistic way forward is to
engage in dialogue with the manufacturers
with whom the dealership has misgivings.
This I believe could only be done by having an
elected delegation meeting with RETRA,
listing a clear and concise agenda and
clearly identifying the problem areas. It is
important at this juncture to ensure, as I
THE BIG APPLE
With AV and IT increasingly in a process of convergence, news that
Apple are to become a member of the Blu-Ray Disc Association’s
(BDA) Board of Directors should be music to the ears to all
championing this format as the High Definition storage solution of the
future. Apple has been a leader in driving consumer adoption of DVD
authoring since January 2001 and is also helping bring High
Definition (HD) to market with a complete line of HD content creation
tools for consumers and professionals alike including iMovie(R) HD,
Final Cut(R) Express HD and Final Cut Pro(R) HD editing software.
“Apple has a long history of technical innovation around DVD
believe myself, the manufacturers understand
that we wish to embrace them and work with
them. This cannot be overstressed: we both seek
the common end of maintaining a market channel
which embraces the technology and the quality of
the product as brought to the market place by the
manufacturer at a price which is, in reason, fairly
uniform throughout the various market channels,
which can provide a reasonable living for the
manufacturers’ staff, the dealerships and their
staff. It is a fact, which many of the dealers do
respect, that manufacturers do give us support
and some far more than others, but it does
remain a concern when the pricing policies
reflected on the Internet are not in line with those
brought through the dealer channels as I know
them.
In RETRA the dealership has a respected
arbitrator who, hopefully, could encourage
transparency by the manufacturer to find how the
products offered on the Internet have found their
way to the market place if it is the case, as they
assure us, that they have not supplied the
hardware and software, and their support of the Blu-Ray Disc format
is a testament to their commitment of ongoing innovation. The BluRay Disc format provides the immense capacity and the revolutionary
functionality that Apple's loyal customer base will be sure to enjoy,”
explained Maureen Weber, chief BDA spokesperson and general
manager of HP's Optical Storage Solutions Business. “We're thrilled
about Apple joining our 16-member board, and we look forward to
working with them on the development and promotion of the Blu-Ray
Disc format.”
For further information contact: www.blu-raydisc.com
products. Our message to the manufacturer is,
with the greatest respect to them, they are
employees of an organisation, we have the
responsibility of the families of our staff and our
livelihoods to consider. They, as the employees,
can walk away to another job - we have far more
at stake.
My plea to the manufacturers is PLEASE do
not allow any more time to pass nor for this to get
to a time of crisis, but grasp the nettle now, bite
the bullet and let us through dialogue bring these
issues, with total transparency, honesty and
integrity, to the table together in the presence of
RETRA and embrace this issue together, before
any more dealers, who've done so much for so
long for our industry, are found wanting as their
businesses are either closed or worse, taken
from them.”
While many retailers no doubt share Dave’s
fears, it is good to see such healthy, proactive
proposals being offered in an attempt to nip the
growing bitterness in the bud and ensure a
solution can be reached. And with the livelihoods
of many of our readers at stake, it would seem
time is of the essence.
These pleas have not gone unheard and
already we have seen action from one or two big
names seeking to stop the rot. One of these is
Panasonic who are reportedly offering an
additional 10% discount to dealers for every
product sold to the consumer on the shop floor.
Acknowledging the significance of
Panasonic’s 900 dealerships, the importance of
their sales staff and the financial burdens they are
faced with, relative to competing Internet traders,
we understand that RETRA’s membership have,
for the most part, welcomed the move. With Sony
and Philips also offering similar schemes, once a
dealer identifies the percentage of their products
shifted directly as a result of hard graft in store,
they will be rewarded with the discount. Obviously
the accuracy of the supplied figures will be
subject to reviews. However, there is no doubting
this constitutes a positive step forward and could,
retailers everywhere are no doubt hoping, inspire
other manufacturers to do the same.
AT THE SHARP END
Sharp Electronics Europe clearly mean business as CEO Hans Kleis
has announced his strategy to double the turnover of the Japanese
technology group in Europe by the end of fiscal year 2007. He plans to
achieve this by focusing on the three strategic divisions of LCD-TV,
Document Solutions and Solar. The plan was unveiled at CeBIT. Apart
from further developing the existing key markets, Sharp will, to an
increasing extent, invest in the prospering markets in the East of
Europe where the demand for high-tech products is growing steadily.
As examples, besides Russia, Kleis mentioned the new EU member
states, where Sharp's sales structure will be strengthened as a first
step.
In the fourth quarter of 2004 Europe, for the first time, overtook
Japan to become the largest market for LCD-TVs in the world. However
the potential for further growth remains: in Germany alone, there are
60 million CRT TVs which could, prospectively, be replaced with
modern, flat panel TV sets. Here, consumer demands differ widely from the early adopter who wants to have HDTV-compatible products
today to enjoy superb picture quality on a large screen flat TV, to the
consumer who is happy to have a TV with a great picture, but without a
host of technical features. With the Four-Panel Strategy
presented at CeBIT, Sharp proclaim to be the
only manufacturer worldwide
to cover the entire
spectrum demanded
by customers. With
the products to
match their ambition,
charting their
progress over the
next few years should
certainly prove
interesting.
For further
information contact:
www.sharp-eu.com
13
>
ON THE PANEL
BOOK A DATE
Although it has only just passed, already the
organisers of the Bristol show have announced
details regarding next year’s event. Sound & Vision
2006 will return for the 19th time on Friday,
February 24th, running through to Sunday 26th.
Open 10-5 each day, it will be held in the familiar
surroundings of the Bristol Marriott, Castle Street
and should – as one of the most significant events
on the audio and AV calendar – draw in big names
from throughout our industry.
www.bristolshow.co.uk
SCOTLAND FOREVER
This year the organisation of the all-important
Scottish Hi-fi & Home Cinema Show will pass
back to Roy Bird and his team at Chesterfield
Communications. Roy boasts a great deal of
experience in show organisation and should
bring considerable skills as well as economies
of scale to the building process. Immediate
changes have already been instituted, with the
show renamed Scottish Sound & Vision 2005,
bringing it into line with Roy’s other events in
Manchester and London.
Other significant moves are also afoot.
Scottish Sound & Vision 2005 will, for
example, now be held in the Radisson SAS
Hotel in Glasgow on the weekend of the 8th –
9th October. The venue offers top class
facilities for both exhibitors and visitors and is
located in the City Centre adjacent to Glasgow
Central train station. On offer will be a range
of demonstration rooms of various sizes,
converted bedrooms and shell scheme type
trade space, with the overall number of rooms
limited to ensure a speedy take up of space.
With the other two shows in his portfolio, a
multi-show discount will be offered to
exhibitors, helping them to get the most for
their money. Dealers throughout Scotland are
already being approached with a view to
taking part and a significant number, we’re
told, have already committed themselves.
At the heart of the Show there will be a
“ShowShop” where manufacturers,
distributors and retailers will have the
opportunity to sell on ex-demonstration, end
of season and discontinued lines, which will
be pooled from the various Dealers. Clearly
Chesterfield Communications have a lot of
fresh ideas to bring to the table and we look
forward to hearing further news of their plans
for Scotland’s biggest AV event.
For further information contact: +44 (0) 182
974 0650 www.chestergroup.org
14
A couple of months back we heard talk that specialist AV distributor Steljes were about to branch
out and now the rumours have become a reality. The firm has proudly announced the addition of
the spanking new Samsung Consumer Flat Panel TVs to its product portfolio. As the world’s
largest manufacturer of flat panel displays, plasma and LCD-TVs and, we are told, the fastest
growing global brand, Samsung’s design innovation and record investment in research and
development has ensured success in these key markets.
Steljes are delighted to have added the range to their stable, as they believe it will enhance
the strength and balance of their portfolio of world class collaborative and display technologies.
The extension of the Steljes’ range, to include these products, is befitting of the corporate and
commercial convergence taking place in the technological world. The comprehensive selection
will enable them to offer a solution-based approach to markets and applications, in the corporate,
commercial and consumer sectors.
Plasma TVs are a key component part of the new range and a host of options are available in
sizes of 37-to 63-inches, with an 80-inch model said to be on the way. These boast ALIS technology
and Samsung's unique DNie (Digital Natural Image Engine). Their LCD-TVs, meanwhile, will be
available with 15 to 46-inch screens and boast some slick, cutting-edge designs. A number of DLP
TVs will also be available, including the award-winning 50-inch SP50L7 model, incorporating the
most advanced chip technology available on today’s market combined with stunning good looks.
Paul O'Reilly, Distribution Sales Director, Steljes commented: “To thrive and grow on the
scale Samsung has achieved requires a strong brand, as well as innovative products. We believe
that this will prove to be a mutually beneficial deal for Steljes, Samsung and all our resellers.”
For further information contact: www.steljes.co.uk
GOOD OLD ARSENAL
Arsenal may well not win the title this
season, but fan Ian Crane had his
woes somewhat alleviated when he
won a JVC QP-F70 Home Cinema
System after entering a draw in the
2004-05 season voucher book.
He was even more delighted to
learn he was able to visit Highbury
with a friend to collect his prize, get
his hands on the Premiership trophy
before it begins its now seemingly
inevitable journey across to West
London and take a guided tour
far the
around the hallowed stadium, before By
greatest
Arsenal move to their new home at
team the
world has
Ashburton Grove.
ever seen?
Following his VIP morning, Mr
Crane headed off to play with his new toy – from which he will be able to enjoy the rest of Arsenal’s season
on the box in superb surround sound. As Official Consumer Electronics Supplier to Arsenal Football Club,
JVC will also be offering another chance to win one of their award-winning products in next year's voucher
book; Arsenal fans keep your eyes peeled for that one. Back in the day the banner at Highbury read “JVC
and Arsenal – the perfect match” and this certainly seems to be the case for this lucky fan. The Gooner
dominated team here at What’s New wishes him well.
For further information contact: +44 (0) 208 450 3282 www.jvc.com
THE GOSPEL OF JOHN
When it comes to technology, there is no denying John
Lewis know what sells. Last year, by the end of
December 1.272-million DAB receivers had been sold
in the UK and the Digital Radio Development Bureau
predicts that another 1.2-million will be shifted this
year. No one sells more digital radios per store than
John Lewis and thanks to the department store’s
substantial selection, their sales in this area have shot
up by 57%. Recently the company identified its most
wanted list of DABs for the Spring and Summer of
2005… and, as always, it is always worth noting what
they deem these to be. Having allocated models for
every price point, at the entry level they plumped for
Roberts, light and portable, £69.50 Gemini RD15. Their
top, mid-priced choices are the thoroughly stylish
Sharp FVDB1ES, Intempo’s well known PG01 and, of
course, PURE’s much lauded Evoke 1XT. For premium
prices, meanwhile, the respected retailers predict
Panasonic’s slimline RF-D1 and Sony’s sleek, Mega
Bass boasting XDRS1 will be the season’s big sellers.
The ubiquitous PURE
FEELING BLU
According to In-Stat, new digital delivery services
are not likely to supplant the DVD business, but
rather bring digital entertainment to people by
adding either convenience or accessibility that
complements what the “Packaged Goods” can
provide. “More consumers,” their recent research
has shown, “want instant access to video on their
TV sets, portable devices and cell phone handsets,
but DVDs will continue to be a popular medium
and will continue to experience substantial
growth.” According to the high-tech market
research firm, the worldwide value of all
published DVD products is expected to continue
growing rapidly with a Compound Annual Growth
Rate of 18.2%, from about US$33-Billion during
2004, up to US$76.5-Billion by 2009.
“In North America, HD DVD will jump start a
round of growth for High Definition versions of
Hollywood movies, as consumers begin replacing
their libraries of old VHS tapes and DVDs,” says
Gerry Kaufhold, In-Stat analyst. “HD DVDs will
appear later this year, to take advantage of the
growing installed base of HDTV sets in the US.
However, we expect Blu-Ray products to take off
in Asia in 2006, and in Europe and the ROW
during 2007. Music videos, DualDisc products and
locally produced DVDs will account for 20% of the
market value by 2009." In-Stat concluded that
outside of North America, Blu-Ray discs will
become the dominant High Definition format,
because it is backed by what they describe as the
“who’s who” of international consumer
electronics manufacturers, and “ultimately
provides more storage capacity and better
features.”
The information revealed is part of a more
substantial report providing in-depth discussion
and analysis of five trends that are shaping the
DVD industry, and three trends that are shaping
network-connected TV services. It contains
forecasts for the regional and worldwide value of
DVD markets broken out by Standard DVDs, BluRay DVDs, HD DVDs and music and locally
produced DVDs and can be purchased online at the
website below.
For further information contact: www.in-stat.com
MASTER OF ARTS
To celebrate the introduction of the new range
of wide-screen LCD-TVs from Japanese
manufacturers iiyama, major UK distributor
ArtSystems launched an impressive advertising
campaign back in November 2004. As part of
this, they offered one lucky reader of What's
New the chance to win a 27-inch version, the
ProLite C270WT. ArtSystems wish to offer their
congratulations to the triumphant party who
should already be enjoying the full iiyama visual
experience!
The distributors campaign has certainly proven successful for them. ArtSystems are
reported to be “genuinely astounded by the response from the features and adverts
published over the last few months.” They are, their statement continued, “delighted that
iiyama LCD-TV's are finally getting the recognition and interest they deserve.” This should,
of course, come as little surprise as their LCD-TVs offer exceptional quality, but at a
price/performance ratio more than palatable to consumers. “The old adage you only get what
you pay for certainly does not apply to iiyama,” ArtSystems expound.
The C270WT produces pictures of great brightness and contrast, backed by progressive
scaling. It comes equipped with a built-in digital processor and essentially, for those who
seek some longevity from their products, it is HDTV-ready. With all the inputs anyone can
need, a pair of neat built-in 8-Watt NICAM speakers and a host of smart functions including
Picture in Picture, this screen has everything necessary to make it a thoroughly popular offthe-shelf solution.
ArtSystems has been distributing iiyama products for some time, helping to build them
into a leading name in CRT and LCD monitors. The natural progression into the home
entertainment market only comes with the confidence of having a good product range and,
with iiyama on board, that exactly what this firm boast.
For further information contact: +44 (0) 870 224 3612 www.artsystems.co.uk
FOUR THE BEST
Denon UK are making the headlines once
again, thanks to their latest batch of
victories at the prestigious Home Cinema
Choice Awards. The brand ran out winners
in four of the most significant categories
and received more awards than any other
brand. In the ceremony - presented by Star
Wars C3PO actor, Anthony Daniels –
Denon win again!
claimed the Best High-end DVD-Player for
their DVD-A1XV, Best High-end AV Amp for the AVC-A1XV, Best Mid-range DVD-Player for the
DVD-3910 and Best Mid-range AV Receiver for the AVR-2805. Mike O'Mahony MD of Denon
remarked: “I'd like to thank my mum, my agent, my PR man and all the Denon engineers who
slaved away to make these Awards possible. Quality rules!”
For further information contact: +44 (0) 123 474 1200 www.denon.co.uk
15
>
GERMANY CALLING
FIT FOR THE JOB
Home entertainment furniture specialist
Optimum International has strengthened its UK
sales team with the appointment of fitness
fanatic Lee Teal. Based at Optimum's York
headquarters, Lee joins the company as
Northern Area Sales Manager. At 29-years of
age, he is a qualified personal trainer and
former health club manager, with a wealth of
experience in sales and marketing. In his new
role, Lee will be responsible for supporting
Optimum’s existing client base and driving
sales in the Midlands, North of England and
Scotland. He will also be developing new
business opportunities as the company targets
further growth in the UK market. “This is a
really exciting time to join the company,” Lee
expounded, “as it has big expansion plans. I'm
definitely fit to rise to the challenge and am
looking forward to pushing sales to the limit.”
In his spare time, Lee is a keen cyclist and
is currently in training for the London Triathlon.
He is also getting into gear for his wedding to
fiancée Chantal Knowland, Optimum's Business
Accounts Coordinator, in August 2005. As one of
the UK electrical retail trade’s leading
suppliers of luxury stands for domestic TV,
home cinema and Hi-Fi equipment, with over
500 electrical retailers already under their
wing, this should constitute another step in
taking the firm to an even wider audience.
For further information contact: +44 (0) 190 469
0089 www.optimum2000.com
This September the biannual feast of technology that is the IFA
show returns to Berlin. With over 1,000 exhibitors and 273,800
visitors attending 2003’s event, this makes it one of the biggest
consumer electronics events in the world. Described by its
organisers as “the industry's No. 1
place for orders,” last time around
these provided a volume of €2.4billion of business. As a trade fair
for both the experts and the public,
IFA boasts special services for
trade visitors and a varied program
with special events for consumers.
In 2003 6,800 accredited journalists
from 78 countries made the trip,
with the event securing 95 hours of
TV reports in Germany alone.
This year the show will run
from the 2nd to the 7th of
September and the organisers are
certainly predicting big things, as Dr. Rainer Hecker, Chairman of the Supervisory Board of one of the
organisers GFU explained: “As organisers of the IFA we are expecting to repeat and even surpass the
success of 2003. The subjects that will be setting the trends are already becoming apparent. As in
previous years, they will influence future market trends and the shape of the market, as well as
creating new markets.”
Thanks to the successes reported in 2003, IFA has experienced a sharp increase in growth. As a
result the organisers will be opening up new halls, with the areas dedicated to displays set to be 15 to
20 per cent larger than before. The show comprises six thematic areas, helping to highlight the
diversity of the kit on display and guide visitors around the sizable arena with ease. Each show acts as
the launch pad of some 10,000 new products and few are more worthy of your attendance.
For further information contact: www.ifa-berlin.de
GROWING UP
The doom and gloom afflicting significant sections of our industry is clearly not all pervading.
According to statistics published on the IFA website, in 2004 the various consumer electronics
product groups generated total sales of €19.98-billion, representing an increase of approximately
8.3% over the previous year. Of this, total entertainment electronics sales amounted to €10.78billion. Growth has exceeded all forecasts and is five times greater than the average figure of 1.6%
for the economy as a whole. “This is proof of our success in overcoming an initial reluctance on the
part of buyers in many areas, and this in turn is a clear indication of the appeal of our products and
the innovative strengths of our entire industry. On closer examination of the individual segments it
is evident that growth has not been confined solely to those areas where additional demand has
been stimulated by interesting new devices and appliances. Where new technology is beginning to
replace older systems too these developments are in most cases leading to substantially improved
sales within a very short time,” explained Hans-Joachim Kamp, Chairman of the Consumer
Electronics Division of the ZVEI.
The upsurge in sales can be attributed in particular to new digital technology and the associated
diversity of new devices and services. These consist mainly of flat screen systems, new storage
media such as DVD and hard disk recorders, digital television, both terrestrial and via satellite, MP3
devices, in-car navigation systems and storage media such as recordable DVDs.
For further information contact: www.ifa-berlin.de
BE A WINNER
GOING SOLO
Leading home entertainment
furniture manufacturer
Alphason Designs is all set to
repeat last year’s highly
successful window display
competition with an even
bigger and better event this
year to celebrate it’s 20th
anniversary. The top prize for
the most imaginative and eye-catching entry will be an all-expenses paid
trip to CES in Las Vegas (January 2006) for a lucky retailer and their
partner. To help retail customers produce a winning presentation,
Alphason’s design agency have generated a special package of highprofile promotional posters to be used in store. Retailers, selected by their
Alphason area sales agent, will also be supplied with a selection of units
from the range to help them create an inspiring display. By way of a thank
you for their contributions, the retailers will be allowed to keep this stock.
Arcam are reportedly delighted to announce the
appointment of Paul Darwin as Business Development
Manager. Paul joins Arcam at a time that sees one of
Britain's leading specialist companies addressing exciting
new product areas, including high-performance
integrated high-fidelity systems such as Solo and the
forthcoming music server in the FMJ series, the MS250.
Paul is a keen music enthusiast and has, during a long and successful
career at Naim, established a reputation for building long-lasting successful
business relationships within the specialist sector. He joins a team at Arcam that
is gaining a reputation for delivering a winning combination of top notch
products with exceptional service, training and backup support. His arrival at
Arcam reinforces the commitment Arcam has made to support the best
independent specialist dealers with the best team in the business.
Says Charlie Brennan, Managing Director, "Paul's background and
experience will be a great asset to Arcam in the future. His extensive retail
knowledge and love of curries make him the ideal man for the job."
For further information contact: +44 (0) 122 320 3200 www.arcam.co.uk
16
INCREASING EXPOSURE
INTO THE FUTURE
Following on from the huge success of 2004’s
Both Acoustic Energy and Boston Acoustics have achieved significant
Futurevision Seminars, JVC are gearing up for
growth during 2004/05, due to their product quality, brand strength and
another batch in 2005 as part of their
new emerging market sectors. To enable both brands to increase their
commitment to their dealer network. This year
exposure and subsequently take advantage of the growing number of
the seminars will be extended to their dealers
business opportunities that these new markets offer, the AE Group has
in Ireland and will take place between April
appointed Ric Stevenson to handle PR from 1st April 2005.
6th May 17th in Chichester, Bromsgrove,
Ric founded RSPR last year following seven years writing, editing
Warrington, Newcastle, Nottingham, Taunton,
and running the ER Group. In addition, Ric has long been a key
Newport, Norwich, Glasgow, Belfast and
contributor/reviewer to various Hi-Fi and AV trade and consumer titles.
Dublin.
Prior to the ER Group, Ric spent five years managing a small electrical
The seminars have been ordained to
shop and has an electrical and mechanical engineering background,
highlight to those working with JVC’s range the
having graduated from Portsmouth University with a degree in systems
unique technologies found therein. They will also serve as an introduction to the
engineering and business studies in 1989.
new and exciting range of products the Japanese giants will be
“I am very excited to be
launching this Spring. The Futurevision Seminars constitute a
working with one of the UK’s
fantastic opportunity for dealers and sales personnel to
leading loudspeaker
explore and understand the features and benefits of JVC’s
manufacturers,” Ric commented.
2005 range, building on their existing knowledge to assist
“Acoustic Energy is a company
them when making sales throughout the year.
with a great history, class leading
products and enviable brand
www.jvc-europe.com
strength. The Boston Acoustics
deal means the AE group portfolio
Back to school
with JVC
now encompasses a huge range of
award-winning custom
installation, in-car and outdoor
loudspeakers to capitalise on
these growing markets. I look
forward to becoming an integral
part of the brands’ ongoing
success.”
www.acoustic-energy.co.uk
Some of Boston Acoustic’s latest options
www.boston-acoustics.co.uk
17
BAND OF GOLD
Bandridge Europe has chosen BBG Distribution Ltd as its new Exclusive
Distributor for all Bandridge and Profigold connection products. BBG, an
established specialist distributor for Audio AV & IT Accessory products
since 1993, will be stocking and shipping 350 of the top selling products
from Bandridge & Profigold immediately. Bandridge is a high quality,
product line, a genuine one stop solution and is Europe's fastest growing
supplier of connection products.
For further information contact: +44 (0)20 8901 2662
www.bandridge.co.uk www.bbg-av.com
EXHIBITIONS
The facts of Life
18
3
5
4
2
ey'd
t exist, th
ws didn'
d?
... if sho on be invente
very so
5ws 200
ent Sho
ainm
e Entert
Hom
MANAGING BASS
ing Show
The Spr
The Nor
w
ttish Sho
The Sco
Scottish
&
Sound
Vision
w
thern Sho
The Quality
Home
28 - 29
Consumer
The Quality the Year
Event of
NS
ITIO
IB
EXH
s
Fact
The Life!
of
6
2
2006
our
Get y
p
o
c y
!
NOW
s Show
inment
Enterta
2006
January
ogy
New Technol op
2 Day ShowSh
8-9 2005
October SAS, Glasgow
Radisson
The UK's Best Quality Shows
2
Scottish
Sound &
Vision
6
The Quality Home Entertainments Show
The Quality Consumer
Event of the Year
New Technology
2 Day ShowShop
28 - 29 January 2006
Hea
M od P IT valid
th
Te O ac
ce
fo
ro
Th lepho RE ss SA r bo
w
Re is tic ne T fo
F th da
us IC r th E
du
ys
ce ket .
K e di .
,
d
ET sa
qu may
eu
S? bled
ing be ph
.
with ot
oc
th
is opie
tic d.
ke
t.
12
n,
k In
Par
Th
K e tic
Go EE ket is
No
TI
it w
’s b Sh End only
4th ac ow
k
ye fo
ar r
Pa
y ju ket. .50
wit
on s
h
th t £
e da
6
y)
ED
mer
Consu
Year
ty
Quali of the
The Event
e
W A E
NE W D AM
mm
NE W N rogra
NE E P ine
s:
az
E
FR Mag open
ay
&
w turd
tob n SAS
Oc isso
Rad
both
day
s,
.
id for FE.
val
abled
dis
SA
et is
tick
the
IT
P ss for ETS?
d.
KEE acce CK
copie .
ket
TI
od
photo s tic
Go
RE us.
be
thi
MOephone t may with
The
EGED
IL
ing
ke euET
PRTelThIV
is tic d qu
ce
T TICK
ith
0 w KE
6
2.5 IC
EaveD£keTt.stt£5£5 & Vision 2
ILEG SthisPaaticyy jus
ju Sound
IV
gs
ern
R
rth
P
P
& Ma
No
mmes
r
ume
ConsYear
lity
Qua of the
The Event
gy
nolo op
ttis
e Sco
y 'Th
erl
rm
(fo
No
Sho-5 Sa nday
)
ow
a Sh
em
Tech wSh 5
e Cin
New Sho 200
om
2 Day 8-9 sgow
er
i &H
tob , Gla
h Hif
Oc SAS
n
isso
Rad
10 -4 Su
10
2
Qua
ticket.
day)
The
the it’s 7th yea
on
50 k for
(£7.w bac
6
ary
Janu
2006
Garden
ents
tainm
Show
for both
t is valid
E.
bled
ticke
disa
The P IT SAF
the
KEE
ss for
d acce
S?
Goo
TICKET
MORE ne us.
be
Telepho
may
No
Adv
Enter
2006
uary
,
29 Jan
days
ty Home
Quali
28 -
ent
£5. . Live
29
tainm
, just
bus
28 Enter ology
all day shuttle
king parks &
&
Techn ase als
Rail
ver!
ap par
erco 1-3.
Che rspill car k from
Showc Speci ms
und
2 ove utes wal l, all
inals
Ite
ter Show
nce
2 min Terminafrom Term Manches
ch
T2.
Cleara
Coa ct access
Hotel,
SAS signs for
Dire
w
isson
Rad 56. Follo 0.
ue:
site.
Ven
J5/M 490 500
web
our
Airport. 0161
see
e info
Hotel:
mor
For
2
Redu
v Ref
Ad
this
with
on the
£2.50 (£7.50
Save
r.
day)
L
8D
S,
No
SA ow G2
,
days
son
Progra 5 both e Cinema
dis Glasg 33
dia,
te.
FREE opens: 10bsi
i, Homi, PC Me
e: Rayle St, 4 33
we
: Hi-f
Venu1 Arg 41 20
our
Showw covers Incar Hi-f Internal
ts Show
01
see
30
men
tel:
Install,
Sho
info rtain
Ho
re e Ente
Hom
Custom Sounds
r mo
Folity
The
n
eld tio
rfi nica
e
t
es u
Ch omm
C
h &
ottis d
Sc Soun n
Visio
gy
nolo op
5
w
Tech wSh 200 sgo
New Sho 8-9 , Gla
2 Day er
(£
8.5
0
EG
IL
PR
IV
ET
ICK
Ad
v Re
f
TH N
E ow
F
P RE PA P
R e
& ro E
K rm
S M gra
IN a
10 ho a m
N ne
10 -5 w gaz m
-H n
-4 Sa op in e
tl
EA y
Su tu en e
S
TH at:
Th
nd rd s:
th ave
e
R
ay ay
is
H U
O
£
tic 2
N Hi- igh K’s
W
o
fi
or 08
He Ba
e
in 759 at th
fo
hr Ro
se 6611 ow ad
, Lo ,
e
ou
nd
rw
on
eb
site
.
sh &
otti d
Sc un ion
So is
V
1
ED
EG
IVIL ET
PR TICK
OW
SH
GY
LO OP
NO SH
CH OW
TE
W Y SH
E
E NE DA
NU
TH US 2
VE TE
PL
T
ED
LEG
I
RIV
P
Ap
ril
06
CK
ET
PR
TI IVIL
CK EG
ET ED
October 8-9 2005
Radisson SAS, Glasgow
2-3
This month Redline Scotland Ltd hope to cause a bit of a stir in the AV
world when they present what is billed as a revolutionary new
product to an exclusive audience of members of the press. President
of Velodyne Bruce Hall will be there to introduce his firm’s new SMS
or Subwoofer Management System. SMS is a stand-alone Auto Room
EQ management system that can be connected to any subwoofer. It
comes complete with a comprehensive cable and microphone kit and
will retail in the UK for around £425.
As well as affording attendees this unique introduction Bruce will
also provide them with a general overview of the direction that
Velodyne's existing and new products will take in the next 12 months.
The presentation will conclude with details of Velodyne's DAD project
in association with Texas Instruments. DAD or Digital Auto Drive is
sponsored by the US Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency.
This is a field test intended to accelerate research and development
in autonomous ground vehicles that will help save American lives on
the battlefield. This will offer a unique insight into the technological
capability employed in Velodyne's engineering division and should
make for extremely interesting listening. The event is set to take
place on the Sunborn Yacht in London’s docklands and What’s New
will be there, to ensure you get all the necessary details of these
exciting developments.
URE
BROCH
TRADE
1
s
GP Acoustics (UK) Ltd has announced the appointment of Marc Trudeau as
Development Director for its range of KEF and Celestion consumer
electronics products. With the group expanding - and enjoying growth and
unprecedented international product acclaim - this new appointment is
one of a series of important key personnel promotions and new staff
announcements to be made by the company over the coming months.
A master of science in electrical engineering, Marc is a Graduate of
the University of Lowell, Massachusetts. In his professional career he has
delivered exceptional end-user experience and commercial successes in
worldwide markets for 22-years. Recently, he helped identify the market
opportunity and managed the development of KEF's KIT100 Instant
Theatre, employing a novel acoustical configuration and behind-the-scenes
automation to reduce set up complexity. The KIT100 has become a worldrenowned success for KEF. “My primary objective is to continue to develop
solutions for consumers - making the entire use and ownership of
electronics products a
simple and joyful
experience. KEF has
already started to move
in this direction and we
want to expand the
philosophy across the
brand and range mix.”
Marc takes up his
responsibilities with
immediate effect,
working from the
Maidstone office.
contact: +44 (0) 162 267
2261 www.kef.com
www.celestion.com
Smart furniture manufacturers futureglass
have announced the appointment of a new
sales agent, Paul McPherson. Paul will be
working for the firm in London and the South
East. Having worked in the industry since 1987
- initially at Hi-Fi Experience in London and
latterly at VEDA as their Area Sales Manager
this is a promising appointment for both
parties. “Paul is a welcome addition to the futureglass family,” Gareth
Phillips, designer and owner of futureglass, told us. “Over the coming
months he will be focusing on expanding the futureglass retailer
network and bringing our GEM Audio-Visual and Media Storage range
to a wider audience, bringing with him a wealth of experience and
enthusiasm for our expanding retailer base whilst at the same time
offering a higher standard of support to our existing retailers.” Paul
will be based in Romford and can be contacted on 07949 910455 or
[email protected]
For further information contact: www.futureglass.co.uk
ou net.c
p.o
rg o.uk
GOING TO YOUR GP
RAISE THE GLASS
Ch
Com ester
mu field
nic
ati
on
Every month it seems a new milestone is passed in DAB and on the
15th of March a very special one was met by the market-leading PURE
Digital. This was the date the firm shipped their 500,000th model. Now
halfway to that million mark, the radio was delivered to the John
Lewis store on Oxford Street, London. As one of the major proponents
of the technology this was a fitting choice… and may we be amongst
the first to congratulate PURE on their achievements and ongoing
innovation in this sphere.
For further information contact: +44 (0) 192 327 7488 www.pure.com
Te
Fa l: 01
roy x: 08 829
ww @ch 45 7406
w.c es 28
he tergrp 0 00 50
ste
rgr .fs 65
PURE GENIUS
Pa Apri
l0
rk
5
In
ar n, He
Ve
W nu
k
Ho est e: Pa
in athrow
Fo tel: Dray rk
r m 02 to In
n
n, n,
>
Ref
.
ticket
This tocopied.
with
uing
pho
d que
Reduce et.
tick
this
s
3
5
4
Tel: 01829 740650
Fax: 0845 280 0065
[email protected]
www.chestergroup.org
Remember when people used to hide their TV in a cabinet?
That was before the Hitachi Platara Plasma TV. A winner at this year’s IF Design Awards, you’ll want everyone to see
the Platara’s stunning looks. And the outstanding picture quality of the Platara range comes with a 32", 37" and 42" screen, so it
will look impressive in any room. For more information about Hitachi’s Plasma and LCD range, visit www.hitachidigitalmedia.com
TECHNOLOGY CORNER
TECHNOLOGY CORNER
The slim CRT should shake
up the market...
Breathing New Life
You might well have thought the tubular bell had
tolled and the CRT-TV was already a complete write
off. Not so, says SARAH ADCOCK, as she performs
a hasty resuscitation…
No one could really argue that the future of visual entertainment was cut and
dried and hold together a coherent argument. After all, while we suspect HDTV
will be what everyone wants, whether plasmas, LCD-TVs or projectors reign
victorious in the format wars is anyone’s guess. Each has its own advantages and
popular appeal and each remains a growth market. That said, other, less wellknown technologies such as SED continue to catch the eye and will prospectively
eat into this share. However, while that might be the case, the major
manufacturers continue to shift more CRT-TVs than all of these pretenders put
together… and if the predictions are to be believed, they will continue to do so for a
good while yet. Of course, there is a chance that each format will retain its slice of
the pie and they will all continue to thrive in a state of technological détente, but
there is also the possibility that a new technology, already making its way to the
market thanks to LG and Phillips, could become the biggest of them all.
To be fair, the word ‘new’ has been used loosely in this context, as the
Cybertube+ SuperSlim actually has a lot in common with our old friend the CRTTV. Indeed, it is founded on the familiar and much maligned cathode ray tubes, yet
contributes to final products with the sleek flat display profile and elegant looks to
rival the pretenders to this throne. Described by its manufacturers as “the
pinnacle of today’s picture tube development,” it allows manufacturers to develop
television sets a mere 35cms in depth, affording users exceptional visuals. Thus,
while critics everywhere continue to write off the CRT-TV, chastising it for its bulky
dimensions, inappropriate in an era when style is prized so much, the boffins have
been busying themselves, readying a response. And here it is: the SuperSlim TV.
Of course, developments in CRT technology are nothing new and throughout
its lengthy life CPT (Colour Picture Tube) manufacturers have sought to refine it.
Virtually every component in a CPT - from the electron gun to the deflection yoke,
shadow mask and screen phosphors - has undergone a continuous process of
improvement. Advances in gun and yoke design have shortened the gun and
increased the deflection angle, leading to a reduction in the front-to-back depth of
CPTs. However, the new Cybertube+ SuperSlim takes these progressive
accomplishments a step further.
cutting costs
Through developing a system-level approach to tube design, computer aided
design techniques have been employed to move the gun forward into the yoke. It
is this innovative technique that has allowed the front-to-back depth of the tube
to be reduced by up to 30%. The result is Cybertube+ SuperSlim tubes of a
paltry 35cm in depth for a 21-inch 4:3 format or a 32-inch widescreen tube,
compared to the conventional 43cm for a 21-inch RF and 50cm for a 32-inch
widescreen option.
It was back in 2003 that LG.Philips Displays first demonstrated the potential
of this technology. Their prototype 32-inch Wide Screen Real-Flat SuperSlim
model featured a colour picture tube with a 125° deflection angle, while their 21inch Real-Flat SuperSlim option boasted a colour picture tube with a deflection
angle of 110°. The latter encompassed a hybrid deflection yoke, offering the kind
of performance
that won plaudits
immediately. The
21-inch
SuperSlim tube is
compatible with
standard staticfocus chassis
electronics,
making for an easy
design-in process.
All new SuperSlim models
are designed to be direct drop-in replacements for standard tubes and only
require minor chassis modifications using standard components. As a result,
aside from the new cabinet styling, putting these models into production requires
the minimum design effort and investment from manufacturers. From this they’ll
create a next generation TV set with the capability to reap huge rewards in a
particularly tough market. The relatively small investment required and the
mature nature of the CPT technology should ensure that SuperSlim models will
hit the market at particularly competitive price points, whilst they also offer
costing benefits in the total logistic chain. Their smaller dimensions will take a
significant slice out of, for example, shipping and storage costs, whilst existing
infrastructure and proven manufacturing methods will ensure these innovative
solutions can be produced in a sufficiently large volume to guarantee a healthy
economy of scale.
into production
Bolstered by a long life and exceptional picture quality – which offers great
colours, an excellent contrast ratio and freedom from motion artefacts - the
companies behind this technology believe existing flat-screen options will
struggle to compete. They have successfully addressed the major criticism that
has hitherto been levelled at visual options founded upon the cathode ray tube. It
was its bulky stature and inconvenient dimensions that plasmas and LCD-TVs
have successfully challenged in the past, but these newfound, smoothly styled,
slender options emerging from the LG.Philips Displays stable genuinely look the
part and slip comfortably into the most modish of environments.
None of this is hollow talk and LG.Philips Displays have put their money
where their mouth is. In November of 2004 production of the Cybertube+
SuperSlim models and the world’s thinnest colour picture tube models began in
China and Korea. The team were already the first player to launch the slim CPT
in the world when, in early 2004, production began at the company’s plant in
Durham, England.
This is, of course, just the start. Since the introduction of Cybertube+
SuperSlim, LG.Philips Displays has received keen interest from a number of big
names, seeking to collaborate with them in the production of new products.
Manufacturers to already embrace the technology include LG Electronics,
Skyworth, Thomson, Mivar and Schneider Electronics, among others. It was
estimated that Cybertube+ SuperSlim’s annual volume can reach one million
units this year and, based upon its credentials, there is no reason to think
otherwise. The positive response it has already been greeted with has
encouraged LG.Philips Displays to develop different sized models too, so expect
the options available to expand as time goes on.
According to Wiebo Vaartjes, Chief Sales Officer, LG.Philips Displays, “For its
optimal picture quality, excellent contrast ratio, viewing angle and response time
as well as its best price/performance ratio, CRT remains at the forefront of TV
set production.” With the introduction of Cybertube+ SuperSlim it could be a long
time before it is usurped.
FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT:
www.superslim.com
21
AUDIO AND VIDEO DISTRIBUTION
A Healthy Serving
These days a system that sits in a single
room can comfortably cater for a whole lot
more. DARREN HARVEY dips into the
burgeoning world of distribution…
As technology evolves one of the things that is always a focus for
manufacturers is convenience and what, in the entertainment world,
could be more convenient than accessing a music or DVD collection from
any given room around the home? Very little, it would seem, particularly
in light of the number of developments we’ve been witnessing in this area
of late. What was once the preserve of a tiny, privileged minority, is rapidly
becoming an attainable goal for the multitude.
Yes, more and more companies are embracing the concept of multiroom entertainment. Some of the names that are causing a stir have
proved a surprise addition to the ranks, whilst for others embracing wholehouse audio and video constitutes a natural evolution of their automation
roots. Whether the companies’ origins lie in control or audio and video
relay, however, isn’t particularly relevant, as representatives from both are
delivering equally impressive solutions. Covering what has become such a
major industry in its entirety may be beyond the scope of the next four
pages, but they should provide a glimpse of how diverse, and how
competitive, the AV distribution market has become...
AMX MAX
Distributing both video and audio, AMX's latest MAX digital content
server is the perfect solution for users wishing to create a single media
library. Music and movies can be accessed instantly in their native
format from multiple locations around the home and, with
improvements such as better recording, playback, art retrieval and
security all added to the spec of the server's predecessor, MAX
remains a great option for multi-room AV.
Contact: +44 (0) 190 434 3100 ww.amx.com
LIVING CONTROL MUSICBOX 3
Described by its manufacturers as the Bentley of the home digital server
world, Living Control’s MusicBox 3 can deliver dynamic audio from
thousands of CDs to every part of a home thanks to a high-resolution audio
chip-set and precise bit-for-bit transfer. Adding tracks is quick and easy
and up to three different songs can be enjoyed simultaneously. Additionally,
music can be downloaded from the Internet and even shared with an iPod,
making Living Control's design a truly multi-talented creation.
Contact: +44 (0) 168 986 1188 www.livingcontrol.com
NAD C720BEE STEREO RECEIVER
NAD's C720BEE is fully remote controlled and represents a
combination of the award-winning C320BEE amplifier and an RDS
AM/FM tuner. A multi-source Zone 2 capacity permits a user to listen
to music independently in another room in the house, by simply
adding an extra amplifier and speakers. Fitted with seven line inputs,
the C720BEE employs its designers' proprietary PowerDrive topology,
giving this receiver impressive dynamic power.
Contact: +44 (0) 190 831 9360 www.nadelectronics.com
RUSSOUND SMS3 SMART MEDIA SERVER
With the ability to store and manage both audio files and digital photographs, the SMS3 from manufacturer Russound and distributor The Multi-Room
Company clearly has wide-ranging talents. Affording the user easy access to their music collection from any location in a property, the server supports
simultaneous playback of different tracks and employs a user-friendly and striking TV interface for easy operation. A 160Gb hard drive, CD-ROM and access
to Internet radio are other noteworthy features, as is a unique Personal Media Assistant, which has the capacity to monitor and 'learn' a user's musical
preferences and organise files by activity, theme or occasion. Flexible and reasonably priced, the SMS3 also looks the part with its slick black finish.
Contact: +44 (0) 124 253 9100 www.multi-room.com
22
OPUS OCTOPUS
Based on A-BUST technology and making use of CAT5e cabling, the Opus Octopus system
has the ability to serve an entire home with audio and video from a central location. To
facilitate this six audio source and six composite video inputs are provided, allowing the
system to cater for up to four main and four sub zones. Keypads and remotes in every room
provide quick and user-friendly access to media, whilst a complementary range of
unobtrusive speakers is another option sure to tempt consumers. Recent updates allow the
system to be installed without wall control keypads, making a retrofit eminently achievable.
Contact: +44 (0) 845 090 2266 www.opus-technologies.co.uk
SYSTEMLINE MODULAR
Systemline recently announced that the award-winning
Modular multi-room home entertainment system has
been enhanced with the introduction of optional 'multisource' audio and video distribution components. The
new parts allow up to six individual users to enjoy up to
six different sources (in up to eight separate rooms)
simultaneously. This flexibility makes the Modular
system suitable for homes of all sizes and, with prices
starting from under £1,000, Systemline could tempt
many entry-level consumers.
Contact: +44 (0) 127 950 1111 www.armourhe.co.uk
DENON AVR-3805
The AVR-3805 from Denon is a seven-channel AV receiver with multiroom functionality. The latter provides users with a select function
that permits sources to be selected for output to a specified zone or
zones, whilst a host of other technologies guarantees exceptional
performance all round. Amongst these is the new D.D.S.C.-Digital
circuitry, a configuration designed by Denon to optimise the
performance of every element of the surround processor. With an
array of connectivity options, the AVR-3805 would sit comfortably at
the heart of a high-quality home entertainment set-up.
Contact: +44 (0) 123 474 1200 www.denon.co.uk
IMERGE SOUNDSERVERS
Imerge have a number of solutions for the homeowner
wishing to benefit from multi-room audio. Perhaps best
known is the S2000 Mk2, a server with up to four discrete
outputs, a TC interface, a 56k V.90 modem that provides a
connection to an extensive online CD database and between
80Gb and 250Gb of hard disc space. The M2000 server offers
even more, with up to 500Gb storage capacity, between four
and 16 outputs and support for the company's NP200. The
latter, a Networked Audio System, facilitates the streaming
of SoundServer audio over an Ethernet network, providing
both the S2000 and M2000 with added distribution options.
Finally, Imerge also offer XiVA-tacta software for pocket PC,
which allows access to any SoundServer via a wireless LAN.
Contact: +44 (0) 195 478 3600 www.imerge.co.uk
ELAN SYSTEMS VIA!DJ
Elan's VIA!dj is a digital audio storage and music management system that comes with
a 160Gb hard drive and four discrete pairs of audio outputs, the latter allowing the
device to act as four individual CD-changers. Accessible through any VIA! Touchpanel
or TV, these products are suitable for use in multi-room audio and home theatre
applications alike and have recently been updated. New features include super fast
ripping speeds and an iPod download and networking capability. With both entry level
and high-end variants available (the dj-s and dj-hc respectively), Elan are appealing to
a wide customer base.
Contact: +44 (0) 151 326 1832 www.elanhomesystems.com
23
AUDIO AND VIDEO DISTRIBUTION
DIGITAL FUTURE SOLUTIONS IDYL
A multi-room audio server, DF Solutions' iDyl is a
high-spec product that offers either a 160Gb or
300Gb hard drive. CD-quality audio can be
distributed to a maximum of 16 zones thanks to
amplified audio outputs, which connect via cabling
to in-wall and in-ceiling speakers or wall-mounted
speaker posts, whilst audio files can be easily
added via a PC CD-ROM drive. Also part of the
package is Room Commander software which,
when installed on a hand-held Wi-Fi device,
provides efficient control of any room hooked up to
the server. Stylish into the bargain, the iDyl
delivers in every department.
Contact: +44 (0) 287 035 8894
www.digitalfuturesolutions.co.uk
CRESTON CNX-BIPAD8
Perhaps best known for the excellent control
solutions, Crestron also produce some
impressive AV distribution kit. The
CNX-BIPAD8, for instance, is a 16source/8-room professional
audio distribution processor
suitable for use in homes of
all sizes. Audiophile grade
sound can be delivered, via
pre-amplified CAT5 RCA
outputs or structured wiring, to
all parts of a home, making the
CNX-BIPAD8 a good choice for
high-end multi-room
installations.
Contact: +44 (0) 20 8439 7272 www.crestron.co.uk
LIVING CONTROL CVX
Living Control's CVX is a high-quality videoswitching option for use with the company's Afinity
system. In combination with a RoomBox6, for
example, it can provide the ability to choose
between six different high-resolution video sources
from six different rooms. Switching between DVD,
TV, a video game or VCR playback is a painless
procedure and, with a buffered 100-metre range
ensuring that every part of a home can benefit, the
CVX would doubtless prove a useful addition to
many home entertainment systems.
Contact: +44 (0) 168 986 1188 www.livingcontrol.com
24
LEVITON ENTERTAINMENT AND APPLICATIONS PLATFORM
Recently unveiled by The Multi-Room Company at the Bristol Sound and Vision Show, the
Leviton Entertainment and Applications Platform (LE&AP) can provide a home with a central
networking point that will allow for the storing and sharing of music files, videos, photos, the
Internet and more. At its heart sits the Digital Distribution Server, which incorporates an
eight-zone commercial grade residential gateway and firewall, 120Gb storage space and four
USB 2.0 expansion ports. Expandable thanks to its modular format, the main unit is expected
to retail for around £2,200 with a control solution available for £320.
Contact: +44 (0) 124 253 9100 www.multi-room.com
CAMBRIDGE AUDIO AZUR 640H
Launched at CES, Cambridge Audio's Azur 640H is a 160Gb music
server, which incorporates a CD-burner and provides wireless
connectivity to a PC, Mac or companion 640H. Based upon the
audiophile-grade 640c CD-player, it can deliver exceptionally good CD
playback as well as playing host to a maximum of 3,000 albums. Even
more impressively, the 640H is available for only £500, a fact that's
certain to make it a popular choice with consumers.
Contact: www.cambridgeaudio.com
OPUS 500 SERIES
Opus' luxury multi-room entertainment
system is a complete audio and video
solution for residential properties. Requiring
only a single run of cabling, a single system
can be stretched to serve 24 main zones and
24 sub zones (each master control unit serves
four main and sub zones) and is compatible with
virtually every brand of source component,
including hard disc servers. An intuitive control
solution is also provided, with main zone keypads
fitted with full LCD displays that display equipment
status, RDS radio station names and volume
amongst other things. Easily integrated with other
'smart' home systems, the 500 series also includes
amplifiers and accessories.
Contact: +44 (0) 845 090 2266
www.opus-technologies.co.uk
LINN KNEKT KIVOR INDEX
The Knekt KIVOR INDEX from Linn is a
high-performance, pitch accurate music
library, designed specifically for simpler
multi-room applications. Capable of
storing 2500-hours of uncompressed
audio and of providing access to up to
eight users simultaneously, it features the
company's verstaile REKURSIV music
management software and can interface
with a Knekt system via LINNK or a third
party control via RS232 and an Ethernet
port. Whether finished in black or the
pictured silver, the KIVOR INDEX has much
to recommend it.
Contact: +44 (0) 141 307 7777
www.linn.co.uk
KALEIDESCAPE
Launched in the UK last year, the
Kaleidescape system is an entertainment
server that will efficiently deliver highquality content around a home. Boasting
sizeable hard drives with room for 180 DVDs
(expandable to 3.3-terabytes – enough space
to accommodate around 500 movies), the
Kaleidescape server is complemented by the
Kaleidescape Movie Player and DVD-reader,
all three connected via a 100Base-TX
switched Ethernet network. Together, the three
form a user-friendly, high-performance and
undoubtedly convenient way to enjoy visual
entertainment.
Contact: www.kaleidescape.com
WHD DAM6000
DAM6000 is a multi-room audio distribution
system from German manufacturers WHD.
Employing a single, central stereo set,
music is distributed in digital audio quality
over a single run of CAT5 cable. Up to six
sources can be connected to the central
unit, which also connects to two 20W roomcontrol amplifiers, a set of stereo speakers
and to one or more keypads. Impressively,
'audio-scene' pre-sets can be set-up,
allowing a user to benefit from music from
a certain source, at a certain level, in a
certain room on demand, whilst a built-in
timer gives a user even greater flexibility.
Contact: 0 6172 / 2 663098 www.whd.de
NAD NETCAP NETWORK RECEIVER
A relatively new addition to Lenbrook's range of NAD products, the NetCap Network Receiver is an affordable (£349.95) device which allows music, images
or movie files stored on a network PC to be accessed from around the home, turning a standalone computer into a home entertainment hub. Simply by
connecting the NetCap to a standard AV receiver, such media can be decoded and formatted to play through a user's home cinema set-up and, with
generated playlists and a handy remote control also featured, NAD have certainly come up with a worthy addition to the AV distribution market.
Contact: +44 (0) 190 831 9360 www.nadelectronics.com
ONKYO TX-NR5000E
As Onkyo's flagship AV receiver, the TX-NR5000E is unsurprisingly an
impressive design. Fully upgradeable (with a built-to-order option also
available), the modular product boasts a pair of iLink digital inputs for
bit-for-bit transfer and a high-quality audio/video HDMI interface for
compatibility with the latest components. Ultra THX2-certified, the TXNR5000E also offers seven 200W channels and can be connected to a
PC network via an Ethernet port, with the ability to access audio files
and Internet radio thanks to the company's Net-tune client processor.
With 11 clients simultaneously operable on one network, Onkyo can
help provide an impressive multi-room audio system.
Contact: +44 (0) 149 468 1515 www.onkyo.co.uk
INVISION UK
Invision specialise in awardwinning products for AV
systems and the automated
home, so bringing
entertainment to every corner
of a property is no doubt close
to their hearts. Products such
as the AudioReQuest hard disc
server make this clear: capable
of being hooked up to an
Ethernet network, the server
can be configured to serve up to
six users simultaneously and proves a versatile option.
The company also employ Netstreams products, components again
aimed at consumers in search of whole-house audio. The DigiLinx range
contains everything needed for a successful set-up, including the
SpeakerLinx amplifier (which also acts as a network controller with
integrated web server), the MediaLinx Legacy Audio Converter (which
converts traditional audio sources to TCP/IP-based streams) and the
PowerLinx, an intelligent power supply capable of supporting 21
amplifiers. And, with control solutions for the above also available, along
with many more products, Invision UK are undoubtedly experts when it
comes to AV distribution.
Contact: +44 (0) 144 967 7233 www.invisionuk.com
25
INSTALLATION FOCUS
The Future’s
Light
Intelligent lighting control is increasingly an
integral part of the fully fledged home cinema
system. KATIE BATES takes a closer look at some
of the options available to the budding installer…
There was a time when audio-visual systems were founded exclusively
on audio and visual technology. In the dark days, there was sound and
there was vision. Over time the two became successfully united together,
raising the stakes in terms of performance, giving birth to the concept of a
home cinema and the audio-visual industry. Whatever kit was worked into
the system could, of course, be controlled from the comfortable confines of
the user’s chair. However, human beings are naturally lazy and prize
convenience… and soon this wasn’t enough. Why not take things to the next
level and allow them control over much, much more? It could be deemed
as nonsensical to have the power to hit play from a distance, but not lower
the lights to an appropriate level, given the significance of the correct
ambient light when chasing the perfect picture. It was in this context that
smarter systems of control and automation for the home emerged... and
then there was light.
Ever since we launched our sister publication, International
Smarthouse, many years ago, the team here have had the opportunity to
explore a whole host of stunning residential installations. The centrepiece
of these has invariably been the home theatre. It has been this where the
major investment has been made and all the stops have been pulled out to
reward the lucky homeowner with the finest vision and sound quality to be
found this side of an IMAX cinema. Whether decked out with a sizeable
selection of the most sonorous speakers or discreetly decorated with the
most stealthy in-wall options; whether boasting one of the latest DLP
Every part of the home
can benefit from
lighting control
projectors, a more substantial LCD option or a sparkling plasma, one
element has remained consistent: the swanky touch-screen that has
adorned the coffee table has afforded the user some degree of control over
their lighting. Of course it hasn’t always been limited to this. Sometimes, it
would be able to register automated control over curtains, a whole-house
audio system and a whole lot more. While these elements differ, though, as
a hardened reviewer you know that a simple touch of a button is likely to
offer access to an array of lighting scenes, appropriate to every scenario,
sociable or otherwise. More than this, hitting play should ensure lights are
lowered to an appropriate level, ensuring the minimum of reflection on your
screen and finest cinematic environment as the movie kicks in.
This in itself can be the tip of the iceberg and, as many of you will
know, these days it is even possible to have systems of lighting control
which, in conjunction with the relevant sensors, will be able to light a path
guiding the homeowner around their house at night automatically.
Meanwhile, many will have the capacity to remember an average day’s use
and run through this when the owner is away, providing the appearance of
a lived in house for security reasons. So, revelation though it was in its day,
there is far more to lighting control in the 21st century than the old dimmer
switch and in the era of integration, distinguishing between this and home
cinema is becoming increasingly unnecessary.
grafik design
One of the biggest names in lighting control is Lutron. With the company’s
kit gracing homes and businesses around the world, from Buckingham
Palace to Grand Central Station, the firm has been an innovative force in
this area, since the development of the first dimmer switch many moons
ago. There are few names we come across more regularly when charting
the installation world and, fittingly, Lutron offer a myriad of solutions
catering for many different needs. Their Telume switch, for example, might
look like a regular dimmer, but it is equipped with an infrared sensor
offering users one of the simplest routes to lighting control about.
Whilst whole-house installations might remain the most desirable,
many customers simply don’t have the necessary wedge for one of these,
but still seek a single room solution to bolster the performance of their
cinema system. In such a scenario Lutron's GRAFIK Integrale system –
designed to offer one touch control over all the lights in a solitary room –
can be ideal. This offers four preset lighting scenes accessible from the
control faceplate and an additional 12 stored in the control unit. As the
lighting market has developed and become more competitive Lutron have
always sought to expand and diversify to stay ahead of the game. One
manifestation of this has been the Sivoia QED (Quiet Electronic Device)
product line, which offers near-silent, automated control of a set of blinds
at the push of a button. This can operate independently or integrated with a
HomeWorks or GRAFIK Eye control system. To give them more credence in
26
an RS232 to RS485 optically isolated driver and runs Futronix PFX v807
programming and control software for whole-house lighting systems. This
set-up also has an added advantage in that up to 100 extra scenes can be
programmed and exchanged between systems, with full-function timer
operation and the astronomical time clock giving perfect sunrise/sunset
control. This particular project is effective in highlighting the benefits
Futronix can bring to the modern home. Not only were they able to bring
intelligent lighting, but their system also allows for the remote control of the
blinds in the master bedroom and successfully incorporates non-standard
lighting features, including low-energy lighting in cupboards. Even the
bathroom isn’t beyond its reaches, with the extractor fans tied into the system.
Of course all this might make it sound thoroughly complicated and put
some of you off installing it. It should, therefore, be noted that the
contractors who carried out the electrical and data cable installation were
not previously familiar with Futronix systems. However, thanks to the
technical information and assistance from the company as well as the
relative ease of installation, they have subsequently been specifying and
installing Futronix systems in many of their other projects!
the road to Helvar
Let there be i-Light...
the style stakes they have also collaborated with ultra chic brand Bang &
Olufsen. As a result the Danes’ finest AV kit can link seamlessly together
with the HomeWorks and GRAFIK Eye systems, putting everything under
control of a B&O remote.
The HomeWorks system is a particularly flexible one, of a modular
structure. Should a client seek a more expansive solution for their home, a
series of connected dimmers and keypads can be added in whichever room
they are required. These will work in conjunction with a discreetly located
central unit to afford the end user the most amenable control wherever they
desire it. With a potential of 256 zones, internal memory and an astronomic
clock nothing will prove too much for this option – in fact it can even mimic a
daily pattern of light use, for security reasons, when the owners are away.
Never mind simply embellishing that home cinema with the right light to aid
the perfect vision; these days you can offer your client that much more.
in the money
When it comes to complete, whole-house lighting solutions another firm
pervading the consciousness of the informed installer these days is Futronix.
If it’s good enough for a Russian billionaire, then its credentials are difficult
for anyone else to question… and that’s exactly what this system proved for
one particularly affluent Eastern European who stumbled across the
company’s London showroom. The client was after a system able to cater for
an entire, remodelled, multi-storey home and Futronix’s PFX system proved
able to do exactly that. The project consultants were able to provide a full
plan for the entire property, identifying the requirements for, amongst other
things, a dedicated Home Cinema projection room and several distinctive
architectural features. The latter included up-lit glass treads in the
main staircase, which needed to be incorporated into pre-programmed
scenes, with non-lighting elements such as curtains and bathroommirror demisters also controlled by the same system.
The final project required the use of some 140 circuits and 30
switch plates, whilst the owner had also requested full-system control
from a personal computer with a colour touch-screen – the vital
element when it comes to convenient control. The resultant system
comprised 10 Futronix PFX16 control panels, linked together by an
RS485 network to the home's computer room. There is an independent
but linked Futronix system for each of the property's five floors, with an
SP4 infra-red controlled plate installed in every room offering the user
an impressive 20 programmed scenes and the fullest remote control.
Thanks to the all-digital nature of these lighting controls, the fading
between scenes makes the transition between one and the next smooth
and natural.
Centralised computer control for the entire lighting system was
achieved via a dedicated network linking the second-floor computer room
and all PFX panels. The computer itself is connected to a touch-screen via
One of the biggest events in Europe for installers seeking to learn more
about the options available to them is the ISE show and, back in January,
over in Amsterdam at the RAI, I-Light were certainly catching the eye. Their
stand was just around the corner from ours and this afforded me an
excellent opportunity to take a closer look at what they have to offer. This
included the firm’s Zen Range of mood lighting, which can be deployed in
either a single room or a whole-house environment. The modular Zen
system is hooked up using that old installer’s friend, CAT-5 cabling, and can
be expanded to create systems with up to 248 circuits with 100 devices. Each
individual dimmer in the Zen system boasts an integral time clock, an LCD
display to further ease operation and allows the user to summon up any of
32 different lighting scenes at the touch of the button. But what of the AV
technology? Well, thanks to its Audio Visual Gateway, the Zen lighting system
can be linked effectively up to a home cinema system and will make so
much more of that room
Speak to custom installer Smart House Solutions and – on the basis of
a contemporary Essex-based installation they enacted - they have another
preference when it comes to lighting control. In the abode we were
introduced to it was Helvar's DIGIDIM ä lighting control system that assumed
this pivotal role alongside the Opus multi-room system, a Pioneer plasma
and some of Artcoustic’s sleekest speakers. “Lighting control is an essential
element in any home cinema installation,” explained Simon Ball, MD of
Smart House Solutions. “The whole movie experience can be spoilt by poor
lighting. We decided to install Helvar's DIGIDIM ä as it is the ideal system for
this type of application: easy to install, simple to use and versatile in
application. In addition, the simplicity of programming the lighting scenes
ensures that the perfect lighting scene is just the touch-of- a-button away!”
The system puts the user in control courtesy of the hand-held, infrared
remote control. A variety of wall plates are also available, but regardless of
how they chose to harness their system, those benefiting from Helvarpowered lighting will be privy to the convenience afforded by a number of
pre-set lighting scenes available. As a versatile option it will cater for a
variety of needs and is already proving popular both with installers and their
clients. For the former it proves a veritable breeze to slip in as the DALI
Assume control with Helvar
27
INSTALLATION FOCUS
(Digital Addressable Lighting Interface) communication protocol only
requires a free topology, polarity free, two-wire control bus (using standard
electrical installation cable) that can be installed alongside the 240V wiring
- or in a separate conduit according to convenience. Wiring and
configuration is designed to be kept to a minimum, yet the system allows
fully independent control of up to 63 DIGIDIM devices on a single lighting
circuit, making it more than sufficient for almost any residential need.
Of course, as technology advances wiring itself isn’t always necessary
and a wireless solution can cut the costs significantly for the client and
make the installation unusually straightforward for the installer. We might
not be quite there yet, but Rako Controls – who were also present at the
ISE show – are getting close. Yes, rather than cause the level of upheaval
we associate with the re-wiring necessary in the installation of the most
complex lighting systems, their relatively simple lighting control options
offer a host of creative dimming options and wireless control, without any
need to replace conventional circuitry. Sufficiently sophisticated for many
residential projects, they can be installed quickly and without fuss. Rako
negate the use of control wiring by employing coded FM radio signals. As a
result, push button controls can be mounted anywhere without the need for
expensive or disruptive building work. An impressive range of accessories
is available, allowing these to interface effectively with an audio-visual or
auxiliary system. With the usual array of scenes available,
capable of smoothly and seamlessly changing on the
client’s whim, this great value system is an excellent
one for any installer to have in their arsenal.
answers from Crestron
The name Crestron and custom installation are almost
synonymous with one another these days and no firm has
done more to further the advancement of the intelligent
control industry than the boys in blue, who are nearly
always at any show even remotely relevant to CI. Although
best renowned for their swanky touch-screens and systems
of control, it is Crestron’s ambition to offer what they term
the Total Home Solution that seems to drive them in the
residential market these days. Lighting is, of course, a
fundamental element of this and therefore it was little
surprise to see them dip into this area once more last
year, with the release of an entire line of lighting
control modules, dimmers and switches. Launched at
the Lightfair International 2004, these were termed
the LightSource.
Described by its manufacturer as “the industry's
most comprehensive lighting control and automation
solution,” it encompasses five automation enclosures, seven module
options and remote room dimmer and switch options. As a Crestron
product, it seamlessly interfaces with all 25 of the company’s user
interfaces - often deployed to harness other systems of lighting control
and, of course, AV kit. At the heart of the system is the PAC2 control
processor, which links touch-panels, keypads, remotes and the web to the
lighting and climate control modules located in the Crestron home
Intelligent lighting has
become an important part
of the modern home
automation enclosure. In addition to controlling the lighting system
throughout the home, the PAC2 enables the homeowner to seamlessly
integrate other systems such as HVAC and security. The system is
bolstered by the addition of the thoroughly proficient D3 Pro software:
Crestron's comprehensive lighting, HVAC and security software suite. This
is an amenable Design and Development tool for the system integrator and
provides the necessary documentation for a successful installation, making
your life on the job easier. Crestron’s increasing involvement in
light control has been welcomed in many quarters as it negates
many of the difficulties associated with hooking one control
system up to another lighting system, a separate
AV system and potentially alien HVAC or
security systems. As their drive towards
offering everything under one umbrella
continues, it will be interesting to see
the implications this has for existing
lighting specialists and how they react to
it. It will also be fascinating to see what
the uptake is like amongst installers, given
the array of prospective benefits it will offer
them.
The lighting systems that we have
explored here are just the tip of the iceberg in a
diverse and dynamic market riddled with great
solutions that can make all the difference for
the customers. As an installer, picking the
right one remains tough with such an
abundance of choices, but invariably it
will be your job to specify a system on
Rako’s
behalf of your clients. Regardless of
innovative
accessories
which you favour, or why you favour
it, that they are becoming a
necessary inclusion in a home cinema
installation can no longer be questioned.
Not simply about convenience, attaining that level of
light, where the contrast of the picture is maximised, external reflection is
minimised, but the popcorn is remains visible, can be a tough business.
Fortunately we are not short of people offering a helping hand. That swanky
touch-screen that Crestron, AMX or another supplier has become so much
more than a universal remote. A couple of finger movements and not only
will it offer direct control over – potentially – an entire DVD collection, your
projector, the accompanying electric screen and an entire surround sound
set-up. It could also allow you to turn the bedroom light off, illuminate the
exterior of the house or even run the bath, pop the kettle on and order
some beers in from Tesco. The lighting, however, has to be considered the
next most essential element in line after the AV control and it is to this end
that the market has grown. As these systems continue to evolve and offer a
more chic look as we’ve seen with Lutron, the more convenient and
cheaper installation offered by Rako, or the most natural integration – as
characterised in this instance by Crestron – their proliferation will only
increase. Keep an eye on the world of lighting control – it might not be long
before we’re all privy to the benefits it affords.
FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT:
See the light,
with Futronix...
28
Lutron: +44 (0) 20 7702 0657 www.lutron.com
Futronix: +44 (0) 188 337 3333 www.dimmer.co.uk
i-Light: +44 (0) 189 287 0072 www.ilight.co.uk/home
Rako Controls: +44 (0) 870 043 3905 www.rakocontrols.com
Crestron: +44 (0) 20 8439 7272 www.crestron.com
COMMERCIAL INSTALL
Merging Forces
With our working world in constant flux, SAM FULLER
takes a closer look at installation and market change…
Artcoustic’s art like
speakers grace the
Carpe Diem bar
bar in Plymouth. Here, custom installation specialists Archangel specified the
famously discreet speakers of Danish company Artcoustic, which have made it
into many a cutting-edge home-based project. The owners contacted ACIS as
they were looking for an unobtrusive system to provide great sound, yet
harmonise with their décor. Plumping for Artcoustic's products was only
natural as the firm’s goal has always been to combine attractive aesthetics and
sound quality, without making sacrifices to either.
Inside their slender low-resonance cabinets the tech savvy would find handbuilt crossovers and high-quality, dynamic drivers amongst other things. The
range is available in an astonishing number of finishes and Artcoustic boast an
extensive library of digital prints and a huge collection of designer fabrics from
which clients make a selection. Often, as in this installation, the final speakers
simply look like attractive art adorning the wall for purely aesthetic purposes.
The Carpe Diem install also incorporates a 42-inch Panasonic plasma
screen, mounted alongside a QED room link system that allows the viewing
and control of Sky TV, a five-disc CD-player and an I-Book G4 laptop, with a
custom music library created specifically for the bar. Cutting-edge installations
are everywhere and the more often they are found, the more familiar potential
clients will become with them… and the more au fait they become with the
convenience and aesthetic boons they offer, the more likely they will be to
demand these things in their own home.
taking control
That there is a growing synergy between the conventional AV and the
custom installation markets is difficult to question. As the residential,
automation-encompassing market continues to grow, manufacturers with a
history in audio and the conventional audio-visual arena are also cutting their
teeth in this arena. Companies with a significant history and credentials in the
two-channel market – like, for example, Monitor Audio – are now producing
some of the most innovative in-wall and in-ceiling speakers about, perfect for
bringing the most discreet of sounds to areas of the home previously not privy
to exceptional musical relay. This means the Monitors, Polks and Jamos of the
world are now going head to head with firms like Opus and Elan, who also
make speakers specifically directed at the installation end of the spectrum. An
LCD-TV meanwhile, from a Sharp or a Sony, will sit as comfortably on the
shelves of an independent electrical retailer as it will on a particularly
functional mount in the kitchen, once a custom installer has hooked it up to an
intelligent video distributing network…
Manufacturers are diversifying, many products are universally applicable
and the popular vision of what people demand from their home
entertainment is changing. All of this makes it an interesting time to be
around. With the development of the installation sector, it also means we
have to broaden our gaze to stay ahead of the game. As many installers and
manufacturers of automation and intelligent distribution systems will tell
you, much of their business was born out of work in the commercial sector.
After all, only five or six years ago there was no residential market to speak
of, yet in this half decade it has emerged from nowhere and now, for
example, for a big player like Crestron – with roots in the commercial sector
- it accounts for half of their business.
It was the affluent business people; the men and women who witnessed
the convenience automation technologies could bring to the corporate
sphere, who inadvertently gave birth to the residential sector. While much of
the technology used in both areas is universally applicable, gradually the
increasing home-based demand has affected the marketplace. Installers
with an eye for the different demands of the homeowner have come to
specialise in this area, whilst manufacturers have learned to develop
products that are intuitive and aesthetically chic enough for the most cackhanded and house proud consumers. In spite of this, however, a huge
degree of crossover between the commercial and residential arena remains.
After all, last year Crestron released some of the hottest touch-screens
available to residential installers at Infocomm – traditionally a commercial
installation event. And Integrated Systems have, along with CEDIA and their
equivalent partners, successfully united these markets under one roof with
their recent shows.
While aesthetics and convenience can lead to a smart installation in the
corporate sphere, sometimes there is far more to it than that. Take the use of
some Bayer Dynamic MSC wired conference units and a Crestron TPS 6000
touch-screen installed as part of a 40-delegate conference system at Crawly
council in Sussex. Undertaken by Advanced Digital Solutions (ADS), the results
of this operation afford the chairman complete control of discussions in the
chamber as he is able to simply activate their microphone, if they request this,
by pressing an appropriate button. Such installations help to highlight the
dynamism and flexibility of the products in use and help to bring the names,
products and interfaces involved closer to the public’s consciousness.
Another similar example of an installation was undertaken in the Centre
for Developing Regions in Brussels. In this system AMX’s renowned Modero
touch-screens were deployed to afford speakers control of an array of facilities
to aid their presentation as well as offering automated environmental control
and clever communication links with other rooms. The smoothly styled, 7.5inch screens might seem simple enough to navigate, but with full control over
six cameras, translation systems, recording equipment and much more easily
accessible from them this system – which had AMX’s Netlinx NI-4000 at its
heart – the versatility and powers of these components becomes very clear.
With this in mind, of course, levying control over a home theatre, lighting,
multi-room audio and even climatic control seems eminently achievable.
These are just two examples of automation spreading through society, and
projects such as this are found far further afield than the board room and the
houses of those that grace it. Even more progressive educational establishments
and places of worship have started to embrace it. Such projects can prove
enlightening in helping us to understand the full potential of the kit which we are
dealing with, as well as educative for the general public who are more likely to
encounter them and become familiar with the benefits modern day technology
can offer. They can also, when it comes to projects like that at the Carpe Diem
bar, afford installers the chance to diversify and bring their abilities to the wider
world. Perhaps the worlds of AV, residential and commercial installation aren’t
actually as distinct as some would have you believe…
Taking control in Brussels
with AMX
across the bar
In this kind of environment, it is important that we don’t lose sight of
developments in the commercial sector, which is why we keep our beady eye
on this side of affairs too. A recent example of an installation to catch our
eye that represents much of what has been said occurred in the Carpe Diem
29
>
SOUND & VISION INSTALLER PRODUCTS
What’s New? Installer
COMPILED BY TOBY WATSON
DARING TO BE DIFFERENT
How do you differentiate yourselves from the myriad of other distributors in
the CI marketplace? That was the challenge that the Multi-Room Company
had to address when the company was formed five years ago. The answer
seemed simple enough - choose high-quality products, with the right mix
of technology and usability, but importantly choose the right people to deal
with. Not the easiest of tasks, so plenty of time and effort was invested into
searching out products and companies that would meet those criteria.
It didn't take long to identify Russound as a key target - a company with
38-years of experience in the installation arena, with an unprecedented
reputation for reliability, honesty, and support. Russound's model has
informed and inspired the development and importantly the culture at the
Multi-Room Company, a fact that has been recognised by Russound who
awarded the Multi-Room Company their coveted Distributor of the Year
award in 2004.
Multi-Room
committed to
understand every
one of Russound's
products, even
sending key staff
over to the States
to spend time
actually working
with their
installers and
developers so that
they could see the products in action; and to understand the practical
issues involved with planning, specifying and installing the products. After
all, if you are going to be taken seriously by your customers you need to
be able to teach and advise from real experience.
Russound, having recently acquired the patent covering Powered
Volume Controls, are very excited that they now have the freedom to
innovate as well as expand this marketplace with the introduction of
the brand new R-MEGA high-performance powered volume control
technology. This new product launch reinforces the fact that the MultiRoom Company are here to help support and build their client’s
businesses as its introduction to market is being backed by a
programme of full training - in fact two days out of every week
are being devoted to customer training; given free of charge to
the company’s customers who include electricians, installers
and retailers.
The training offered by the company is not just focused on
dry product training, as the management team has years of
experience in construction, electronic engineering and importantly
sales & installation - so they have solutions and ideas that can
really make a difference to their customers’ businesses - from tips to
building regs right through to audiophile system tweaks!
As a team they understand
that all of their classroom
support and theory can amount
to nothing when an installer is
faced with the real world
problems and snags, that is
where their support on the job
makes such a difference. After
all it was how they were
trained.
Russound’s R.NET enabled CAV6.6 AV
controller
30
Multi-Rooms’ product
portfolio offers solutions for any
installer or retailer: Russound
manufacture award winning
multi-room audio & video
products, their proprietary RNET
enabled products are the most
complete integrated multi-room
systems currently on the
market.
Atlantic Technology have
been manufacturing high-quality
Home Cinema speakers for nigh
on a decade and a half, they are
now the biggest THX licensee in
North America, their new Home
Cinema Electronics, and custom
installation speakers, are
proving to be a real hit.
CentraLite Systems, from
Mobile Alabama in the USA,
make a range of incredible
lighting and control systems,
the new CL24 and CL48 offer
incredible value for
money for either 24 or 48 circuits at a cost
substantially below that of any other comparable
automated lighting control system - period!
HAI, or Home Automation Inc., produce a range of
automation controllers and peripherals that
deliver sophisticated levels of integration for both
home and commercial applications, including HAI
Home Control for Windows Media Center.
Leviton, one of America's largest privately owned
companies, have been making class leading
networking products for years, which range from
plugs & sockets, punch down panels and wiring
cans to the new LE&APs multi-media server that
was given it’s world consumer debut at this
year’s Bristol show. Leviton currently enjoy over
40% of the new build market and 60% of the
total structured wiring market in the USA.
In short, Multi-Room offer a range of
high-performance products, from excellent companies
and most importantly offer high-quality training and support. If you don't
deal with the Multi-Room company yet, you owe it to yourself to give them
a call; we've seen some
genuinely innovative and
problem solving products,
and a great team. Believe
them when they say that
the Multi-Room Company
delivers...
contact:
+44 (0) 124 253 9100
[email protected].
Leviton’s Digital Distribution Center
WHAT’S NEW
A GREY DAY
Beamax’s innovation is continual and this month, as a result of
extensive research and development, they are set to bring a new
revelation to the fore in the form of their High Contrast Fabric. The
ingenious fabric actually increases the perceived deepness of the
black projected on the screen and ensures images are seen more
easily in high ambient light conditions. The High Contrast Fabric
will be available in the M, M-silver, A and A-Velvet screen series.
Price range from £285 to £939 depending on the size and model.
While modern projectors have the power to create a very bright
image, the quality of a movie is often determined by the contrast.
Beamax’s new screens, made from grey fabric, strengthen the
perceived black. They also make it easier to see the projected
image in well lit conditions viewing making the theatre you install
more versatile. The High Contrast Fabric boasting screens will
prove particularly effective when used alongside entry level
projectors, discernibly improving their contrast levels.
www.beamaxed.co.uk
A TEXT MESSAGE
The highly regarded OPUS 500 Series
Multi-Room Entertainment System
keeps on growing, most recently with
the launch of the TXT500 Text Interface
Unit. This low-cost device for the OPUS
500 Series Multi-Room
Entertainment
System
delivers
album,
artist and
track
information
to the OPUS WCU500
Wall Control Keypad from virtually
any Sony CD multi-disc player or XIVA-based hard
disc server. The hard-disc servers which use XIVA protocol can be fully
integrated into the OPUS 500 Series Multi-Room Entertainment System
and their text information displayed on the WCU500 Wall Control Keypad.
Currently this includes units from a diverse list of companies including
Marantz, Imerge and Elan.
Additionally, the TXT500 features USB and RS232 ports, which will
allow the TXT500 to benefit from software upgrades in the future. Its
encompassed software application creates a link to an online music
database from which artist, album and track information can be
downloaded and edited, allowing users to scroll through an expansive
library of music on screen, in the most convenient of manners. The TXT500
is available now for a very reasonable £170 and adds a whole new element
to this already thoroughly proficient multi-room system.
31
>
SOUND & VISION INSTALLER INDUSTRY
Installer Industry
COMPILED BY TOBY WATSON
Beyerdynamic have been announced as
the soul UK distributor of Blue Sky
speakers. For further information contact
+44 (0) 144 425 8258
www.beyerdynamic.co.uk
BREAKING INTO CHINA
Things are looking good for Integrated Systems as their show hits China
this month, following a successful debut in May 2004. Jointly organised
by the same three US-based associations behind its familiar European
sister show, it boasts offerings from 100 international and local brands,
including AMX, Analog Way, Barco, Bosch, Christie Digital, Clarity Visual
Systems, Crestron, Da-lite, dnp, Epson, Frank Smart Home, Grandview,
Infocus, Jamo, Jupiter Systems, Genelec, Panasonic, Mitsubishi, GQY,
projectiondesign, Sanyo, SpeakerCraft, Stewart Filmscreen, Synelec,
Toshiba, TV One, Vega, Vtron, WolfVision and many more.
According to IS China's Project Director, Mr Trevor Soh, “This year’s
showcase will feature an expanded exhibition and education profile with
a comprehensive mix of technologies and solutions for both the
commercial and residential sectors.” A Residential Home Theatre &
Technology Pavilion has been added, showcasing the latest in Home
Theatre and Integration technology, whilst over 30% of the exhibiting
companies will be launching new products at the showcase. Chief
Representative of Genelec, Mr Jouni Maaranto hopes that the Residential
focus will help to build this market in China: “As the leader of enhanced
home theatre industry, Genelec is confident of China's market
prospects. We hope we can bring the China home theatre system market
to greater heights with our participation in IS China 2005.”
The exhibitors certainly have great expectations for the show. “The
exponential growth of the Chinese market calls for more advanced AV
32
technology to support its development,” explained Epson China's Sales
Engineering Manager, Mr Zhou Tao. “Total projector sales in China for
the next five years are projected to sustain a double-digit growth. As one
of the world's major projector manufacturers and supplier of the core
projector technology, we would like to thank IS China for providing us
with such an effective platform to help us communicate with potential
customers, manufacturers and media from the industry.”
No major show with automation inclinations can be complete without
Crestron and their District Manager, Mr Bruce Xiong, explained how the
firm will exhibit newly designed touch-screen and software technology in
China. “We will also,” he continued, “present other sophisticated
commercial and residential integration devices which will interest the
industry professionals. In line with the rapid development of the China's
integration devices market for both the commercial and residential
sectors, this will be an avenue for more business opportunities.”
The event will be complemented by a series of professional seminars
on AV technologies and products during the exhibition period. This will
include 15 technical sessions for professionals to learn about audio-visual
and systems technology development in both the commercial and
residential sector. The event will be held at Shanghai Everbright
Convention and Exhibition Center, from the 27th to 29th April. We will
report on how it fares next month.
For further information contact: www.is-china.com
ARMOUR EXPAND
The recently renamed Armour Home Electronics is pleased to
announce that it has reached an agreement with NAD (Lenbrook UK)
that will enable Armour to offer selected NAD products to its
Systemline Modular Approved Installers.
Glenn McClelland, Armour Home Electronics’ Managing Director,
stated, ”We have evaluated a large number of products over recent
months and have concluded that selected NAD models are a superb
match for our Systemline Modular multi-room products.”
He continued, “We are therefore delighted that NAD has agreed to
allow us to offer six selected NAD models to our Systemline Modular
Installers. They are the perfect source components for typical 'Modular'
multi-room installations.”
Neil Wilson, Managing Director at Lenbrook UK, said “This is an
excellent opportunity for both companies. NAD electronics have become
increasingly ‘multi-room friendly’ with each revision and we are pleased
that these advances have been recognised by an industry leader such as
Armour, who are ideally positioned to bring these products to this very
specialised market.”
The following NAD models will be available from Armour Home
Electronics from early April 2005: the C162 Pre-amplifier (£429.95),
C422 Tuner (£189.95), C542 CD-Player (£329.95), T562 DVD-Player
(£399.95), T571 5-disc Multi DVD/CD-Player (£349.95) and T743 A/V
Receiver (£399.95).
This is an excellent addition to the Armour range and highlights the
growing importance of the multi-room sector.
www.armourhe.co.uk
BACK TO SCHOOL
The International Communications Industries Association (ICIA) is
expanding its audio-visual design, education and certification
programs in Europe with a series of Design Schools in 2005 and the
first certification testing ever outside the US.
Design School Level 3: Systems Design, which focuses on how to
analyse, select and plan seamless equipment interoperation to deliver
a desired outcome, was offered March 10th, 2005, immediately
followed by CTS-Design (Certified Technology Specialist-Design)
certification testing. RGB Communications hosted these important
educational opportunities at their training facilities in Berkshire, UK,
whilst key control systems providers AMX sponsored the event.
ICIA's certification program is renowned among AV professionals
as being a top notch option. ICIA has sponsored certification for the AV
industry for more than 30 years at both general and specialised levels;
indeed, there are currently 2,600 holders of ICIA certifications
worldwide, illustrating a 45% increase since 2003-2004.
ICIA were also proactive at the ISE show back in January, when
students from around Europe attended the three-day Design School
Level 1: The Principles of Applied AV Design. This allowed them to
explore the principles of design for proper visual display systems,
audio systems and control systems. This was hosted and supported by
Extron Electronics in its Amersfoort, Netherlands, facility, where ICIA
will hold the Design School Level 2: Facilities Design in September this
year.
Professionals from across Europe attended the first of these
courses. Murray Clark from the UK noted that while the course was
hard work, it “more than met my expectations and was very
informative and well presented... I am looking forward to attending
Level 2 in September.” Zeljko Cacinovic from Croatia commented that
the course was useful and fun and helped him systematise his existing
knowledge as well as fill in the gaps. “I learned a lot about sound,” he
exclaimed, “but the greater benefit of those three days was getting the
big picture of designing audio-visual systems.”
As the AV industry continues to grow, the ICIA's international
Industry Awareness Campaign has seen the association promoting the
value of hiring qualified, certified professionals and companies… and
thanks to these courses you can be one of the best of them.
For further information contact: +44 (0)1732 771658
www.infocomm.org/education/certification
Whole house automation
Award winning products
Generous installer margins
Online training programme
Full technical support
Touchscreen or keypad control
Reliable technology, realistic prices
P +44 (0)151 236 1832
[email protected]
www.elanhomesystems.com
33
>
SOUND & VISION CEDIA SPEAKS
The Expositionists!
CEDIA’s Operations Director Wendy Griffiths offers
the very latest update on the industry event of the
year, other association activities and developments
from within the membership.
With CEDIA Expo now little more than eight weeks away, things certainly seem
to be falling into place. The sun is shining, there is a spring in our step and
Birmingham’s hotel booking hotlines are starting to feel the strain. Throughout the
smarter end of the AV industry and amongst installers everywhere, talk is rife of
what this year’s event will have in store and how it will live up to its predecessors –
after all, the Expo seems to improve with every year. 2005 should be no exception
and as CI continues to work its way into the public eye – in ways that we highlight
below – the opportunity to push at the boundaries and bring it to the populace has
never been as evident. Thus, while the new Smart Home Show should help to
introduce the clients that drive our market to the idea of automation, attendance at
the Expo remains imperative – for where else can we be educated, inspired and
furnished with all the contacts we could need under one roof?
WHAT'S ON THE BOX
CEDIA members continue to market themselves very successfully both
independently and as hugely important and welcome contributors to CEDIA's
high-profile marketing campaign.
On 20th April, Channel 4's popular Grand Designs will feature a project
in Gloucester demonstrating the custom installation work of CEDIA member
Beyond The Invisible. As a contrast to this main property, Kevin McLeod also
visits another high-tech property - a luxury property equipped with all the
electronics you could possibly wish for by CEDIA member Dawson's. This
promises to be another high-profile showcase for custom electronic
installation, with an estimated audience for the show in the region of five
million.
Also, in April, e-Life, the TV series that celebrates the role of technology
in business innovation, began its new run on Tuesday nights on the CNBC
Europe channel with a particular focus on the connected home.
CEDIA and its members have worked closely with the show's production
team to demonstrate how electronic technology is too good to be confined to
the workplace by taking viewers inside some of the world's most
sophisticated and intelligent connected homes. Each show will feature a 10minute segment on home electronic technology and custom installation,
broadcasting their benefits to CNBC Europe viewers. Because the show is
syndicated to satellite and terrestrial
broadcasters in over 40 countries across Europe, the Middle East and Africa,
not to mention travellers on 15 major airlines, an audience in excess of 100
million is expected to see the show.
Make sure you tune in to see custom electronic technology in action
when the show airs in the UK at 19.30. And, if you would like to get involved
in the CEDIA PR campaign, then please contact me or our agency, Wildwood
PR, where Jeff, John, Eleanor and the team will be delighted to hear from
you: [email protected] or telephone +44 (0) 140 389 2720.
Keep in the know
with CEDIA’s
seminars...
INTRODUCTION TO CUSTOM INSTALLATION
COURSE
As part of the extensive CEDIA Expo seminar programme, we have also
arranged an extensive, two-day foundation course. The first day of
theoretical training for this course actually takes place ahead of Expo on
24th May at the Hitchin Priory Hotel, Hitchin. Day two of this course puts
the theory into practice with a hands-on, full day workshop at the CEDIA
Expo, enabling delegates to grow in knowledge, confidence and skill.
This course is ideal either as a forerunner to the Designer and
Installer training and exams, as a refresher course on basic skills or as
a quick start for newcomers entering into the custom installation
industry.
For more details and to book a place, please email
[email protected], call CEDIA on +44 (0)146 262 7377 or visit the CEDIA
website www.cedia.co.uk.
PRE-REGISTER NOW!
You can now pre-register for both the seminars and the exhibition at this
year's CEDIA Expo (27-30 June 2005), International Convention Centre,
Birmingham.
Delegate places on over 70 seminars, workshops and other training
activities, which begin on Monday 27th June, can be pre-booked in advance
with a bigger than ever early bird seminar booking discount. For those who
simply wish to visit Expo, which opens a day later, then registration is free of
charge until 15th May 2005.
To see details of the range of courses on offer and to pre-register, you
can use the booking form at the back of the CEDIA Expo Seminar Guide. For
a copy please email [email protected], call CEDIA on +44 (0)146 262 7377 or
visit the CEDIA website www.cedia.co.uk. You can also pre-register for both
seminars and Expo using the dedicated CEDIA Expo section of the website
www.cedia.co.uk/expo2005.
And remember, if you're looking for a bed for the night, then our
accommodation partner for CEDIA Expo is Jigsaw Conferencing, who can be
reached on +44 (0) 870 750 1532. The
headquarters hotel will again be the
Hyatt Regency in Birmingham.
PUTTING CUSTOM INSTALLATION ON SHOW
As well as looking forward to the forthcoming Expo in June, CEDIA is also working with exhibition
organisers to spread the word about home electronic systems to a wider consumer audience.
CEDIA, along with a number of designer / installer and manufacturer members, not only took stands
at the inaugural Smart Home Show, which began on Thursday 14th April at the NEC in Birmingham, but
were also heavily involved in contributing to the event's seminar programme. A full report on this event
follows in the next issue of What’s New.
At the Bathrooms & Kitchens Expo (10th-11th May 2005, Excel Centre, London), Steve Martin,
CEDIA's Education Chair is speaking on A Smarter Place To Be: Technology To Enhance Your Kitchen
and Bathroom. This seminar takes place on Tuesday 10th May at 15.00 Hrs.
CEDIA is also supporting a dedicated home electronics technology section of Grand Designs Live!
(10th-12th June, Excel Centre, London). Shell schemes within this section are available to all CEDIA
members at an exclusive discounted rate. The event is expected to attract over 30,000 visitors, and is
being promoted in association with The Times newspaper, Channel 4 and Heart FM. For more details on
exhibiting at Grand Designs Live! please contact Mike Dynan on +44 (0)124 549 1717.
More news on the industry's involvement with consumer exhibitions will follow in our next bulletin.
34
AWE at the
Expo 2004
BUILDING SPECIFIERS GET THE MESSAGE
CEDIA members continue to take a pro-active approach in marketing
themselves to the increasingly influential building specifiers segment of
the market. Two efforts have recently caught our attention.
Guildford based One Touch Solutions held a three-day open seminar
event in conjunction with leading UK smart home technology manufacturer
Square D at their show room premises in March. Aimed at introducing 21st
Century technology into today's homes, the event attracted architects,
property developers and builders to smart home and home entertainment
networking in new build properties.
Also in March, Dorset-based CEDIA member Dawson’s held an open
house week at its premises for property developers. The event proved so
successful in giving them an insight into custom electronic technology that
the week eventually turned into a fortnight! That's what I call popularity!
AND FINALLY…
A big thank you to our regional training event sponsors, AMX, Helvar, KEF
and Lutron, for their support in the latest successful event, which took
place in March at Hollins Hall Hotel in Shipley, West Yorkshire.
A total of 44 delegates attended the event, which featured businessfocussed courses on subjects such as building a brand, goal-setting and
how to exhibit effectively, as well as the CEDIA Foundation Course Making
The Transition From Retail To Custom and the CPD course Designing Future
Ready Homes.
The board also provided delegates with an overview of recent CEDIA
news and activities, which included the announcement that the likely
destination for the Autumn Regional Training Event and CEDIA AGM will be
sunny Brighton! More details on the dates, venue and seminars on offer will
follow in due course.
SHORT
CIRCUITS
A brief wander around the smart
end of our industry
MANAGING SOLUTION
DF Solutions have strengthened their senior management team
with the appointment of one of the industry's most respected and
well-known personalities - Jon Alway. Jon, 38, joins DF Solutions
at an important time, with the impending launch of an exciting
new product at the CEDIA Expo this June. Commenting on his
appointment, Jon said “I am very excited to be working with a
company that is at the forefront of custom audio and digital
media technology, and I look forward to visiting my many
acquaintances and communicating the power and flexibility DF
Solutions' products can give them. The iDyl Multiroom Audio
Server offers the installer so much more in areas such as easeof-installation, post-install support and day-to-day usage. Just
how simple and intuitive a product platform DF Solutions
provides has to be seen to be appreciated.”
David Perry, the company principal, commented: “With over
15 years in the industry, I was very impressed with Jon's
experience and knowledge.”
Contact: www.digitalfuturesolutions.co.uk
BLINDED BY THE SUN
One particular project in Carshalton, Surrey has highlighted the
benefits CI can bring, with its automated solar protection system
of 25mm pleated blinds, which is controlled by solar sensors but
also driven by solar power. Each houses includes south-facing
two-storey, double-glazed, timber-framed conservatory to
maximise solar gain and reduce the amount of artificial heating
required in winter. In summer, meanwhile, the automated solar
protection, designed by Burgess Fabric Engineering of Colchester,
makes full use of control technology from blind automation
experts Somfy. “This is an excellent example of smart home
technology being used for the good of the environment,” John
Burgess of BFE explained.
Contact: www.somfy.co.uk
LIFESTYLE CHOICES
CEDIA has received another ruling in its favour from the
Trademark Trial and Appeal Board in the action brought by Bose
Corporation to cancel CEDIA’s trademark registrations in the
term Electronic Lifestyles. The Board denied Bose’s motion for
summary judgment and refused to consider Bose’s fraud claims
against CEDIA as to the registrations. CEDIA had previously
received a ruling that one of Bose’s claims was filed too late and
that CEDIA's registration in the publications category could not
be cancelled under the grounds that it would cause confusion in
the marketplace, as initially filed by Bose.
Contact: www.cedia.org
35
CONTACT BOOK
•A
Aanvil Audio
Woodvale, Heath Road, Woolpit,
Bury St Edmunds, IP30 9RU
T: +44 (0) 135 924 0687
www.aanvilaudio.com
Bishopstone
Bucks, HP17 8SF
T: +44 (0) 870 240 1162
F: +44 (0) 20 7691 7844
[email protected]
www.aldoussystems.co.uk
Absolute Sounds Ltd
58 Durham Road, London,
SW20 0TW
T: +44 (0)20 8971 3909
Algar Distribution
25 Bay Tree Close,
Newton Longville, Bucks,
MK17 0DT
T: +44 (0) 190 836 8021
F: +44 (0) 190 836 8024
M: +44 (0) 797 375 6158
[email protected]
www.algar-distribution.com
ACM Installations
Ltd (South)
Holed Stoned Barn
Stisted Cottage Farm
Bradwell, Essex,CM77 2DZ
+44 (0) 870 242 3285
[email protected]
ACM Installations Ltd (North)
71 Westerngailes Way, Hull,
E Yorks, HU8 9EQ
T: +44 [0] 14 8237 7530
Aca-Apex Ltd
Apex House
10 Ivinghoe Way
Edesborugh
Dunstable
T: +44 (0) 152 522 0782
Acoustic Energy Ltd
16 Bridge Road, Cirencester,
Glos, GL7 1NJ
T: +44 (0) 128 565 4432
F: +44 (0) 128 565 4430
[email protected]
www.acoustic-energy.co.uk
Acoustic Partnership, The
Unit 8, Saltash Business Park,
Forge Lane, Saltash, Cornwall,
PL12 6LX
T: +44 (0) 870 047 0047
F: +44 (0) 870 047 0048
[email protected]
Acoustic Solutions Ltd
The Grand Union Buildings,
54 High Street, Weedon,
Northants, NN7 4QD
T: +44 (0) 132 734 2255
F: +44 (0) 132 734 2298
[email protected]
www.acousticsolutions.co.uk
Activ Distribution
Unit 16
Plantagenet House
Kingsclere Industrial Park
Kingsclere, Hampshire
RG20 4SW
T: +44 (0) 163 529 1357
F: +44 (0) 163 529 1356
www:activdistribution.com
email:[email protected]
AKAI
Prima International Plc,
Prima House, Premier Park,
Oulton, Leeds, LS26 8ZA
T: +44 (0) 113 251 1500
F: +44 (0) 113 251 1515
[email protected]
www.akai.eu.com
Aldous Systems
(Europe) Ltd
The Chestnuts, 28
Allison Loudspeakers
470 Stanford Road,
Daville, Kentucky
40422 , USA
T: (859) 236-8298
F: (859) 236 7476
Alphason Designs
Ltd
Alphason House,
Bolton Road, Atherton,
Greater Manchester, M46 9AW
T: +44 (0) 194 288 5600
F: +44 (0) 194 287 6955
[email protected]
www.alphasondesigns.com
Alltrade Aerial &
Satellite Ltd
Unit 4, Sussex House,
Business Park,
274 Old Shoreham Road,
Hove, BN3 7EU
T: +44 (0) 845 075 0751
F: +44 (0) 870 770 9151
AMX UK Ltd
Auster Road, Clifton Moor,
York, N. Yorks, YO30 4GD
T: +44 (0) 190 434 3100
F: +44 (0) 190 434 3101
[email protected]
www.amx.com
Anatek Audio
19 Springfield Avenue,
Telcombe Cliffs,
Peacehaven, East Sussex,
BN10 7AR
T: +44 (0) 781 768 1402
www:anatek-audio.co.uk
Anders+Kern UK Ltd
Norderstedt House,
James Carter Road,
Mildenhall, Suffolk, IP28 7RQ
T: +44 (0) 163 851 0900
F: +44 (0) 163 851 0901
[email protected]
www.anders-kern.co.uk
Ansar Audio Capacitors Ltd
Units F & G,
Cambrian Buildings,
Coney Green, Oswestry,
Shropshire, SY11 2JL
T: +44 (0) 169 167 9191
F: +44 (0) 169 167 9191
[email protected]
Anthony Gallo Acoustics
The Inox Building
Caldwellside
Lanark, Lanarkshire
Scotland, ML11 7SR
API (UK) Ltd
8 Marchmont Gate
Boundary Way
Hemel Hempstead
Herts HP2 7BF
T: +44 (0) 144 223 3853
F: +44 (0) 144 223 1860
Apollo Hi Fi Furniture Ltd
Castle Works,High Street,
Tipton,DY4 8HJ
T: +44 (0) 121 520 5070
F: +44 (0) 121 522 2055
[email protected]
www.apollohifi.co.uk
Arcam
Pembroke Avenue,
Denny Ind. Centre,
Waterbeach,
Cambridge, CB5 9QR
T: +44 (0) 122 320 3200
F: +44 (0) 122 386 3384
[email protected]
www.arcam.co.uk
Artcoustic Loudspeakers
Studio 6, Pickwick House,
20 Ebenezer Street,
London, N1 7NP
T: +44 [0] 20 7490 7202
F: +44 [0] 20 7490 0526
[email protected]
www:artcoustic.com
Art Loudspeakers
3 Duke Road,Troon
Scotland, KA10 6QR
T: +44 (0) 129 231 9416
F: +44 (0) 129 231 9416
[email protected]
www.loudspeaker-art.com
Art Systems Limited
Unit 10 - 12 Glaisdale Point
Glaisdale Parkway
Nottingham, NG8 4GP
T: +44 (0) 115 9380 380
F: +44 (0) 115 9380 381
[email protected]
www.artsystems.co.uk
Ash Designs Ltd,
Unit One, Kingsley Business
Park, New Road,
Kibworth, Leicestershire,
LE8 0LE
T: +44 (0)116 279 6601
F: +44 (0)116 279 6602
www:gamepod.co.uk
Atacama Audio
Winston Ave.,
Croft, Leicester,
LE9 3GQ
T: +44 (0) 145 528 3251
F: + 44 (0) 145 528 3908
[email protected]
www.atacama-audio.co.uk
ATC Loudspeaker
Technology Ltd.
Gypsy Lane, Aston Down,
Stroud, Gloucs,
GL6 8HR
T: +44 (0) 128 576 0561
F: +44 (0) 128 576 0683
[email protected]
www.atc.gb.net
ATV
59 The Glade, Fetcham,
Surrey, KT22 9TF
T: +44 (0) 137 245 6921
Audio Atmosphere
29 Drake Avenue, Penkridge,
Staffs, ST19 5UA
[email protected]
Audiofreaks
15 Link Way, Ham, Surrey,
TW10 7QT
T: +44 (0)20 8948 4153
F: +44 (0)20 8948 4250
AudioControl.co.uk
20 Folder Lane, Sprotbrough
Doncaster, South Yorkshire
DN5 7PB
T: +44 (0)130 285 6330
F: +44(0)130 285 6330
[email protected]
Audio Group (UK) Ltd
Unit 3, Saltash Business Park,
Saltash, Cornwall,
PL12 6LX
T: +44 (0) 175 284 8816
[email protected]
T: +44 (0)20 7940 2200
F: +44 (0)20 7940 2233
Audio Reference
Unit 8, Enterprise Park,
Slyfield Industrial Estate,
Guildford, Surrey, GU1 1RB
T: +44 (0) 125 270 2705
F: +44 (0) 148 330 1412
[email protected]
www.audioreference.co.uk
Audio Synthesis
PO Box 50, Nottingham,
NG9 1DZ
T: +44 (0) 115 922 4138
F: +44 (0) 115 922 9701
[email protected]
www.audiosynthesis.co.uk
AUDUSA & Co
4 Arundel Road,
Kingston upon Thames,
Surrey, KT1 3RZ
T: +44 [0] 2082419826
F: +44 [0] 2082410999
[email protected]
Audio Note (UK) Ltd
Unit C, Peacock Ind Est.,
Lyon Close, 125-127 Davigdor Rd,
Hove, East Sussex, BN3 1SG
T: +44 (0) 127 322 0511
F: +44 (0) 127 373 498
[email protected]
AVF Group Limited
Hortonwood Industrial Estate,
Telford, TF1 7YE
T: +44 [0] 1952 678855
F: +44 [0] 1952 606205
[email protected]
www.avf.co.uk
Audiosolutions Sales &
Marketing
63, Love lane. Pontefract,
West Yorkshire, WF8 4EG
T: +44 (0) 197 779 8844
www.a-audiosolutions.co.uk
sales@a audiosolutions.co.uk
Avid
Unit 52, 137 North Gate,
Alconbury Airfield, Alconbury,
Huntingdon, Cambridge,
PE28 4WX
T: +44 (0) 148 045 7300
F: +44 (0) 148 045 7057
[email protected]
www.avidhifi.co.uk
Audio Technica Ltd
Unit 2, Royal London Ind. Estate,
Old Lane, Leeds, LS11 8AG
T: +44 (0) 113 277 1441
F: +44 (0) 113 270 4836
Audio Visual World
59 Golders Green Road
London
NW11 8EL
T: +44 (0) 208 455 3490
www.audiovisualworld.co.uk
Audion International Limited
Chez Reynaud, Le Haut Mont
17360, La Genetouze,
France
T: +33 546 043282
F: +33 546 043693
Audiophile Club, The
PO Box 6477, London, 13 4AY
T: +44 (0)20 8882 2822
F: +44 (0)20 8372 3772
[email protected]
www.audiophileclub.co.uk
Audiophile Base
Sales & Marketing,
Wood Lea Cottage, Church Road,
Southborough Common,
Kent, N4 0RT
T: +44 (0) 189 261 9319
M: +44 (0) 771 576 3777
[email protected]
www.audiophilebase.com
Audio Partnership PLC
Gallery Court, Hankey Place
London, SE1 4BB
AVM Ltd
AVM House, Hawley Lane
Farnborough GU14 8EH
T: +44 (0) 125 251 0363
www.avmltd.co.uk
[email protected]
AWE Europe Ltd
B1 Longmead Business Centre,
Longmead Business Park,
Blenheim Road, Epsom, Surrey,
KT19 9QQ
T: +44 (0) 137 272 9777
F: +44 (0) 137 272 9757
[email protected]
www.awe-europe.co.uk
Azego Technology Services
Limited
Systems House, Loddon Centre,
Wade Road, Basingstoke,
RG24 8FL
T: +44 (0) 125 681 1811
F: +44 (0) 125 681 1855
[email protected]
www.azego.co.uk
•B
BADA
PO Box 330, Newton Abbott,
TQ12 2ZR
T: +44 (0) 870 126 9137
F: +44 (0) 870 126 9138
[email protected]
www.bada.co.uk
Bandridge
see BBG Distribution Ltd
[email protected]
www.active-sound.com
[email protected]
Barco UK Ltd
50 Suttons Park Avenue,
Reading, Berks,
RG6 1AZ
T: +44 (0) 118 929 0105
www.barco.com
Bose Ltd
1 Ambley Green, Gillingham
Business Park, Gillingham,
Kent, ME8 0NJ
T: +44 (0) 870 741 4500
F: +44 (0) 870 741 4545
Choice Hi-Fi
52 Milton Road, East Sheen,
London, SW14 8JR
T: +44 (0)20 8392 1959
F: +44 (0)20 8392 1994
[email protected]
BBG Distribution Ltd
Unit 3 Barrett Way,
Tudor Road, Harrow,
Middlesex, HA3 5QS
T: +44 (0)20 8863 9117
F: +44 (0)20 8863 7119
[email protected]
www.bbg.eu.com
Boston Acoustics Distribution
(UK) Limited
16 Bridge Road, Cirencester
Gloucestershire GL7 1NJ
T: +44 (0) 128 565 0814
www.boston-acoustics.co.uk
Beamax
Bleekveldstraat 7 B
3900 Overpelt
Belgium
T: 0800-9175 943
F: 0800-9175 945
B.F.A.
PO Box 365, Farnham,
GU10 2BD
T: +44 (0) 142 871 4616
F: +44 (0) 142 871 4616
[email protected]
[email protected]
www.british-audio.org.uk
B & W Loudspeakers UK
Dale Road, Worthing,
West Sussex, BN11 2BH
T: +44 (0) 190 322 1500
F: +44 (0) 190 322 1501
[email protected]
www.bwspeakers.com
B-Tech International Ltd
4 Meridian Centre
Vulcan Way, New Addington
Croydon, CR0 9UG
T: +44 (0) 168 984 8535
F: +44 (0) 168 984 1087
[email protected]
Bang & Olufsen UK Ltd
630 Wharfedale Road,
Winnersh Triangle,
Berkshire, RG41 5TP
T: +44 (0) 118 969 2288
F: +44 (0) 118 969 3388
www.bang-olufsen.com
Beyerdynamic (GB) Ltd
17 Albert Drive, Burgess Hill,
Sussex, RH15 9TN
T: +44 (0) 144 425 8258
F: +44 (0) 144 425 8444
[email protected]
www.beyerdynamic.co.uk
Black Rhodium
2 The Paddocks
Ascot Business park
Long Bridge lane,
Derby, DE24 8ST
T: +44 (0) 133 275 5766
F: +44 (0) 133 220 0698
[email protected]
Blok
65 Castle Street
Saffron Walden
CB10 1BD
T: +44 (0) 179 951 6520
F: +44 (0) 179 951 6521
Brian Reeves (REVOX)
184 Finney Lane, Heald Green,
Cheadle, Cheshire, SK8 3PU
T: +44 (0) 161 499 2349
F: +44 (0) 161 499 9381
[email protected]
www.revox.freeuk.com
•C
Calculus Software Solutions Ltd
Branksome, Mill Hill,Edenbridge
Kent, TN8 5DQ
T: +44 (0) 845 125 9192
F: +44 (0) 173 286 5997
www.findesolutions.com
[email protected]
Canton
Uxbridge House,
3 Wakefield Place,
Gosport, PO12 2JT
T: +44 (0) 239 250 1888
F: +44 (0) 239 250 1999
[email protected]
www.canton.de
Cartridge Man, The
88 Southbridge Road,
Croydon, Surrey, CR0 1AF
T /F: +44 (0)20 8688 6565
Castle Acoustics Ltd
Shortbank Road, Skipton,
N.Yorks, BD23 2TT
T: +44 (0) 175 679 5333
F: +44 (0) 175 679 5335
CEDIA UK
The Pixmore Centre,
Pixmore Avenue, Letchworth,
Herts, SG6 1JG
T: +44 (0) 146 262 7377
F: +44 (0) 146 262 0429
[email protected]
www.cedia.co.uk
Celestion Consumer Division
Tovil, Maidstone, Kent, ME15 6QP
T: +44 (0) 162 268 7442
F: +44 (0) 162 268 7981
www.celestion.com
Chapter Audio Ltd
42 Thornton Hill, Exeter,
Devon, X4 4NS
T: +44 (0) 139 268 6797
F: +44 (0) 139 267 6795
[email protected]
www.chapteraudio.com
Cherished Record Co
PO Box 21, Liskeard, PL14 5YP
T: +44 (0) 157 936 3603
F: +44 (0) 157 936 3604
Chord Company Ltd, The
Chord Company House
Units 21-24, The Millsway Centre,
Amesbury, Salisbury
Wiltshire, SP4 7RX
Tel: +44 1980 625700
Fax: +44 1980 625070
[email protected]
www.chordelectronics.co.uk
Chord Electronics Ltd
The Pumphouse, Farleigh Bridge,
Farleigh Lane, East Farleigh, Kent,
ME16 9NB
T: +44 (0) 162 272 1444
F: +44 (0) 162 272 1555
[email protected]
www.chordelectronics.co.uk
CKS Entertainment Systems Ltd
High View House, Charles Square,
Bracknell, RG12 1DF
T: +44 (0) 134 430 7788
F: +44 (0) 134 445 6710
cksgroup.co.uk/entertainment
Clipsal Integrated Systems
Braywick House East
Windsor Road, Maidenhead
Berkshire, SL6 1DN
T: +44 (0) 162 850 8530
www:clipsal.co.uk
Claritycap Industrial Capacitors
(Wrexham) Ltd
Miners Road, Llay Industrial
Estate, Wrexham, LL12 OPJ
T: +44 (0) 197 885 3805
F: +44 (0) 197 885 3785
[email protected]
www.icwLtd.co.uk
www.claritycap.co.uk
Coles ElectroAcoustics Ltd
Pindar Road, Hoddesdon,
Herts, N11 OBZ
T: +44 (0) 199 246 6685
F: +44 (0) 199 244 6583
[email protected]
www.coleselectracoustics.com
Colourgen Ltd
The AmBer Centre, Oldfield Road
Maidenhead, Berks SL6 1TH
tel: 01628 588777
fax: 01628 588716
E-mail: [email protected]
www.colourgen.com
Comfort Home Controls
39 Cartlon Avenue
Chester, CH4 8UE
T: +44 (0) 124 468 0675
www:comfort.org.uk
[email protected]
Convergent-AV Ltd
8 Fraser Drive, Blackwood,
ML11 9YP
T: +44 (0) 1555 890120
F: +44 (0) 1555 890120
[email protected]
www.convergent-av.co.uk
CR Electronic Design
Wansfell House, 33 Briar Close,
Hawkwell, Hockley, Essex,
SS5 4HD
T: +44 (0) 170 220 0111
[email protected]
www.crdevelopments.com
Crestron (UK) Ltd
Neptune House,,
2 Portsmouth Road,
Kingston Upon Thames,
Surrey, KT1 2LU
T: +44 (0)20 8439 7272
F: +44 (0) 20 8439 7273
[email protected]
www.crestron.com
Crane Audio
Enterprise House, Ocean Village
Southampton, SO14 3XB
T: +44 (0) 870 444 1056
[email protected]
www.craneaudio.com
Creek Audio
12 Avebury Court,
Mark Road, Hemel
Hempstead, Herts, HP2 7TA
T: +44(0) 144 226 0146
F: +44 (0) 144 224 3766
[email protected]
www.creekaudio.co.uk
Cromwell Business Systems
King's View House,
3 Bartholomew's Walk, Ely,
Cambs, CB7 4EA
T: +44 (0) 135 365 0900
F: +44 (0) 135 365 0930
C.S.E.
Unit 9, Centre Park
Holdings,
The Airfield,
Tockwith, York,
YO26 7QF
T: +44 (0) 142 335 9054
F: +44 (0) 142 335 9058
Custom Design (Newcastle)
Furniture Manufacturer,
Unit 11, Bath Street Ind. Est.,
Walker, Newcastle Upon Tyne,
NE6 4PH
T: +44 (0) 191 262 4646
F: +44 (0) 191 262 4646
[email protected]
Custom Sight & Sound
PO Box 4146
Epping, Essex
CM16 6HJ
T: +44 (0) 199 257 3030
F: +44 (0) 199 257 4030
[email protected]
www.revox.de
Cyrus Electronics
Spitfire Close, Ermine Business
Park, Huntingdon, Cambridgeshire
PE29 6XY
T: +44 (0) 148 043 5577
F: +44 (0) 148 043 7715
[email protected]
•D
D&T Electronics
Unit 5 Woodfield House
Woodfield Road, Altrincham
Cheshire WA14 4ED
T ++44(0)870 444 5929
F +44(0)870 444 5945
[email protected]
www.dandt.co.uk
dCS Ltd
Mull House, Great Chesterford
Court, Great Chesterford,
CB10 1PF
T: +44 (0) 179 953 1999
F: +44 (0) 179 953 1681
[email protected]
wwwdcsltd.co.uk
David Denyer PR
Church House, Church Lane,
Nursling, Hampshire, SO16 OYB
t: +44 (0) 23 8073 6838
f: +44 (0) 23 8073 6839
m: +44 (0) 7976 646404
[email protected]
DBS AUDIO
Sentinel House, Northgate Avenue,
Bury St Edmunds,
Suffolk, IP32 6BZ
T: +44 (0) 128 472 3933
F: +44 (0) 128 472 3933
M: +44 (0) 777 618 8547
[email protected]
Decibel Distribution Ltd
9 Darluith Park, Brookfield,
Renfrewshire, PA5 8DD
T /F: +44 (0) 150 532 1351
M: +44 (0) 797 652 8537
[email protected]
Deltron Components Ltd
Roxburgh House, Foxhills
Industrial Park, Scunthorpe,
North Lincolnshire, DN15 8QJ
T: +44 (0) 172 428 0120
F: +44 (0) 172 428 0353
Demion Products
A/V Accessories, 17 Woodland
Avenue, Wokingham, Berks,
RG41 3HL
T: +44 (0) 118 977 4085
F: +44 (0) 118 978 5507
www.demion.co.uk
Denon UK
Hayden House, Chiltern Hill,
Chalfont St. Peter
Bucks, SL9 9UG
T: +44 (0) 123 474 1200
www.denon.co.uk
Design e
9 Bellevue Lane, Emsworth,
Hampshire, PO10 7PX
T: +44 (0) 124 337 7899
[email protected]
www.Designe.co.uk
DF Solutions Digital Future Solutions
7 Somerton Grange,
Coleraine,
Co Londonderry,
N Ireland,
BT51 3GB
T: +44 (0) 287 035 8894
www.digitalfuturesolutions.co.uk
david.perry@digitalfuture solutions.co.uk
CONTACT BOOK
Dixons
200 The Campus, Maylands
Avenue, Hemel Hempstead,
Herts, HP2 7TG
T: +44 (0) 144 235 3000
F: +44 (0) 144 223 3218
Dolby Laboratories
Wootton Bassett, Wiltshire,
SN4 8QJ
T: +44 (0) 179 384 2100
F: +44 (0) 179 384 2101
[email protected]
www.dolby.com
DRDB
The Radio Centre,
77 Shaftsbury Avenue,
London, W1D 5DU
T: +44 (0)20 7306 2633
F: +44 (0)20 7470 0062
DTS Europe
5 Tavistock Estate,
Ruscombe Lane, Twyford,
Berks, RG10 9NJ
T: +44 (0) 118 934 9199
F: +44 (0) 118 934 9198
[email protected]
www.dtsonline.com
Dynaudio UK
PO Box 1010,
Maidstone
ME14 4WZ
T: +44 (0) 207 378 1810
F: +44 (0) 870 112 3947
[email protected]
•E
E.A.R./Yoshino Ltd.
Coombe Grove Farm,
Ermine Way, Arrington,
Cambs, SG8 0AL
T: +44 (0) 122 320 8877
F: +44 (0) 122 320 8761
[email protected]
www.ear-yoshino.com
ECT Ltd Projection screen
and accessories
PO Box 4020,
Pangbourne
Berkshire, RG8 8TX
T: +44 (0) 118 984 1141
F: +44 (0) 118 984 1847
[email protected]
www.ect-av.com
Elan Systems
(UK) Ltd
Unit 4, Pumpfields Road,
Liverpool, L3 6BA
T: +44 (0) 151 236 1832
F: +44 (0) 151 255 1194
[email protected]
www.elanhomesystems.com
Eltax UK
The Old Granary,
Sycamore Yard, Blakesley,
Towcester, Northants, NN12 8QY
T: +44 (0) 132 786 0789
F: +44 (0) 132 786 1058
[email protected]
www.eltax.com
Eminence Speaker
Europe Ltd
Grantley Way, Wakefield,
WF1 4PY
T: +44 (0) 192 423 9999
Fax: +44 (0) 192 423 9988
www.eminence-speaker.com
Emotive Excellence
5a Market Street,
Watton-under-Edge, Glos,
GL12 7AE
T: +44 (0) 145 384 3682
F: +44 (0) 145 384 3682
EPOS Acoustics
12 Avebury Court,
Mark Road,
Hemel Hempstead,
Herts, HP2 7TA
T: +44 (0) 144 226 0146
F: +44 (0) 144 224 3766
[email protected]
www.epos-acoustics.com
ESLab Ltd
Penlands Vale, Steyning,
West Sussex, BN44 3PL
T: +44 (0) 190 381 4618
[email protected]
www.eslab.co.uk
ETHOS Acoustics Ltd
268A Kingshill Avenue, Hayes,
Middx, UB4 8BY
T: +44 (0)20 8842 0020
F: +44 (0)20 8842 0020
European Precision Moulding
Ltd/Red Scorpion Industries
Storefast Estate, Northend Park,
Corner Road, Betsham,
Kent, DA13 9LJ
T: +44 (0) 147 483 4345
F: +44 (0) 147 483 4340
Excel Audio Systems Ltd.
39 Highfield Road, Acton,
London, W3 0AJ
T: +44 (0)20 8354 0820
F: +44 (0)20 8354 0834
[email protected]
www.excelaudio.co.uk
Expert Stylus & Cartridge Co
PO Box 3, Ashtead, Surrey,
KT21 2QD
T: +44 (0) 137 227 6604
F: +44 (0) 137 227 6147
Exposure Electronics
The Works, 59 North Street,
Portslade, East Sussex,
BN41 1DH
T: +44 (0) 127 342 3877
F: +44 (0) 127 343 0619
•F
Falcon Acoustics Ltd
Unit 12, Damgate Industrial
Estate, Acle, Norwich,
Norfolk, NR13 3DJ
T: +44 (0) 149 375 1100
F: +44 (0) 149 375 1155
[email protected]
www.falcon-acoustics.co.uk
Ferguson Hill Studios
178 Royal College Street,
Camden, London, NW1 0SP
T: +44 [0] 207 284 0969
www:fergusonhill.co.uk
[email protected]
Finlux UK
Finlux House, Caen View
Rushy Platt, Swindon
Wiltshire SN5 8WQ
tel: 01793 870316
fax: 01793 870318
Focal-JM Lab UK
Jesson House, Tower Street,
Coventry, CV1 1JN
T: +44 (0) 845-6602680
[email protected]
[email protected]
Fryer Sales & Marketing Ltd
Unit 4, The Nelson Centre,
Portfield Road, Portsmouth,
PO3 5SF
T: +44 (0) 239 269 0999
F: +44 (0) 239 269 0666
[email protected]
www.fryersales.com
Fujitsu General (UK) Co Ltd
Limited, Unit 150, Centennial
Park, Centennial Avenue,
Elstree, Herts, D6 3SG
T: +44 (0)20 8731 3450
F: +44 (0)20 8731 3451
[email protected]
www.fujitsu-general.co.uk
Futronix Ltd.
143 Futronix House, Croydon,
Caterham, Surrey, CR3 6PF
T: +44 (0) 188 337 3333/3334
F: +44 (0) 188 337 3335/3336
[email protected]
www.futronix.info
Futureglass
1a Anglia Way, Braintree,
Essex, CM7 3RG
T: +44 (0) 870 033 0300
F: +44 (0) 870 005 48184
www.futureglass.co.uk
[email protected]
FX Furniture
The old Vicarage, Church Lane,
Clarbrorough, Northants,
DN22 9NA
T: +44 (0) 177 786 9809
F: +44 (0) 177 786 9041
[email protected]
www.fx-furniture.com
•G
Games & Lifestyle Technology,
Corporate A/V & Promotions
Staffing, Level 4,
141-142 Fenchurch Street,
London, EC3M 9B
direct line T: +44 (0) 20 7877 3373
switchboard T: +44 (0) 20 7929 2999
[email protected]
Garden Light & Audio
Woodlea Cottage, Church
Road, Southborough
Common, Kent
T: +44 (0) 189 261 9319
[email protected]
www.glaa.co.uk
Gecko Inc Ltd
18-24 Brighton Road, S. Croydon,
Surrey, CR2 6AA
T: +44 (0)20 8603 0480
F: +44 (0)20 8688 2491
[email protected]
Genco Systems Ltd
Design & Installation
26-28 Queensway
Enfield, Middlesex
EN3 4SA
T: +44 (0) 208 443 2820
F: +44 (0) 208 442 2847
E: [email protected]
Harvard Technology Group
Unit C, Lombard Business Park
20-26 Purley Way, Croydon,
Surrey, CR0 3JP
T: +44 (0) 845 450 1480
F: +44 (0)20 8665 1333
W: www.gencosystems.demon.co.uk
Henley Designs Ltd
Unit 11, Moorbrook,
Southmead Industrial Park,
Didcot, Oxfordshire, OX11 7HP
T: +44 (0) 123 551 1166
F: +44 (0) 123 551 1266
[email protected]
www.henleydesigns.co.uk
Glaive Ltd
Unit 7 Wren Ind Estate,
Coldred Road, Maidstone,
ME15 9YT
T /F: +44 (0) 162 266 4070
[email protected]
[email protected]
www.glaive.co.uk
www.insert-audio.co.uk
Glenfield Software
7 Eaton Court
Colworth Business park
St Neots
PE19 8YH
T: +44 (0) 148 040 7700
F: +44 (0) 148 047 3734
[email protected]
www.glenfieldsoftware.com
Graff Electronic Machines Ltd
Woodhill Road, Collingham,
Newark, Nottinghamshire,
NG23 7NR
T: +44 (0) 163 689 3036
F: +44 (0) 163 689 3317
[email protected]
www.graffelectronics.co.uk
G T Audio
Cherry Hollow, Higher Denham,
Bucks, UB9 5EJ
T: +44 (0) 189 583 3099
F: +44 (0) 189 583 2594
[email protected]
www.gtaudio.com
•H
Hadcock G.F.C. (Manufacturer)
Langley House,
11 Highwood Road,
Uttoxeter, Staffs,
ST14 8BQ
T: +44 (0) 188 956 9166
F: +44 (0) 188 956 9166
HAMA PVAC Ltd
Unit 4, Cherrywood,
Chineham Business Park,
Basingstoke, Hants,
RG24 8WF
T: +44 (0) 125 637 4700
F: +44 (0) 125 637 4749
Harbeth Audio Limited
3 Enterprise Park,
Lewes Road, Lindfield,
West Sussex, RH16 2LH
T: +44 (0) 144 448 4371
F: +44 (0) 144 448 7629
[email protected]
www.harbeth.co.uk
Harman Consumer UK
6 Elstree Gate, Elstree Way,
Borehamwood, Herts,
WD6 1JD
T: +44 (0)20 8731 4670
F: +44 (0)20 8731 4699
[email protected]
www.harman.com
www.harvardtechnologygroup.com
Hitachi Europe Ltd
Whitebrook Park
Lower Cookham
Road, Maidenhead
Berkshire SL6 8YA
T: +44 (0) 162 864 3000
F: +44 (0) 162 858 5000
www.hitachidigitalmedia.com
•I
If designs
143 Huddersfield Road
Huddersfield, West Yorkshire
HD8 8LB
T: 01484 606 900
[email protected]
www:ifdesigns.co.uk
IKON AVS
Unit 238, Ikon Estate
Droitwich Road,
Hartlebury
Worcs, DY10 4EU
T: +44 (0) 129 925 0991
F: +44 (0) 129 925 0983
[email protected]
www.ikonavs.com
iLight Limited
Unit 4 Enterprise Centre
Penshurst, Tonbridge, Kent
TN11 8BG
T: +44 (0) 189 287 0072
F: +44 (0) 189 287 0074
[email protected]
www.ilightgroup.com
Imerge Ltd
Unit 6, Bar Hill Business Park,
Saxon Way, Bar Hill,
Cambridge, CB3 8SL
T: +44 (0) 195 478 3600
F: +44 (0) 195 478 3601
[email protected]
www.imerge.co.uk
Invision UK Ltd
Field Wood House,
Bacton Road, Haughley Green,
Stowmarket, IP14 3RQ
T:+ 44 [0] 144 967 7233
www:invisionuk.com
[email protected]
Iroquos PR
15 Ingestre Place, Soho,
London, W1F 0JH
T: +44 [0] 207 439 8537
Isoblue Ltd
25 Victoria Road,Draycott
Derby, DE72 3PS
T: 01332 875700
[email protected]
www:isoblue.com/products
•J
Jamo UK
Unit 32, Greenlands Business
Centre, Redditch, Worcs, B98 7HD
T: +44 (0) 152 750 2502
www:jamo.com
JVC UK Ltd
JVC House, JVC
Business Park,
12 Priestly Way, London, NW2 7BA
www.jvc-europe.com
T: +44 (0) 20 8450 3282
F: +44 (0) 20 8208 3038
•K
KEF Audio (UK)
Ltd
Eccleston Road,
Tovil, Maidstone, Kent, ME15 6QP
T: +44 (0) 162 267 2261
F: +44 (0) 162 275 0653
www.kef.com
Keene Electronics Ltd
Unit 9
Old Hall Mills Business Park
Little Eaton
Derbyshire DE21 5DN
+44 (0)870 990 9000
www.keene.co.uk
Klegg Audio UK
PO Box 34949, London SW8 5XN
T: +44 (0) 870 075 5344
www.klegg.com
KM Acoustics
Unit 8
Torafen Business Centre
Panteg Way, Pontypool
NP4 0LS
Konnectson UK Ltd
Cirrus House, Glebe Road
Huntingdon, Cambs
PE29 7DL
T: +44 (0) 148 043 4441
F: +44 (0) 148 043 3312
•L
Lafayette Europe Ltd
Contact House, Ditton Road
Widnes, Cheshire,
WA8 0TH
T: +44 (0) 870 410 0415
F: +44 (0) 870 410 0413
www.lafayette-europe.com
[email protected]
Lamba Plc
Unit 1, Southfields Road,
Dunstable, Beds, LU6 3EJ
T: +44 (0) 158 269 0600
F: +44 (0) 158 269 0400
[email protected]
Lawton Trade Supplies
22 Willows Court, Sandwell Bus.
Park, Crystal Drive,
Smethwick, W. Midlands,
B66 1RD
T: +44 (0) 121 511 1128
F: +44 (0) 121 544 6877
[email protected]
Lektropacks (UK)
Unit 6, Metro Industrial Centre,
St Johns Road, Isleworth,
Middx, TW7 6NL
T: +44 (0)20 8847 2776
F: +44 (0)20 8560 8050
[email protected]
www.lektropacks.co.uk
Lenbrook UK Ltd
Unit 2, Old Wolverton Road,
Old Wolverton, Milton Keynes,
MK12 5NP
T: +44 (0) 190 831 9360
F: +44 (0) 190 832 2752
[email protected]
www.lenbrook.co.uk
L.G. Electronics UK Ltd
264 Bath Road,
Slough,Berks,
SL1 4DT
T: +44 (0) 870 607 5544
F: +44 (0) 175 351 7445
Linn Products Ltd
Floors Road, Waterfoot,
Eaglesham, Glasgow,
G76 0EP
T: +44 (0) 141 307 7777
F: +44 (0) 141 644 4262
www.linn.co.uk
Living Control
Ashton House, Farnborough Hill,
Orpington, Kent, BR6 6DA
T: +44 (0) 168 986 1188
F: +44 (0) 168 985 9915
[email protected]
www.livingcontrol.com
Living Voice
7 Harrington Mills, Leopold Street,
Long Eaton, NG10 4QE
T: +44 (0) 115 973 3222
[email protected]
www.definitiveaudio.co.uk
Lockwood Audio
Unit 8, 724 Field End Road,
Ruislip, Middx, HA4 0QP
T: +44 (0)20 8864 8008
F: +44 (0)20 8864 3064
[email protected]
www.lockwoodaudio.co.uk
Loewe (Linn Products)
PO Box 8465, Prestwick, KA7 2YF
T: +44 (0) 129 247 1568
F: +44 (0) 129 247 1554
[email protected]
www.loewe.de
Lutron EA Ltd
6 Sovereign Court
Wapping
London
E1 9HW
T: +44 (0) 207 702 0657
F: +44 (0) 207 480 6899
[email protected]
www.lutron.com
•M
Mango Marketing Limited
1b The Quadrant
Quadrant Way, Weybridge
KT13 1VV
T: +44 (0) 193 282 9077
F: +44 (0) 193 282 7576
Web: www.mangomarketing.com
Mana Audio Ltd. (Manufacturer)
Unit E, Amlwch Ind Estate,
Amlwch, Anglesey, LL68 9BX.
T: +44 (0) 140 783 0530
F: +44 (0) 140 783 0535
[email protected]
http://mana.co.uk
Marantz Hi-Fi UK Ltd
Kingsbridge House,
Padbury Oaks, 575-583 Bath Road,
Longford, Middx, UB7 0EH
T: +44 (0) 175 368 0868
F: +44 (0) 175 368 0428
Martek (UK) Ltd
Unit 1 Shepherds Grove Estate
West, Stanton, Suffolk, IP31 2AR
T: +44 (0) 135 925 3555
F: +44 (0) 135 925 3559
www.martekuk.co.uk
[email protected]
Marata Vision
20 Greenhill Crescent, Watford
Business Park, Watford, Herts,
WD18 8XD
T: +44 (0) 192 349 5595
F: +44 (0) 192 349 5599
[email protected]
www.marata.co.uk
Max Distribution Co Ltd
The Old Bakery, High Street,
East Malling, Kent, ME19 6AJ
T: +44 (0) 173 284 0845
F: +44 (0) 173 284 1845
[email protected]
www.the-max.co.uk
Maxell Europe Ltd.
Multimedia House, High Street,
Rickmansworth, Herts, WD3 1HR
T: +44 (0) 192 349 4400
F: +44 (0) 192 349 4410
[email protected]
www.eu.maxell.com
Meiloon UK
53 Winstanley Lane, Shenley
Lodge, Milton Keynes MK5 7BT
T: +44 (0) 190 820 0844
[email protected]
www.meiloon.com.tw
Meridian Audio Ltd
Stonehill, Huntingdon,
Cambs, PE29 6EX
T: +44 (0) 148 044 5678
F: +44 (0) 148 044 5687
[email protected]
www.meridian-audio.com
Metropolis Music
6 London Road, Tunbridge Wells
Kent, TH1 1DQ
T: +44 (0) 189 253 9245
[email protected]
Mission
Stonehill, Huntingdon,
Cambs, PE29 6EY
T: +44 (0) 148 042 3700
F: +44 (0) 148 042 3701
www.mission.co.uk
Mitsubishi Electric
Europe
Travellers Lane,
Hatfield, Herts,
AL10 8XB
T: +44 (0) 170 727 8684
F: +44 (0) 170 727 8541
www.mitsubishielectric.co.uk
MJ Acoustics
9 Venture Court, Boleness Road,
Wisbeach, Cambridge, PE13 2XQ
T: +44 (0) 870 744 5080
F: +44 (0) 870 746 9380
[email protected]
www.mjacoustics.co.uk
Mode lighting
The Maltings, 63 High Street,
Ware, Hertfordshire, SG12 9AD
T: +44 (0) 192 046 2121
www.modelighting.com
Monitor Audio Ltd.
24 Brook Road,
Rayleigh,
Essex, SS6 7XL
T: +44 (0) 126 874 0580
F: +44 (0) 126 874 0589
[email protected]
www.monitoraudio.co.uk
Monster Europe Ltd
54 Clarendon Road
Watford, Herts.
WD17 1DU
T: 01923 431 634
Moth Group
10 Dane Lane, Wilstead,
Bedford, MK45 3HT
T: +44 (0) 123 474 1152
F: +44 (0) 123 474 2028
[email protected]
www.britishaudio.co.uk
Moulded Cords & Cables - MCC
Unit 15, The Western Centre,
Western Road, Bracknell,
Berks, RG12 1RW
T: +44 (0) 134 486 8200
F: +44 (0) 134 486 8208
[email protected]
www.mcc-cables.com
Multi-Room Company, The
4 Churchill House
Churchill Road, Cheltenham
GL53 7EG
Tel: +44 (0) 124 253 9100
Fax: +44 (0) 12 4253 9300
[email protected]
www.multi-room.com
Musical Fidelity Ltd.
15/16 Olympic Trading Est., Fulton
Road, Wembley, Middx, HA9 OTF
T: +44 (0)20 8900 2866
F: +44 (0)20 8900 2983
Musonic UK Ltd.
Unit 13, Wenta Business Centre,
Colne Way, Watford, Herts,
WD24 7ND
T: +44 (0) 192 321 3344
F: +44 (0) 192 321 3355
[email protected]
www.musonic.co.uk
Myryad UK
See BBG Distribution
•N
Naim Audio
Southampton Road, Salisbury,
Wilts, SP1 2LN
T: +44 (0) 172 233 2266
F: +44 (0) 172 241 2034
Nakamichi UK Ltd
12 Park Place,,London, SW1A 1LP
T: +44 (0) 207 647 6205
F: +44 (0) 207 495 2804
www.nakamichi.com
National Instruments
Corporation (UK) Ltd
Measurement House, Newbury
Business Park, London Road,
Newbury, Berks, RG14 2PS
T: +44 (0) 163 552 3545
F: +44 (0) 163 552 4395
[email protected]
www.ni.com/uk
NEAT Acoustics Ltd.
Unit 1a, Stanton Grove Ind Estate,
Barnard Castle, County Durham,
DL12 8UJ
T: +44 (0) 183 363 1021
F: +44 (0) 183 363 0022
[email protected]
NEMKO Ltd.
15 Chelsea Fields Estate, Western
Road, London, SW19 2QA
T: +44 (0)20 8646 8383
F: +44 (0)20 8646 8099
[email protected]
www.nemko.co.uk
New Media Image
16 Lodge Road, Havant,
Hants, P09 3LL
T: +44 (0) 239 245 1006
F: +44 (0) 870 167 4453
[email protected]
Nexus Technologies Pty. Ltd
45 Vannam Drive, Ashwood,
Victoria, Australia, 3147
[email protected]
www.nexuscomparators.com
NHT
Unit 4, Pumpfields Road
Liverpool, L3 6BA
T: +44 (0) 151 236 1832
F: +44 (0) 151 255 1194
www.nhthifi.com
Nordost (UK) Ltd
1st Floor, Unit 7,
Aber Park Ind. Estate, Aber Road,
Flint, Clwyd, CH6 5EX
T: +44 (0) 135 273 0251
F: +44 (0) 135 273 1273
[email protected]
www.nordost.com
Nottingham Analogue
128 Cordy Lane, Underwood,
Nottingham, NG16 5FD
T: +44 (0) 177 376 2947
F: +44 (0) 177 353 356
NXT - New Transducers Ltd
Cygnet House, Hinchingbrooke
Park, Huntingdon, Cambs,
PE29 6FW
T: +44 (0) 870 777 5555
F: +44 (0) 148 084 6190
[email protected]
www.nxtsound.com
•O
Obelisk Audio Designs
32 Stapleford Close, Romsey,
Hants, SO51 7HU
T: +44 (0) 179 450 1235
[email protected]
O'heocha Design Ltd
UK & Ireland, Rossaveal, Baile na
hAbhainn PO, Galway, S. Ireland
T: +353 9150 6970
T: +44 (0) 156 478 2502
F: +353 9150 6972
[email protected]
www.o.d.co.uk
CONTACT BOOK
Onkyo
Onkyo Europe UK Office,
Suite 1, Gregories Court,
Gregories Road, Beaconsfield,
Bucks, HP9 1HQ
T: +44 (0) 149 468 1515
F: +44 (0) 149 468 0452
[email protected]
www.onkyo.co.uk
Optimum International 2000 Ltd
6 Pioneer Business Park,
Amy Johnson Way,
Clifton Moor,
York, YO30 4TN
T /F: +44 (0) 190 469 0089
[email protected]
www.optimum2000.com
Optoma Europe Ltd
42 Caxton Way,
Watford Business Park,
Watford, Herts,
WD18 8QZ. UK.
T: +44 (0) 192 369 1866
F: +44 (0) 1923 691888
www.optomaeurope.com
www.themescene.tv
www.optamthinclient.com
Opus Technologies
Gallery Court, Hankey Place,
London, SE1 4BB
T: +44 (0) 845 090 2266
F: +44 (0)20 7940 2233
[email protected]
Orelle Ltd.
Unit 5, Silicon Business Centre,
6 Wadsworth Road, Perivale,
Middx, UB6 7LZ
T: +44 (0)20 8991 9200
F: +44 (0)20 8997 4060.
[email protected]
www.orelle.co.uk
Origin Live
Unit 5, 362b, Spring Road, Sholing,
Southampton, Hants, SO19 2PB
T: +44 (0) 238 057 8877
F: +44 (0) 238 057 8877
[email protected]
www.originlive.com
Partington & Co
Orchard Farm, Fawkham Road,
Longfield, Kent, DA3 7QP
T: +44 (0) 147 470 9299
F: +44 (0) 147 470 9295
Paradigm Audio Visual Ltd
Swan Works, Box End Road
Bromham, MK43 8LT
T: +44 (0) 1234 843388
F: +44 (0) 1234 854477
www.rearpro.com
PATH IXOS
Unit 8, Dormer Road, Thame
Industrial Estate, Thame,
OX9 3UD
T: +44 (0) 184 421 9000
F: +44 (0) 184 421 9099
[email protected]
www.path.co.uk
www.ixoscable.com
Pear Audio Ltd.
7 Prospect Place, Alnmouth,
Alnwick, Northumberland,
NE66 2RL
T: +44 (0) 166 583 0862
F: +44 (0) 166 583 0051
[email protected]
Philex Electronics Ltd
Philex House, Kingfisher Wharf,
London Road, Bedford, MK42 0NX
T: +44 (0) 123 426 3737
F: +44 (0) 123 426 7400
[email protected]
www.philex.com
Pickering Cartridges
24 Gillygate, York, YO31 7EQ
T: +44 (0) 190 464 2463
[email protected]
pickeringuk.com
Picture The Sound
13 Weston Road, Guildford,
Surrey, GU2 6AU
T: +44 (0) 700 044 3426
T: +44 (0) 7000 HIFICO
F: +44 (0) 148 345 4992
Overkill Audio
2 Shelford Farm, Earith Bridge,
Earith, Cambs, PE28 3PS
T: +44 [0] 148 784 2911
F: +44 [0] 148 784 1341
Pink Triangle Partnership Ltd
Unit 21 Marlow Business Centre,
Batavia Road, New Cross,
London, SE14 6BQ
T: +44 (0)20 8694 9609
F: +44 (0)20 8694 7450
[email protected]
www.pink-triangle.com
Owl Video Systems Ltd
Horsted Square
Bellbrook Ind Park, Uckfield, E.
Sussex TN22 1QG
T: +44 (0) 182 576 6123
F: +44 (0) 182 576 0246
www.owlvideo.com
Pioneer GB Ltd
Pioneer House, Hollybush Hill,
Stoke Poges, Slough, Berks,
SL2 4PQ
T: +44 (0) 175 378 9789
F: +44 (0) 175 378 9528
www.pioneer.co.uk
•P
P&C Industries
Unit10A -10B, Newton Hall,
Newton, Cambridge, CB2 5PS
T: +44 (0) 122 387 0712
F: +44 (0) 122 387 2654
[email protected]
www.hiway.co.uk/pcindustries
Plasmatvinfo.com Limited
Dorisima House, Ipswich Road
Brantham, Manningtree
CO11 1NR, Essex
United Kingdom
Tel: +44 (0)1206 391001
Fax: +44 (0)1206 391096
Panasonic (UK) Ltd
Panasonic House, Willoughby
Road, Bracknell, Berks, RG12 4PF
T: +44 (0) 134 486 2444
F: +44 (0) 134 486 1656
PMC Ltd
Flying Mole Bryston
43/45 Crawley Green Road,
Luton, LU2 0AA
T: +44(0) 870 444 1044
F: +44 (0) 870 444 1045
[email protected]
www.pmc-speakers.com
PM Components Ltd
Selectron House, Jenkins Dale
Industrial Estate, Chatham,
Kent, ME4 5RD
T: +44 (0) 163 484 8500
F: +44 (0) 163 484 867
Polk Audio
68 St John Street, Clerkenwell,
London, EC1m 4DT
T: +44 (0) 207 702 5277
F: +44 (0) 207 251 2487
Precious Metals
13 Weston Road, Guildford,
Surrey, GU2 8AU
T: +44 (0) 148 382 7722
[email protected]
Premier Mounts
(Europe)
Swallow House
Shilton Industrial Estate
Coventry, CV7 9JY
T: +44 (0) 247 661 4700
F: +44 (0) 247 661 4710
[email protected]
www.mounts.com
Presence Audio
Woodside, Spronketts Lane,
Bolney, Haywards Heath,
W. Sussex, RH17 5SA
T: +44 (0) 144 446 1611
F: +44 (0) 144 446 1510
Prima International Plc
Prima House, Premier Park,
Oulton, Leeds, LS26 8ZA
T: +44 (0) 113 251 1500
F: +44 (0) 113 251 1515
[email protected]
prima-international.com
Prism Media Products Ltd
William James House, Cowley
Road, Cambridge, CB4 0WX
T: +44 (0) 122 342 4988
F: +44 (0) 122 342 5023
[email protected]
www:prismsound.com
Proac
(Celef Audio)
Highpoint House,
Riding Row
Buck Road Industrial Estate
Brackley, NN13 7BH
T: +44 (0) 128 070 0147
Projecta BV
PO Box 191
6000 AD Weert
The Netherlands
T: +31 495 580 858
F: +31 495 580 845
www.projecta.nl
Prospero Recruitment Ltd
3rd Floor, Clerkenwell House
67 Clerkenwell Road, London
EC1R 5BL
T: +44 (0) 207 404 6383
F: +44 (0) 207 404 6323
rjgrays@prosperorecruitment .com
www.prosperorecruitment.com
Pulse Marketing
PR & Marketing Agents,
25B Hockerill Street,
Bishop's Stortford,
Herts, CM23 2DH
T: +44 (0) 127 965 5955
F: +44 (0) 127 965 6004
[email protected]
www:pulsemarketing.uk.com
Pure Digital
Home Park Estate,
Kings Langley,
Herts, WD4 8LZ
T: +44 (0) 192 327 7488
F: +44 (0) 192 327 0188
[email protected]
www.pure-digital.com
P.W.B. Electronics
18 Pasture Crescent,
Leeds, LS7 4QS
T: +44 (0) 113 268 2550
[email protected]
www.belt.demon.co.uk
•Q
Quad Electroacoustics Ltd
IAG House, Sovereign Court,
Ermine Business Park,
Huntingdon, Cambs, PE29 6XU
T: +44 (0) 845 458 0011
F: +44 (0) 148 043 1767
[email protected]
www.quad-hifi.co.uk
Quadraspire Ltd
305 Kelston Road,
Bath, BA1 9AB
T: +44 (0) 122 533 3360
F: +44 (0) 122 533 8083
[email protected]
www.quadraspire.com
QED Audio Products Ltd
Unit 16, Woking Business Park,
Albert Drive,Woking, Surrey,
GU21 5JY
T: +44 (0) 148 374 7474
F: +44 (0) 148 354 5600
[email protected]
•R
Recoton
Lise Meitner Strasse 9,
Pulheim, Germany, 50259
T: +49 223 498 4080
www.recoton.com
Redline
Unit 11B, 72 Newhaven Road,
Edinburgh, EH6 5QG
T: +44 (0) 131 555 3922
F: +44 (0) 131 555 3964
[email protected]
[email protected]
Reference Point Computers
The Old Post Office, Overbury,
Tewkesbury, Glos, GL20 7NT.
T: +44 (0) 845 634 2032
F: +44 (0) 845 634 2033
Rega Reseach
119 Park Street,
Westcliff-on-Sea, SS0 7PF
T: +44 (0) 170 233 3071
REL Acoustics Ltd
North Road, Bridgend Industrial
Estate, Bridgend, CF31 3TP
T: +44 (0) 165 676 8777
F: +44 (0) 165 676 6093
[email protected]
www.rel.net
Remote Media Ltd
Rectory Farm Barns
Rectory Farm, Little Chesterford
Saffron Walden, CB10 1UD
T: +44 (0) 845 458 3705
www.remotemedia.co.uk
[email protected]
Revox
See Custom Sight & Sound
Ringmat Developments
P.O. Box 200, Brentwood,
Essex, CM15 9FB
T: +44 (0) 127 720 0210
F: +44 (0) 127 720 1225
[email protected]
www.ringmat.com
Roksan Audio Ltd
Unit 6 Northfield Industrial Estate,
Beresford Avenue, Alperton,
Middlesex, HA0 1NW
T: +44 (0)20 8900 6801/6802
F: +44 (0)20 8900 0734
[email protected]
www.roksan.co.uk
Royd Loudspeakers Co. Ltd
Unit B2, Stafford Park 15,
Telford, Shropshire, TF3 3BB
T: +44 (0) 195 229 0700
F: +44 (0) 195 229 0190
Ruark Acoustics Ltd
59 Tailor's Court,
Temple Farm Ind. Est.,
Southend-on-Sea,Essex, SS2 5TH
T: +44 (0) 170 260 1410
F: +44 (0) 170 260 1414
[email protected]
www.ruark.co.uk
Russ Andrews Accessories Ltd.
2B Moreland Court, Westmorland
Business Park, Shap Road,
KENDAL, Cumbria, LA9 6NS
T: +44 (0) 845 345 1550
F: +44 (0) 153 979 7325
[email protected]
www.russandrews.com
•S
Sagem Communications
Knyvett House, The Causeway
Staines, Middx
T: +44 (0) 156 477 2200
F: +44 (0) 156 477 7736
www.sagem.com
Samsung Electronics Ltd
Unit 1, Hook Rise Business &
Indusrial Centre,
225 Hook Rise South,
Surbiton, Surrey, KT6 7LD
T: +44 (0)20 8391 0168
Samuel Johnson Audio Ltd
80 Johnstone Avenue,
Hillington, Glasgow, G52 4NZ
T: +44 (0) 141 810 2828
F: +44 (0) 141 810 2829
[email protected]
www.SJAudio.co.uk
Scandyna UK Ltd
5 Mayfield Lane,
Martlesham Heath, Ipswich,
Suffolk, IP5 3TZ
T: +44 (0) 147 362 6600
F: +44 (0) 147 362 6700
[email protected]
Schneider UK Ltd
Aura House, 77 Dane Road,
Sale, Manchester, M33 7BP
T: +44 (0) 161 374 0101
F: +44 (0) 161 374 0102
See Hear Ltd
The Oast, Perry Court,
London Road, Faversham,
Kent, ME13 8RY
T: +44 (0) 179 559 7590
F: +44 (0) 179 559 7591
[email protected]
Sennheiser UK Ltd
3 Century Point, Halifax Road,
High Wycombe, Bucks, HP12 3SL
T: +44 (0) 149 455 1551
F: +44 (0) 149 455 1550
[email protected]
www.sennheiser.co.uk
Sharp Electronics
Sharp House, Thorpe Road,
Newton Heath, Manchester,
M40 5BE
T: +44 (0) 161 205 2333
F: +44 (0) 161 205 7076
www.sharp.co.uk
Silvernote
P O Box 158, Cheshunt,
Herts, EN7 6UH.
T /F: +44 (0) 199 262 0905
www.silvernote.co.uk
SIM2 UK Ltd
Steinway House, Worth Farm,
Little Horsted, Nr. Uckfield,
East Sussex, TN22 5TT
T: +44 (0) 182 575 0850
F: +44 (0) 182 575 0851
[email protected]
www.sim2.co.uk
SME Ltd
Mill Road, Steyning,
W. Sussex, BN44 3GY
T: +44 (0) 190 381 4321
F: +44 (0) 190 381 4269
[email protected]
www.sme.ltd.uk
SOLO Manufacturing
228 Derby Road, Stapleford,
Nottingham, NG9 7BG
T: +44 (0) 115 939 2345
F: +44 (0) 115 939 2111
Songlines
Fourteen Acre Lane
Three Oaks, Hastings
TN35 4NB, England
T: +44 (0)1424 813888
[email protected]
http://www.beauhorn.com
Sony UK Ltd
The Heights, Brooklands,
Weybridge, Surrey, KT13 0XW
T: +44 (0) 193 281 6000
F: +44 (0) 193 281 7000
www.sony.co.uk
Sonus Systems Ltd
Unit 3a Cossal Ind Est.,
Coronation Road, Ilkeston,
Derby, DE7 5UA
T: +44 (0) 115 944 5027
F: +44 (0) 115 944 5126
Soundations
Smyllum House,
Lanark Lanarkshire,
ML11 7ER
T: +44 (0) 870 350 1349
Spendor Audio Systems Ltd.
Station Road Industrial Estate,
Hailsham, E. Sussex, BN27 2ER
T: +44 (0) 132 384 3474
F: +44 (0) 132 344 2254
[email protected]
www.spendoraudio.com
Standesign UK
Uxbridge House, 3 Wakefield
Place, Gosport, PO12 2JT
T: +44 (0) 239 250 1888
F: +44 (0) 239 250 1999
[email protected]
www.standesign.co.uk
Stands Unique
70 Higham Road, Rushden,
Northants, NN10 6DD
T: +44 (0) 193 341 2227
F: +44 (0) 193 341 2215
[email protected]
www.standsunique.com
Stoneaudio UK Ltd
23 Hinton Road, Bournemouth,
Dorset, BH1 2EF
T: +44 (0) 120 220 1735
F: +44 (0) 120 220 1315
[email protected]
www.stoneaudio.co.uk
Symmetry
Suite 5, 17 Holywell Hill, St
Albans, Herts, AL1 1DT
T: +44 (0) 172 786 5488
[email protected]
SYN Factory U-vola Suspended
Loudspeakers
33013 Gemona del Friuli (UD),
Via del Fabbro, 9 Zona Art, Italy
T: +39 (0432) 972 362
F: +39 (0432) 972 684
[email protected]
www.synfactory.com
•T
T&A
T&T Communications Ltd.
1-2 Davy Road
Gorse Lane Industrial Estate
Clacton on Sea, Essex
CO15 4XD
T: +44 (0) 125 522 2111
F: +44 (0) 125 522 2100
Tannoy Ltd
Rosehall Ind Est,
Coatbridge,
N. Lanarkshire, ML5 4TF
T: +44 (0) 123 642 0199
F: +44 (0) 123 642 8230
www.tannoy.com
[email protected]
Target Audio Distribution Ltd
5 Gull Brook, Hemel Hempstead,
Herts, HP1 1RR
T: +44 (0) 144 225 9994
M: +44 (0) 973 147 441
Hants, SO21 3BH
T: +44 (0) 125 639 7770
F: +44 (0) 125 639 8880
www.tdigroup.co.uk
TEAC UK Ltd
5 Marlin House, The Croxley
Centre, Watford, Herts, WD1 8YA
T: +44 (0) 192 381 9630
F: +44 (0) 192 323 6290
Tech Link
International
Unit 8, Bat & Ball Enterprise
Centre, Bat & Ball Road,
Sevenoaks, Kent, TN14 5LJ
T: +44 (0) 173 277 9400
F: +44 (0) 173 277 9344
[email protected]
www.techlink.uk.com
Technical & General
PO Box 53, Crowborough,
E. Sussex, TN6 2BY
T: +44 (0) 189 265 4534
Teklink Distribution
68 St John Street, Clerkenwell,
London, EC1M 4DT
T: +44 (0)20 7702 5277
F: +44 (0)20 7251 2487
[email protected]
Tektronix Ltd
The Arena, Downshire Way
Bracknell, Berks RG12 1PU
United Kingdom
T: +44 (0) 134 439 2400
F: +44 (0) 134 439 2401
Thear Technology Limited
(REVOX)
TTL House, Sheeptick End,
Nr Lidlington, Bedfordshire,
MK43 OSF
T: +44 (0) 152 584 1999
F: +44 (0) 152 584 1009
Townshend Audio
7 Bridge Road, Hampton Court,
Surrey, KT8 9EU
T: +44 (0)20 8979 2155
Trichord Research Ltd
6 Woodlands Close,
Malvern Wells, Worcs, WR14 4JD
T: +44 (0) 168 457 3524
F: +44 (0) 168 457 7380
[email protected]
www.trichordresearch.com
Tivoli Audio
59 Tailor's Court
Temple Farm Ind Est
Southend on sea
Essex, SS2 5TH
T: +44 (0) 170 260 1410
F: +44 (0) 170 260 1414
www.ruark.co.uk
www.projectionandpresentation.com
True-Colours Industries
Unit 263, Lisburn Enterprise
Centre, Ballinderry Road,
Lisburn, N. Ireland, BT28 2SA
T: +44 (0) 771 019 6949
F: +44 (0) 870 120 5923
[email protected]
www.true-colours.com
TDI Tremiver Ltd
West Farm, Winchester Road,
Popham, Winchester,
Tube Technology
Compton House, Drefach
LLANELLI, Carmarthenshire
TCI Ltd
Projection House,
19 Townley Way,
Earls Barton, Northants, NN6 0HR
T: +44 (0) 160 481 1661
F: +44 (0) 160 481 1715
[email protected]
SA14 7BA
T: +44 (0) 126 984 4771
F: +44 (0) 193 224 4455
[email protected]
www.tubetechnology.com
•U
UAS Enterprises
131 Southampton Road,
Ringwood, Hants, BH24 1HT
T: +44 (0) 870 066 0406
F: +44 (0) 870 066 0407
[email protected]
www.uasenterprises.com
UKD
23 Richings Way, Iver, Bucks,
SL0 9DA
T: +44 (0) 175 365 2669
F: +44 (0) 175 365 4531
[email protected]
www.ukd.co.uk
Unicol
Green Road, Oxford, OX3 8EU
T: +44 (0) 186 576 7676
Fax: +44 (0) 186 576 7677
www:unicol.com
Usher Audio Technology
67 Kai-Fong St, Section 1,
Taipei 10041, Taiwan
T: 886 2 2381 6299
F: 886 2 2371 1053
www:usheraudio.com
•V
Vibe Technologies Ltd
Tech House, Reddicap Trading
Estate, Sutton Coldfield, B75 7BU
T: +44 (0) 121 311 9090
F: +44 (0) 121 311 9001
[email protected]
www.v-i-b-e.com
Vieta UK
Grimsdells Court,
Grimsdells Lane, Amersham,
Bucks, HP6 5EL
T: +44 (0) 149 472 3444
[email protected]
www.vieta-uk.com
VPI (UK)
PO Box 21
Liskheard
PL14 5YP
T: +44 (0) 157 936 3603
Virtual Reality Audio Systems Ltd
PO Box 383, Brentwood,
Essex, CM14 4GB
T: +44 (0) 127 722 7355
F: +44 (0) 127 722 4103
[email protected]
Visual Displays
1 Farnham Road, Guildford,
Surrey, GU2 4RG
T: +44 (0) 207 222 9009
F: +44 (0) 207 233 2165
[email protected]
www.visualdisplaysuk.co.uk
Vivadi Plc
Unit 38, Shrivenham Hundred
Business Park, Swindon, SN6 8TZ
T: +44 (0) 179 378 0033
F: +44 (0) 179 378 0044
[email protected]
www.vivadi.com
Vivanco UK Ltd.
Maxted Court, Maxted Road,
Hemel Hempstead, Herts,
HP2 7BY
T: +44 (0) 144 240 3020
F: +44 (0) 144 240 3030
Vivante Productions Ltd.
(Software)
Unit 6, Fontigarry Business Park,
Reigate Road, Sidlow, Reigate,
Surrey, RH2 8QH
T: +44 (0) 129 382 0509
F: +44 (0) 129 382 1965
[email protected]
www.vivante.co.uk
Vogels
•W
Waterfall
Wavelength Distribution
PO Box 364, Maidstone,
Kent, ME15 9FE
T: +44 (0) 162 220 1983
F: +44 (0) 162 276 1560
[email protected]
www.sonicdesign.co.uk
www.bocchino-audio.co.uk
Wharfedale International Ltd
IAG House, Sovereign Court,
Ermine Business Park,
Huntingdon, Cambs, PE29 6XU
T: (0) 845 458 0011
F: (0) 148 043 1767
[email protected]
www.wharfedale.co.uk
Wilmslow Audio Lt
50 Main Street, Broughton Astley,
Leicester, LE9 6RD
T: +44 (0) 145 528 6603
F: +44 (0) 145 528 6605
[email protected]
www.wilmslowaudio.com
Wilson Benesch
Falcon House, Lime Stone Cottage
Lane, Sheffield, S6 1NJ
T: +44 [0] 114 285 2656
F: +44 [0] 114 285 2657
[email protected]
•X
Xixin Ltd
Bilton Way, Luton, Beds,
LU1 1UU
T: +44 (0) 158 240 0340
F: +44 (0) 158 248 1498
www.xixin.co.uk
•Y
Yamaha Electronics
(UK) Ltd
200 Rickmansworth Road,
Watford, Herts, WD18 7GQ
T: +44 (0) 192 323 3166
F +44 (0) 192 381 0410
www.yamaha-uk.com
[email protected]
Yello GB Ltd
32 Jordanvale Avenue,
Whiteinch, Glasgow, G14 0QP
T: +44 (0) 141 576 1772
F: +44 (0) 141 950 2737
[email protected]
DIARY
The countdown for CEDIA is truly on…
Next year’s Bristol show dates have been announced
All set for IFA?
Please send all correspondence to: What's New In Sound and Vision, Castle House, 97 High Street, Colchester, Essex, CO1 1TH
Events 2005/6 It’s Show Time!
MAY 05
11
AV In The City, Manchester
GMEX Centre
www.avinthecity.co.uk
JUNE 05
8-10
27-30
22
INFOCOMM
CEDIA Expo 2005
AV In The City, Dublin
International OS, USA
Birmingham, ICC
City West
www.infocomm.org
+44 (0) 146 262 7377
SEPTEMBER 05
2-7
IFA
21
AV In The City, London
23-25
Hi-Fi Show and AV Expo 2005
Messe Berlin
Cabot Hall
Park Inn/Renaissance, Heathrow
www.ifa-berlin.com
+44 (0) 208 774 0847
OCTOBER 05
7-16
12-14
29-30
The Ideal Home Show [Autumn]
Integrated Systems Asia
Home Entertainment Show
Earls Court, London
Suntec, Singapore
Renaissance Hotel, Manchester
+44 [0] 208 515 2151 www.idealhomeshow.co.uk
www.is-asia.com
+44 [0] 1618398869
NOVEMBER 05
5-7
23-26
29
What Hi-Fi? Sound and Vision Show 2005
Hi-Tech House
AV In The City, Edinburgh
Novotel West, London
Gostiny Dvor, Moscow
EICC
www.whathifishow.co.uk
www.hitechhouse.ru
FEBRUARY 06
1-3
19-24
Integrated Systems Europe
Sound & Vision 2006
Brussels Expo, Belgium
Marriott Hotel, Bristol
www.iseurope.org
www.bristolshow.co.uk
IN WHAT'S NEW IN SOUND AND VISION NEXT MONTH...
A Sounding Board – the most sonorous and chic speakers about
Play On Player – the latest DVD-players to cause a stir
Hello, Expo – our expansive preview of CEDIA’s annual show
Extra, Extra – the biggest batch of industry news around
ISSN 1478-1123
Editor: Hamish McNair-Wilson T: 44 (0)1206 505959
[email protected]
Editor-In-Chief: Stuart Pritchard T: 44 (0)1206 505924 F: 44 (0)1206 505929
[email protected]
Editorial Assistant: Jacob Stow
Publisher: Steve Duffy [email protected]
Art Direction: Lee Whiteford [email protected]
Designers: Rick Allen Dan Cross
Advertisement Designer: Alison Williams
Advertising Director: Theresa Jackaman T: 44 (0)148 049 8953
[email protected]
Contributors: Darren Harvey, Toby Watson, Katie Bates, Sarah Adcock, Sam Fuller
Design & Repro: Ace Pre-Press T: 44 (0)1206 797541
Circulation Manager: Mick Orrin T: 44 (0)1206 505912
42
Subscriptions: To ensure you receive your free copy of What’s New in
Sound and Vision every issue, go to www.soundandvisionmagazine.co.uk
and simply fill in the online form
Accounts Admin: T: 44 (0)1206 505900
Published By: Partridge Publications (2000) Ltd, Avenue Lodge,
60 East Street, Brighton, BN1 1HN. Tel. +44 (0) 1273 719900
Not for correspondence
Printed in England All contributions are submitted and accepted on the basis of a non-exclusive worldwide
licence to publish or licence to do so unless otherwise agreed in advance in writing. What's New in Sound and
Vision recognises all copyrights and trademarks. Where possible, we have acknowledged the copyright holder.
Contact us if we haven’t credited your copyright and we will correct any oversight.
All contents © Partridge Publications (2000) Limited While we make every effort to ensure that everything we
print in What's New in Sound and Vision is factually correct, we cannot be held
responsible if factual errors occur. Please check any quoted hardware specifications with
your supplier before purchase. The views expressed in this magazine are not necessarily
those of the publisher. Copyright Partridge Publications (2000) Ltd ©
01/07/03 - 30/06/04: 4,255
BRUSSELS EXPO, BELGIUM
1– 3 FEBRUARY 2006
MARK YOUR DIARIES
In 2006 Integrated Systems Europe moves to
Brussels, Belgium. Join other specialists
from the Residential, Commercial and Professional
AV systems industry from 1 – 3 February 2006
at Brussels Expo and secure your place at the
European AV Systems Integration Event.
FOR MORE VISITOR INFORMATION
WWW.ISEUROPE.ORG
IF YOU WISH TO EXHIBIT MAIL US AT
[email protected]
OR CALL +49 8102 89640
Integrated Systems Europe is a joint venture partnership of
Listen up…
…you’ve never heard it so good!
Crestron offer the world’s best multi-zone distribution
systems for whole-house audio and video.
Producing the finest sound quality available, Crestron’s
professional audio distribution processors deliver audio
from any source into as many as 32 separate zones.
To hear the whole story talk to
Crestron on 020 8439 7272
• The C2N-DAP8 is a high-performance 7.1 digital
audio processor and analog audio switcher, with
automatic selection of decoding formats and 6
bands of graphic/parametric EQ. An ideal audio
processing solution for digital boardrooms,
conference rooms and auditoriums, the C2NDAP8 offers seamless Cresnet integration of all
surround sound and audio switching features.
• Designed for professional quality and ultimate
reliability, the CNAMPX-7x200 is a high-powered
digital surround sound amplifier with 7 channels at
200 watts per channel into 8 ohms, or 300 watts
per channel into 4 ohms. Designed to be used
with a powered subwoofer, it’s ideal for home
theaters or large rooms.
Crestron UK Ltd | Neptune House | 2 Portsmouth Road | Kingston | Surrey | KT1 2LU
Tel: 020 8439 7272 | Fax: 020 8439 7273 | [email protected] | www.crestron.co.uk

to - SVI Magazine

Transcription

Similar documents

AVS24 2.4 GHZ Wireless Audio/Video Sender

No trophy could ever fully express our

A golden opportunity to A golden opportunity to

New User FFM Marketplace Testing

Full Metal Jacket

Pookoo Industrial Co., Ltd.

Bticino 334202 (5 Wire)

Click the picture above to a FREE Bingo quiz

Step # 13 Open up TMPGEnc 4.0 Express and click on “Start a new

systems - Videlio