Custom Retailer Hot Products

The new NV-M3-500 Music Server offers 500 GB (or a half-terabyte) of storage. Using Windows Media Player and the uncompressed WAV file format, the server provides audiophile-quality playback with a bitstream identical to a CD. Storage capacity is estimated at 830 CDs in uncompressed WAV. NuVo music servers offer full Digital Rights Management (DRM) compliance, three source outputs, NuVoNet Communication and Windows Media Player music management. The server syncs to a home PC to retrieve music files and allow playback of DRM music. The music server offers a polycarbonate, capacitive touch front panel interface with OLED (Organic Light Emitting Diode) display; backup of audio files on a connected PC or on a portable player; simultaneous output of three audio streams; and instant compatibility with downloaded and subscription-based music. Available for $2,999 MSRP.

The all-new driver technology incorporated into the Excite models comprises renowned Dynaudio innovations such as: MSP (magnesium silicate polymer) membranes which offer an ideal combination of stiffness, inner damping, and low mass; die-cast aluminum frame baskets to ensure an ultra-rigid, low mass construction that avoids resonance and vibrations; lightweight aluminum voice coils, which yield an extremely light moving system and ensure an ideal impulse response and the most precise driver movement; phase aligned first-order crossover networks to provide an ideal transient response; and soft dome tweeters. Additional features include an impedance correction circuit that makes the impedance completely linear above 100 Hz, without any peaks. The Excite X36 (pictured) 3-way floor-standing, dual 18 cm woofers, 11 cm midrange retails for $3,600 per pair.

The new Cameo keypads feature new finished, rounded buttons with enhanced tactile action, and auto-dimmable backlit engraving. Custom configurable button caps are provided in three sizes, enabling the choice of two to six individual buttons per keypad. Cameo faceplates now feature consistent, bright white backlighting, designed to illuminate new laser-engraved text that can be added to any Cameo button. The Cameo uses fiber-optics to provide illumination so the text is legible in a dark or even dimly lit room. The latest Cameos also include an intelligent light sensor that regulates backlighting based on ambient light in the room.

The Bell’O AVSC-2061E combo unit features an Espresso finish with black, tempered safety glass shelves; accommodates most flat-panel and micro-display televisions up to 65”; includes the integrated CMS (Cable Management System) to hide wires and interconnect cables, while providing optimum air ventilation for the largest A/V components; and houses up to six or more audio/visual components. Dimensions are 62 1/8’’ w x 24 1/8’’ h x 18.5’’d. Bell’O combo units combine wood, metal and glass in a contemporary and classic architectural design. Retails for $ 699.99.

The SolidDrive SD1 is a cutting-edge, powerful sound transducer that transmits acoustical energy using almost any solid surface. The entire surface with which SolidDrive comes in contact becomes a speaker, delivering high-quality sound and the frequency response of conventional diaphragm speakers. The SD1 is placed behind the surface so everything is hidden from view; there are no grilles, no visible wires and no speakers. SolidDrive is patented technology using high-powered neodymium magnets and dual symmetrically opposed motors to convert audio signals into powerful vibrations. Those vibrations are transferred to solid surfaces through direct contact. High-quality, full-range sound is then radiated from the entire surface with a frequency response of 60 Hz to 15 kHz.

The RGPC PowerVault 11kW is a whole-house power delivery system. The power output can be configured for either 120V or 240V output. The PowerVault provides centralized UPS functionality and long-duration backup power. It features the added benefits of an RGPC 1200C for noise removal, RGPC’s patented power delivery and surge suppression. Its unmatched capacity allows the RGPC PowerVault to condition and protect the most critical circuits on a home’s AC line from a single remote location within the house. The PowerVault’s UPS protection eliminates memory and preset loss on equipment such as DVRs while delivering a clean and stable 120V or 240V output, irrespective of input. The PowerVault is ETL listed. Authorized RGPC dealers will need to receive certification training before they can perform installations. Available now, starting at $29,500 (MSRP).

Pantel, manufacturer of outdoor weatherproof TV solutions, offers two LCD HDTVs in 32-inch and 42-inch screen sizes (additional sizes TBA). Besides residential use, such as on patios and in the back yard, Pantel outdoor weatherproof LCD HDTVs are perfect for commercial applications such as amusement parks, concert venues, race tracks, sports arenas/stadiums, outdoor exhibitions, restaurants, bars, hotels and more. Beyond being weatherproof, Pantel TVs come complete with an industry-leading RF wireless package that allows the user to broadcast HD audio and video wirelessly up to 150 feet. The PAN320 is available now for $3,950; the PAN420 for $4,450.

The RC-2000 model of its new Omnistat2 programmable communicating thermostat product line is now shipping. The Omnistat2 is a seven-day programmable communicating thermostat designed to precisely control the temperature and humidity within the home. Using advanced digital technology it actually “learns” a home’s heating and cooling patterns and adjusts control to maximize both the HVAC system’s efficiency and the occupants’ comfort. The Omnistat2 RC-2000 supports up to 2 stage conventional and 2 stage heat pump with 3rd stage auxiliary heat systems. Additional features include humidity control; remote access via Internet, phone (optional); graphical display of HVAC usage/energy consumption; automatic heat/cool changeover; communicates with home control systems; vacation mode; and fan cycle for air circulation.

The VMAX Plus3 electric projection screen is designed to accommodate large presentation halls, auditoriums, churches and community theaters. The screen is available in either a 4:3 (NTSC) or 16:9 (HDTV) aspect ratio with a wide range of sizes, from 200” through 400” diagonal. It’s made of Elite’s proprietary MaxWhite 1.1 gain synthetic weave material that provides a wide diffusion cone for easy visibility in large room presentations. The VMAX Plus3 offers direct wired or wireless options for total control. Wireless features include internal Infrared (IR) and Radio Frequency (RF) receivers. Available now through Elite’s retail and professional A/V channels for $1,778.

The new HDMI line driver and diagnostic unit is designed for home theater installers who are using HDMI cables to transmit audio, video and communication signals. Direct coupled from input to output for maximum video bandwidth, the compact, easy-to-install unit features Honeywell’s unique CURxE Light technology to diagnose and correct corrupted communication data on the HDCP and EDID channels that would otherwise degrade audio/video quality. Four LED lights on the unit serve as self-diagnostic monitoring indicators to show verification of Hot Plug detection, +5 Volts status, HDCP and EDID. Based on LED activity, the installer or end-user will see the problem whether it’s downstream, upstream or related to hardware inconsistency. The new line driver is HDMI v1.3 compliant and support HDTV resolutions up to 1080p. Available now through Honeywell Security dealers for $199 (MSRP).

Salamander Designs, Ltd., introduces the Jump Seat Ottoman (pictured) and the Storage Ottoman. The Jump Seat Ottoman unfolds to reveal a hide-away theater seat. The Storage Ottoman unfolds to reveal a capacious compartment (24.5 inches wide x 20.5 inches deep x 7.25 inches high), ideal for keeping game systems, accessories, DVDs and other media. The Jump Seat features a patent pending mechanism that helps the top smoothly rise into a vertical position, revealing a padded seat and backrest. The seat is 21.5 inches wide x 14.5 inches deep, with the back rest 22 inches high. A cup holder and a small compartment for remote controls or game controllers rest along the seat’s right-hand side. The Jump Seat Ottoman and Storage Ottoman will be available in Spring 2008.

Onkyo has introduced two A/V receivers. The 80 watt-per-channel TX-SR576 and 75 watt-per-channel TX-SR506 include the company’s Powered Zone 2 capability and front channel bi-amplification features, and are among the first receivers available to include Audyssey’s new Dynamic EQ loudness correction technology. These receivers each include three HDMI inputs, Audyssey 2EQ automatic room correction, and also mark the company’s first implementation of its new Music Optimizer software, which improves fidelity for MP3- and AAC-encoded digital music sources. The Onkyo TX-SR576 and TX-SR506 are available for $479 and $379 each (MSRP), respectively.

Atlantic Technology IWTS-8eSUB (In-Wall Theater System) is a THX Ultra certified in-wall subwoofer system designed to deliver the highest level of in-wall bass reproduction. The subwoofer system includes the 8e Sub module; unique drivers that feature stiff, well-dampened CCMG (Coated Composite Molded Graphite) cones; the eight-pound motor assembly and two-inch vented multi-layer voice coils are oversized for high-SPL performance all the way down to 20Hz (+/- 3 dB, typical in-room response). New for the 8e subwoofer module is an advanced baffle coating called RDT (Resonance Damping Treatment), which suppresses baffle resonance for improved detail and articulation. Available now for $2,200. Individual component pricing is also available.

Meridian Audio Limited’s MF10 projector uses the latest-generation D-ILA light-engine technology, in a maximum-performance three-chip 1080p array. The MF10’s refined new optical package delivers an important reduction in stray light, producing industry-best black levels (in excess of 30,000:1 native contrast ratio) without the use of a servo iris. Additional features include an accurate, 16-element, all-glass lens; 2x zoom; and optional 2.35:1 (Cinemascope) conversion kit. The MF10 incorporates powerful DSP for high-performance video processing. The MF10’s “pixel-for-pixel” unprocessed mode is tailor-made to work in tandem with Meridian’s newest digital video processor, the DVP2351. The MF10 projector available for $14,995 MSRP; the DVP2351 processor: $3,995 MSRP.

Canton’s new small home theater speaker packages, Movie 80 CX and Movie 120 MX systems, combine four small satellite speakers with a matching horizontal center channel speaker and active subwoofer for full 5.1-channel surround sound reproduction. The Movie systems use Canton’s signature diaphragm motion control circuits. The powered subwoofers each include Canton’s SC (Subwoofer Control) Technology, which employs active excursion control circuitry custom designed for each model to reduce harmonic distortion and improve frequency range, while maintaining precise stability and control. The center channel speakers are acoustically matched to the satellites for precise dialogue reproduction and a seamless soundfield. The Movie 80 CX is available for $699 (MSRP). The Movie 20 MX is available for $899 (MSRP).