nakamichi mb100

www.soundandvisionmagazine.co.uk
ISSUE 31 MAR 06
SOUND VISION INSTALL
From the publishers of SMARTLIFE INTERNATIONAL
Up The Bracket
Vivanco prove they're out for the mount
For more information and stocking details
Contact Vivanco on 01442 403020
www.icmount.com
www.soundandvisionmagazine.co.uk
IT’S A DOG'S LIFE...
5 FIRST GLIMPSE
30 BACK TO MY PLACE
unveil something a little
special this month
We build ourselves an idyllic
install from the products we
came across at the Smart
Home Show
It's not always easy to think positively when you're greeted with horror stories at every
turn…commentators bemoaning the decline of the High Street, business journals
speculating about the prospects of an economic slump and page after to page of
national newspaper dedicated to tales of woe designed to keep you holed up in a bunker
with a couple of steel chains across the door. It is a dog eat dog world out there and as
an independent it's hard to ignore those over-fed, over-sized, steroid-pumped rottweilers
looming over you attempting to quaff your slice of Pedigree Chum pie. But despite all the
aggressive posturing and nibbling around the edges... they haven't claimed it yet.
Having just returned from the Smart Home Show, the team here feel like we've
just finished an intense session with a particularly adept psychiatrist and been given
an industrial dose of mood enhancing stimulants into the bargain. Why? The sheer
enthusiasm of the punters had a lot to do with it. It was positively infectious and must
have rubbed off on all who made the trip.
A diverse collection of exhibitors had snapped up the space available, with an
interesting synergy of ideas and products evident across the floor. Installers and in-wall
speakers sat comfortably alongside 5.1 surround sound systems and flat-screen TVs.
HVAC control and automation became the bedfellows of universal remote controls and
iPod docking stations. Nowhere has the closeness between the conventional AV sector
and CI been better evident than here in the Midlands as representatives from both came
together under one roof to woo the populace with their wares.
Having been effectively marketed to the zealous homemaker under a lifestyle
umbrella, there was something a little different about this show. Gone were the
frugal anoraks and tyre kickers, as the musky aroma of the great unwashed was
replaced with a waft of Chanel No. 5 and young, upwardly mobile families made their
way around, genuinely intrigued by the creature comforts and entertainment
technologies on display. Whether it was for home cinema kit or heating control, the
people with the purchasing power and interest were there. Their imagination was
captured - now what about their business?
Find out about the latest
distribution deals,
technological developments,
movers, shakers and
moneymakers right here,
right now...
32 INSTALLATION
NATION
Hamish McNair-Wilson, Editor
[email protected]
13 OUT AND ABOUT
38 STORIES FROM
CEDIA
IN THIS MONTH'S
ISSUE
6 EYE ON THE
INDUSTRY
We take our usual hike
around the AV world, from
Berlin to Birmingham
15 DAY OF WEST
The much-traveled HAMISH
McNAIR-WILSON reports
back from Bristol's Sound &
Vision show
From wall mounting solutions
to multimedia servers, spin
through a host of installationfriendly options
01/07/04-30/06/05: 4,309
15
24
30
32
Our association's MATT
NIMMONS uses his insider
status to feed us the
latest info
40 CONTACT BOOK
Find the phone number
you've been looking for in
our bulging directory
18 WHAT'S NEW
A cutting-edge batch of
products make the leap from
our office to these pages
44 TRAINING DIARY
Where can you gain those
essential extra qualifications?
Look no further…
24 WAITING FOR POD
Smart mover SAM FULLER
slips his MP3-player into a
batch of the finest
accessories
45 RECRUITMENT
Move onwards and upwards
courtesy of your informative
friends at What's New...
PLEASE SEND ALL CORRESPONDENCE TO: WHAT’S NEW IN SOUND VISION INSTALL, 21-23 PHOENIX COURT, HAWKINS ROAD, COLCHESTER, ESSEX, CO2 8JY
New venue, bigger event
CEDIA Expo 2006 will be taking place at the high class,
easily accessible venue, ExCeL London situated in the
heart of London’s Docklands.
Over 100 exhibitors
If you are involved in the planning, design, specification,
installation, distribution and manufacturing of automated
electronic systems and technologies for the intelligent
home, then mark your diaries now for the industry event
of the year!
Expanded training programme
What makes CEDIA Expo so unique is CEDIA’s commitment
to training. A 4-day extensive seminar programme is specifically
targeted at custom installers and professionals within this
industry to further knowledge and personal development.
Training | 19–22 June 2006
Exhibition | 20–22 June 2006
CEDIA (the Custom Electronic Design and Installation Association) is the
international trade association, which represents the residential custom
installation industry and has a global membership of over 4,000 companies.
CEDIA UK Ltd, Unit 2, Phoenix Park, St Neots, Cambs PE19 8EP
Tel | +44 (0)1480 213744 Fax | +44 (0)1480 213469
Email | [email protected] Web | www.cedia.co.uk
WHAT’S NEW
First Glimpse
CANTON’S WELL KNOWN ERGO SERIES HAS BEEN GIVEN A
SERIOUS OVERHAUL AND RETURNS TO THEIR 2006
CATALOGUE SOUNDING BETTER THAN EVER...
ERGO BOOSTING
Canton are a bit like the BMW of the loudspeaker world – they’re German,
they’re renowned across the industry for the quality of their craftsmanship and
they manufacture lavish products that rich folk are always keen to get their
hands on. Add into the equation that you’re unlikely to find one of them an inch
off your bumper every time you venture into the outside lane on the M25 and
you really are dealing with an enticing range with no obvious drawbacks. That
said, in any great range there is room for improvement and as a result Canton’s
boffins have seen fit to revamp their classic Ergo line.
This mid-priced range has always performed well when pitted against its
peers, but now it sounds better than ever. Thanks to the technological
developments made during the production of the Vento range, the revitalised
Ergo speakers come equipped with high-end drive units capable of taking their
performance to the next level. Sharing yet more characteristics with their
motoring contemporaries, the Ergo speakers are fast and dynamic in their
sounds, with the necessary muscle to add weight and an immersing soundscape
to any AV setup. Clean and uncoloured reproduction comes as standard, with the
newly designed cabinets and commitment to quality clearly registering an
impact. The range may be steeped in history, having been a constant for Canton
for over two decades, but the combination of the new drivers, crossovers and
radically revised cabinets constitute the most significant improvements our
friends on the continent have made in over 20-years.
There are three impacting floorstanders available in the range: the Ergo
611 DC, Ergo 609 DC and Ergo 607 DC. These hit the market at £1,600 a pair,
£1,300 a pair and £1,000 a pair respectively. The 611 DC and 609 DC are both
sizeable, three-way bass reflex designs that serve up an extremely broad and
linear frequency response, making them both proficient Hi-Fi speakers or front
speakers for the serious home cinema fan. The 611 DC features two 9-inch
Black Aluminium cone woofers and the smaller 609 DC, a pair of 8-inch
woofers. The Ergo 607 DC employs a single 7-inch aluminium cone for bass and
one for the midrange.
Canton’s hard work in re-energising a classic selection won’t stop here.
The 2006 Ergo range will be extended imminently to cater for smaller
applications and full home cinema systems, with the 605 CM Centre Speaker,
603 and 602 Compact Speakers, 601 Low Profile On-Wall Speaker and the AS
650 SC Powered Subwoofer all on their way. We eagerly await their release – on
the evidence of these three kings, they won’t let you down...
FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT:
+44 (0) 239 250 1888 www.canton.de
5
> 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]
WILLING ACCESSORIES
Consumer electronics accessories specialist Vivanco has been appointed as the sole UK and European
distributor for iC Mounting Solutions - a complete retail line with 8 SKUs for Plasma, LCD TV and
projectors designed for consumer use, from the leading US manufacturer, Chief.
iC benefits from 27 years of engineering experience and innovation from one of the mounting
world's biggest names, Chief, and offers both retailers and consumers a number of advantages. From
an under cabinet mount for the kitchen to a tilt wall mount that holds flat-screen TVs of up to 60-inches
in the bedroom, iC includes something for every need around the modern home. Exclusive features
such as the StowAway arm - which hides larger LCD-TVs under cabinets - and the Centris TV interface
with Turn-Tite technology, make the new iC line one of the most competitive around.
Vivanco is also expanding its own mid-priced range of mounts to include four LCD, four
plasma mounts and two projectors options. Stocking these could help you to maximise your profit
opportunities from the mushrooming flat-screen TV market, which should see some 60-million
more purchased over the next half-decade.
Vivanco Product Marketing Manager Ben Osborne commented on the recent developments:
“Having products pitched both at the premium and mid-price range will ensure that retailers can meet
all consumer needs. A consumer who has just spent £2k+ on a flat panel will want a premium priced
product to match his new screen, while someone who has only spent £350 on an LCD for the kids’
bedroom will only want an inexpensive bracket. So once again Vivanco is able to offer retailers a
complete solution. Considering the critical margin that accessories can add to a flat-panel or projector
sale, the iC and Vivanco ranges offer retailers a simple, complete solution to cater for all consumer
wall mounting needs.”
Vivanco are promising to support these launches with a comprehensive PR and advertising campaign.
For further information contact: +44 (0) 144 240 3020 www.vivanco.com
Vivanco hail
the chief...
GRAND DESIGNS
Highly respected UK manufacturer Arcam has added yet another award to its
expansive cabinet. No run of the mill commendation, the company were
handed what is arguably Europe's most prestigious award of its kind - the IF
Design Award 2006. It was claimed by the popular and innovative Solo
system, a striking and sleek industrial design of Adrian Stokes of ASA
designers. The German-based IF award is recognised across the globe,
highlighting the extent of Arcam's achievement. It beat off competition from
nearly 2,000 other products from 37 countries, with the judges proclaiming:
"The Solo successfully asserted itself in a first-rate, highly competitive
international environment". The iF design award has been staged since 1954
and employs a jury of top international designers. The universal appeal of the
specially styled Solo was particularly noted and the Solo is up for a range of
other awards for its looks. However, with a number of trophies already
accrued for its performance, clearly this highly popular Arcam product is a bit
of an all rounder.
For further information contact: www.asadesigners.com
or www.arcam.co.uk
6
BE MY GUIDE
Superpower of the retail world Tesco has
formed a partnership with MXR, the UK's
leading regional digital radio consortium, to
work together in promoting DAB digital radio
online. The supermarket giant is currently
running a special DAB digital radio promotion
on its website. The electrical retail section of
the site showcases a wide range of digital radio
products available to buy and also highlights
MXR's essential online guide to DAB. The guide
lists all the main benefits of making the
transition from analogue to digital radio and
highlights the variety of different local
commercial radio stations that are accessible
on DAB.
Talking about their DAB digital radio
promotion, Tesco Representative Helen Houghton
said: "There's a huge market for DAB digital
radios and a strong desire from the consumer to
find out more about them. We have a great range
of digital radios available on our website and the
MXR guide provides our customers with exactly
the right amount of information to help them
make the decision to purchase."
Managing Director of MXR, Diane Wray,
said: "It's fantastic to see Tesco putting the
necessary marketing support behind the sale of
DAB digital radios online. Research shows that
although the majority of people have heard of
DAB digital radio many can't name any benefits
or digital radio stations. Hosting MXR's essential
guide alongside their DAB range will help to
give Tesco customers these important facts."
For further information contact: www.get
dabdigitalradio.com/essentialguide/tesco/
HAPPY NEW REAR
Once upon a time the rear projection TV was a fair unsightly cinematic option, boasting no advantage other than
its relatively slender rear. However, along came Texas Instruments' DLP technology, an innovation that
manufacturers were able to encompass in order to turn a once flailing idea into a product of genuine
performance and appeal. The DLP TV was born and companies like Optoma and Sagem were soon producing
sizeable models, growing the market and the dimensions of a TV that users could feasibly fit into their living
rooms, without breaking the bank. Available in screens of up to 50 or even 60-inches, these considerably more
slender options bought a genuinely immersing, high quality cinema-esque picture to lounges previously unprivy
to such a treat.
Of course, it wasn't long before other manufacturers and technologies sought to grab a slice of market,
most notably Sony with their Bravia range of rear projection TVs, founded upon the world's most popular
microdisplay technology - 3LCD. Much is being made of this 3-chip array, said to deliver outstandingly
bright and natural images – and there was a significant stand devoted to its abilities at the recent ISE show.
Sony's TVs have certainly helped it to assert its credentials and are valuable additions to a market keen to
kill off the CRT TV once and for all.
Having been one of the biggest names in the TV world for years now, it wasn't going to be long before JVC
attempted to have their say... and this comes in the form of an exciting new range of what the corporation are
terming HD-ILA Hybrid TVs. Founded on the abilities of three D-ILA chips developed for use in the professional
sphere, and LCOS microdisplay device technology, JVC are claiming these have the ability to outperform
their rivals. The combination of vivid, natural colours,
exceptional grayscaling, a host of proprietary imageJVC make a push
enhancement technologies and the highest aperture
for the Rear Of
The Year award
ratio around are all significant to this claim, whilst
convenience is also a key attribute with users able to
change their own lamp if it eventually runs out. With
only a third of the power consumption of an equivalent
plasma or LCD-TV and images that weigh in at a
spectacular 900 cd2m, allowing the HD-ILA Hybrids to
perform in any conditions, these certainly sound a bit
special. And they're no shrinking violets either:
available in a 70-inch and 56-inch option, there can be
no doubt these will make an impression. But which of
the competing technologies will you choose to stock?
For further information contact: +44 (0) 208 450 3282
www.jvc-europe.com
7
> SOUND & VISION
EYE ON THE INDUSTRY
Good egg KEF reap a
just reward at
Sound &
Vision 2006
BEST OF THE WEST
The British Federation of Audio (BFA) has announced the results of its second
BFA Sound and Vision Show Awards, held at this year’s event at Bristol's Marriott
hotel. Having visited every room and booth at the show at least twice during the
event and taken advice from various trade and press visitors - just in case the visit
to a room had been during an off moment - the judges made their decision. With
the results of a poll of public visitors to the show also considered, over all the
conclusion was that the standard of demonstrations and product displays was
very high. Key points in the judges’ minds included the sound quality of each
demonstration, appearance of the room, graphical explanation of products, the
room's atmosphere and the presentation of the brand image.
The eventual winners were Focal for Best looking Exhibit, KEF for Best MultiChannel Demonstration and Neat for Best Two Channel Demonstration. Naim Audio
and NHT were said to have given the latter a run for their money, but the simplicity
of Neat's display and sensible demonstration choice won it for them. Focal offered
visitors two different styles of room; one themed on a Euro living room and the other
on a British living room. KEF, meanwhile, combined excellent presentation with
some high-quality sounds that belie the price tag of their new KHT3005 system.
For further information contact: www.bristolshow.co.uk
WHAT'S NOU?
Hitachi chose Spain's famous Nou
Camp, close to Barcelona's vibrant
city centre and the home of
Barcelona Football Club, to launch
the company's new product range
for 2006. Following a path recently
trodden by Jose Mourinho, Robert
Jones (UK Sales Director, Hitachi)
Hitachi's dealers show
Chelsea how to behave and his colleagues introduced the
at the Nou Camp manufacturer's latest product lineup in presentations to 50 dealer guests at the company's SEE2006 conference.
Major additions to the company's range of HD Ready plasma and LCD TVs
head the product line up for 2006. The new Picture Master HD Ready 42-inch
plasma TV (42PD9700) is the first 42-inch model to use a truly 1080i HD ALIS
panel capable of showing every line of high-definition broadcast without
conversion or rescaling The product uses the very latest chip and plasma
8
UNDER LICENCE
LG and Toshiba have signed a patent cross licensing agreement for optical discrelated products, providing each company with access to the related patents and
technologies of the other. The agreement covers worldwide patents for optical
discs and for the optical disc drives, players and recorders that use them.
Benefits for both firms are expected when it comes to product development and
reducing development costs for the relevant products, including nextgeneration DVDs.
The market for optical disc products is continually growing, in line with the
proliferation of high-definition content and ever-increasing need for larger
capacities of storage. In the digital age related equipment is finding an
increasingly prominent role and Toshiba and LG's new accord should help
strengthen both their interests in its manufacturing. LG has long been a leader in
the production of related products, whilst Toshiba is widely regarded as a global
leader in optical disc technology. Both made substantial contributions in the
defining of today’s DVD specifications, and each should retain a key role in the
development and success of next generation formats.
“Both companies expect mutual benefit in the field of optical discs related
products through this agreement,” said Mr. B.B.Hwang, President and CEO,
Digital Media Company, LG Electronics Inc.
“This agreement is part of our strategy of promoting mutually beneficial
cooperation with leading global electronics companies,” Mr. Yoshihide Fujii,
President and CEO, Digital Media Network Company, Toshiba Corporation,
commented. “Our goal is to reinforce our ability to bring competitive products to
the rapidly growing optical media product marketplace at a faster rate.”
OUT OF THE KITCHEN
Kettles, toasters, coffee makers, grills... they're not that rock 'n' roll and
they're certainly not AV kit. However, following in the footsteps of Morphy
Richards, who recently made a similar manouevre, Dualit is set to enter the
home entertainment market. Look out for news of their London product
launch later this month, where the firm is all set to introduce its very first DAB
digital radio. With DAB an ever-growing phenomenon, it will be interesting to
see what this new face brings to the market.
For further information contact: www.dualit.com
technology to deliver a truly exceptional multimedia flat panel TV. Three more
Picture Master HD Ready models will follow during the year. A number of new
DVD camcorders were also on display, whilst those with an interest dedicated
home cinemas were treated to quite an experience courtesy of the awardwinning PJTX200 projector.
"We must consider the interests and investments made by our traditional
retailers," said Robert Jones in Barcelona. "It is Hitachi's intention to reward
dealers who truly represent the brand, dealers who stock, display and welcome
the new and emerging technologies that come from Hitachi," he added. The
event was also used as a platform for Hitachi to ferment closer relationships
with their independent dealerships in a period in which the traditional High
Street retailer has been struggling.
"The various initiatives put forward by Robert including new and better trading
terms, exclusive display stands for independent dealers and a product range that
boasts both technical quality and first class design was music to my ears in
Barcelona," dealer Tom Hayes of TC Hayes remarked.
For further information contact: +44 (0) 162 864 3000
www.hitachidigitalmedia.com
GOOD TO BE FREE
Apple are
boxing
clever once
again
APPLE OF THE I
In news that's likely to strike fear into the
hearts of all currently trying to grab a slice
of this market, the iPod's creators are to
launch a range of accessories to
complement these most popular of MP3players. The first evidence of this comes in
the form of the iPod Hi-Fi, recently
launched across the world. This one box
solution is said to offer sounds of warmth,
clarity and depth that fill a significantly
larger room than its compact dimensions
suggest. Its universal dock and tone
control make it a convenient and flexible
system and, at £250, it will directly
compete with many of the speaker docks
some of the biggest names in AV have
been launching over the last year. Given
the credence of the Apple name in the
MP3-player world, it will be interesting to
plot the impact the iPod Hi-Fi has in this
increasingly vibrant, lucrative market.
For further information contact:
www.apple.com
This month Freeview announced that sales of Freeview-enabled
digital boxes and digital televisions have passed the 10 million
mark. Launched in October 2002, the successful free-to-air digital
television service has found its way into 6.4 million homes,
making it one of the fastest-growing consumer entertainment
services ever launched in the UK.
Celebrities from leading TV channels including Gemma
Atkinson from Hollyoaks on E4, Bob the Builder from CBeebies,
Emma Crosby from Sky News and Holly Willoughby from ITV’s
Dancing on Ice joined in the celebrations for the 10 millionth
sale in store this week.
Ilse Howling, Freeview General Manager, commented:
“We’re very excited to confirm Freeview’s continuing success,
proving it to be a compelling and simple route to digital TV.
People love Freeview’s simplicity, our great channels and the
one-off payment with no subscription charges. With new
entertainment channels like E4, More 4, Sky Three, ITV 4 and
CITV, and FilmFour on the way, we have broadened our appeal
to a wider and younger audience. We have also seen an increase
in the range of products available to the consumer with sales of
Freeview-enabled personal video recorders (PVRs) and digital
TVs rising as the popularity of the service continues to grow."
And, with its profile also growing along with the demand, the
opportunity to sell this accompanying kit has never been better.
For further information contact: www.freeview.co.uk
A sleek route
to FreeView
from the
Sagem range
The popularity
their docking
station has
powered Intempo
up the charts
ABOVE THEIR STATION
The latest figures from GfK position Intempo Digital in
second place in the UK PC speaker market. This comes
only four months after Intempo first stepped into this
area with the launch of its iDS-01 - a docking station and
speaker system compatible with iPods and other MP3players. However, in this brief period Intempo has
already begun outselling established brands of the
magnitude of Bose, JBL, Logitech and Philips.
"We're thrilled to have made such a huge impact on
the speaker market in such a short space of time,
especially as there are so many established players to
compete with," Rhianon Lucas, Product Manager at
Intempo, commented.
"Our iDS-01 is not only an iPod docking station but a
powerful speaker system, it fuses style with cutting edge
technology and more importantly is very competitively
priced, meeting the strong demand for iPod accessories.
In the peak December sales period we were first to
market with the iDS-01 in black, with Nano Adaptor,
capitalising on the trend for the iPod Nano. This has been
a best seller and is still flying off the shelves."
The iDS-01 is lightweight and portable, utilising a
built-in dock that sells for a frighteningly paltry £29.99.
For further information visit www.intempodigital.com
9
> SOUND & VISION
EYE ON THE INDUSTRY
SURROUND AND CONQUER
A DTS-commissioned study conducted in conjunction with Nielsen Entertainment
Research, has revealed the significance of the surround sound market across
Western Europe. According to those responsible, the demographic base of people
owning home theatre systems has been broadening consistently since the advent
of the DVD era.
The European research focused primarily on the UK, France and Germany, as
these territories represent 67% of total Western European DVD spend levels. Its
results revealed that close to a third of those households petitioned have some
configuration of a home theatre system, which equates to over 50-million in total.
In the UK, France and Germany over one-third of DVD households own one, with
80% of these using a 5.1 or more expansive configuration.
With homes across the continent embracing the DVD-player and customers
snapping up HD-ready flat-screen TVs in their droves, surround sound system
purchasing will continue to boom. Those with the most dynamic cinematic sounds
are the most inclined to purchase DVDs too – some 83% more than those without
according to the survey. Of these, over half are aware of DTS with many choosing
to use it over and above the alternatives. In the UK, DTS-aware users bought 39%
more DVDs than non-DTS-aware consumers, with France and Germany also
following the trend. And, DTS are delighted to reveal, the majority consumers
aware of DTS strongly agree that the DTS brand delivers the highest quality in the
form of superior audio technology. The rest, it seems, need our help to be
educated as to its merits.
Higher quality sound is clearly a key element in the home entertainment
market, with 77% of French DVD consumers ranking upgraded surround sound as
the most important special feature of the digital age. And, with the percentage of
DVD consumers who actively change their surround sound format settings at the
beginning of a DVD
movie growing all the
time – most notably in
France - things are
looking good for the
hardworking team at
DTS. These days, far
from being restricted to
the conventional older
male with a sizeable
disposable income,
surround sound users
come in all ages and
both sexes. They are
becoming more
consumer savvy all the
time and with great
products abundant
across the industry,
rightfully so.
The surround
For further
sound system
information contact:
has never been
www.dts.com
so popular
OMNI PRESENT
OmniMount are a hugely popular player in the American AV furniture, loudspeaker
stand/bracket and flat-screen TV mounting market, and now their range is available in
the UK thanks to distributor API. The range promises us state-of-the-art engineering,
attractive designs and performance to match anyone operating in this area. These,
coupled with affordable prices, have helped OmniMount's rise and rise over the pond and
API will be hoping the UK market
shares in the enthusiasm.
With a team of highly skilled
industrial designers and
engineers producing their
ranges in-house from the
ground up at the company's
Phoenix, Arizona headquarters,
innovative solutions and new
patents are commonplace at
OmniMount. But don't take our
word for it – check out the range
for yourself...
For further information contact:
www.omnimount.co.uk
10
Pioneer's
PureVision
series: wanted,
preferably alive
MOSTED WANTED
Americans, those famous early adopters of cutting edge technologies, are in
love with plasma - it's official. According to a study conducted by Roper Public
Affairs, a division of GfK, half of the US want to get their hands on one.
Entitled the I Want My Plasma TV survey, it was commissioned by Pioneer
Electronics USA in order to discover the extraordinary lengths ordinary people
are prepared to go to get their hands on one of the firm's PureVision models.
According to the results, 40% percent of men surveyed said they would
endure a torturous 48-hour chick flick marathon if it meant they would be
rewarded with a plasma television. Meanwhile, 20% of the men surveyed said
they would give up all sports related activities, including watching and
playing, in pursuit of a flat-screen TV. And women are on the bandwagon too,
with a third claiming they would give up chocolate for a year in return for
such luxurious viewing.
"We're gearing up for some of the biggest television events of the year.
With international sporting events, awards shows and major basketball
tournaments just around the corner, consumers are willing to do just about
anything for a chance to have a high-definition plasma TV," said Russ Johnston,
senior vice president of marketing for home entertainment at Pioneer
Electronics (USA) Inc. "Once you experience the jaw-dropping image quality of a
high-definition plasma television it's hard to go back to watching ordinary TV."
Both the slender dimensions and crisp, vibrant images are driving this
demand, with the PureVision ranges outstanding performance, founded on
proprietary technology, making it one of the most popular options around.
For further information contact: www.pioneerelectronics.com
STATE OF REPAIR
Sony has announced four key changes in the structure of its support services,
which are designed to deliver improvements to all UK customers. The
changes will take place over the next few months.
A new European Zone Wide Field Engineering support team has been
created to provide access to more experts for both Sony’s key and contract
customers. These experts will be available to assist in resolving complex or
difficult repairs and technical queries.
Secondly, Sony announced the expansion of its Authorised Service
Centres (ASC’s), all of which are approved by Sony to a high standard, to
provide support for bench repair of those established products, such as DVW,
that will no longer be repaired in-house. Sony will continue to repair
products in new technology areas, such as HD.
Thirdly, the UK Technical Helpdesk will be combined with Sony’s
European Helpdesk, based at Basingstoke, providing access to a larger team
of support personnel to field customer enquiries. To ensure that key
accounts are supported with technical enquiries, Sony has also created the
position of a Key Account Liaison Engineer who will assist with any escalation
required from calls coming through the helpdesk.
Finally, Sony announced the creation of a
Phew, Sony will
Central Repair Centre (CRC), based in Cologne. The
still repair their
HD-ready options
new CRC is intended to become a centre of
excellence in Europe, offering support on both new
technology products and to support legacy
products. All of these changes are intended to help
Sony deliver both operational efficiency as well as
service improvements to its customers, including
ownership of customer queries from dedicated
engineers and access to more Sony experts.
For further information contact:
www.sonybiz.net
ON THE GAYDAR
THE GERMAN
CONNECTION
A new cable manufacturer is set to make
its presence felt in the UK market in the
coming months. Well, we say new, but
Oehlbach Pure is actually Germany’s
leading brand of cables and accessories
for the home and in 2006 celebrates 30years in a business where it has
specialised exclusively in cable design
and manufacture. With most of their
cables produced in Switzerland and
Germany, these come complete with an
assurance of quality, befitting of the two
nations' reputations for craftsmanship
and attention to detail. A wide range of
Hi-Fi and home cinema options will be
available across a huge price range,
which starts at £15 and goes all the way
to a staggering £6,000.
The range is available now and has a lot
to offer those who take their audio
and visual solutions seriously.
One product that has
already caught our eye
are the firm's HDMI
Switch Boxes, which
should prove very
popular as the HD era
dawns.
For further information
contact: +44 (0) 208 424
8844 www.oehlbach.de
Outright Research, the UK’s biggest and most detailed
research project into the lifestyles of UK gay people,
reports that gays are proportionately among the biggest
spenders, trend setters and earliest adopters of new
consumer technology products in the UK. The survey was
commissioned by GaydarRadio, Channel 4 and OMD Insight.
The Outright Research programme has delivered a
powerful snapshot of the 21st century gay and lesbian
marketplace and their behaviour towards brands and
technology. The comparative research programme
interviewed a healthy, robust sample of 18, 000 gay
respondents and 4,000 straight people, aged between 16
and 55 years old.
The Outright Research results report that brands
launching new consumer tech products will have their
wares purchased by a third of gay people, as they are first to
jump on the new tech bandwagon, buying hot products like
HDTVs, eight mega-pixel digital cameras and second
generation 3G mobile phones. Over half of gay people prefer
their gadgets to reflect their sense of style and individuality,
compared to a third of straight people. 40% of gays admit
investing a lot of money in new technology compared to a
quarter of straights. Gay people are much more tech savvy
than their straight counterparts, with half of all gay mobile
users using many additional functionalities on their mobiles
such as such as 3G, Bluetooth, viewing movie clips,
compared to a third for straight people.
The Outright Research programme identified three
distinctive clusters of gay consumers. The first, labelled
Gay Pods, apparently fill their apartments with the latest
gadgets. They snap up products like the new black iPod
Nano and are always amongst the first to buy the latest
technology. They have Sky+, home cinema with Dolby 5.1
and a digital camera small enough to slip into your
wallet. Reading tastes include the NME and Heat, they
love going to concerts and spend a lot of time downloading
music onto their 3G smart phones.
The next classification, labelled Gay Style Setters,
comprises men and women who give the gay community
its reputation for trend-setting. These people are happy to
spend beyond their means, like to stand out in a crowd, go
to top clubs, work out and listen to cutting edge music.
Finally, Gay Home Birds are comfortable with
themselves and lifestyle, and watch the fashion obsessives
from a distance, preferring to spend more wisely and
choose more trusted products and tried and tested brands.
They appreciate the value of companies like Easyjet, take a
keen interest in current affairs and shop at Tescos.
David Muniz, Commercial Director of GaydarRadio,
commented: “The Outright Research project has delivered
concrete facts showing the importance and power of gays
and lesbians in the UK consumer tech market. Gay people
embrace exciting, cutting edge technologies such as HDTV
and home Wi-Fi networks. The Outright Research clearly
shows that effective, creative and targeted gay media
campaigns for consumer tech brands will deliver increased
brand loyalty and ultimately a sustainable jump in sales.”
Sarah Bridgman, Insight Manager
at OMD Insight, added: “The Outright
Research project has been a
resounding success. Outright provides
evidence of the importance of gay
expenditure plays in the UK consumer
technology landscape. The research
shows that brands which have
implemented gay friendly or gay
specific campaigns have created a
closer affinity to gay people and
The black
increased levels of brand loyalty
Nano is a
major hit on
between them.”
the gay scene,
For further information contact:
we're told
www.outrightresearch.com
11
> SOUND & VISION
EYE ON THE INDUSTRY
QUALITY CONTROL
The British Federation of Audio - the UK’s specialist AV consumer electronics trade body says it’s becoming increasingly apparent that consumers are not getting the enjoyment they
could from their portable music devices or Hi-Fis. According to the BFA's latest report, there
is considerable consumer apathy to high quality sound reproduction from popular
contemporary portable media gadgets and today's music fans are happy to download and
listen to low bit-rate music files – which often don't come close to conventional CD quality.
The CD portable, meanwhile, despite offering a considerably higher quality of sound, is
quickly losing ground to fashionable but generally poorer quality solid state or hard disk
portable players.
The BFA believes that downloads at inadequate bit-rates are causing the trend.
Listening tests carried out by various members of the Federation, using a variety of MP3players, indicate that the standard recording rate of around 128kbits per second results in
reproduction that is audibly inferior to CD by a significant margin – and demonstrably so. It
is known that higher bit-rates of 256k and above deliver a far better performance...
although still not as good as that from CD.
None loss compression systems – such as Apple's Lossless still allow plenty of music to be stored on an iPod at a sound
quality more akin to a budget specialist CD player. And the
BFA is keen to encourage users using higher bit-rates to
connect their portable music devices to their Hi-Fis, as the
performance can be very good indeed.
“The BFA is very pleased to see the renewed
interest in music that mobile multi-media
applications have stimulated and encourages
music enthusiasts to pop into specialist Hi-Fi
big
It's t
stores to hear just how good their music can
h
g
i
f
t:
sound,” says Stephen N Harris, the BFA
nigh
BFA s on
Chairman. “We’re also urging our industry to try
take ...
to educate its customers into taking the time to set
MP3
their portable music gadgets to the highest possible bit-rate
and to make sound quality as high a priority as convenience. The difference
in the overall sound experience is quite striking – and very rewarding.”
For further information contact: + 44 (0) 142 871 4616 www.british-audio.org
www.chestergroup.org
ONE IN A BILLION
Highlighting the extent to which the audio world has changed over recent years, Apple has
announced a landmark occurrence for its iTunes Music Store. On February 23rd, the onebillionth song was downloaded since its inception less than three years ago. It was Coldplay's
Speed of Sound, purchased as part of the X&Y album package by Alex Ostrovsky from West
Bloomfield, Michigan. To commemorate this stunning achievement, Apple awarded Alex a 20inch iMac, 10 fifth generation iPods and a $10,000 gift card good for any item on the iTunes
Music Store. In addition, Apple will establish a scholarship to the world-renowned Julliard
School of Music in his name to commemorate this milestone.
“I hope that every customer, artist and music company executive takes a moment today to
reflect on what we’ve achieved together during the past three years,” said Steve Jobs, Apple’s
CEO. “Over one billion songs have now been legally purchased and downloaded around the
globe, representing a major force against music piracy and the future of music distribution as
we move from CDs to the Internet.”
During its lifetime the iTunes stores has continued to evolve and now boasts pioneering
features such as integrated video and Podcasting support, iMix playlist sharing, it seamlessly
integrates with iPods and is typically easy to use. Current content available on it includes
3,500 music videos and Pixar short films, 35,000 podcasts, 16,000 audiobooks and more than
two million songs from the major music companies and independent record labels. It has
also established itself as the world’s most popular video download store with more than 15
million videos purchased and downloaded. With this in mind, it is no wonder that iPod
enhancing accessories are
proving big business for our
industry as the moment,
whilst innovative servers are
growing in popularity,
affording users the
convenience to use their
digital content around the
home. For an insight into
the former, turn to this
month's feature where we
unveil some of the finest
options around.
For further information
contact: www.apple.com
12
GET FITTER!
Vogels have introduced a new website to help consumers who
have purchased an LCD or plasma screen, or resellers who want
to advise customers, to choose the right mount for the screen. The
website boasts a directory of all the current models of flat-screen
TVs available on the market. All the important characteristics of
each model – including its dimensions, weight, colour and fitting
options – are listed. The website has the ability to cross reference
this information with the specification of each Vogels mount, and
inform the user of the best solutions available to them.
Users are able to decide, as part of the process, how they want
their screen to be fitted to the wall, with the site once again guiding
them through their choices. This innovative tool for both the buyer
and the salesman can be found at www.Flatscreenfitter.com, and is
available in Dutch, English, German, French, Spanish and Italian.
This site is the latest web-based innovation from Vogels, who
also include www.homecinematips.com and
www.homecinemaplanner.com in their marketing arsenal.
For further information contact: www.flatscreenfitter.com
Samsung
show off
their OLED
screen
THE
ORGANIC
OPTION
The Mitsubishi
Chemical
Corporation has
announced that it
has developed an
organic lightemitting diode (OLED) device with the highest efficiency in
the world in its new blue phosphorescence OLED material.
The new OLED material, which can be produced by a lowercost, wet-coating process, is expected to open the way to the
development of a new class of large flat-panel displays.
Unlike LCD screens, OLED devices emit light when an
electric current is applied and do not require a backlight to
function. They consume less power, have a wider viewing
angle and display a brighter image with a refresh rate that is
a thousand times faster than LCDs. Current applications of
OLED technology are limited to smaller display screens of
mobile phones, car audio, portable music players and similar
products, due to the difficulty in applying current OLED
technologies to large screens. The evolution of Mitsubishi's
OLED technology, however, promises to solve all this.
Mitsubishi Chemical Group Science and Technology
Research Center, Inc. (MCRC) has been developing
materials, mainly phosphorescence-emitting layer material,
suitable for manufacturing a thin, bright, large-screen
display. Phosphorescent material has four times greater
luminous efficiency in principle than that of fluorescent
material, which is widely employed now. This higher
efficiency of phosphorescence leads to low power
consumption, which is critical for applications using larger
screens such as flat-panel TVs. In addition, the wet-coating
method enables low-cost processing and makes the
fabrication of large-area screens practical – something
which has proved to be difficult and expensive using standard
vacuum deposition processes.
"It is far superior to existing lines in terms of efficiency
of phosphorescence emission. We expect to have early
success in practical applications," said Dr. Junji Kido, a
professor at Yamagata University and the internationally
recognised lead scientist on the OLED project.
Dr. Yoshimitsu Kobayashi, President and CEO of MCRC,
stated: "This achievement is a milestone in the development
of OLED technologies, because this enables OLED to be
applied to flat-panel displays."
MCC's research and development process is to continue,
as its team pursues further improvements to its blue OLED
material to guarantee a longer lifetime. With commercial
products due for unveiling by the end of 2007, the prospects
for this stunning technology continue to look good. Keep your
eyes peeled for it...
For further information contact:
www.m-kagaku.co.jp/index_en.htm
>
SOUND & VISION OUT AND ABOUT
Out And About
IT'S ONE OF THE BUSIEST TIMES OF THE YEAR FOR OUR INDUSTRY AND HAMISH MCNAIRWILSON’S FEET HAVE BARELY TOUCHED THE GROUND IN 2006...
Already it seems like an age ago, a hazy memory, lodged so deep within
the most far flung reaches of my mind that it would take a few highly
paid psychiatrists several weeks of intense work to extract. In reality,
however, it was a little over a month back that I was invited down to
Microsoft's private demonstration facility, LifeSquared... somewhere
not too far from Chelsea Harbour.
CALL IN THE PLUMBERS
Having eventually found the place, hidden on a rather innocuous side street with
less signage than a secret bunker, a sizeable chunk of the UK's home-making
and electronics press were treated to a tour of a mock up business, town and
home. All of this had been kitted out with Microsoft's latest technologies in order
that we might comprehend what they can bring to the working, commercial and
residential sectors in 2006. And there was a lot there for us to appreciate. The
worker on the road we were introduced to showed us how to share diagrams with
the office via a PDA and annotate them over the airwaves too; the X-Box 360
proved able to act as something considerably more dynamic than a simple
console... and home life and office life seemed a veritable breeze thanks to the
latest software from Bill Gates's empire.
But that wasn't why we were there. We were there because Digital Plumbers
were using the facility to launch themselves into the consciousness of every
relevant UK journalist willing to listen. And when I heard they were a spin off of
SMC – one of the leading lights of our CI and integration industry – I was all ears.
“This is for ordinary people – not just geeks,” Martin Banks began, as Digital
Plumbers confidently set their stall out.
Having been frustrated by a marketplace beyond the reaches of the average
person, this new concern claim to have created a wiring system offering the most
flexibility and least complicated installation around. Its compact, wall-mountable
hub costs only £500 and, thanks to its simplicity and some easy to follow
instructions, can be fitted by an electrical contractor on site. It is hooked up to
each room by lightweight cabling at a cost of only about £50 per room. With this in
place users can enjoy a range of benefits including
whole-house audio, transported from
their central stereo to the remainder
of their home from whichever
discreet speakers they
choose; they can also
have Sky, Freeview
Digital Plumbers
are on the move
signals and the internet
in any room, have remote
access to scene-setting lighting and garner peace
of mind from an easy to monitor security system. In
essence, Digital Plumbers will prepare a home for the smart
age at minimal cost, providing their customers with many of the benefits of the
smart era without much of the expense or upheaval. And, thanks to the expertise
their main men Steve Moore and Martin Banks have gained through their many
years at SMC, Digital Plumbers know the smart world inside out.
FILM 2006
Of course, while we hope to see affordable smart homes springing up
everywhere in the not too distant future, the vast majority of those we encounter
are better suited to the self-indulgent film star than the local estate agent's
window here on the hard streets of Essex. The same could be said of the red
carpet at a film festival, but thanks to the generous team at Canon an excited
batch of the UK press got to slip into their glad rags and strut up it at the recent
Berlin Film Festival.
As a sponsor of the event, the company used it as a platform to introduce
their latest product ranges, which included a number of projectors. The launch
took place in the Canon dome, a temporary structure located a stone’s throw
away from the Checkpoint Charlie on an industrial site that certainly had the feel
of no-man's land. Three additions to the XEED range were on show – the flagship,
professionally-inclined SX6, the XEED SX60 (which would make an excellent home
cinema solution) and the SX50, which joins the range as an entry level option.
From here it was off to the main to event to witness the first showing of Michael
Winterbottom's telling tale of three British citizens captured by the American
army in Afghanistan, before being transferred to Guantanamo bay where they
Make Canon's XEED
SX60 at home
were held, tortured and eventually released without trial. Road To
Guantanamo was a thought provoking piece of work that raised a multitude of
questions and fully deserved the standing ovation it was greeted with. A tour of
Berlin and some fine food completed an enthralling trip, during which Canon
asserted their ambitions in the home cinema market.
SMART MOVE
The last port of call on my calendar this month was Birmingham, where
the latest Smart Home Show was taking place at the NEC. This may have
been born out of the Home Buildings And Renovation Show, but it is
rapidly becoming a buzzing event in its own right. Our sister publication
SmartLife International had a stand at the show and this gave us an
opportunity to meet a huge number of visitors. The vast majority of
those present seemed genuinely interested in the benefits the lifestyle
technology around them could bring and were eagerly moving from
stand to stand lapping up information on how they could enhance their
home. An array of companies from our industry
made the trip with installation specialists
like SmartComm pimping their services
and CI distributors RGB Communications
showing off great products like AMX's
MAX and projectiondesign's latest
projectors. Transparent Distribution's
stand proved a highlight for many, as here
droves of homeowners with a
sense of style were
introduced to the
Waterfall's stunning
selection of
speakers. The
reaction, we were
told, was fantastic. It
was great to see an
event so well
attended and
enthusiasm so rife –
if it continues to
improve with the
rapidity it has thus
far the Smart Home
Show will have a
huge role in taking
the smart word to
the right people. Roll
on the next one...
Waterfall's finest floorstanders
caused quite a stir at the NEC
13
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SHOW REVIEW
Day Of West
Having taken on both the elements and the public
transport system, a battle weary HAMISH McNAIRWILSON eventually made it to one of Bristol's finest
Sound & Vision shows to date...
I've never been a fan of the Pet Shop Boys, but there is one time in the year I pay
heed to their most famous mantra and go west. It is, of course, the last
weekend of February when the great, the good and a fair few others from the
UK's AV industry descend upon Bristol's Marriott hotel to get an insight into
what the year has in store for the world of home entertainment. It is here
that many of the revelations first unveiled over at Las Vegas's CES make
their UK debut and those journalists who didn't make it across the pond
simply have to be in Bristol. As anyone who regularly makes the trip will tell
you, this show is one of the most important on our calendar – it would have
to be to drag the likes of us that far outside of the M25! Well attended by
exhibitors, the trade and the public, for the duration of the show the tightly
packed corridors and communal areas positively pulsate with activity. From
the bar right up to the Presidential Suite, this year it proved a hive of activity,
with business being done, company credit cards being strained and the most
attuned ears and eyes being tested by some cutting edge kit.
The first port of call for me was floor 10 and the aforementioned
Presidential Suite, which had been taken over by SIM2 for the duration of
the event. The Italian projector manufacturer's UK team was out in force,
with two dedicated demonstration rooms up and running to highlight the
ability of their latest and greatest home cinema projectors. Of particular
note for us was the HT3000, which was making its European debut at the
show, having been previewed over in the States earlier in the year. A
healthy collection of our AV press made it to the grand unveiling, where we
were talked through its strengths and then given the opportunity to judge
them in action. A 1080p model, it includes Texas Instruments' next
generation DLP chipset. Relatively compact, the single chip model, the
HT3000 weighs only 11kg and benefits from SIM2's unique Alpha Path light
engine which helps to keep it in trim. It has been carefully dressed with an
ultra modern look and, as the SIM2 chaps quipped, bares a passing
resemblance to Darth Vader's mask. In operation it does indeed cross over
to the Dark Side with the staggering contrast ratio ensuring its blacks are
indeed black and the graduation of colours defined and detailed. Indeed, in
the high-definition footage we were shown, smooth, sharp images were
evident throughout, with the projector making a serious case for itself.
SIM2's commitment to quality shines through in both its performance and
What Hi-Fi's HDTV demo
proved popular
The punters arrive on cue...
specification, which includes 10-bit DSP processing and offers significant
improvements over the industry standard 8-bit. The HT3000 will be available
next month and, when it hits the market at £9,000, it’s sure to prove a
popular choice.
screen play
From the dizzy heights of the tenth floor it was a question of working my way
down and around the rest of the show... and as usual there was an awful lot to
take in. It was at the opposite end of the Marriott where another of the bestreceived products was making its UK debut. KEF's KHT3005 is the latest
incarnation of the range of small, curvy speakers that helped to redefine the
multi-channel home cinema speaker market. Taking the performance of its
predecessors to the next level and dressed in a thoroughly slick look, this
compact package was up, running and making the right impression on the
public. In fact, had it been available many claimed they would have snapped it
up there and then…
On the ground floor What Hi-Fi? Sound and Vision had set up an HDTV
demonstration suite capable of overpowering any other at the show. And
herein they had a high capacity projector whirling out through-the-window
images for the populace. But what is a projector without a projector screen?
Not a lot, as continental firm Beamax were out to prove just around the corner.
Making their debut at the Bristol show, these guys have quickly built up a
sizeable dealer base in UK, turning it into their biggest export market in just
two years. Their success has been built on a combination of a great product
range and the incredible efficiency with which they operate. Of particular note
on their stand was the X2 series, a new range of entry-level screens designed
to accompany portable projectors. Available in a number of sizes and aspect
ratios, these screens are light, easy to carry and can be bundled with a
projector, giving your buyers an instant route to home cinematic splendour.
The incredibly innovative ArtSoundScreen was also there for all to see and it
really caught the eye thanks to its winning combination of aural and visionenhancing abilities and incredible discreetness. You won't find any more
original approaches to projector screen production than this dynamic home
cinema solution.
Just around the corner from the Beamax stand, furniture specialists Blok
were showing off a grand selection of cabinets and racks which really stood
out from the crowd. In an industry dominated by gleaming metals and
translucent glass, Blok are prepared to go against the grain, producing high
15
SHOW REVIEW
imagination…Nestling on a shelf, subtly and
discreetly, was the NX-A01 – a tiny square speaker
that combines with a docking station to offer a
surprisingly sonorous and detailed relay of an
iPod's content. We eagerly await its release.
In the meantime, however, Monitor Audio
remain one of the leaders of this relatively new
market thanks to their popular iDeck. This stereo
system was on show once again, with a brand new,
all-black option making an appearance. The freshly
dressed model has been introduced to cater for the
needs of the growing number of black iPods and this, like
its lighter sibling, also allows users to customise its look
thanks to the inclusion changeable, coloured grills.
They'd certainly packed them in upstairs and just a little further
along I came across the Opposition Group, who were busy taking their
message to an intrigued audience. Products on show here included the
Hifidelio Wireless Music Center – an innovative piece of kit with an 80GB hard
drive that can also act as a network hub. Users can rip their music
collections to it, compressing them where they feel the need and not
compressing them if committed to the highest quality of audio. Blessed with
an array of attractive features, this will automatically source out track and
artist information of its content. Bristol provided an ideal opportunity for the
UK distributors to introduce the traditional audiophiles to the future of music
management and we can only hope they paid attention.
Abbey Road's latest cables were also on show on this stand –
remarkably light and founded on expertise and knowledge learned in and
applied from the professional sector, they have clearly been a labour of love
for their manufacturer. Having already been embraced by many industry
insiders, and now commercially available through the Opposition Group,
these are proving a real hit. Having taken a closer look at them on my
travels, it's easy to see why.
PURE Digital continue to lead the UK's DAB market and invariably put in
a strong showing at industry events like this. No other company is as prolific
when it comes to unleashing new products and innovative technologies
pertaining to Digital Audio Broadcasting. Bristol witnessed our first
introduction in person to the Evoke-3 – the latest model dressed in that
distinguished PURE look, encompassing every one of the advanced
technologies the company have been introducing over the last couple of
years. Think ReVu, think SD-card support, think USB upgradability, an EPG
and more. The CHRONOS was also on show and proving itself to be an
awakening choice with enough alarms in its arsenal to wake me up on time –
and believe you me, that's a challenge many have faltered with. Yes, I'll be
getting my hands on one forthwith...
For those seeking the optimum in home
cinema, there was no by-passing NAD...
quality, smoothly finished wooden furnishings sure to appeal to those with
more traditional decorative leanings and befitting of the custom install
market too. With a great deal of experience in producing furniture of every
type behind them, this is a market the Blok team truly understand and there
can be no doubt their luxurious looking cabinets drew the gaze of all who
wandered past.
Of course, the combination of glass and metal does remain en vogue
and you'll need to give your buyers plenty of options in this area. Atacama
were providing some of the most noteworthy of such modish solutions in the
Marriott, having plucked a prime location for their stand, not far away from
Blok. This homegrown manufacturer has claimed What Hi-Fi? Sound and
Vision's Best Accessory award the last two years running and its modular
Equinox series remains a highly popular one with both Hi-Fi and home
cinema users.
Choice is imperative for the discerning buyer, so it was good to see
Glasgow-based distributor Yello also in the house, showing off the highquality Germanic craftsmanship of the Spectoral and Just-Racks ranges
they handle. The former have a huge range of chic metal and glass racks
for every need, known for their high standards of build quality and
commitment to safety. Just-Racks also make voguish stands, the simplicity
of which makes them among the best priced on the market. Having also
struck up a relationship with Hitachi, plenty of the trade flocked over to
Yello to discover they can now supply any relevant product from this huge
outfit catalogue.
hands on deck
Elsewhere on the ground floor Yamaha were making their presence felt. Over
the last year or so we have become quite accustomed to seeing them at
shows, with a demonstration suite on site to introduce visitors to the
enrapturing abilities of their digital sound projectors... and the Bristol show
continued in this vein. Of course they had a huge range of kit available, but it
was these fine, discreet, ingenious and well-priced surround sound solutions
that stood out once again, winning over whichever initial cynics lent them
their ears. With new floor-standing speakers, flat-screen TVs and projectors
all on the launchpad in 2006, it’s been a busy start to the year for Yamaha.
But it was something a little smaller that really captured our
Fujitsu's new flat-screen TVs vie for attention
16
the masters piece
NAD's Masters Series had some serious pulling power at the event. Having
won a huge amount of coverage across the AV press, both the trade and
public were clambering to take a look at it in person. With several
components available, put them together and they form one of the
strongest home cinema and audio set-ups around.
With up to seven powerful channels of sound
available, full HDMI connectivity, HD-compatibility,
an RS-232 port for the most advanced control and a
universal disk-player at its heart, the Masters is as
versatile and powerful a collection of components as
you'll find - and it looks pretty hot too. With their C
445 DAB Tuner also on display for the first time,
there was no passing NAD by. This has been
designed to extract every ounce of musicality from
digital broadcasts and it'll certainly make an
impression.
Lexicon are another company who have made
a name for themselves by producing high quality
home theatre systems and, thanks to CSE
Solutions, there was a chance to catch up with
their kit at Bristol. For those with an interest in the
high-end of home entertainment, they were
another must. With projector manufacturer InFocus
also on the CSE books, stopping off here gave
visitors a genuine insight into the possibilities in
home cinema.
Linn always make at impression in the West
Country thanks to their prime location and properly
coordinated listening sessions. 2006's event gave the team a chance to
preview their new MAJIK System – a dedicated analogue collection of
components designed for audiophiles with puritanical tendencies. And there
were plenty about in the Marriott to appreciate it. Capable, Linn told us, of
revitalising any CD or vinyl collection through its sheer simplicity and focus
on delivering the best musical performance possible, it benefits from 30years of experience in sound reproduction. Comprising the MAJIK CD
player, MAJIK KONTROL pre-amplifier and MAJIK 2100 power amplifier,
this set-up should put the life back into two-channel and even allows its
sounds to be broadcast around the home when combined with the KNEKT
multi-room system.
Both style and sound were certainly evident in Ruark's rooms, where
two very different types of speaker were getting a public airing. Their Vita
Symphony range has received a fair amount of press on these pages in
recent months and here the public were able to put it to the test. Ultra sleek,
yet smooth and impacting, it would have impressed all with up-to-theminute tastes and an ear for quality. And, for the more traditional
audiophiles, there were the latest incarnations of the Sabre and
Talisman ranges to catch up with. With Tivoli's cutting edge DAB and iPodenhancing systems also on show, there was plenty to see here and
something for everyone.
REL is always a company that inspires the listener who likes to tweak
their system to the optimum and this renowned subwoofer manufacturer
have put all of their award-winning abilities into their latest wares. And of
course while the show has fully embraced the visual world, its long stated
commitment to the most innovative audio remains intact. Continental team
SIM2 step over to
the Dark Side...
Canton were another speaker manufacturer reporting a successful show,
with an enticing selection at their disposal including elegant flat-screen
accompanying speakers through to the truly absorbing, freshly redesigned
ERGO Series. Jamo, whose products are now available in the UK via BBG
Distribution, also had plenty to shout about, with the cutting edge design
work of their Reference R 909s causing a stir.
Yamaha's sleek
iPod system
shows the firm to
be boxing clever
once again
Idioteque on one of the firm's incredible turntables. This time around,
however, I was there to see some representatives of names like Meridian
and Arcam discuss the respective merits of Blu-ray and HD-DVD – or, more
to the point, condemn the brewing and potentially damaging format war that
is emerging between the two camps. The industry, it seems, is deeply
fearful that high-definiton visuals will go the same way as the highdefinition audio formats SACD and DVD-Audio – i.e down the swanny.
However, once HD hits the airwaves its very apparent advantages will be
there for all to see, rather than hidden away in specialist shops where they
have to be hunted out, so it may not be the time to worry so much quite yet.
And in the meantime, of course, there are plenty of superb DVD-players to
concern ourselves with...
All in all Bristol proved a great show for us and certainly restated its
position as one of the most important of its kind on the calendar, as it
continues to effectively evolve with a home entertainment market in
constant flux. Not only did it succeed in dragging people out of and away
from the capital for a weekend – more international distributors than
ever were also spotted doing the rounds. The numbers were up on
both the Friday and Sunday and most exhibitors we spoke to were
more than happy with the quality and quantity of attendees. Our
friends at Beamax have already snapped up 10 new dealers as a
result of their stand, KEF reported an overwhelming response to their
new KHT system from the public and press alike - and secured the best
multi-channel demonstration award from the BFA for their efforts to boot while Tannoy's Max Maude claimed he'd never seen so many people at the
show. With testimonials like this, we're already looking forward to the show's
20th birthday celebrations next year. The Marriott has been booked for
February 25th-27th 2007 and no doubt the bars of Bristol will be buzzing with
AV folk once again.
FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT:
www.bristolshow.co.uk
The usual suspects: the industry experts who gave the
press an insight into the HD format wars at Bristol...
new ears resolution
For those seeking something a little more compact, Meridian's latest active
monitors, the M3100s, were more than worthy of a closer look. These
versatile models have that characteristic tone we associate with this
respected manufacturer and the quality to impress those with a taste for the
high-end. But if it was true originality and innovation in design terms you
were after, there was no passing the Resolution Loudspeakers room by. Here
the company's founder Nick Le Feuvre could be found enthusiastically
expounding the benefits of his newly patented SUHTL technology, which
many visitors agreed delivered some of the clearest, truest sounds they'd
ever heard. Having surveyed the opinions of all who listened, Nick was
delighted at the reception his labour of love received.
For the ladies and gentlemen of the press there is always little more to
experience than the product demonstrations and come five o'clock on the
Friday we were herded back to the Wilson Benesch room, which I'd
previously been lured into by a stunning presentation of Radiohead's
17
> SOUND & VISION
ALL THE AV NEWS FIT TO PRINT
What’s New?
COMPILED BY SARAH ADCOCK
WHAT’S NEW ‘S ROUND-UP OF ALL
THE VERY LATEST PRODUCT NEWS
BLACK FOR GOOD
British loudspeaker guru Monitor Audio has been making
a major name for itself with hip young consumers across
the land thanks to the style and practicality of its iPod
docking, stereo solution, the i-deck. This has swiftly
become one of the best known systems of its ilk,
accruing major awards along the way. And now it has
been revitalised with a striking new makeover. Paying
heed to the growing popularity of black iPods – which
account for some 70% of new sales, we’re told - the ideck has stepped over to the Dark Side... and it looks
incredibly classy for it. Featuring the same cutting edge
technologies inside that made the original i-deck such a
hit with reviewers, it retains the changeable grills and
will confidently turn any compatible iPod – including a
Nano – into a Hi-Fi capable of filling the room.
For further information contact: +44 (0) 126 874 0580
www.monitoraudio.co.uk
THE IN CROWD
An innovative cantilever stand branded In Stand is being manufactured for
Yorkshire-based firm In Store Electrics Ltd. Unique features include its
unprecedented no quibble 10-year guarantee, excluding the glass. With
only one year conventionally handed out, clearly its manufacturers have
some serious confidence in their design. This was confirmed by Bill Kent,
In Store's MD, who drew our attention to some of the weaknesses of many
products of this type available on the market today. Any that rely on glass
sandwiched between mdf or steel, he reminded us, could at some future
date fail. Complete structural integrity can only be achieved with a
separate metal structure which does not stress the glass components and
that is exactly what In Stand offers.
It isn't just a robust model that's built to last, however, it’s attractive
and practical too, thanks in part to its beautifully curved glass profile
which will afford users easy access even when it's housed in a corner.
Ease of construction is a further boon, with its screens hung by two clever
universal clips which are compatible with all makes of TV. The lower part
of the screen is also secured by two adjusters without the need for a
bottom bar - something which doesn't suit all makes because of tuner
bulges. As a result the In Stand will cater for virtually every need... and it is
competitively priced too. With the option of a platinum silver stand with
clear class (Model
ST36) or a black
gloss finish with
darkened glass
(Model ST36b)
available, buyers
will be able to
choose which of the
two voguish looks
bets fits their
interior. And, no
matter which you
feel you prefer,
we're sure they'll
both prove popular.
For further
information
contact: +44
(0) 127 466 0196
18
OFF THE SHELF
Black finishes seem to be where it’s at these days and Optimum International
aren’t a company to be caught behind the times. As a result the firm is now
offering its entire Fusion LCD range – one of its best selling – with gloss black
glass shelving. This complements the polished chrome support rods creating a
look that quite simply exudes style and sophistication. The range comprises of four
modular stands, designed for flat-screen TVs of up to 50-inches in size. Each
comes with up to four shelves, forged from 10mm toughened polished safety
glass, features an integrated cable management system and has been designed to
make the most of the space available to the buyer.
For further information contact: +44 (0) 190 469 0089
www.optimum2000.com
WHAT’S NEW
BRIMFUL OF FEATURES ON THE 45
Sagem seem to be on a mission to make enthralling home cinema
affordable to all and the Axium HD-D45F DLP HD Ready TV is the
latest manifestation of this. That the DLP-TV market is a growing
phenomenon is beyond doubt and Sagem are one of the biggest
players in the game. Their latest contribution should ensure
continued success when it hits the market, as it will afford viewers a
immersing 45-inches of high-definition pictures for only £1,199.
Dressed in a slick silver finish, the HD-D45F is just 34cm deep
allowing it to slip comfortably into any living space. Texas
Instrument’s superior HD4 DLP chip brings its known quality to the
pictures which boast a 2,000:1 contrast ratio and an impressively high
resolution. Meanwhile, with an HDMI input in its rear, with HDCP
management control, this model will be ready to rock when HD hits
the airwaves. Feature ridden too, it comes equipped with an
integrated digital receiver, providing users with immediate access to
FreeView services, and a photocard reader with slideshow, thumbnail
and 90-degree rotation capabilities to view that digital family album.
You certainly couldn’t demand anything more for the money...
For further information contact: +44 (0) 870 343 1111
www.sagem.co.uk
PACKING IT IN
Marantz’s spanking new DV6600 made quite an impression over at CES. This striking
DVD-player uses the latest in video technology to deliver truly outstanding images.
Faroudja’s DCDi processing, an HDMI 1.1 interface, video scaling circuitry capable of outputting
720p and 1080i video signals, PAL and NTSC Progressive Scan, as well as an ADV7322 216MHz/11-bit
DAC from respected manufacturer Analog Devices, are all crammed into its ultra sleek shell. The serious
construction rewards users with serious performance in the high-definition audio formats as well as in DVD
playback, making the DV6600 something of a snip at £350.
For further information contact: +44 (0) 175 368 0868
www.marantz.com
> SOUND & VISION
ALL THE AV NEWS FIT TO PRINT
MODEL GOOD LOOKS
ON THE EGG SON
Eclipse’s mission to refresh its range of speakers is ongoing and this month sees the
release of the new TD508IIs, which replace the TD508s in their catalogue. These smaller
sibblings of the speakers we featured last month serve up incredibly pure sounds and
can be deployed in either a stereo, multi-channel or installation environment. Naturally
they boast the distinctive, organic, egg-shaped enclosures that Eclipse rely upon to
minimise the colouration of sounds... and look stunning into the bargain. Registering a
10% improvement in transient/impulse response over their predecessors, a new spiked
energy earth path, more efficient magnet structure and freshly developed high density
zinc internal components to improve dynamics, there is no doubt these smaller speakers
are better than ever. They hit the market at £600 a pair.
At last month’s Sound & Vision show NAD launched its
first DAB Tuner, Model C445. Built upon the brand’s
famous core values of performance, value and simplicity,
this benefits from the inclusion of many of the high-grade
parts used in the company’s renowned CD-players. The
inclusion of an audiophile level DAC highlights the extent
to which the firm have gone to in order to draw every
nuance of detail out of digital broadcasts. With an FM and
AM tuner also included for good measure, the C445
exudes all the quality its £350 price tag would suggest,
making it a worthy addition to any stack of separates.
For further information contact: +44 (0) 190 831 9360
www.lenbrook.co.uk
For further information contact: +44 (0) 207 328 4499 www.eclipse-td.com
SWITCHING SIDES
Oehlbach, a new face in the UK industry, have bought some
impressive products across from the continent and their HDMI
switching boxes rank amongst the most appreciable. These
are, the firm expound, the best of their type on the market as
the only ones with a repeater/booster and auto-sensing. Built
to cater for serious AV systems, the high quality two-way XXL
2100 and four-way XXL 4100 1080p can be fitted and then
forgotten about. They sell for £395 and £595 respectively and
perform with aplomb, helping to ensure the hardware in a
home theatre can perform at its optimum.
For further information contact: www.oehlbach.de
REMAKING A
CLASSIC
REASSURINGLY INEXPENSIVE
OmniMount is arguably the biggest name in the US AV furniture market and, on
the basis of the Stellar stand seen here, it is easy to see why. Strong, robust, yet
sleek and suave in its looks, this low profile, patent-pending design comes
forged in high-grade steel. Its scratch resistant, polished-edge tempered glass
top shelf will hold kit weighing up to a staggering 113kg, ensuring it’ll take the
largest of flat-screen TVs and a whole lot more for fun. With prices starting at a
thoroughly affordable £250, this is one Stellar that won’t make its name for being
reassuringly expensive. It is, however, reassuringly tough and sexy to boot.
For further information contact: www.omnimount.co.uk
20
Acoustic Energy are to
take a step back in time
by re-releasing their
AE1 compact minimonitor in its original,
classic form. The AE1
was a must-have
product in the
audiophile community
in the late 1980s and
early 1990s as it rewrote the rule book on
speakers of this size.
Now available once
again, and at a truly
inflation busting £845
per a pair, it is sure to be a hit, with Abbey Road Studios, Mick
Hucknall, Seal and Roger Waters all fans of the model. While progress
has undoubtedly been made in speaker production the core principles
of accuracy, transparency and listening ease which underlie the AE1’s
design remain... and it excels in each of these areas. Despite its age,
the purity of sounds will be sure to impress.
For further information +44 (0) 128 565 4432
www.acoustic-energy.co.uk
RAISE YOUR GLASS
While it is a flat-screen TV that invariably sells before its stand, we
shouldn't forget that an attractive rack can, have alluring qualities and
reap considerable extra revenue for its sales staff. While it is often given
a secondary priority status for revenue generation, visually striking
furniture can be worked into other sales in which it will secure the
dealership a healthier margin.
The Danberg DBFG300 float glass stand, just introduced to the UK
market by Top Stands Ltd of Leicester, is one product likely to achieve
all this. Top Stands are an audio-visual products distributor who plan to
make a big impact on the growing support market and with this stand in
their arsenal their prospects of achieving their objectives look great. As
the flagship product of an expansive catalogue of TV supports they've
taken on, there is more to the Danberg DBFG300 than its elegant,
modish look. Top Stands source out kit built to the highest standards
and as a result highly tempered glass and high-grade aluminium make
the cut here. The style and functionality comes matched with
considerable durability.
As the sole distributor for this brand new range of LCD and Plasma
TV supports in the UK, Top Stands is striving to echo the outstanding
success attained by these products in Europe and North America. And
they're off to a great start too, snapping up new dealers across the
country as we speak, eager to represent a collection of products that
offers unusual quality at commercial prices in addition to those all
important, attractive margins. If you want to join them, get in touch – if
the Danberg DBFG30 is anything to go by, it could be a very wise move.
For further information contact: +44 (0) 116 289 3756
www.topstands.co.uk
> SOUND & VISION
ALL THE AV NEWS FIT TO PRINT
KEEPING ACTIVE
At Bristol renowned audio innovator Meridian
launched an elegant, compact and high
performance active analogue speaker – the
M3100. Able to operate in a high-end Hi-Fi
set up, or in a multi-channel environment
alongside a matching centre speaker, this
bookshelf model can be either stand mounted
or wall mounted depending on its user’s
needs. Formed from a combination of
aluminimum and wood, its attractive cabinet
ensures vibration is kept to a minimum, while
a host of top notch technological tweaks
ensure it is every bit worthy of operating
alongside the stunning Meridian G series of
components it has been aesthetically
matched to. The M3100s will sell for £1,845 a
pair and a DSP version is also available.
For further information contact: +44 (0) 148
044 5678 www.meridian-audio.com
CRYSTAL CLEAR
The Greeks may not be renowned for their aesthetic sensibilities, but they
soon will be if Crystal Audio’s range of speakers is anything to judge them
on. This firm is taking its first steps into the UK’s AV market as we speak
and it certainly has some attractive product to offer. Having spent years
producing speakers for other companies, finally Crystal Audio is getting the
credit it deserves for its own craft and this £800, slimline system is sure to
raise their profile on these shores. Meet the SmArt 4!
For further information contact: www.crystalaudiovideo.com
DOUBLE D!
O’Heocha make some of the most distinctive and original speakers
ever produced and the D2 Saturns are the latest manifestation of the
firm’s endeavours. These three-way, curvaceous stunners hit the
market next month and are sure to cause a stir. Already
we’ve seen them grabbing the headlines in major
consumer titles and to say they are eagerly anticipated
is something of an understatement. Characterised not
only by their looks, but by impressive performance
across the frequency range, they are sure to sound
as high-end as their £5,000 a pair price tag would
suggest. Innovative in every area, they can be fitted
with O’Heocha Power Modules, rendering them both
active and wireless, making them that little
bit extra practical too.
For further information contact:
+35 391 558 030 www.oheocha.com
RELEASE THE ENDORPHINS
There is the high-end and then there is the considerably
higher-end, and it is the latter where the Pathos
Endorphin comfortably sits, an all-singing, all-dancing
embodiment of an entirely compromise free design, where the designers
have allowed their most indulgent streaks to run wild. A stunning piece of
kit in every way, it hits the UK this month and offers sounds the like of
which you may never have heard before. Its incredibly modern look is
equally striking and should be sufficient to make emotional audiophiles
weep, particularly when it’s burned a £4,500-shaped hole in their pockets.
For further information contact: www.ukd.co.uk
22
MP3-PLAYER ACCESSORIES
Waiting
For Pod
The time for talking is over. These
days, for those on the move, an
MP3-player is an essential
companion. SAM FULLER shows
how your customers can make a
whole lot more of theirs...
Ever since the original Walkman came onto
the market the demand for music on the
move has grown; and our manufacturers have
responded, evolving the idea with innovation
after innovation. Portable CD-players came
and went, the MiniDisc had a brief reign at the
top and the audio cassette player constantly
evolved in order to keep its share of the pie
alive. However, then the digital age gradually
emerged, conquering all, as the solid state
audio-player blew everything else away. More
commonly known as the MP3-player, but
invariably capable of playing a little more, the
ability to store a considerable amount of music
on a genuinely pocket-sized piece of
equipment truly struck a chord with a buying
public always willing pay for convenience. Thus
while the audiophiles sat around, holed up
inside their dark, acoustically damped enclaves
bemoaning the compression techniques and a
loss of quality, Apple and their peers cleaned
up as mobile young people the world over
splashed their cash.
The most famous player of its ilk is, of
course, the iPod – a ubiquitous product which
has even spawned new words in its wake. Now
available in a host of ever more able and
powerful options, it has blazed the kind of trail
that would have overwhelmed many
manufacturers, leaving them weak at the knees.
Of course, strong competition remains and
this has helped to drive the market,
stimulating the development of fresh features.
And the capacity of the players has grown
concurrently, with users able to store
substantial chunks of their music collections
on board their diminutive player of choice. With
this the case, it was never going to be long
before more could be made of them and right
now the accessory market is booming, with a
multitude of products available bringing those
meticulously downloaded digital audio files to a
more expansive audience. The time has come
to embrace this increasingly key end of the
audio market and where better to gain an
insight into what's available than here? Yes,
from the smallest speakers you'll find for
those who travel so light they'll positively glide
to docking stations capable of hooking a player
up to a whole-house network, it's all here.
24
TIVOLI AUDIO iSONGBOOK
Tivoli Audio are known for their high quality radios, but it is the iSongbook that should make a name for
the firm in 2006. This portable radio offers listeners a whole lot more thanks to its neat, flip-down iPod
docking station. Slip in any model right down to the Nano, hook up at the detachable speaker and
surprisingly full, rich stereo sounds will be heard. Styled to match our industry's most distinctive
portable players, the iSongbook certainly looks the part. And with a typically impressive radio and an
alarm clock included, it has enough dynamism to justify its £299.99 price tag.
Contact: +44 (0) 170 260 1410 www.ruark.co.uk
TIVOLI AUDIO iPAL
Projecting the sounds of an iPod might be a fairly straightforward thing, but ensuring they are up to
scratch takes a little more effort. However, Tivoli Audio is a firm likely to meet with the approval of those
with discerning ears. Having produced many a legendary radio the company certainly has the credentials
and, as one of the elder statesmen of this market, the iPal bears them out. An entirely portable speaker
and radio system, it is founded on the abilities of the renowned Model PAL radio and brings the clarity of
this to the MP3 world. Weighing in at a paltry 2lbs, buyers will be able to take this £139.99 option
wherever they roam.
Contact: +44 (0) 170 260 1410 www.ruark.co.uk
INTEMPO DIGITAL iDS SERIES
Intempo Digital haven't been in the speaker market for long, but they've certainly made an impression.
The company's iDS Series of docking stations burst onto the scene with a bang, hastily pushing the
firm up the rankings, and according to independent statisticians they are already one of the biggest
players in the market. For less than £30, this sleek station will bring two-channels of 6W to virtually
any iPod or whatever other portable audio device a user chooses to hook up. Stunning value,
versatility, style and decent sound all come as standard, making the iDS a surefire hit on the shelf.
Contact: www.intempodigital.com
LOGITECH WIRELESS MUSIC SYSTEM
Logitech's Wireless Music System
is a handy way of getting the best
out of any portable music device
using an existing speaker
system. Using their Music
Anywhere wireless technology, it is
a plug and play solution that delivers a
reliable connection with the utmost
convenience. It comprises a music
transmitter, which slips into the headphone
port, and a music receiver that plugs into a
home stereo receiver or multimedia speakers
through an RCA port or a 3.5 mm jack. With these
deployed users will be able to use their iPod from a
range of up to 10 metres, through the speakers in their
home entertainment set-up. For a mere £99.99 this offers
the potential of some genuinely absorbing sounds.
Contact: +44 (0) 175 387 0900 www.logitech.com
LOGITECH MM50
Logitech's mm50's is an iPodspecific docking station of some
merit. Its combination of
customised iPod features, an
appreciable quality of sound and
built-in rechargeable lithium-ion
battery certainly make it a
functional option. When powered
through an AC adapter it simultaneously charges
both the iPod battery and the speaker battery, giving users up to 10
hours playing time when on the move. The inclusion of Max-X high-excursion drivers,
which include neodymium magnets, 3-inch pressure drivers and 3D Stereo technology all help this to
sound more expensive than its £99.99 tag would suggest.
Contact: +44 (0) 175 387 0900 www.logitech.com
OREGON SCIENTIFIC MUSIC SPHERE
One accessory that certainly stands out from
the crowd is Oregon Scientific's WRS368
Music Sphere. This well-rounded, modish
looking option is as innovative as it looks
thanks to the inclusion of 2.4GHz Wi-Fi
technology. It comes with the option of an
iPod dock, allowing users to simply slot
home their player and go about their
business, taking the spherical speaker with
them. Thanks to the wireless technology,
they can roam anything up to 30 metres from
their product, whilst remaining privy to a
thoroughly acceptable depth of 2.1 sounds.
This particularly stylish solution is one of the
most convenient on the market and prices
start at only £180.
Contact: +44 (0) 871 122 1966
www.oregonscientific.co.uk
ACOUSTIC ENERGY AEGO M-SYSTEM
While many firms have opted to embrace the
docking station, Acoustic Energy have
plumped for a more versatile solution. The
M-System is the latest incarnation of the
Aego range and draws its impacting sounds
from any MP3-player, a PSP or whatever
your buyer chooses to run
through it. Two coolly styled
satellites and a hefty subwoofer
with bass adjustment make up
the package. The solidly built
speakers are forged from heavyalloy, allowing this system to
pack quite a punch. This instant
party package offers exceptional
value at £99, with the sounds
everything you'd expect from
Acoustic Energy and the fabled
Aego moniker.
Contact: www.acoustic-energy.co.uk
25
MP3-PLAYER ACCESSORIES
TEAC CR-H255
This particularly functional addition to TEAC's
Reference 250 series may look like a high-quality
micro Hi-Fi component, but don't you worry – it is all
that and more. Not only does it offer a rich
reproduction of sound from CDs and a smooth relay
of DAB signals; it also includes a USB port and
MP3/WMA encoding and decoding. Hook up any
portable player with these files on board and the
user will have instant access to its content, via the
remote and – most impressively – full on-fascia
track, album and artist information. TEAC's
renowned performance at 25W per channel is
sufficient to help any MP3-player rock the room.
Contact: www.teac.co.uk
MONITOR AUDIO i-DECK
Monitor Audio is a name synonymous with innovation and high quality sounds and the awardwinning i-DECK effectively combines these with populist sensibilities. Originally launched last
year in silver-grey and now available in black, a number of coloured changeable grills are
available allowing buyers to customise its look to their tastes. Boasting genuine stereo sound,
with great performance at every level, it is everything you'd expect from one of the most
reputable names in the speaker business. Available for £249.99 it will dock virtually every iPod
and boasts an audio input for other devices.
Contact: www.monitoraudio.co.uk
JAMO i300
Jamo claim their i300 will turn an iPod into the
heart of a home entertainment system, offering
true Hi-Fi quality performance into the bargain.
And this stand-alone, powered, 2.1 speaker
system is worthy of that boast. Comprising an
iPod control dock, a meaty active subwoofer and
two compact satellite loudspeakers, it is both
sonorous and stylish. In addition to docking an
iPod, an extra auxiliary input on the rear panel
of this universal well and one on the sub make
it capable of a whole lot more. The solid, twoway, magnetically shielded speakers highlight
what a precision model this is, worthy of the
£299.99 investment.
Contact: +44 (0)192 320 5605
www.bbg-av.com
ONKYO DS-A1
Onkyo's DS-A1 RI Dock for the iPod was released last year to great acclaim from the industry.
This clever mechanism creates an immediate interface between Onkyo's AV components and
one of Apple's finest, allowing users to directly control its content via their conventional Onkyo
remote. The combination of this convenience and Onkyo's renowned quality of reproduction
has already made the DS-A1 a hit. Capable of interacting with every element of an Onkyo setup and even relaying photos through a home cinema system onto the screen, this is a digital
media device of some merit and a snip at £60.
Contact: +44 (0) 149 468 1515 www.onkyo.co.uk
26
GEAR4 POCKETPARTY V2
For quirky iPod
accessories that prove
functional too, GEAR4 have to
be considered one of the first ports
of call. The brand new PocketParty V2
is a tiny, cable-free, 1W, 52g, stereo
speaker that runs off a single AA battery,
without draining an iPod's power. Slotting into the
dock connector with the greatest of ease, for £24.99
this brings sound to an audience wherever they are.
Couple this with GEAR4's PocketPower, a diminutive
battery recharger and reserve power pack usable
anywhere, and you'll have an excellent box of tricks to
offer any iPod sporting customers.
Contact: www.gear4.com
DENON SMART LIFE SERIES
For an all-encompassing home entertainment system that pays homage to the
significance of the iPod to today’s consumer, you'd struggle to look beyond Denon.
The S-101 and S-103 home theatre systems feature a top-notch universal diskplayer, sleek elegant speakers and a smoothly finished subwoofer. However, in
addition to their obvious abilities these relatively high-end components interact
fully with any iPod, via a straightforward connection, the remote control and a
familiar and intuitive on-screen iPod-esque interface. The Smart Life Series
brings those roving sounds home.
Contact: +44 (0) 175 368 8499 www.denon.co.uk
GEAR4 HOUSEPARTY
GEAR4's HouseParty has the ability to instantly turn every iPod (yes, even the
Shuffle) into a mini stereo system, delivering two channels of 6W of sound.
Compact and slickly styled, a new, limited edition model has recently been
launched, colour-matched to the black iPods growing in popularity these days.
It is also capable of synchronising with a PC via a USB port and charges the
iPod when it is docked. Retailing at only £49.99, it is an excellent option for
those on a budget and would make a fine addition to the kids’ bedroom.
Contact: www.gear4.com
BOSE SOUNDDOCK
Bose are a big name with a suitably big advertising budget, so when it comes to
brand awareness these boys are up there with the best of them. As a result the
SoundDock - viewed by many as the product that created this market - has
been plastered over the pages of the national press for what seems like an
eternity and there is still a lot of life left in it. By producing natural, balanced
sounds from a conveniently docked iPod, it has won over the hordes and
inspired a multitude of limitators. And, at £250, it's still worth every penny.
Contact: +44 (0) 800 781 1081 www.bose.co.uk
AUDICA MPS1
The MPS1 from Audica
has been built for those
with the most
discerning ears,
delivering 25W of pure
sounds from iPods,
MP3-players and
PCs. Quality is
evident throughout
its construction,
with the gleaming
extruded
aluminium speakers a
cut above the
average. These
employ high-tech
50mm drive units
and come rigidly
built and smoothly
structured to produce
some of the best clarity
sounds you'll find in this
marketplace. A versatile
system, the MPS1 features three
inputs (including an extra sensitive
one) as well USB and FireWire
connectors and sells for around £250.
Contact: +44 (0) 148 083 9239
www.audica.co.uk
ECLIPSE TD LULET
Convinced it's impossible to extract high-end sounds from the compressed
files stored on an MP3-player? Well, the Lulet line-up from Eclipse's TD
speaker range seeks to challenge all that. Borrowing from the array of
innovative technologies used in its renowned larger siblings, the organically
structured, egg-shaped 307PA speakers deliver the kind of rich, detailed
sounds that are synonymous with this brand. Deployed alongside the 316SW
subwoofer and the dedicated amplifier for the optimum performance, even
the most ardent audiophile would struggle to knock this.
Contact: +44 (0) 207 328 4499 www.eclipse-td.com
27
MP3-PLAYER ACCESSORIES
iPORT IN-WALL
The In-Wall docking stations from innovative US firm
iPort are amongst the most original ideas featured in
this rundown. Designed for use in a custom installation,
these will allow any iPod with the right connector to act
as a server in its own right. They come equipped with
an RS-232 module to allow interaction with other AV
devices on an intelligent network and can afford the
user the most advanced form of control of their content.
With IR control also optional, iPort have created an
ingenious route to deploying an iPod alongside a
discreet AV system and recessed speakers.
Contact: +44 (0) 127 950 1111 www.armourhe.co.uk
ALTEC LANSING INMOTION IM7
Altec Lansing are one of the most prolific manufacturers
operating in the iPod accessorising market right now and
the £199.99 inMotion IM7 is one of their finest options.
Cradling the player between two powerful yet portable
speakers with a subwoofer and a high efficiency digital
amplifier, it brings that on-the-shoulder action of the
classic 80s boombox to the MP3 generation. The key
difference is that this looks and sounds a whole lot better,
with the highly advanced neodymium drivers and tweeters
and 50W of continuous power making their presence felt.
Contact: +44 (0) 870 460 6060 www.alteclansing.co.uk
YAMAHA NX-A01
Yamaha's NX-A01 is one of the very latest additions to this burgeoning marketplace,
having been unveiled in the UK for the first at the recent Sound & Vision show in Bristol.
This pint-sized cube features two 5W speakers firing in opposite directions and delivers a
surprisingly full sound given its diminutive dimensions. Full range drivers are included,
as is Swing Radiator – a unique Yamaha technology. Smoothly finished and capable of
lending its abilities to either an iPod – through a docking station – or other players via a
more conventional cable, it should prove a serious hit on its release.
Contact: +44 (0) 192 323 3166 www.yamaha-uk.com
HARMAN KARDON BRIDGE
harman/kardon's docking
station, the Bridge, has been
elegantly styled to match the
firm's AVR 40 Series of
receivers. Slot an iPod into this
smooth solution and users will
have the fullest access to its
content via their system's remote
control. They'll be able to spin
through its content on screen, hear
it reproduced in the quality that
characterises this firm's products
and even access it in other rooms if
the AVR 340's multi-room abilities
are used to their fullest. The Bridge
also charges the iPod while it is in
situ and hooks up to the rest of the
system via a single cable.
Contact: +44 (0) 208 731 4670
iPORT FS
A sizeable array of free standing docks are available from iPort, each of which can lend any
iPod's content to whatever impacting sound system graces your client’s living room. Their
ability to communicate with other devices ranges from the basic, to the truly installation
worthy, thanks to the inclusion of an RS-232 connector. The option of IR control is also
available, whilst the docks can offer interfacing and syncing with a PC and iTunes. Given the
popularity of the iPod these days, it could be worth working one of these into your
forthcoming projects.
Contact: +44 (0) 127 950 1111 www.armourhe.co.uk
28
Get the best piece. Come to Holland.
Exhibit at Europe’s No.1 Show for AV System Professionals.
Integrated Systems Europe (ISE) is now in its 4th year and has matured into becoming Europe’s single most
important showcase of technologies and solutions for the AV Systems and Electronic Integration industry.
The staggering success of the 2006 show where visitor numbers were up by an unprecedented 45% reflects
the optimistic mood in this market. ISE 2006 attracted 10,970 visitors from 78 countries as well as hosting 330
exhibitors from 30 nations.
Like to be a part of this? Join Europe’s largest Show for the AV Systems Industry and reserve your space now.
ISE 2007 will take place from 23-25th January 2007 at the Amsterdam RAI. For further information on how to
exhibit at next year’s show, contact ISE 2007 organisers on 0031 20 40 50 257 or visit www.iseurope.org
Integrated Systems Europe is a joint venture partnership of:
23-25 January, 2007. Amsterdam, NL
Network, discover, learn and do business.
INSTALLATION FOCUS
Can you spot the Amina
speakers in this Lifestyle
Technology installation?
No, neither can we...
Back To My Place
When he comes into some money, SAM FULLER plans to shell out on an install
project. But what kit at the Smart Home Show inspired such dreams?
Regular readers of our Installation Focus will be accustomed to their
monthly trip through a recent project which highlights the abilities of the
kit deployed, or an area of development which the installer in question has
successfully exploited. However, this month, having literally returned from
the Smart Home Show in Birmingham only hours ago, it seemed appropriate
to do something different – to don my overalls and play installer myself... or,
more accurately, drift into a world of dreams and create a hypothetical,
technologically enabled home in my head, featuring the finest pieces of kit
handpicked from the feast on display at the NEC.
As a consumer show, this is what many visitors would have been doing,
making mental notes and actual lists as they trawled round. And, having
spent a great deal of my time there on the SmartLife International stand
talking to them, their infectious enthusiasm inspired me to join in. Of course,
in the context of a couple of pages of edit, it would be impossible to get to
grips with every element of an expansive install – such is the depth and
wealth of the kit you chaps have to handle to make those dreams a
reality. But, for those members of the trade that didn’t make the show,
here are some of the products that captured my imagination, proved
popular with the public and would be genuinely appreciated if woven
into the fabric of a smarthouse of the future... or should that be
my smarthouse of the future.
HUB THUMPING
Just across the way from our SmartLife stand was that of Konnect2,
a company who supply automation, entertainment, networking and
access control systems to both ambitious home builders and,
naturally, customer installers. On their stand the array of Jamo kit
caught our eye. This included evidence of the Danish audio firm’s
advanced multi-room systems. Founded upon the AM4.6, the audio
master hub, it can distribute sound from up to six sources
to four main zones and four sub zones via Cat5e
cabling. This works in conjunction with the KP4.6
wall control panels, which are mounted in each
one. These are both amplifiers and keypads,
affording their user direct access to each source
hooked up to the hub and the volume, bass, treble,
balance and tone control thereof. The KP4.6s support
infrared control and together with the hub make for a mighty
fine multi-room audio system.
Contact: +44 (0) 192 320 5600 www.bbg.eu.com
30
GET PLASTERED
Amina had a stand to themselves at the show, which proved an ideal vehicle for
highlighting the incredible benefits of the firm’s Plaster In-wall loudspeakers.
Unlike conventional in-wall options, these lightweight speakers can actually be
plastered or wallpapered over once they have been wired up, keeping them
completely hidden from view. Their high-power, vibration excitation drivers
transfer their impulses through a flat panel to the front of the wall or ceiling and it
is these that produce the sound. Due to their structure the sound waves are omnidirectional and aren’t afflicted by conventional phase considerations. This allows
the speakers to perform where others may struggle due to their superb dispersion
characteristics and they’d be an ideal inclusion in any extensive install, remedying
any aesthetic concerns effortlessly... as the above image from a Lifestyle
Technology project in North Yorkshire that featured the speakers illustrates.
Contact: +44 (0) 148 035 4390 www.amina.co.uk
MAX WELL HOUSE
RGB Communications had AMX’s
MAX system up
and running
and this is
certainly one of
the finest
solutions of its
kind. A multimedia server
of some power, it can provide a
multitude of zones with access to its video and audio
content. The latest incarnation has been designed to
operate on a conventional AV rack thanks to its stylish
shell and virtually inaudible operation, yet it can do
so much more than any component that would
accompany it. Available with a capacity of 250 or 750
DVDs, it allows users to develop their own playlists,
features one of the most intuitive interfaces around
and means they can watch whatever they want,
wherever they want, at the touch of the button. As the
smartest homes get continually smarter, video
distribution is becoming a must... and AMX have one of the
most functional, best priced options conceived yet.
Contact: +44 (0) 148 873 366 www.rgbcomms.co.uk
SEIZE CONTROL
The iPort could bring
a touch of glamour to
any home...
PLAY THE WALL
The emergence of the iPod as the digital storage solution of choice for our generation
may have been greeted with disdain by audiophiles everywhere, but for the everyday
consumer who prizes convenience and isn’t too preoccupied with every last nuance of a
recording it is a product of godlike genius. And why limit its use to when on the move?
With thousands of tunes, all the latest downloads and playlists for every occasion,
having access to its content around the home would surely be a bonus for all. Enter
iPort – a US company who make in-wall iPod docking stations capable of providing twoway communication with an AV system and the most advanced control of Apple’s
masterpiece. Work one of these into a home and users can have their carefully selected
playlists pumping out of the discreetest speakers the minute they get through the door.
Thinkingbricks Ltd clearly agree and were showing the iPort In-Wall at the NEC...
Contact: +44 (0) 127 950 1111 www.armourhe.co.uk
SEE THROUGH SOUNDS
In virtually every installation we come across, a variety of
speakers are deployed and – on the basis of those on show in the
Midlands - Waterfall’s would certainly make the cut for me.
Everyone in AV should already be au fait with the key USP of their
floor-standing Victoria – its incredibly stylish, inimitable looks. I
joined the masses in congratulating Transparent Distribution on its
voguish sheen and learned that the speakers are technologically
innovative too. For despite the apparent lack of internal damping,
Waterfall’s own patented Acoustic Damping Tube ensures the
delivery of clean, clear, uncoloured sounds across the frequency
range. A particularly rigid and robust in-wall speaker from Waterfall
was also featured at this stand, which benefited from entirely
aluminium construction, helping to assert both the company’s
commitment to quality and the diversity of needs they can satisfy.
Contact: +44 (0) 162 351 7000 www.transparentdl.co.uk
HEATING UP
In the smart home world, advanced lighting
control has rapidly become mandatory and
it seems HVAC (Heating, Ventilation and Air
Conditioning Control) is following in its
footsteps, due to both the convenience and
environmental benefits it can bring.
Sensible Heat were one of several firms
highlighting its benefits in Birmingham.
This company are the sole UK distributors
of the Honeywell Hometronic System, which
can put users in control of their heating,
lighting and blinds in up to 16 rooms around
the home. It can harness control of virtually
any heating system - including a
conventional wet one using radiators like
the stunning Accuro Korle Ecstasy seen
here. A primarily wireless system, products
such as the Radiator Controller make
retrofitting a viable option. Once in place
heating can be controlled remotely by both
a mobile and the internet, while different
lifestyle modes can be pre-programmed
and instantly recalled.
Contact: +44 (0) 127 347 5834
www.sensibleheat.com
Invision UK had one of the
finest selections of home
cinema enchancing kit on
show in Birmingham and the
Harmony 895 would certainly
add to any install. This well
priced universal remote
control is the latest addition
to an award-winning family
and rewards its users with
both radio frequency (RF)
and infrared (IR) control over
anything from their everyday
AV components through to
all the integrated functions
of a fully-specced and
dedicated home theatre.
With a USB wireless PC
transceiver also included it
can even be used to browse
through any multi-media content
stored on a PC, which could prove
useful for the technophile already
streaming HD movies or regular
patrons of iTunes. The 895
features a vibrant, colourful
display, easy to follow menus and
is a snip at £299.
Contact: +44 (0) 144 967 7233
www.invisionuk.com
Accuro Korle's
Ecstasy radiator
could be given the
Sensible Heat
treatment
A flat-screen TV jumps out of the fire
FIRE ME UP
While many dream of a dedicated cinema room, not all
have the space. Thus for those who want the impact of
large screen visuals, without the aesthetic interference
these often necessitate, hiding a sizeable flat-screen TV
away must be a consideration. One of the most original
ways of doing this came to my attention at the show’s
stand 2420 where Picture House were showing off a
stunning range of marble fireplaces. The patentpending Napoli, seen here, is a fully working option with
the looks to embellish any interior. However, at the
touch of a button one can summon their plasma TV
from its depths to catch a film, before making it
disappear with equal ease. Despite its hidden abilities,
the Napoli supplies 2kW of heat and offers incredibly
subtle access to whichever other components a user
chooses to house below it.
Contact: +44 (0) 193 234 5184
www.plasmafireplace.co.uk
31
> SOUND & VISION
WHAT’S NEW? INSTALLER
Installation Nation
COMPILED BY TOBY WATSON
ART OF NOISE
E’S ARE GOOD
SpeakerCraft, arguably the
world leader in the in-wall
speaker market, is developing its own
in-house art department. Last month Jordan R. Brant
III was named as Art Director of this and is set to
implement a number of changes. “This is a unique
challenge in a unique company,” Brant remarked, “I
have never seen a management team so intent on
stepping outside the lines.”
Brant boasts a double degree in studio art and
graphic design from Cal State San Bernardino, as well
as over 10 years experience in the game. “His attitude
just fits,” Jeremy Burkhardt, SpeakerCraft’s president
explained. “I am excited to have him on the team and I
look forward to seeing what he can do.”
Since its inception in 1976, SpeakerCraft has
devoted itself to the design and development of
architectural loudspeakers and having been the prime
OEM for many other well-known, in-wall speaker
brands now markets its own line - one of the most
diverse in the business.
For further information contact: +1 800 448 0976
www.speakercraft.com
E-Vision UK chose the buzzing hall of the Smart
Home Show to launch its Spec M10, a new, solid,
attractive plasma bracket. The M10 has a 570mm
reach with a 180-degree left-right pivot and a 45-degree updown tilt mechanism, giving users a great deal of flexibility in their
viewing. It comes with an optional one or two shelves and includes a
well thought-out system of cable management.
Other fresh models included the M4, which has a 450mm arm extension with
180-degree pivot from wall fixing, and a 75-degree tilt mechanism, and the M6 whose
articulated arm holds up to 25kg of kit, features a 680mm reach, twin left-right pivots and
allows for some considerable movement. To complement these new models, aesthetically
matched aluminium trunking can be purchased in one-metre lengths to keep all the
cabling neatly tucked away. The entirety of the E-Vision is straightforward to install and
exudes quality.
For further information contact: +44 (0) 127 383 2336 www.e-visionuk.co.uk
NOW OPTIMISE
Cinemateq’s HDMI and audio upgrade kit for
the Picture Optimizer Plus II (SDI) can bring a
lot to any home cinema install project
designed to make the most of the highdefinition era that’s about to dawn.
Conceptually speaking, it offers all the HDTV
functions one could wish for in a single
device, including picture and sound switching,
picture optimisation, de-interlacing and free
scaling up to the cleanest and smoothest
format of all, 1080p.
The kit adds four HDMI inputs to the
existing product, creating a solution with 11
digital and analog interfaces for video
sources, with an additional five digital audio
sources available if required. It also doubles
the system’s HDMI and DVI outputs for digital
HDTV video signals and for digital multichannel sound. In essence, it will reward its
users with all the advantages of extra HDMI
connections and a whole lot more without
requiring them to invest in new equipment. In
addition to the extra and appreciable
connectivity, it can digitally scale everything
from SDTV (480p/576p) to HDTV (720p, 1080i)
to PC formats and provide a host of other
benefits into the bargain.
For further information contact:
www.cinemateq.com
ON GUARD!
Home security is a key element in many projects
these days and Marmitek’s DoorGuard 100 offers
a lot in this area. “Comfort, enjoyment and safety
at home,” were the overriding principles behind
its development.
The Doorguard 100 is a video door telephone
system that contains a doorbell, camera and
monitor. The monitor shows users who is at the
door, giving them the opportunity to decide
whether to let the visitor in or not. Its narrow
dimensions will allow it to fit on any doorframe,
while the sturdy metal casing ensures it is truly
vandal proof too.
Up to four monitors can be connected to a
single doorbell camera, each of which can be
connected by an intercom, and the door can be
opened from each of these, thanks to an electric
locking device. Each monitor features a four-inch
screen, the camera comes with a built-in
microphone and loudspeaker and four infrared
LEDs allow visitors to be seen in the dark. The
Marmitek DoorGuard sells for £109, making it an
ideal inclusion in an install project where you are
running to a tight budget.
For further information contact:
www.marmitek.com.
32
WHAT’S NEW
POWER TO THE PEOPLE
The Digital Plumbers team are get ready to rock the market
A new installation company has been formed with a
desire to open up the multi-room market to a range of
homemakers previously priced out of it. Named Digital
Plumbers, the firm is the brainchild of Steve Moore and
Martin Banks, who made their name working with the
award-winning major player, SMC.
The new outfit was brought to our attention courtesy of a press launch
held at Microsoft’s LifeSquared facility and claim to bring: “A simple,
affordable solution to homeowners, so that everyone can enjoy the benefits
of integrated home without fuss.” Backing this up with friendly in-home
support, they are an exciting addition to a growing sector, well equipped
with the knowledge, experience and attitude to succeed.
The system this fresh face has developed is founded on a central hub
that costs a paltry £500. This combines with wiring, described by its
developers as “blindly simple”, which can be installed on site by any
electrical contractor worth their salt at an additional cost of only about £50
per room. Once in place it will bring users fully up to speed with the digital
age. “Integrated electronics have hitherto only been available at the top
end of the market,” Martin Banks explained. “The Digital Plumbers
solution offers huge savings over traditional methods, so many more
people can enjoy an integrated home.”
The services Digital Plumbers will offer won’t end there. As well as
setting up music, systems, lighting controls, computers and other digital
content, they will solve computer problems, install wireless networks and
ensure both protection from viruses and of young people’s minds. They
promise to be a friendly civil team that will communicate with people in a
warm, cheerful manner, on their own level of understanding.
The Digital Plumbers service will supply customers with a range of
benefits, depending how far they wish to take it. Whether they simply want
access to their Sky, FreeView footage or internet in every room, remote
controlled scene setting lighting, a highly sensitive home security system
or a state of the art home cinema, this SMC spin-off can supply, with their
Distribution Point always at its heart. Keep your eye out for them – their
business should be booming in no time.
For further information contact: +44 (0) 870 850 1337
www.digitalplumbers.com
FLY EMIRATES!
The second coming of INSTALL at PALME, a unique showcase of cutting
edge AV installation and integration technologies for residential and
commercial projects in the Middle East, is now over 95% booked... and the
few remaining stands are all set to sell out. Industry giants already
confirmed include Crestron, Opus, Martin Audio, Crest Audio, Zio
Technologies, Duran Audio, Bosch Security Systems, Linn, Loewe,
Stardraw, Barco, Extron, AMX, Philips, AV Stompfl, Projecta and Klipsch, to
name but a few.
This year’s show promises to be a cracker with new features aplenty.
These will include the Architectural Lighting and Interior Illumination zone,
where the biggest names from the intelligent lighting industry, including
the mighty Lutron, will be showing the UAE what’s new.
Education will be a key element of the event too, with a dedicated
master class and seminar programme up and running for its duration. This
will cover a range of technologies and should bring a highly qualified visitor
audience to the show floor. With only a matter of weeks left until the big
event it’s time to seriously consider popping along. As arguably the fastest
developing city in the world, Dubai and the UAE is a land of opportunity for
anyone involved in installation. And, as the region’s only smart technology
showcase, where better to take your message to those gold-paved streets?
For further information contact: www.palmeonline.co.uk
33
> SOUND & VISION
WHAT’S NEW? INSTALLER
BORN IN THE USA
RGB Communications have been
appointed the sole distributor of the
Audio Design Associates (ADA)
ranges of multi-room audio, home
entertainment and home cinema
products in the United Kingdom and
Southern Ireland. This appointment
takes effect from Wednesday 1st
March 2006 and has been described
as a: “Key addition to the range of
custom install products delivered
by RGB.”
“We are especially pleased to have reached agreement with ADA as they were top of our list with
regard to product reputation, reliability and range when we were looking for a multi-room audio
solution”, RGB Communications Managing Director Caroline Britt explained. “The ADA multi-room and
home cinema audio solutions are the ideal complement to our existing range of custom install products
and a perfect fit within our overall business model. We now have a world-beating range of fully
integrated custom install products within our RGB SmartHome solutions package.”
ADA Vice President and COO Richard Stoerger shared Caroline’s enthusiasm: “We are delighted to be
working with a company of RGB Communications’ reputation and standing in the UK custom install
marketplace. From day one our mission has been the pursuit of excellence in the design and build of
lifestyle electronics. We know our products and our reputation are in safe hands with RGB.”
ADA have been around since 1977, before the home cinema market had even emerged. With the
pursuit of excellence in the design, manufacture and installation of lifestyle electronics a constant, they
have evolved into one of the most reputable firms in their arena across the pond. Known for the sound
and video quality they deliver, the operational simplicity of their complex systems, easy to integrate
products and a commitment to the most robust build quality, they will constitute a fine addition to our
domestic install industry. Everything they produce is handcrafted and rigorously handled in the US... so if
it’s multi-room audio solutions, specialist home cinema packages or simply a highly progressive means to
harnessing an iPod within a home entertainment system, give RGB a call.
For further information contact: +44 (0) 148 873 366 www.rgbsmarthome.co.uk
CHANGING
NAIMS
Alan Ainslie, known
most recently for his
work as Sales
Manager for key CI
distributor Invision UK,
has joined Naim Audio as Business
Development Manager. Naim are said to
have been particularly eager to benefit
from his experience in the install sector,
and Alan has been charged with
developing, agreeing and implementing
their long-term strategy for growing this
side of their business.
While we might be inclined to
associate Naim with the conventional Hi-Fi
sector, as the market moves and CI grows
clearly they do not want to be left behind.
Indeed, as a firm long committed to highend performance they are acutely aware
that the market for audiophile quality in the
CI sector remains small and want to
examine in detail how to redress this. With
a wealth of experience in all areas of the
market – and in particular custom install
and multi-room AV – Alan is an ideal
candidate for the job. We wish him well in
his new post.
For further information contact:
+44 (0) 172 242 6600 www.naim-uk.com
WEATHER THE WEATHER
Sanyo is not a name anyone would naturally associate with
the install sector, but then again this isn’t an installation
specific product. However, it is one that could bring some
very appreciable abilities to any family commanding you to
kit out their home. This LCD isn’t simply a flat-panel TV –
it’s a fully weatherproof one.
Having been developed and manufactured in the UK in
Sanyo’s Lowestoft factory, this 32-inch model can be used
inside and out, and proves capable of handling harsh
conditions wherever it’s deployed. Its IP56 weatherresistant accreditation proves this, ensuring users of full
protection against the elements. More than just a
gimmick, however, it offers a high resolution of images,
bright enough to be seen under the sun. It comes
complete with a TV tuner and all the connections you
should need.
For further information contact: +44 (0) 192 324 6363
www.sanyo.co.uk
CARRY ON SCREENING
For those who use portable projectors, what better than a portable screen? It’s just
common sense. Beamax agree and have embellished their range of these with the new
X2 series, an entry-level alternative to their existing X-series. The X2 series is ideally
equipped for functionality, when deployed alongside projectors such as Optoma’s DV10.
It various screens can be bundled alongside such projectors offering instant home
cinema for all.
The 10566 (70-inch diagonal) and the 10567 (80-inch diagonal) both come in a 16:9
aspect ratio, with 4:3 options available in diagonal sizes of 60- and 80-inches. If there is
no room in your project for a wall mountable screen, consider employing one of these.
They are lightweight, easy to carry around, incredibly straightforward to install and
attractively priced too. Costs start at £165, they can be speedily supplied and there are
healthy margins to be made...
For further information contact: +44 (0) 800 917 5943 www.beamaxed.co.uk
34
Let's go on the ouside, say Sanyo...
WHAT’S NEW
THE X FACTOR
The Monaco from X-Screen is a new high performance screen that can
be used effectively even in the brightest of rooms. A high contrast, fixed
frame model, it makes use of a revolutionary Daylight Thin-Film that is
applied to a 4mm layer of hardened glass. This makes for an optically
flat surface, which ensures the most accurate presentation of a
projector’s images.
Its innovative structure also serves to eliminate reflections from
other light sources, which afflict any conventional TV or screen. As a
result unusually high definition, rich colours, a wide contrast range,
deep blacks and exceptional detail are all distinct possibilities,
assuming you plump for the right projector. Whether DLP or LCD,
during the day or in artificial light at night, the Monaco makes the most
of the other components in a home cinema set up. Prices range
between £900 for the 60-inch option to £1,800 for the 100-inch model
and the screens are available now, through CSE Solutions.
For further information contact: +44 (0) 142 335 9054
www.csesolutions.co.uk
AS IF BY MAGIC...
Pixel Magic’s HD MediaBox is a high-definition HDD
media player that gives instant access to HD video,
digital music, digital photos and DVD files no matter
where a user decides to store them. This can be on the
MediaBox’s own hard drive, on a PC, a USB HDD or a
networked storage box.
A dynamic player, this boasts a high-definition
digital scaler catering for every resolution up to 1080p...
making this a perfect middleman for a PC and any HDready viewing option – be that plasma, LCD-TV or
projector. It features an array of the necessary outputs
including, naturally, HDMI - ensuring a completely
digital path between source and screen. Widely compatible with today’s digital
formats, it will handle every form of MPEG, WMV9, DivX, XviD and more.
In addition to optimising video content, the HD MediaBox also assures
users of high quality sounds thanks to its 24-bit/192kHz DAC, exclusively
developed timing circuitry and all round impeccable construction. With superb
quality audio processing coming as part of the package, Pixel Magic’s
masterpiece provides both the convenience of a server and the quality of a
reference player. Cynical? Well, check out the Audiophile Edition (MB200),
which adds a low jitter TCXO to its features, taking the clarity, purity and
impact of its sounds a step further.
Impressive compatibility with formats is evident throughout and iTunes
users can even select their entire library through its on-screen display and
play the content back through whatever Hi-Fi or multi-channel system this
functional server has been hooked up to. They can access their digital photos
with similar ease. No matter their format, they can also be viewed at their
fullest resolution via a cutting-edge flat-screen TV.
There is no doubt that Pixel Magic’s HD MediaBox is one of the most
dynamic and able servers of its type on the market. It can store thousands of
CDs itself, secure the most amenable access to anything stored on a PC and
can seamless integrate with many popular mulit-room and control systems. It
comes decked out in an aluminium alloy case, features an IR input and is an
absolute bargain at £299 (MB100) or £369 for the enhanced, audiophile grade
option. It is available now through CSE Solutions.
For further information contact: +44 (0) 142 335 9054
www.csesolutions.co.uk
35
> SOUND & VISION
WHAT’S NEW? INSTALLER
CAN YOU RIP IT?
ALL THE ACTION
Yes you can, thanks to Ripfactory, a leader in CD and content digitisation for digital audio
servers and portable devices. The company has just announced the release of its new
product: Ripstation Lite. Ripstation Lite is a single, one-stop solution combining robotic
hardware and software to allow dealers, retailers and service providers to convert CDs
on site and automatically load supported music players.
Ripstation Lite supports all major formats including MP3, FLAC and WMA and
through its robotic system loads each CD in turn for fully unattended operation,
culminating in an automatic load to servers such as those from Russound, Imerge,
Request, Escient, Digital Future solutions and of course the ubiquitous iPod.
“RS Lite addresses the simple need for a quick on site solution to content loading,
and in under 3 minutes the user can start the process leaving
Ripstation to weave its magic” said Patrick McGrath, Director of
Technology for Ripfactory. Snap up one of these and you could
make your working life a whole lot easier, whilst offering an
appreciable and potentially lucrative service to your customers at
the same time. The Ripstation Lite is available now
for only £1,500 which is snip considering
the hard labour it will negate.
Bristol’s Sound & Vision 2006
was the scene for the
first showing of
projectiondesign’s new
Action Model Two, a
compact, high-end DLP
projector. Its impressively
slender dimensions, quiet
operation, high optical and thermal
efficiency and general abilities should make
this a strong competitor in the growing home cinema market.
The Model Two builds upon the qualities of its predecessor,
the Model One MKIII thanks to its redesigned optics, a new NDG
colour wheel, improved driving of the DLP chip and enhanced
firmware. At its heart you’ll find TI’s HD2+ DC3 DLP chip helping
its to produce images of a stunning quality which register a
4000:1 contrast ratio and a 1000 ANSI lumens brightness rating. It
will hit the market at £3,500, making it one of the most affordable
installation grade projectors around.
For further information contact:
+44 (0) 845 226 2791
www.ripfactory.com/rslite
For further information contact: +44 (0) 148 873 366
www.projectiondesign.com
EYE KNOW
Asheridge Communications has launched the discreet Eye Q infra-red (IR) repeating system – an easy-to-fit, cost-effective
and interference-free solution for the control of up to four concealed home AV devices. The Eye Q comprises a compact
receiver and four signal emitter and acts as a low-cost control hub for IR-controlled AV equipment, allowing homeowners to
hide these boxes away whilst retaining effective control. Once the system has been installed, users are a push of a button
away from full control. The Eye Q will respond, sending the signal via a small 3-conductor cable to the selected AV device - a
DVD-player, VCR, satellite receiver or Hi-Fi - where it is instantly repeated, activating operation. Reliable, effective and
simple to install, the Eye Q is available in the UK exclusively through Asheridge.
For further information contact: +44 (0)149 479 4770 www.ashcomms.com
TOOLS FOR THE JOB
Kaleidescape has joined D-Tools’ Manufacturer Vantage Point (MVP) programme.
This will allow dealers who use D-Tools’ System Integrator 4.5 (SI 4.5) software
to specify Kaledeiscape’s award-winning products for customer projects within
the software.
“We are pleased to be working with D-Tools, making it even easier for
dealers to offer our Kaleidescape products and services to their customers,”
said Michael Malcolm, founder, chairman and CEO of Kaleidescape. “D-Tools’
MVP program will be a key affiliation as we continue our efforts to deliver new
and exciting home entertainment experiences to the market.”
The D-Tools MVP programme is designed to help provide the most up-todate product information to over 2,000 dealers using the D-Tools System
Integrator software. D-Tools MVP members are dedicated to helping dealers
streamline the home entertainment system design process and making it easier
for dealers to present accurate proposals to their customers.
“We’re honoured to name Kaleidescape as our newest MVP member,”
commented Adam Stone, President and CEO of D-Tools. “Adding Kaleidescape’s
award-winning entertainment servers to our ever-growing manufacturer
database furthers our goal of providing our customers with the highest-quality
and most respected product lines.”
For further information, contact: +1 866 386-6571 www.d-tools.com.
36
WHAT’S NEW
WHAT A CONTRAST
AWE, the exclusive distributor for Yamaha to the UK CI
trade, has introduced a new range of high performance
DLP projectors designed to generate excellent picture
quality in a living room environment or custom home
cinema.
The Yamaha DPX-530 is an affordable option serving up
images of 1,500 ANSI lumens with a 4000:1 contrast ratio.
Vivid bright scenes and detailed images come guaranteed,
while there are all the necessary connections to make this a hit in the
high-definition era.
The DPX-1300 sits at the top of the range and delivers a
professional broadcast-quality video processing platform incorporating
thousands of display signal processors, with numerous programmable
functions. A powerful 1.6x zoom lens gives positional versatility and the
latest high definition DarkChip3 DMD device provides a remarkable
5000:1 contrast ratio. From any input, the projector provides 10-bit
processing to achieve the optimum in picture quality. This latter model
would make for an audacious home theatre and has to be worth
considering in any uncompromising project.
The Supporting Act
Projection Screens, Mounts &
AV Furniture at Net Trade Prices
For further information contact: +44 (0) 137 272 9777
www.awe-europe.co.uk
Please call for full literature, net trade price list and further info.
Tel: 01604 811661 www.tcivega.co.uk
THE RIGHT ATTITUDE
Speaker specialists Genelec used ISE 2006 to launch what they are
terming, “the little speaker with big attitude.” The ultra compact 6020A
two-way active speaker system combines with the 5050A active subwoofer
to form the company’s smallest home cinema set up yet. Ideal for
deployment at the least expansive end of the home theatre market, and in
multi-media/gaming rooms, it delivers a high impact listening experience
considering its size.
The diminutive speakers use Genelec’s proprietary die-cast
aluminium Minimum Diffraction Enclosure technology, ensuring the
sounds emitted are heard at their very cleanest. The satellites are strong
performers across the frequency range with their long, curved reflex port
ends widely flared for surprisingly strong bass articulation. Hook them up
to the subwoofer and the depth of sound is even more impressive.
For further information contact: + 44 (0) 208 418 0778 www.genelec.com
37
> SOUND & VISION
STORIES FROM CEDIA
ExCel Yourselves!
With the Expo less than three months away, MATT
NIMMONS, CEDIA's Operations Manager, provides an
update on the industry event of the year and brings us
up to speed with some other key developments.
LOOKING FORWARD TO EXPO
With virtually no floor space now remaining at the forthcoming RIBA CPD
accredited CEDIA Expo, we are in the happy position of looking forward to
an event that promises not only to be the biggest yet, but a much more
integrated, exciting and informative event for visitors than ever before.
The Expo makes its debut at London's impressive ExCeL venue in 2006
with training running from Monday 19th June for four days, and the Expo
exhibition opening for business between Tuesday 20th and Thursday 22nd June.
The Expo
The team at CEDIA are thrilled at having increased the exhibition space by
over 50% in moving from Birmingham to ExCeL London, with all the major
names in the industry taking part in its only dedicated trade showcase for
new innovations in residential electronics technology. Those taking part
include A+K UK, AMX, Armour Home Electronics, Artcoustic UK, AWE
Europe, Crestron, CSE, Denon, Fujitsu, Helvar, Imerge, Kaleidescape, KEF,
Linn Products, Linnsight, Living Control, Lutron, Marantz, Marata Vision,
Philips, RGB, Sharp, SIM2, Universal Electronics and USD amongst others.
In total CEDIA Expo 2006 will feature equipment from hundreds of top
quality brands. We’ve also got a bundle of innovative feature areas planned
for the show to help attract, entertain and educate visitors coming along to
the show. There will be more on these in next month’s issue...
Spring into action at the Expo
The Education Programme
The seminar programme for this year’s Expo is currently being finalised, with
the first details of this available by the end of March. We can reveal that there
are 24 new courses on offer this year, with a further 20 updated courses and
an additional 65 hours of training in total available. There will be courses on
topical subjects like Digital Rights Management (DRM) and High Definition,
as well as a completely revised two-day Home Cinema Workshop. Industry
gurus Mike Heiss and Steve Moore will be presenting their visions of the
future and we will also be offering a one day project management workshop
for the first time. And the highlight of our certification program is Installer
Level 2, on offer for the first time in this country.
THE SMART HOME SHOW
CEDIA once again took part in the Smart Home Show at
Birmingham’s NEC from 2nd-5th March with a busy exhibition
stand supporting a CEDIA sponsored and managed free
seminar programme.
Many existing and potential CEDIA members visited or
exhibited at the event, which ran alongside the National
Homebuilding & Renovating Show. We also welcomed many
homeowners, design professionals and property developers to the
CEDIA stand who were keen to learn more about home electronic
systems and the benefits of using a CEDIA member.
The seminar programme proved to be a huge draw where
some 3,000 people learned more about the smarthouse, with the
seminar theatre at full capacity for most courses and some with
standing room only. Our warmest thanks once again to everyone
who gave up their time to help either with the seminar
programme, manning the CEDIA stand or in many cases, both!
CEDIA members who exhibited were Convergence Technology
Group, DBCC, DYMO, e-visionuk, Goelst, Helvar, Invision UK,
IPHomenet.com, Jung Controls, KEF, Konnect2.net, Music
Matters, o2m8, RGB, Smartcomm, Telestial + CCTV UK,
thinkingbricks, USD Limited, Sensible Heat, Sevenoaks Sound &
Vision, Smarthome Controls, Smartlife International and
Sensory International.
38
Need more information?
For a full exhibitor list, or to find out more about the event, visit
www.cedia.co.uk. All enquiries for advertising or sponsorship packages should
be made to the event’s Sales Manager Ian Morrish, tel: +44 (0) 137 272 2001 or
email [email protected]. And if you’re interested in reserving rooms in
nearby hotels where we have an allocation, then please use our recommended
accommodation booking service Jigsaw Conferences. Call Jigsaw on +44 (0)870
7520433, quoting event code RCCED, or visit
www.jigsawconferences.com/rcced.aspx for more details. The Novotel London
ExCeL is the CEDIA Headquarters hotel for the event.
CEDIA AWARDS GO LIVE
The entry form for the inaugural CEDIA Awards is now available for
download from a special Awards section on the website, at www.cedia.co.uk.
The entry form should be used for the categories Best CEDIA Installation
under £20,000, Best CEDIA Installation over £20,000 and below £100,000,
Best CEDIA Installation over £100,000 and Best Multi-Dwelling Installation.
You can also begin voting in the category for Best Trade Supplier via our
special on-line system at www.cedia.co.uk.
The Awards are open to all CEDIA members, with the winners to be
announced at this year’s CEDIA Expo. Closing date for the four categories
where submissions are required is Wednesday 31st May 2006. The on-line
vote for Best Trade Supplier will close on Friday 9th June 2006.
We encourage all
CEDIA members to get
involved in these awards
and look forward to
receiving your
submissions. If you have
any queries about the
awards, contact Matt at
CEDIA on tel: +44 (0) 148
021 3744 or email
[email protected].
TV OPPORTUNITIES
Learn how to become a CEDIA
instructor... from a CEDIA instructor
CEDIA CERTIFIED INSTRUCTOR TRAINING
We are delighted to announce that 21 subject matter experts have
successfully completed the new, dedicated CEDIA Certified Instructor
training course and achieved CCI status.
This specially developed CCI training course has now run twice,
taking place on 24th January and 15th February, in CEDIA’s purposedesigned training facility at its new head office in St Neots,
Cambridgeshire. The intensive one-day course identified the
requirements and role of a CCI and focused delegates on the key learning
and presentation techniques needed to deliver effective courses in theory
and through a series of practical activities and demonstrations.
For further information on becoming a CCI, or information on CEDIA
training events, contact Peter Aylett on [email protected] or tel +44 (0)
148 021 3744. For information on booking the CEDIA training facility to
run your own company’s training courses then please speak to Lianne at
the CEDIA office on the same telephone number.
CPD PROGRAMME KEEPS ON BUILDING
CEDIA is instituting further training for architects and building industry
professionals. A set of five CEDIA dates are taking place throughout 2006
for our RIBA CPD accredited course, with the first having taken place in
London on 8th March. Additionally, CPD training will also be taking place at
exhibitions and events throughout the year.
Expert presenters from within CEDIA are providing the association’s
Designing Integrated Future-Ready Homes course at the following locations
across the country as part of the CPD series of regular roadshows; Belfast
(28th March), Dublin (30th March). RIBA are running a further two CPD
events in addition to these roadshows in Bristol (3rd May) and London (22nd
November) which will feature the same course. CEDIA will also be
presenting the course at design professional exhibitions throughout the
year to add to the success of the recent Design Interiors Show and ARC 06
where over 400 delegates registered for the course.
We are currently working with two TV shows keen to involve CEDIA members in
the development of their programmes and highlight the skills of CEDIA design
professionals.
Talkback THAMES are making a second series of the popular design show
Honey, I Ruined The House for peak time Channel 4 TV and have invited CEDIA
members to help transform a gadget-loving homeowner’s DIY disaster into an
automated property where the technology actually works. Fronted by Naomi
Cleaver, the show will have an audience of approximately three million viewers.
CEDIA is also working with BBC 2’s new prime time Home TV Show. TV
Production Company Endemol UK have been commissioned to make this brand
new series about home interiors, which will celebrate people who are
passionate about their homes. They are looking for high-end properties in the
UK, with characters to tell the stories of their sumptuous homes. It can be a
single room home cinema, funky bachelor pad or a fantastic whole house
installation – as long as there’s lots of integrated technology and the
homeowner is interested in talking enthusiastically about it on air and showing
the presenter about their home. The programmes will be character and story
driven lifestyle shows, telling stories of high-end living in the UK via the houses
and the homeowners – so your customers must be happy to participate. There
is also the possibility that you may also be interviewed as part of the
programme, and your company name-checked, with appropriate web-links
provided from the Home website to your own.
The CEDIA marketing campaign is dedicated to creating these
opportunities for CEDIA members to promote their skills and services to a
wider audience. If you have project that you’d like to generate wider publicity
for on TV or in the press, then please email CEDIA’s PR agents Eleanor Crook
or Jeff Hayward at Wildwood PR on [email protected] without delay.
If you have any further questions or would like more information, contact
Eleanor at Wildwood PR on +44 (0) 140 389 2720 or Matt at CEDIA on +44 (0)
148 021 3744.
It's no train, no gain at CEDIA HQ...
39
CONTACT BOOK
•A
Aanvil Audio
T: +44 (0) 135 924 0687
www.aanvilaudio.com
Abbey Road Cable
See THE OPPOSITION GROUP
Absolute Sounds Ltd
T: +44 (0)20 8971 3909
Aca-Apex Ltd
T: +44 (0) 152 522 0782
ACM Installations
Ltd (South)
Holed Stoned Barn
Stisted Cottage Farm
Bradwell,
Essex,
CM77 2DZ
+44 (0) 870 242 3285
[email protected]
Alltrade Aerial & Satellite ltd.
T: +44 (0) 845 075 0751
F: +44 (0) 870 770 9151
[email protected]
www.alltrade.co.uk
AMX UK Ltd
T: +44 (0) 190 434 3100
F: +44 (0) 190 434 3101
[email protected]
www.amx.com
Anatek Audio
T: +44 (0) 781 768 1402
www:anatek-audio.co.uk
Anders+Kern UK Ltd
T: +44 (0) 163 851 0900
F: +44 (0) 163 851 0901
[email protected]
www.anders-kern.co.uk
ACM Installations Ltd (North)
T: +44 [0] 14 8237 7530
Ansar Audio Capacitors Ltd
T: +44 (0) 169 167 9191
F: +44 (0) 169 167 9191
[email protected]
Acoustic Energy Ltd
T: +44 (0) 128 565 4432
F: +44 (0) 128 565 4430
[email protected]
www.acoustic-energy.co.uk
Anthony Gallo Acoustics
T: +44 (0) 870 350 1348
F: +44 (0) 870 350 1346
[email protected]
www.anthonygallo.co.uk
Acoustic Partnership, The
T: +44 (0) 870 047 0047
F: +44 (0) 870 047 0048
[email protected]
API (UK) Ltd
T: +44 (0) 144 223 3853
F: +44 (0) 144 223 1860
Acoustic Solutions Ltd
T: +44 (0) 132 734 2255
F: +44 (0) 132 734 2298
[email protected]
www.acousticsolutions.co.uk
Apollo Hi Fi Furniture Ltd
T: +44 (0) 121 520 5070
F: +44 (0) 121 522 2055
[email protected]
www.apollohifi.co.uk
ACOUSTAT (UK) LTD
T: +44 (0) 208 424 8844
www.acoustat.co.uk
Arcam
T: +44 (0) 122 320 3200
F: +44 (0) 122 386 3384
[email protected]
www.arcam.co.uk
Activ Distribution
T: +44 (0) 163 529 1357
F: +44 (0) 163 529 1356
www:activdistribution.com
email:[email protected]
AKAI
T: +44 (0) 113 251 1500
F: +44 (0) 113 251 1515
[email protected]
www.akai.eu.com
AKG
The Dutch Barn,
The Hyde,
Woodcock Hill,
Off Coopers Green Lane,
St Albans, Herts AL4 9HJ
T: +44 (0) 170 727 8100
F: 01707 278129
[email protected]
www.harman.com
Aldous Systems
(Europe) Ltd
T: +44 (0) 870 240 1162
F: +44 (0) 20 7691 7844
[email protected]
www.aldoussystems.co.uk
Allison Loudspeakers
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
40
Artcoustic
T: +971 (0)502738220
[email protected]
www.artcoustic.com
Art Loudspeakers
T: +44 (0) 129 231 9416
F: +44 (0) 129 231 9416
[email protected]
www.loudspeaker-art.com
[email protected]
Art Systems Limited
T: +44 (0) 115 9380 380
F: +44 (0) 115 9380 381
[email protected]
www.artsystems.co.uk
Ash Designs Ltd,
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.
T: +44 (0) 128 576 0561
F: +44 (0) 128 576 0683
[email protected]
www.atc.gb.net
Audica UK
T: +44 (0) 148 083 9239
F: +44 (0) 148 083 0582
[email protected]
www.audica.co.uk
Audiofreaks
T: +44 (0)20 8948 4153
F: +44 (0)20 8948 4250
AudioControl.co.uk
T: +44 (0)130 285 6330
F: +44(0)130 285 6330
[email protected]
Audio Group (UK) Ltd
T: +44 (0) 175 284 8816
sales@audiogroupinternational.
co.uk
Audio Note (UK) Ltd
T: +44 (0) 127 322 0511
F: +44 (0) 127 373 498
[email protected]
Audiosolutions Sales &
Marketing
T: +44 (0) 197 779 8844
www.a-audiosolutions.co.uk
sales@a audiosolutions.co.uk
Audio Technica Ltd
T: +44 (0) 113 277 1441
F: +44 (0) 113 270 4836
Audio Visual World
T: +44 (0) 208 455 3490
www.audiovisualworld.co.uk
Audion International Limited
T: +33 546 043282
F: +33 546 043693
email: [email protected]
Audiophile Club, The
T: +44 (0)20 8882 2822
F: +44 (0)20 8372 3772
[email protected]
www.audiophileclub.co.uk
Audiophile Base
T: +44 (0) 189 261 9319
M: +44 (0) 771 576 3777
[email protected]
www.audiophilebase.com
Audio Partnership PLC
T: +44 (0)20 7940 2200
F: +44 (0)20 7940 2233
Audio Reference
T: +44 (0) 125 270 2705
F: +44 (0) 148 330 1412
[email protected]
www.audioreference.co.uk
Audio Synthesis
T: +44 (0) 115 922 4138
F: +44 (0) 115 922 9701
[email protected]
www.audiosynthesis.co.uk
AUDUSA & Co
T: +44 [0] 2082419826
F: +44 [0] 2082410999
[email protected]
AVF Group Limited
T: +44 [0] 1952 678855
F: +44 [0] 1952 606205
[email protected]
www.avf.co.uk
Avid
T: +44 (0) 148 045 7300
F: +44 (0) 148 045 7057
[email protected]
www.avidhifi.co.uk
AVM Ltd
T: +44 (0) 125 251 0363
www.avmltd.co.uk
[email protected]
AWE Europe Ltd
T: +44 (0) 137 272 9777
F: +44 (0) 137 272 9757
[email protected]
www.awe-europe.co.uk
•B
BADA
T: +44 (0) 208 150 6741
[email protected]
www.bada.co.uk
Bandridge
see BBG Distribution Ltd
Barco UK Ltd
T: +44 (0) 118 929 0105
www.barco.com
BBG Distribution
Unit 3 Watford
Interchange
Colonial Way, Watford
Hertfordshire, WD24 4WP
T: +44 (0) 192 320 5600
F: +44 (0) 192 320 5601
[email protected]
www.bbg.eu.com
Beamax
Bleekveldstraat 7 B
3900 Overpelt
Belgium
T: 0800-9175 943
F: 0800-9175 945
B.F.A.
T: +44 (0) 142 871 4616
F: +44 (0) 142 871 4616
[email protected]
[email protected]
www.british-audio.org.uk
B & W Group Ltd
Dale Road, Worthing
West Sussex, BN11 2BH, UK
T: +44 (0) 190 322 1800
[email protected]
www.bwspeakers.com
B & W Loudspeakers
Dale Road, Worthing
West Sussex, BN11 2BH, UK
T: +44 (0) 190 322 1800
[email protected]
www.bwspeakers.com
B-Tech International Ltd
T: +44 (0) 168 984 8535
F: +44 (0) 168 984 1087
[email protected]
Bang & Olufsen UK Ltd
T: +44 (0) 118 969 2288
F: +44 (0) 118 969 3388
www.bang-olufsen.com
Beyerdynamic (GB) Ltd
T: +44 (0) 144 425 8258
F: +44 (0) 144 425 8444
[email protected]
www.beyerdynamic.co.uk
Black Rhodium
T: +44 (0) 133 275 5766
F: +44 (0) 133 220 0698
[email protected]
Bose Ltd
T: +44 (0) 870 741 4500
F: +44 (0) 870 741 4545
Boston Acoustics Distribution
(UK) Limited
T: +44 (0) 128 565 0814
www.boston-acoustics.co.uk
•C
Calculus Software Solutions Ltd
T: +44 (0) 845 125 9192
F: +44 (0) 173 286 5997
www.findesolutions.com
[email protected]
Canton
T: +44 (0) 239 250 1888
F: +44 (0) 239 250 1999
[email protected]
www.canton.de
Cartridge Man, The
T /F: +44 (0)20 8688 6565
Castle Acoustics Ltd
T: +44 (0) 175 679 5333
F: +44 (0) 175 679 5335
CEDIA UK
Unit 2,
Phoenix Park
St Neots,
Cambs
PE19 8EP,
UK
T: +44 (0) 148 021 3744
F: +44 (0) 148 021 3469
[email protected]
www.cedia.co.uk
Celestion Consumer Division
T: +44 (0) 162 268 7442
F: +44 (0) 162 268 7981
www.celestion.com
Chapter Audio Ltd
T: +44 (0) 139 268 6797
F: +44 (0) 139 267 6795
[email protected]
www.chapteraudio.com
Cherished Record Co
T: +44 (0) 157 936 3603
F: +44 (0) 157 936 3604
[email protected]
Choice Hi-Fi
T: +44 (0)20 8392 1959
F: +44 (0)20 8392 1994
[email protected]
Chord Company Ltd, The
Tel: +44 1980 625700
Fax: +44 1980 625070
[email protected]
www.chordelectronics.co.uk
Chord Electronics Ltd
T: +44 (0) 162 272 1444
F: +44 (0) 162 272 1555
[email protected]
www.chordelectronics.co.uk
CKS Entertainment Systems Ltd
T: +44 (0) 134 430 7788
F: +44 (0) 134 445 6710
cksgroup.co.uk/entertainment
Claritycap Industrial Capacitors
(Wrexham) Ltd
T: +44 (0) 197 885 3805
F: +44 (0) 197 885 3785
[email protected]
www.icwLtd.co.uk
www.claritycap.co.uk
Classe
Dale Road
Worthing,
West Sussex
BN11 2BH,
UK
T: +44 (0) 190 322 1800
www.classeaudio.com
Clipsal Integrated Systems
T: +44 (0) 162 850 8530
www:clipsal.co.uk
Coles ElectroAcoustics Ltd
T: +44 (0) 199 246 6685
F: +44 (0) 199 244 6583
[email protected]
www.coleselectracoustics.com
Colourgen Ltd
T: 01628 588777
F: 01628 588716
E-mail: [email protected]
www.colourgen.com
dCS Ltd
T: +44 (0) 179 953 1999
F: +44 (0) 179 953 1681
[email protected]
wwwdcsltd.co.uk
Comfort Home Controls
T: +44 (0) 124 468 0675
www:comfort.org.uk
[email protected]
DBS AUDIO
T: +44 (0) 128 472 3933
F: +44 (0) 128 472 3933
M: +44 (0) 777 618 8547
[email protected]
ConnectAV Ltd
T: +44 (0) 797 362 9174
F: +44 (0) 870 432 3443
[email protected]
www.connectav.co.uk
Control4 UK Ltd
T: +44 (0) 134 781 2300
F: +44 (0) 134 781 2322
W: www.control4-uk.com
Convergent-AV Ltd
T: +44 (0) 1555 890120
F: +44 (0) 1555 890120
[email protected]
www.convergent-av.co.uk
CR Electronic Design
T: +44 (0) 170 220 0111
[email protected]
www.crdevelopments.com
Crane Audio
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
Crestron (UK) Ltd
Neptune House,
2 Portsmouth Road,
Kingston Upon Thames,
Surrey,
KT1 2LU
T: +44 (0) 208 439 7272
[email protected]
www.creston.co.uk
Cromwell Business Systems
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
www.csesolutions.co.uk
Custom Design (Newcastle)
T: +44 (0) 191 262 4646
F: +44 (0) 191 262 4646
[email protected]
Custom Sight & Sound
T: +44 (0) 199 257 3030
F: +44 (0) 199 257 4030
[email protected]
www.revox.de
Cyrus Electronics
T: +44 (0) 148 043 5577
F: +44 (0) 148 043 7715
[email protected]
•D
D&T Electronics
T ++44(0)870 444 5929
F +44(0)870 444 5945
[email protected]
www.dandt.co.uk
Decibel Distribution Ltd
T /F: +44 (0) 150 532 1351
M: +44 (0) 797 652 8537
[email protected]
Deltron Components Ltd
T: +44 (0) 172 428 0120
F: +44 (0) 172 428 0353
Demion Products
T: +44 (0) 118 977 4085
F: +44 (0) 118 978 5507
www.demion.co.uk
Denon
T: +44 (0) 175 368 8499
Design e
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
Dixons
T: +44 (0) 144 235 3000
F: +44 (0) 144 223 3218
Dolby Laboratories
T: +44 (0) 179 384 2100
F: +44 (0) 179 384 2101
[email protected]
www.dolby.com
DRDB
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.
T: +44 (0) 122 320 8877
F: +44 (0) 122 320 8761
[email protected]
www.ear-yoshino.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
T: +44 (0) 132 786 0789
F: +44 (0) 132 786 1058
[email protected]
www.eltax.com
Eminence Speaker
Europe Ltd
T: +44 (0) 192 423 9999
Fax: +44 (0) 192 423 9988
email: [email protected]
www.eminence-speaker.com
Emotive Excellence
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
T: +44 (0) 190 381 4618
[email protected]
www.eslab.co.uk
ETHOS Acoustics Ltd
T: +44 (0)20 8842 0020
F: +44 (0)20 8842 0020
Futronix Ltd.
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]
Future
Automation
Unit 2
Kimpton Enterprise Park
Claggy Road, Kimpton
Hertfordshire SG4 8HP
T: +44 (0) 143 883 1094
F: +44 (0) 143 883 3565
www.future automation.co.uk
•G
Games & Lifestyle Technology,
direct line T: +44 (0) 20 7877 3373
switchboard
T: +44 (0) 20 7929 2999
[email protected]
Garden Light & Audio
T: +44 (0) 189 261 9319
[email protected]
www.glaa.co.uk
Gecko Inc Ltd
T: +44 (0)20 8603 0480
F: +44 (0)20 8688 2491
[email protected]
Genco Systems
T: +44 (0) 148 865 7788
F: +44 (0) 870 051 4190
www.gencosystems.demon.co.uk
European Precision Moulding
Ltd/Red Scorpion Industries
T: +44 (0) 147 483 4345
F: +44 (0) 147 483 4340
Glenfield Software
T: +44 (0) 148 040 7700
F: +44 (0) 148 047 3734
[email protected]
www.glenfieldsoftware.com
Excel Audio Systems Ltd.
T: +44 (0)20 8354 0820
F: +44 (0)20 8354 0834
[email protected]
www.excelaudio.co.uk
Graff Electronic Machines Ltd
T: +44 (0) 163 689 3036
F: +44 (0) 163 689 3317
[email protected]
www.graffelectronics.co.uk
Expert Stylus & Cartridge Co
T: +44 (0) 137 227 6604
F: +44 (0) 137 227 6147
•F
Falcon Acoustics Ltd
T: +44 (0) 149 375 1100
F: +44 (0) 149 375 1155
[email protected]
www.falcon-acoustics.co.uk
G T Audio
T: +44 (0) 189 583 3099
F: +44 (0) 189 583 2594
[email protected]
www.gtaudio.com
•H
Hadcock G.F.C. (Manufacturer)
T: +44 (0) 188 956 9166
F: +44 (0) 188 956 9166
Ferguson Hill Studios
T: +44 [0] 207 284 0969
www:fergusonhill.co.uk
[email protected]
HAMA PVAC Ltd
T: +44 (0) 125 637 4700
F: +44 (0) 125 637 4749
Finlux UK
T: 01793 870316
F: 01793 870318
Harbeth Audio Limited
T: +44 (0) 144 448 4371
F: +44 (0) 144 448 7629
[email protected]
www.harbeth.co.uk
Focal-JM Lab UK
T: +44 (0) 845-6602680
[email protected]
[email protected]
Eclipse
T: +44 (0) 207 328 4499
F: www.eclipse-td.com
Fryer Sales & Marketing Ltd
T: +44 (0) 239 269 0999
F: +44 (0) 239 269 0666
[email protected]
www.fryersales.com
ECT Ltd Projection screen
and accessories
T: +44 (0) 118 984 1141
F: +44 (0) 118 984 1847
[email protected]
www.ect-av.com
Fujitsu General (UK) Co Ltd
T: +44 (0)20 8731 3450
F: +44 (0)20 8731 3451
[email protected]
www.fujitsu-general.co.uk
Harman/Kardon
The Dutch Barn,
The Hyde, Woodcock Hill,
Off Coopers Green Lane,
St Albans, Herts AL4 9HJ
T: +44 (0) 170 727 8100
F: 01707 278129
[email protected]
www.harman.com
Harvard Technology Group
T: +44 (0) 845 450 1480
F: +44 (0) 208 263 6100
www.harvardtechnology.com
Hermstedt Hifidelio Range
See THE OPPOSITION GROUP
Henley Designs Ltd
T: +44 (0) 123 551 1166
F: +44 (0) 123 551 1266
[email protected]
www.henleydesigns.co.uk
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
Hypex
Electroniques
20 Osram Road,
East Lane
Business Park
Wembley, HA9 7NG
T: +44 (0) 208 908 3111
F: +44 (0) 208 908 3110
www.hypexuk.com
[email protected]
•I
Icon Distribution UK
T: +44 (0) 845 603 1375
F: +44 (0) 130 271 1196
[email protected]
www.icondistribution.net
If designs
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
T: +44 (0) 189 287 0072
F: +44 (0) 189 287 0074
[email protected]
www.ilightgroup.com
Imerge Ltd
T: +44 (0) 195 478 3600
F: +44 (0) 195 478 3601
[email protected]
www.imerge.co.uk
Infinity
The Dutch Barn,
The Hyde,
Woodcock Hill,
Off Coopers Green Lane,
St Albans,
Herts,
AL4 9HJ
T: +44 (0) 170 727 8100
F: 01707 278129
e [email protected]
w www.harman.com
Invision UK Ltd
T:+ 44 [0] 144 967 7233
www:invisionuk.com
[email protected]
Isoblue Ltd
T: 01332 875700
[email protected]
www:isoblue.com/products
Isol-8 Teknologies
See THE OPPOSITION GROUP
41
CONTACT BOOK
•J
Jamo UK
See BBG Distribution
www.jamo.com
JBL
The Dutch Barn,
The Hyde,
Woodcock Hill,
Off Coopers Green Lane,
St Albans,
Herts AL4 9HJ
T: +44 (0) 170 727 8100
F: 01707 278129
e [email protected]
w www.harman.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
+44 (0)870 990 9000
www.keene.co.uk
Klegg Audio UK
T: +44 (0) 870 075 5344
www.klegg.com
KM Acoustics
Unit 8 Torafen Business Centre
Panteg Way, Pontypool
NP4 0LS
Konnectson UK Ltd
T: +44 (0) 148 043 4441
F:
• L+44 (0) 148 043 3312
•L
Lamba Plc
T: +44 (0) 158 269 0600
F: +44 (0) 158 269 0400
[email protected]
Lawton Trade Supplies
T: +44 (0) 121 511 1128
F: +44 (0) 121 544 6877
[email protected]
Living Control
T: +44 (0) 168 986 1188
F: +44 (0) 168 985 9915
[email protected]
www.livingcontrol.com
MJ Acoustics
T: +44 (0) 870 744 5080
F: +44 (0) 870 746 9380
[email protected]
www.mjacoustics.co.uk
NEMKO Ltd.
T: +44 (0)20 8646 8383
F: +44 (0)20 8646 8099
[email protected]
www.nemko.co.uk
Living Voice
T: +44 (0) 115 973 3222
[email protected]
www.definitiveaudio.co.uk
Mode lighting
The Maltings, 63
High Street, Ware,
Hertfordshire, SG12 9AD
T: +44 (0) 192 046 2121
www.modelighting.com
New Media Image
T: +44 (0) 239 245 1006
F: +44 (0) 870 167 4453
[email protected]
Lockwood Audio
T: +44 (0)20 8864 8008
F: +44 (0)20 8864 3064
[email protected]
www.lockwoodaudio.co.uk
Loewe (Linn Products)
T: +44 (0) 129 247 1568
F: +44 (0) 129 247 1554
[email protected]
www.loewe.de
Lutron EA Ltd
T: +44 (0) 207 702 0657
F: +44 (0) 207 480 6899
[email protected]
www.lutron.com
•M
Mango Marketing Limited
T: +44 (0) 193 282 9077
F: +44 (0) 193 282 7576
Web: www.mangomarketing.com
Mana Audio Ltd. (Manufacturer)
T: +44 (0) 140 783 0530
F: +44 (0) 140 783 0535
[email protected]
http://mana.co.uk
Marantz Hi-Fi UK Ltd
T: +44 (0) 175 368 0868
F: +44 (0) 175 368 0428
Martek (UK) Ltd
T: +44 (0) 135 925 3555
F: +44 (0) 135 925 3559
www.martekuk.co.uk
[email protected]
Marata Vision
T: +44 (0) 192 349 5595
F: +44 (0) 192 349 5599
[email protected]
www.marata.co.uk
Max Distribution Co Ltd
T: +44 (0) 173 284 0845
F: +44 (0) 173 284 1845
[email protected]
www.the-max.co.uk
Leax Controls
T: +44 (0) 207 501 0880
F: +44 (0) 207 501 8890
www.leax.co.uk
Maxell Europe Ltd.
T: +44 (0) 192 349 4400
F: +44 (0) 192 349 4410
[email protected]
www.eu.maxell.com
Lektropacks (UK)
T: +44 (0)20 8847 2776
F: +44 (0)20 8560 8050
[email protected]
www.lektropacks.co.uk
Meiloon UK
T: +44 (0) 190 820 0844
[email protected]
www.meiloon.com.tw
Lenbrook UK Ltd
T: +44 (0) 190 831 9360
F: +44 (0) 190 832 2752
[email protected]
www.lenbrook.co.uk
Meridian Audio Ltd
T: +44 (0) 148 044 5678
F: +44 (0) 148 044 5687
[email protected]
www.meridian-audio.com
L.G. Electronics UK Ltd
T: +44 (0) 870 607 5544
F: +44 (0) 175 351 7445
Metropolis Music
T: +44 (0) 189 253 9245
[email protected]
Linn Products Ltd
Floors Road, Waterfoot,
Eaglesham,
Glasgow,
G76 0EQ
T: +44 (0) 141 307 7777
F: +44 (0) 141 644 4262
www.linn.co.uk
42
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
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
Nexus Technologies Pty. Ltd
[email protected]
www.nexuscomparators.com
NHT
T: +44 (0) 151 236 1832
F: +44 (0) 151 255 1194
www.nhthifi.com
Monster Europe Ltd
T: 01923 431 634
Nottingham Analogue
T: +44 (0) 177 376 2947
F: +44 (0) 177 353 356
Moth Group
T: +44 (0) 123 474 1152
F: +44 (0) 123 474 2028
[email protected]
www.britishaudio.co.uk
NXT - New Transducers Ltd
T: +44 (0) 870 777 5555
F: +44 (0) 148 084 6190
[email protected]
www.nxtsound.com
Moulded Cords & Cables - MCC
T: +44 (0) 134 486 8200
F: +44 (0) 134 486 8208
[email protected]
www.mcc-cables.com
•O
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
Multiroom Systems
T: +44 (0) 870 855 0010
F: +44 (0) 121 200 1167
www.installautomation.com
[email protected]
Musical Fidelity Ltd.
T: +44 (0)20 8900 2866
F: +44 (0)20 8900 2983
Musonic UK Ltd.
T: +44 (0) 192 321 3344
F: +44 (0) 192 321 3355
[email protected]
www.musonic.co.uk
Myryad UK
See BBG Distribution
•N
NAD Electronics
See Lenbrook UK
Naim Audio
T: +44 (0) 172 242 6600
Nakamichi UK Ltd
See FSM Audio
National Instruments Corporation
(UK) Ltd
T: +44 (0) 163 552 3545
F: +44 (0) 163 552 4395
[email protected]
www.ni.com/uk
Neaco Ltd
T: +44 (0) 165 369 5721
F: +44 (0) 165 360 0418
[email protected]
www.neaco.co.uk
NEAT Acoustics Ltd.
T: + 44 (0) 183 363 1021
F: + 44 (0) 183 363 0022
Obelisk Audio Designs
T: +44 (0) 179 450 1235
[email protected]
O'heocha Design Ltd
T: +353 9150 6970
T: +44 (0) 156 478 2502
F: +353 9150 6972
[email protected]
www.o.d.co.uk
Onkyo
T: +44 (0) 149 468 1515
F: +44 (0) 149 468 0452
[email protected]
www.onkyo.co.uk
Optimum International 2000 Ltd
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.optoma.co.uk
Opus Technologies
T: +44 (0) 845 090 2266
F: +44 (0)20 7940 2233
[email protected]
www.opus-technologies.co.uk
Orelle Ltd.
T: +44 (0)20 8991 9200
F: +44 (0)20 8997 4060.
[email protected]
www.orelle.co.uk
Origin Live
T: +44 (0) 238 057 8877
F: +44 (0) 238 057 8877
[email protected]
www.originlive.com
Overkill Audio
T: +44 [0] 148 784 2911
F: +44 [0] 148 784 1341
Owl Video Systems Ltd
T: +44 (0) 182 576 6123
F: +44 (0) 182 576 0246
www.owlvideo.com
•P
P&C Industries
T: +44 (0) 122 387 0712
F: +44 (0) 122 387 2654
[email protected]
www.hiway.co.uk/pcindustries
Panasonic (UK) Ltd
T: +44 (0) 134 486 2444
F: +44 (0) 134 486 1656
Partington & Co
T: +44 (0) 147 470 9299
F: +44 (0) 147 470 9295
Paradigm Audio Visual Ltd
T: +44 (0) 1234 843388
F: +44 (0) 1234 854477
email:[email protected]
www.rearpro.com
PATH IXOS
T: +44 (0) 184 421 9000
F: +44 (0) 184 421 9099
[email protected]
www.path.co.uk
www.ixoscable.com
Pear Audio Ltd.
T: +44 (0) 166 583 0862
F: +44 (0) 166 583 0051
[email protected]
Philex Electronics Ltd
T: +44 (0) 123 426 3737
F: +44 (0) 123 426 7400
[email protected]
www.philex.com
Pickering Cartridges
T: +44 (0) 190 464 2463
[email protected]
pickeringuk.com
Picture The Sound
T: +44 (0) 700 044 3426
T: +44 (0) 7000 HIFICO
F: +44 (0) 148 345 4992
Pink Triangle Partnership Ltd
T: +44 (0)20 8694 9609
F: +44 (0)20 8694 7450
[email protected]
www.pink-triangle.com
Pioneer GB Ltd
T: +44 (0) 175 378 9789
F: +44 (0) 175 378 9528
www.pioneer.co.uk
Plasmatvinfo.com Limited
Tel: +44 (0)1206 391001
Fax: +44 (0)1206 391096
PMC Ltd
Flying Mole Bryston
T: +44(0) 870 444 1044
F: +44 (0) 870 444 1045
[email protected]
www.pmc-speakers.com
PM Components Ltd
T: +44 (0) 163 484 8500
F: +44 (0) 163 484 867
Polk Audio
T: +44 (0) 207 702 5277
F: +44 (0) 207 251 2487
Precious Metals
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
T: +44 (0) 144 446 1611
F: +44 (0) 144 446 1510
Prima International Plc
T: +44 (0) 113 251 1500
F: +44 (0) 113 251 1515
[email protected]
prima-international.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
email:[email protected]
www.projecta.nl
Prism Media Products Ltd
T: +44 (0) 122 342 4988
F: +44 (0) 122 342 5023
[email protected]
www:prismsound.com
Prospero Recruitment Ltd
T: +44 (0) 207 404 6383
F: +44 (0) 207 404 6323
rjgrays@prosperorecruitment .com
www.prosperorecruitment.com
Pulse Marketing
T: +44 (0) 127 965 5955
F: +44 (0) 127 965 6004
[email protected]
www:pulsemarketing.uk.com
Pure Digital
T: +44 (0) 192 327 7488
F: +44 (0) 192 327 0188
[email protected]
www.pure-digital.com
P.W.B. Electronics
T: +44 (0) 113 268 2550
[email protected]
www.belt.demon.co.uk
•Q
Quad Electroacoustics Ltd
T: +44 (0) 845 458 0011
F: +44 (0) 148 043 1767
[email protected]
www.quad-hifi.co.uk
Quadraspire Ltd
T: +44 (0) 122 533 3360
F: +44 (0) 122 533 8083
[email protected]
www.quadraspire.com
QED Audio Products Ltd
T: +44 (0) 148 374 7474
F: +44 (0) 148 354 5600
[email protected]
•R
Recoton
T: +49 223 498 4080
www.recoton.com
Redline
T: +44 (0) 131 555 3922
F: +44 (0) 131 555 3964
[email protected]
[email protected]
Reference Point Computers
T: +44 (0) 845 634 2032
F: +44 (0) 845 634 2033
Rega Reseach
T: +44 (0) 170 233 3071
REL Acoustics Ltd
T: +44 (0) 165 676 8777
F: +44 (0) 165 676 6093
[email protected]
www.rel.net
Remote Media Ltd
T: +44 (0) 845 458 3705
www.remotemedia.co.uk
[email protected]
Revolver Hi-Fi
loudspeakers
The Acoustic Partnership LLP
Unit 8 Saltash Business Park
Saltash, Cornwall PL12 6LX
Tel: 0870 0470047
Fax:0870 0470047
Email: [email protected]
www.revolveraudio.co.uk
Revox
See Custom Sight & Sound
RGB Communications Ltd
T: +44 (0) 148 873 366
F: +44 (0) 148 873 377
www.rgbcomms.co.uk
[email protected]
Scandyna UK Ltd
T: +44 (0) 147 362 6600
F: +44 (0) 147 362 6700
[email protected]
Stoneaudio UK Ltd
T: +44 (0) 120 220 1735
F: +44 (0) 120 220 1315
[email protected]
www.stoneaudio.co.uk
Schneider UK Ltd
T: +44 (0) 161 374 0101
F: +44 (0) 161 374 0102
Symmetry
T: +44 (0) 172 786 5488
[email protected]
See Hear Ltd
T: +44 (0) 179 559 7590
F: +44 (0) 179 559 7591
[email protected]
SYN Factory U-vola Suspended
Loudspeakers
T: +39 (0432) 972 362
F: +39 (0432) 972 684
[email protected]
www.synfactory.com
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
T: +44 (0) 161 205 2333
F: +44 (0) 161 205 7076
www.sharp.co.uk
Rip Factory
PO Box 169
Newtownabbey
Co Antrim BT36 9AB
T: +44 (0) 845 226 2791
F: +44 (0) 870 762 7547
www.ripfactory.com
Silvernote
T /F: +44 (0) 199 262 0905
www.silvernote.co.uk
Ringmat Developments
T: +44 (0) 127 720 0210
F: +44 (0) 127 720 1225
[email protected]
www.ringmat.com
Simplysonos
T: +44 (0) 800 731 7308
www.simplysonos.co.uk
Roksan Audio Ltd
T: +44 (0)20 8900 6801/6802
F: +44 (0)20 8900 0734
[email protected]
www.roksan.co.uk
Rotel
Dale Road
Worthing,
West Sussex, BN11 2BH, UK
T: +44 (0) 190 322 1800
www.rotel.com
Roth Multimedia Audio
See THE OPPOSITION GROUP
Royd Loudspeakers Co. Ltd
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.
T: +44 (0) 845 345 1550
F: +44 (0) 153 979 7325
[email protected]
www.russandrews.com
•S
SIM2 UK Ltd
T: +44 (0) 182 575 0850
F: +44 (0) 182 575 0851
[email protected]
www.sim2.co.uk
SME Ltd
T: +44 (0) 190 381 4321
F: +44 (0) 190 381 4269
[email protected]
www.sme.ltd.uk
SOLO Manufacturing
T: +44 (0) 115 939 2345
F: +44 (0) 115 939 2111
Songlines
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
T: +44 (0) 115 944 5027
F: +44 (0) 115 944 5126
Soundations
T: +44 (0) 870 350 1349
Spendor Audio Systems Ltd.
T: +44 (0) 132 384 3474
F: +44 (0) 132 344 2254
[email protected]
www.spendoraudio.com
Standesign UK
T: +44 (0) 239 250 1888
F: +44 (0) 239 250 1999
[email protected]
www.standesign.co.uk
Sagem Communications
T: +44 (0) 156 477 2200
F: +44 (0) 156 477 7736
www.sagem.com
Stands Unique
T: +44 (0) 193 341 2227
F: +44 (0) 193 341 2215
[email protected]
www.standsunique.com
Samsung Electronics Ltd
T: +44 (0)20 8391 0168
Stil-Stand
Stilexo Industrial
UK Ltd Penalita Industrial Estate
Ystrad Mynach, Mid Glam,
CF82 7QZ
T: +44 (0) 144 381 6777
[email protected]
www.stil-stand.co.uk
Samuel Johnson Audio Ltd
T: +44 (0) 141 810 2828
F: +44 (0) 141 810 2829
[email protected]
www.SJAudio.co.uk
Thear Technology Limited (REVOX)
T: +44 (0) 152 584 1999
F: +44 (0) 152 584 1009
•T
T&A
See Transparent Distribution
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
Townshend Audio
T: +44 (0)20 8979 2155
Transparent Distribution Ltd
T: +44 (0) 162 351 7000
www.transparentdl.co.uk
[email protected]
T&T Communications
T: 08706 093686
F: 01255 863909
Trichord Research Ltd
T: +44 (0) 168 457 3524
F: +44 (0) 168 457 7380
[email protected]
www.trichordresearch.com
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]
Troy innovations
Victoria Works,
Hillend Lane
Rossendale, Lancs, BB4 7AG
T: +44 (0) 170 622 1133
F: +44 (0) 170 622 2309
www.troyinnovations.co.uk
Target Audio Distribution Ltd
T: +44 (0) 144 225 9994
M: +44 (0) 973 147 441
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]
www.tcivega.co.uk
True-Colours Industries
T: +44 (0) 771 019 6949
F: +44 (0) 870 120 5923
[email protected]
www.true-colours.com
Tube Technology
T: +44 (0) 126 984 4771
F: +44 (0) 193 224 4455
[email protected]
www.tubetechnology.com
Turbosound Earphones - as above
See THE OPPOSITION GROUP
•U
TDI Tremiver Ltd
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
T: +44 (0) 189 265 4534
Tektronix Ltd
T: +44 (0) 134 439 2400
F: +44 (0) 134 439 2401
Top Stands Ltd
Top Stands Ltd
11 Ayston Road,
Leicester, LE3 2GA
T: +44 (0) 116 289 3756
F: +44 (0) 116 263 0234
www.topstands.co.uk
www.topstands.co.uk
The Diamond Stylus
Company Limited
"Diamond Connection"
Council Street West,
Llandudno, Conwy,
L30 1ED.
T: +44 (0) 194 286 0880
F: +44 (0) 194 286 0653
www.diamondstylus.co.uk
[email protected]
THE OPPOSITION GROUP
T: +44 (0) 118 949 7656
F: +44 (0) 118 949 7657
E: [email protected]
UAS Enterprises
T: +44 (0) 870 066 0406
F: +44 (0) 870 066 0407
[email protected]
www.uasenterprises.com
UKD
T: +44 (0) 175 365 2669
F: +44 (0) 175 365 4531
[email protected]
www.ukd.co.uk
Unicol
T: +44 (0) 186 576 7676
Fax: +44 (0) 186 576 7677
www:unicol.com
Usher Audio Technology
T: 886 2 2381 6299
F: 886 2 2371 1053
www:usheraudio.com
•V
Vibe Technologies Ltd
T: +44 (0) 121 311 9090
F: +44 (0) 121 311 9001
[email protected]
www.v-i-b-e.com
Vieta UK
T: +44 (0) 149 472 3444
[email protected]
www.vieta-uk.com
VPI (UK) T: +44 (0) 157 936 3603
Virtual Reality Audio Systems Ltd
T: +44 (0) 127 722 7355
F: +44 (0) 127 722 4103
[email protected]
Visonary AV Solutions Ltd
T: +44 (0) 207 722 0067
F: +44 (0) 207 483 1444
www.plamsaS-direct.co.uk
Visual Displays
T: +44 (0) 207 222 9009
F: +44 (0) 207 233 2165
[email protected]
www.visualdisplaysuk.co.uk
43
CONTACT BOOK
Vivadi Plc
T: +44 (0) 179 378 0033
F: +44 (0) 179 378 0044
[email protected] www.vivadi.com
Vivanco UK Ltd.
T: +44 (0) 144 240 3020
F: +44 (0) 144 240 3030
Vivante Productions Ltd.
(Software)
T: +44 (0) 129 382 0509
F: +44 (0) 129 382 1965
[email protected]
www.vivante.co.uk
Vogels
See BBG Distribution
•W
Wavelength Distribution
F: +44 (0) 162 276 1560
[email protected]
www.sonicdesign.co.uk
www.bocchino-audio.co.uk
Wharfedale International Ltd
T: (0) 845 458 0011
F: (0) 148 043 1767
[email protected]
www.wharfedale.co.uk
Waterfall
See Transparent Distribution
•X
Wilmslow Audio Lt
T: +44 (0) 145 528 6603
F: +44 (0) 145 528 6605
[email protected]
www.wilmslowaudio.com
Wilson Benesch
T: +44 [0] 114 285 2656
F: +44 [0] 114 285 2657
[email protected]~
Xixin Ltd
T: +44 (0) 158 240 0340
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
T: +44 (0) 141 576 1772
F: +44 (0) 141 950 2737
[email protected]
Get In Training
What’s New may not be an education in itself, but it can certainly point you in the right direction. Read on
to find out where you might want to be in the coming months…
Armour Home Electronics
Control4
Systemline 4.4 from scratch: 14/03/06, 11/04/06, 9/05/06, 13/06/06, 11/07/06
Systemline Modular introduction: 21/03/06, 25/04/06, 16/05/06, 27/06/06, 18/07/06
Systemline Modular Advanced: 22/03/06, 29/03/06, 12/04/06, 26/04/06, 3/05/06,
11-12/04/06, 9-10/05/06
17/05/06, 14/06/06, 28/06/06, 19/07/06L
Introduction to Imerge sound servers: 28/03/06, 2/05/06,
Product range overview, software and configurations: 21-22/03/06,
For further information contact: +44 (0)134 781 2300 [email protected]
15/06/06, 20/07/06
Introduction to RF distribution: 27/04/06, 27/07/06
Introduction to Sonance speakers: 22/05/06
Introduction to Lighting control systems: 16/05/06, 11/07/06
Home Computer Networks: 20/03/06, 15/05/06
Sonance Navigator Harbor/K2 keypad: 23/03/06, 25/05/05, 12/07/05
NEVO Sl remote control systems: 30/03/06, 19/04/06, 4/05/06, 24/05/06, 7/06/06,
29/06/06, 6/07/06, 26/07/06
Crestron
Installers Dates: 05/04/06, 14/06/06, 02/08/06, 04/10/06, 06/12/06
Lighting Dates: 03/05/06, 05/07/06, 06/09/06, 01/11/06
Essentials Dates: 11-13/04/06, 16-18/05/06, 27-29/06/06, 25-27/07/06, 1517/08/06, 26-28/09/06, 7-9/11/06, 12-14/12/06
Intermediate Dates: 25-27/04/06, 11-13/07/06, 12-14/09/06, 24-26/10/06
SIMPL+ Dates: 14-16/03/06, 30/05/06-01/07/06, 29/07/06-31/08/06, 10-12/10/06,
NEVO SL, NEVO Link, UpnP: 31/03/06, 5/05/06, 7/07/06
21-23/11/06
For further information contact: www.armourhe.co.uk
Commercial Design Dates: 04/04/06, 13/06/06, 01/08/06
Residential Design Dates: 02/05/06, 04/07/06, 05/09/06
Commercial Afternoon Workshop Dates 2006: 24/03/06 - I Media, 21/04/06 –
Helvar
Helvar Digidim Lighting programming: 17/05/06, 11/07/06
Helvar Lighting Router Systems: 25-26/04/06, 27-28/06/06
Essential CAD for Custom Installation: 16-17/03/06, 11-12/05/06,
13-14/07/06
Introduction to Lutron Homeworks: 12/04/06, 12/07/06
Lighting design for residential projects: 26/05/06
Introduction to Home cinema systems: 16-17/03/06, 18-19/05/06
Multiroom audio and lighting systems for interior designers: 20/03/06
For further information contact: www.helvar.co.uk
CEDIA
CPD courses
Belfast: 28/03/06
Dublin: 30/03/06
Roomview, 19t/05/06 - Touch panels, 30/06/06 – Processors, 28/07/06 - Quick
Media, 25/08/06 – ILUX, 22/09/06 - I Media, 20/10/06- Room view, 17/11/06 –
Processors, 15/12/06- Touch panel
Residential Morning Workshop: 24/03/06 - Crestron HVAC, 04/07/06 – eControl,
21/04/06- Diagnostics, 05/05/06 – Touchpanels, keypads & Interfaces, 19/05/06 –
Intercom, 02/06/06 – Lighting, 16/06/06- Adagio, 30/06/06- Video Distribution
For further information contact: www.crestron.co.uk
RGB i-school
Kramer Electronics Training Day: 21-22/03/06, 19-20/04/06, 16-17/05/06
AMX Programming: 28/03/06, 25/04/06, 23/05/06
How to Sell & Specify AMX - Commercial: 5/04/06, 3/05/06
How to Sell & Configure AMX: 9/02/06, 14/03/06, 6/04/06, 4/05/06
Rack Design and Build: 23/03/06, 13/04/06, 18/05/06
Networking and WiFi for AV Systems: 16/03/06, 11/04/06, 31/05/06
ClearOne Technical Specialist: 12/04/06, 10/05/06
For further information contact:
www.rgbcomms.co.uk/support/training.htm.
Designer Level 1, Review and Certification Exam: 27-29/03/06
For further information contact: www.cedia.co.uk
Any manufacturers or distributors wishing to have their training details included in this section should email
[email protected] or contact +44 (0) 120 650 5959
44
Advertise your recruitment here free*
or from as little as £100**
RECRUITMENT
elcome to the What's New recruitment section, a brand new tool for employers seeking the right person for their
vacancy and employees looking to move onwards and upwards. Every opportunity that you see on these pages will
also be placed live on our website, www.soundandvisionmagazine.co.uk/recruitment.php the moment the
information becomes available, making it an extremely efficient vehicle for those seeking to expand their staff. To place an
advert on this page, please contact Theresa on +44 (0) 1480 498953 or [email protected]
W
POSITION: TOP NOTCH SALES EXECUTIVE
REGION: WILTSHIRE
SALARY: NEG
We are an expanding young dynamic company based in Maiden Bradley, Wiltshire, with showrooms in Wiltshire,
Bath and London. Are you hard working and have loads of proven sales experience within the residential custom
install market place?
If you are itching to move to a company where you can make your mark and be part of our success then we want
to hear from you. Email your CV in confidence to
[email protected]
POSITION: HEAD OF RESEARCH AND DEVELOPMENT
REGION: WEST SUSSEX
SALARY: NEG
Turbosound is an established UK manufacturer of professional audio systems and products, widely distributed
to over 70 countries around the world. As part of an energetic business expansion programme we are seeking
an experienced manager/director to lead an existing and growing Research and Development team based at our
West Sussex facility. The ideal candidate will have a solid engineering and managerial background, and will be
educated to degree standard. You should also be experienced in project management, be able to demonstrate a
successful track record of on-target delivery of development projects, have a sound knowledge of the
professional audio industry and commercial awareness. In addition you will have an understanding of the needs
of a small to mid-size company and a keenness to work in a “hands-on” way with the day-to-day engineering
details of a competitive professional business.
Please apply with your CV and covering letter to Turbosound
Ltd., Star Road, Partridge Green, West Sussex RH13 8RY UK
marking the envelope “Recruitment”, or by email to
[email protected]
POSITION: BOARD APPOINTMENTS
REGION: EUROPE
SALARY: OTE 100K+
Vivadi plc has recently secured funding for major expansion and now seeks exceptionally talented professionals to help
drive the company forward into European and US markets.
Managing Director – to lead the company through a period of high growth and build Vivadi into an aspirational brand
within both home and export markets. OTE £200K - £300K.
Sales Director – to establish and develop export markets, particularly within Europe and the USA. OTE £100K - £200K.
Financial Director – to develop financial infrastructure, manage investor relations and take
the company to AIM. OTE £100K - £200K.
Further information is available at www.vivadi.com and all enquires and applications
should be addressed to Paul Roberts, CEO, at [email protected].
POSITION: DESIGN ENGINEERS
REGION: WEST SUSSEX
SALARY: NEG
We are looking for degree level loudspeaker design engineers with or without industry experience
to develop innovative professional loudspeakers for the concert touring and fixed-installation
markets. Responsibilities include the design of the horns, drive units, cabinets, passive crossovers
as well as systems integration.
Please apply with your CV and covering letter to Turbosound Ltd., Star Road, Partridge Green,
West Sussex RH13 8RY UK marking the envelope Recruitment or email to
[email protected]
POSITION: TECHNICAL APPOINTMENTS
REGION: UK
SALARY: NEG
Vivadi plc has recently secured funding for major expansion and now seeks exceptionally talented professionals to
help drive the company forward into European and US markets.
Mechanical Engineering Manager – to manage the design, development and supply of a range of stylish designs for
forthcoming models. Electronics Engineer – to support and develop both current and next generation products.
Software Engineer – to develop and evaluate embedded and Windows application software.
Electronics Technician – to support the engineering team in development and production.
Further information is available at www.vivadi.com and all enquires and
applications should be addressed to Paul Roberts, CEO, at [email protected].
*Recruitment free with year’s commitment of advertising ** £100 per strip
DIARY
www.soundandvisionmagazine.co.uk
We make a point of exploring the most
significant shows both at home and abroad
PALME brings the install industry into focus
in Dubai next month
Integrated Systems hits China in April
Please send all correspondence to: What's New, 21-23 Phoenix Court, Hawkins Road, CO2 8JY
Events 2006/7 It’s Show Time!
APRIL 06
1-2
12-14
22-27
23-25
Heathrow High Fidelity Show
Integrated Systems China
Interbuild
Install @ PALME 2006
Park Inn, Heathrow
Everbright Centre, Shanghai
NEC, Birmingham
DIEC, Dubai
www.chestergroup.org
www.is-china.com
www.interbuild.com
www.palmeonline.co.uk
JUNE 06
2-4
3-9
19-22
Grand Designs Live
infocomm 2006 Orange County Convention Center,
CEDIA EXPO 2006 ExCel,
ExCel, London
Orlando
London
www.granddesignslive.com
www.infocomm.org
www.cedia.co.uk
JULY 06
27-29
CEDIA Australasia Expo
Gold Coast, Queensland
www.cedia.com.au
SEPTEMBER O6
1-6
13-17
22-24
22-24
22-24
IFA 2006
CEDIA US Expo
Smart Home Show
Hi-Fi & Home Entertainment Show
London Sound & Vision Show
Messe Berlin
Colorado Convention Center, Denver
Excel, London
Renaissance Hotel, Heathrow
Park Inn, Heathrow
www.ifa-berlin.com
www.cedia.org
www.smarthomeshow.co.uk
www.hifishow.co.uk
www.chestergroup.org
OCTOBER 06
21-22
Scottish Sound & Vision
Home Entertainment Show
Radisson SAS, Glasgow
Renaissance Hotel, Manchester
www.chestergroup.org
www.home-entertainment-show.co.uk
NOVEMBER 06
1-3
Integrated Systems India
Pragati Maidan Exhibition Centre, New Delhi www.is-indiaexpo.com
JANUARY 07
8-11
International CES
Convention Centre, Las Vegas
www.cesweb.org
LOOK OUT FOR THE NEXT ISSUE OF WHAT'S NEW ON APRIL 17TH FEATURING...
Broadcasting Legends – the best DAB digital radios in the world... ever
Work It Out – Will our recruitment section have the perfect job for you?
Eco-Maniac – A look at the environmentalist edge of the CI world
In Production – The latest AV kit to hit the launch pad
ISSN 1478-1123
Editor: Hamish McNair-Wilson T: 44 (0)1206 505959
[email protected]
Editor-In-Chief: Stuart Pritchard T: 44 (0)1206 505924
[email protected]
Editorial Assistant: Jacob Stow
Publisher: Steve Duffy [email protected]
Art Direction: Lee Whiteford [email protected]
Designers: Debra Pratt, Lewis Webb
Advertisement Designer: Alison Williams
Advertising Director: Theresa Jackaman T: 44 (0)148 049 8953
[email protected]
Contributors: Darren Harvey, Toby Watson, Sarah Adcock, Sam Fuller
Design & Repro: Ace Pre-Press T: 44 (0)1206 797541
Circulation Manager: Mick Orrin T: 44 (0)1206 505912
46
Subscriptions: To ensure you receive your copy of What’s New 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 ©
01/07/04 - 30/06/05: 4,309
Crestron's Adagio for Music Lovers
NEW
Adagio delivers multi-room audio distribution with amplification
and control in an affordable, simple packaged solution.
Everything you expect from Crestron - but now more!
- Audio distribution for 6 rooms - NO programming required!
- Integrated 45 watt x 12 channel power amplifier
- On-board AM/FM and Sirius Satellite radio tuners
- Plug-and-play support for Adagio Audio Server and iPod
- Built-in 2-series Crestron control engine
Crestron UK Ltd. Netptune House - 2 Portsmouth Road - Kingston, KT1 2LU - Tel: +44 (0) 208-43.972.72 - www.crestron.co.uk
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