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WHAT'S NEW IN SOUND A N D ISSUE 22 APR 05 V I S I O N www.soundandvisionmagazine.co.uk Full details inside - see page 30 See The Light Intelligent control unveiled At Your Service Audio and video distribution uncovered The latest stories from CEDIA • Comprehensive contact book An abundance of AV industry news • What’s new in CI • Events Diary www.soundandvisionmagazine.co.uk IN THIS MONTH'S ISSUE 4 WHAT’S NEW The latest batch of releases making waves in the AV arena 11 OUT AND ABOUT Track our team’s movements as they chart a challenging course around the world of sound and vision 12 EYE ON THE INDUSTRY Be part of the ongoing debate attempting to shape the future of our industry and keep in touch with everything else you need to know 21 TECHNOLOGY CORNER The CRT is dead, long live the CRT… SARAH ADCOCK looks at the SuperSlim technology breathing new life into the tube 22 A HEALTHY SERVING If some commentators are to be believed, we will all be benefiting from multi-room systems before long. DARREN HARVEY takes a look at audio and video distribution… 26 THE FUTURE’S LIGHT Rather than focus on a solitary install, this month KATIE BATES tackles the wider topic of intelligent light control 29 MERGING FORCES What do commercial installations have to do with the residential sector? Find out, courtesy of SAM FULLER... SPRING IN OUR STEP It seems only a day or two ago that we were on our way back from the ISE show in Amsterdam. However, since then we’ve slotted in a trip to Bristol, more launches than an American airbase near an oilfield, and still managed to bring you a number of wholesome issues, packed with all the latest news, reviews and debates pervading our industry. The snow of last month has turned into spring, the sun is in the air and the CEDIA Expo is on the lips of the industry, including the association’s operations director who gives you a rundown on what to expect from this year’s event herein. Elsewhere, we pay homage to the growing synergy between the AV and installation markets with a look at multi-room distribution and servers available via the install route and, on occasion, off the shelf. We also look at the significance that the proliferation of automation in the commercial sector has had on the development of the residential market. Moving back into the world of AV, this month we explore the latest technology set to challenge the seemingly unstoppable rise of plasma and LCD-TVs. Founded upon the ageing principles of the Cathode Ray Tube, which has been written off more times than Sven Goran Erikson, yet retains the same remarkable pulling power, the new SuperSlim options could become incredibly big business. Of course, this is just a selection of the array of educative features we’ve put together this month, in order to help keep What’s New readers ahead of the game. As ever, we serve up the biggest portion of industry news about, having pulled out all the stops and brow beaten everyone we know into confessing their secrets. I can already sense you are trembling in your boots because you are next in line; therefore if you have any news or personal views to add to an industry debate that you’d like to see in print, don’t hesitate to contact me. Oh go on… it makes my job so much easier… Hamish McNair-Wilson, Editor Hamish@soundandvisionmagazine.co.uk 01/07/03-30/06/04: 4,255 12 21 22 26 32 34 30 WHAT’S NEW? INSTALLER Our regular rundown of the smartest new products about 32 INSTALLER INDUSTRY Find out about the latest developments in the custom installation sector here 34 STORIES FROM CEDIA CEDIA’s operations director WENDY GRIFFITHS lends us her ear, and her writing abilities, to bring you news of 2005’s Expo and beyond 36 THE BUSINESS Consult our ever-expanding contact book for the details you just can’t place 42 DIARY Find out where you’re supposed to be and when, courtesy of our handy events diary PLEASE SEND ALL CORRESPONDENCE TO: WHAT’S NEW IN SOUND AND VISION, CASTLE HOUSE, 97 HIGH STREET, COLCHESTER, ESSEX, CO1 1TH > SOUND & VISION ALL THE AV NEWS FIT TO PRINT What’s New? COMPILED BY DARREN HARVEY WHAT’S NEW IN SOUND AND VISION’S ROUND-UP OF ALL THE VERY LATEST PRODUCT NEWS STRIKING THEME Last month Optoma announced the launch of a world class projector for the home - the ThemeSceneTM H78. Delivering discernibly improved images over its predecessor - the award-winning H77 - it boasts newly developed technology by both ThemeScene and Texas Instruments. Improvements include enhanced PAL colour accuracy on a wide range of signal types, further optimised PAL and 50Hz High Definition (European High Definition) image quality, improvements to the PAL grey scale linearity, especially in the important low light, dark areas of images, and enhanced brightness and contrast ratios thanks to a faster pixel response time. The resultant images offer a great balance of colour, prove exceptionally accurate and the motion fluidity is particularly commendable. The H78 benefits from an astounding 3800:1 contrast ratio, which makes even standard definition TV look the business. Another contributing factor to the great visuals is the HD2+ DLP chip from Texas Instruments, which helps produce the impressive brightness and ensure an appreciable depth of black levels. Just a hint of the raft of features housed within its sleek shell, the H78 is available now, retails at £3,495 and should ensure ThemeScene continue to rack up those awards. For further information contact: +44 (0) 192 369 1809 www.themescene.tv IT’S PLAYTIME InFocus have announced the release of the ScreenPlay 7210, available in the UK through CSE Solutions. A sterling route to high definition visuals, this offers a crisp 2800:1 contrast ratio and improved black levels for enriched colour saturation and excellent native 720p video performance. Its performance is founded on Texas Instruments’ renowned DarkChip3 DLP technology, a proprietary seven-segment colour wheel and the Faroudja DCDi 2310 de-interlacer. Also included is an all-glass, Carl Zeiss 1.3x zoom lens with a 72mm filter thread and optional neutral density filter. This is bolstered by InFocus’s own award-winning engineering to offer buyers amazing image clarity. According to Scott Hix, Senior Vice President of Worldwide Sales at InFocus, it is “a powerhouse projector that enables stellar HD images and is the ideal choice for the enthusiast who has done their homework.” And we certainly can’t argue with that. For further information contact: +44 (0) 142 335 9054 www.csesolutions.co.uk www.infocushome.com 4 HITTING THE MARQUEE The new C720BEE from NAD is a great product highlighting that, even in this progressive era, there is a place for two-channel audio. This stereo receiver offers the same sleek looks of the award-winning C320BEE Stereo Integrated amplifier with an RDS AM/FM tuner and multi-source Zone 2 capabilities. Like many of NAD’s most innovative products, the 720BEE comes from the creative mind of Bjorn Erik Edvardsen, Director of Advanced Developments, with its BEE moniker a clear indication of his contribution. This option comes packed with the finest technology including NAD’s PowerDrive topology and switchable ‘Soft Clipping’ circuit. The C720BEE has seven line inputs and the pre-amplifier section can be separated from the power amplifier for easy upgrades or adding ancillary equipment, ensuring it is sufficiently flexible to meet future system needs. It is available next month, will retail for around £399.95 and comes sharply dressed in either a titanium or grey finish. For further information contact: +44 (0) 190 831 9360 www.lenbrook.co.uk WHAT’S NEW? ONE BOX CLEVER Panasonic’s 1000W SC-HT880 and SC-HT880W all in one home cinema systems offers buyers a straightforward route to immersing entertainment. These particularly attractive off the shelf solutions include a DVD-player, boasting multi-format playback. Both models offer a striking level of audio output, but differ in their speaker systems, with the SC-HT880W offering wireless rear speakers. Their slim, slender, elegant looks are befitting of the most modern environments and as 2-Way, 2-Speaker, Bass-Reflex designs, they offer a level of clarity rarely found in a package deal. The SC-HT880 is available this month, whilst the SC-HT880W will hit the shops in July. For further information contact: +44 (0) 870 535 7357 www.panasonic.co.uk WATCH THE ECLIPSE Atacama have established an excellent reputation in the specialist furniture market and they are set to extend this with the release of the Eclipse 1 LCD stand. Available now, with further models in the series to be introduced later in the year, this is an elegant and striking option. It will cater for models of up to 20kg in weight that utilise the 75mm or 100mm VESA mount. The Eclipse 1 incorporates a single elliptical extruded aluminium column with a matching elliptical toughened glass base plate. To keep things looking as minimalist as possible, there is an adept system of cable management to keep all the unsightly wiring hidden from view. The Eclipse 1 is being launched in a voguish metallic silver finish, with an arctic frost glass base. Other colours will be available later in the year, as will the option of an additional add-on shelf (seen here), allowing the buyer to smoothly stack up all their AV components. This great value option is available for a tasty £119.99, with the optional add-on shelf likely to cost around £29.99 when it hits the market. For further information contact: +44 (0) 145 528 3251 www.atacama-audio.co.uk DRESSED TO A CRT JVC has introduced its finest CRT IDTV line-up yet, comprising the HV-32D40, HV-28D40, AV-32EX5, AV-28EX5, AV-32E50 and AV-28E50, as well as the TU-DB1 set-top box. Each of these is a wideaspect ratio TV and comes equipped with a receiver that allows reception of digital terrestrial TV signals. JVC were the first manufacturer to introduce the widescreen format TV and now they are leading the way in the digital arena. With the transition to a full digital service by 2010 well underway in the UK, these new models assure users their purchases will have a future. Fittingly they boast the up to the minute EPG (electronic programme guide) helping viewers surf through their channels and plan their viewing with the utmost ease. Several of the new options also come equipped with JVC's renowned D.I.S.T., HDTV compatibility, 100Hz DigiPure Pro and Oblique Cone Speakers. With the CRT TV continuing to outsell any other format, these welldressed models are more than worthy of stocking. For further information contact: +44 (0) 870 330 5000 www.jvc.co.uk 5 > SOUND & VISION ALL THE AV NEWS FIT TO PRINT THEY GOT THE POWER The Brahma is one of four power cables from Nordost, first shown on these shores at the Bristol show. Priced between the Vishnu and Valhalla, at a competitive £899.95 for a two-metre length, this new design increases the power transmission whilst lowering the noise floor without restriction or filtering. This is achieved thanks to the proprietary Micro Mono-filament FEP technology, which unlocks the powerful dynamics frequently lost in reproduction equipment when using conventional A/C power cables. Improved signal speed, better power transfer and increased thermal efficiency are just some of the advantages this affords, while strand interaction, hot spots and carbonisation are eliminated, thereby minimising mechanical vibrations. The result is discernibly improved, excellent clarity sound and picture quality. For further information contact: +44 (0)135 273 0251 www.nordost.com WHAT A DISPLAY! Anyone who has ever doubted that CRT had a future may well be forced to eat their words, thanks to a stunning piece of innovation from LG.Philips Displays. Since late last year, the firm have had a new innovation in production, founded upon unique technology. The Cybertube+ SuperSlim models are the world’s thinnest TVs founded upon the Colour Picture Tube and are breathing new life into a technology that, with the advent of the PDP and LCD-TV, has been widely considered moribund. The current products available are the 21-inch Real Flat SuperSlim TV and the 32-inch Widescreen Real Flat SuperSlim. At only 352mm in depth, these prove incredibly slender, offer impressive performance and, thanks to the technology behind them, will offer buyers outstanding cost benefits thanks to the myriad of savings they afford in the total logistic chain. With more models under development, we welcome this impressive and potentially marketshaping new player to the visual entertainment arena. For further information contact: www.superslim.com www.lgphilips-displays.com 6 WHAT’S NEW? IT’S A LONG HARD DRIVE DVD Recorders are a growing business and, increasingly, they are something everyone is seeking to add to their stack of components. As a result, this season JVC have been adding to their range. One model sure to catch the eye is the DR-MH50. This comes equipped with a 250GB Hard Disk Drive (HDD), the largest introduced by the company yet. This permits recording and playback in DVD-RAM, DVD-RW, and DVD-R formats and playback in the DVDVideo, WMA, MP3, JPEG, and CD formats. Large amounts of video content can also be stored on the built-in HDD, for either playback or copying to DVD. A number of unique and innovative technologies have been deployed to improve picture quality both in recording and playback. The result is impressively high-resolution images with minimal MPEG compression noise, even when pictures are recorded in long-time modes at reduced bit rates. Riddled with functional features, this excels in the usability stakes and should prove a sure-fire success. For further information contact: +44 (0) 870 330 5000 www.jvc.co.uk BEAUTY AND BRAINS JVC’s DR-M100 is a new, improved and restyled version of the muchlauded DR-M10. This slender, stylish unit allows for the recording of high-quality, high-resolution, PAL Progressive pictures, with versatile compatible formats and an array of user-friendly functions. Like its predecessor, it can record and playback in DVD-RAM, DVD-RW and DVDR modes, as well as playback DVD-Video discs, CD, CD-R/RW and Video CDs. Capable of catering for WMA and MP3 audio files or JPEG digital still photos into the bargain, it really is a dynamic option. Quality pictures are assured thanks to an array of clever inclusions such as PAL Progressive technology, a Motion Active Progressive Scan Output, Digital Direct Progressive Scan technology, Block Noise Reduction Circuit and Hadamard Noise Reduction System and the Super MPEG Encode Pre-Processor. The DR-M100 offers as much functionality as it does performance and has the capacity to memorise data from up to 1,300 programmes and actually tell the user which disc to load when seeking a particular show. Intelligent, easy to use and racked with desirable features, this modish model is another healthy step forward for JVC. For further information contact: +44 (0) 870 330 5000 www.jvc.co.uk The elegant Profiles DLP TV SETTING THE SCENIUM Thomson’s great new Scenium LCD-TVs are as advanced as they come. This range, which hits the shop shelves this spring, boasts 11 models of 32,27 and 23-inches. The Scenium selection comes ridden with the latest technology and is equipped with speakers delivering clear and absorbing sounds. Also new to the firm is the 50DSZ645 - a striking 50-inch DLP ‘Profiles’ Screen. At only 18cm in depth, this sets new standards for elegance and sleekness in this area. Featuring an array of appreciable bonuses - including Thomson’s exclusive image enhancing H-Pix and speakers offering 80W of audio output - this is an exceptional, large screen option. For further information contact: www.thomson-europe.co.uk d Y tee an ar DA y Gu XT iver NE Del ) ms ite ck sto ll ra (Fo Totally Universal Mounts LCD Mounts Plasma Mounts I n n o v a t i o n - S t y l e - Ve r s a t i l i t y from Europe’s leading supplier Projector Mounts Tel: +44 (0)2476 614700 email: sales@mounts.com www.mounts.com 7 > SOUND & VISION ALL THE AV NEWS FIT TO PRINT ALL IN ONE RECEIVED OPINION The RX-V457 from Yamaha is a 6.1-channel digital home cinema receiver that promises both high-performance audio and video output. The former is taken care of by Digital ToP-ART and high-current amplification, features that highlight the use of the latest technologies, components and circuitry, and 192kHz/24-bit DACs for each channel. High-quality video is available thanks to two HDTV compatible component video input and output terminals, allowing a user to connect up to two separate source components at a time. Other notable features include virtual CINEMA DSP, realistic surround sound and 40-station preset tuning, making the RX-V457 a multitalented product. It will be available for £299 For further information contact: +44 (0) 192 323 3166 www.yamaha-uk.com For consumers looking to find a comprehensive home cinema solution and seeking to avoid hassle Yamaha's DVX-S250 should prove popular. A DVD home theatre system, it can provide highquality sound and vision thanks to a 55W x5 Yamaha Original Digital Amplifier and 100W YST subwoofer, and a Progressive Scanning DVD-player and component video output terminal respectively. Surround sound is delivered by Quad-Field CINEMA DSP and a powerful 32-bit Yamaha LSI, whilst YPAO, an intuitive GUI and wide disc compatibility ensure that the system can be set-up and enjoyed with the minimum of effort. For further information contact: +44 (0) 192 323 3166 www.yamaha-uk.com LOUD AND CLEAR Yamaha's UK Tuned DSP-AX757SE is an improvement of the acclaimed DSPAX750SE. It is a 7.1-channel amplifier that benefits from seven 100W channels and a host of performance-boosting features. Advanced facilities such as YPAO allow a user to automatically optimise performance for a specific environment, by analysing the acoustic properties of a room and adjusting speaker parameters to suit, whilst Quad-Field/Tri-Field CINEMA DSP technology and an array of surround sound programs guarantee realistic soundscapes for the living room. Also in attendance is Night Listening Enhancer, which boosts the quality of low-volume listening, and a user-friendly remote-controlled interface that makes use of on-screen menus. With myriad connectivity options into the bargain, the model should be ideal for Hi-Fi and home cinema set-ups alike. It retails for £499. For further information contact: +44 (0) 192 323 3166 www.yamaha-uk.com ON THE RECORD PROGRESSIVE THINKING Versatile and convenient are two words that Yamaha use to describe their CDR-HD1500, a CD-R/RW and HDD digital audio recorder. Benefiting from 24-bit DACs and boasting a sizeable 250Gb hard disk capacity and a high-speed ripping (10x normal speed) function, the device is ideal for users seeking to access and enjoy their CD collection in a flexible manner. With space to store over 400 CDs worth of tracks, the ability to easily manipulate them and the components to deliver high-quality playback, the model looks certain to appeal to music enthusiasts who are sure to appreciate the impressive range of editing and burning features. The buyer will certainly get a lot for their £599. For further information contact: +44 (0) 192 323 3166 www.yamaha-uk.com This Progressive Scan DVD-player is Yamaha's DVD-S657, a slim-line model with both DVD-Audio and SACD functionality. Incorporating a 108MHz/12-bit video and a 192kHz/24-bit audio DAC, high-quality audio and video are promised no matter what disc format is employed. Ease of use is another important aspect of the player, with a Graphical User Interface delivering user-friendly menus via a TV screen or monitor and a comprehensive remote control included. Other features include a sleep function, simultaneous JPEG/MP3 playback for user-created slide shows and multiple zoom settings, resulting in a DVD-player that looks certain to make an impact on the high street. The DVD-S657 is a snip at £159. For further information contact: +44 (0) 192 323 3166 www.yamaha-uk.com 8 GOING SOLO British firm Arcam are exceptionally well regarded for their commitment to quality. With this in mind, we eagerly await their every release and back at Bristol’s Sound and Vision their new Solo system certainly made the right impression on the team here at What’s New. Comprising an audiophile quality CD-player, a 50W per channel amplifier, a DAB digital radio receiver and a high quality FM tuner, all in the one exceptionally sleek, slender, aluminium dressed component, the Solo is quite something. It registers well up the scale in the performance stakes and is all that we’d expect from Arcam in this area. The CD-player itself has exceptional credentials, having been based on the award-winning DiVA 73, incorporating a 24-bit Wolfson DAC. However, the Solo system also boasts an array of practical features, including CD Text, a clock with four alarms and a host of inputs, including an RS232. Hitting the shelves at a very reasonable £999.95, you’ll struggle to find as dynamic a system offering such a high class of performance in as compact and alluring a body. For further information contact: +44 (0) 122 320 3200 www.arcam.co.uk 5700 GOT THE GIG Portable audio players are a growing business and last week Toshiba chose the plush surroundings of a country manner house to introduce an assorted bunch of journalists to their attractive contribution. Named the Gigabeat, their range comprises the MEGF10S, MEGF20S, MEGF40S and MEGF60S. Following a tried and trusted format, these have a familiar feel and boast hard drives of between 10 and 60GBs. The 20GB version seen here is, like the rest, WMA, MP3, WAV, Windows DRM9 and DRM10 compatible. The Gigabeat range offers users a wholesome 16-hours of battery life and each model boasts a 2.2-inch full coloured QVGA screen of 240x320. This will display album artwork, which makes browsing through the tunes both convenient and attractive for the prospective buyer. Everything can be uploaded through the two USB ports (2.0 and 1.1) and, with all the necessary accessories included, those on the move can be privy to a substantial library of songs in no time. And, at only 160g or 170g in weight, Toshiba’s Gigabeat certainly won’t weigh them down. For further information contact: +44 (0) 870 442 4424 www.toshiba.co.uk 4805 PLATINUM CHOICE The LCD-TV might be starting to eat into the market share plasma has established in the larger flat-screen arena, but it shouldn’t stand in the way of Loewe’s Xelos A 42 plasma. This is the latest addition to an awardwinning family and it offers the same brilliant picture that characterises its siblings. Herein you’ll find the German pioneer’s new DigitalPlus platform and high resolution HD plasma technology. This is ably supported by a host of innovative picture improvement technologies such as Diagonal Contour Control and Luminance Transition Improvement, all of which make for some of the sharpest, most flicker-free images the firm has ever served up. Fully fit for the digital age, buyers are given the option of an integrated digital decoder and integrated digital terrestrial tuner (DVBT). Dressed in an up to the minute, platinum finish, the Xelos A 42 appears to have it all. For further information contact: www.loewe.de 7205 essential solutions from Tel: 01423 359054 • Fax: 01423 359048 www.csesolutions.co.uk choose from over five hundred audio, video, lighting, multi-room solutions The industry event of the year 27-30 June 2005 International Convention Centre, Birmingham CEDIA Expo 2005 is the only specialist trade event dedicated to the fast-growing home technology sector. Placing home technology under your control Home Cinema A unique mix of high quality training, new product demonstrations and networking events, CEDIA Expo is a must for anyone connected with residential custom installation. The Opportunity . . . Networking Security Lighting Control to broaden your skills and increase your knowledge by attending any one of the 70 plus specialist seminars and 12 product training courses. Integration Audio/Video Solutions Structured Wiring The Exhibition . . . The Chance . . . that brings you all the latest technology and service innovations from over 100 manufacturers in the sector. Plus a range of added-value feature attractions, including a dedicated architects’ conference hosted in conjunction with AJ The Architects’ Journal and FutureVisions – our special demonstration area for architects and interior designers. to meet and share information, thoughts and ideas with over 3,000 visitors from the world of custom installation and make new contacts with other visitors in the building specification chain. HVAC Control Dates for your diary Training: 27-30 June Exhibition and product training: 28-30 June For further information or to pre-register, please visit www.cedia.co.uk or email expo@cedia.co.uk ® > SOUND & VISION OUT AND ABOUT Out And About OUR ENERGETIC EDITOR KEEPS YOU UP TO PACE WITH ALL THE INDUSTRY’S LAUNCHES, SHOWS AND SHENANIGANS… Getting to all the major launches can be a tough business, particularly when your boss has shackled you to your chair, double locked the office and commanded you not to leave until yet another issue of the magazine is whirling its way to the printers, your expansive website is updated and Panosonic’s stunning new Viera GOOD IDEAS In the past Panasonic hasn’t always been regarded as the company most supportive of these dealerships and retailers, but this has certainly changed of late. The 900 or so stockists they have in the independent sector in the UK have recently been officially rewarded for their endeavours to promote the brand and its products on the shop floor with a 10% discount for everything sold face to face. This should certainly help them to improve their lot, relative to the Internet traders who have previously been able to comfortably undercut them, forcing prices down. This is an important measure, particularly in light of the products Panasonic officially launched last month. As you’d expect for their annual Ideas For Life spectacle, held once again in one of Heathrow’s plushest hotels, there was a vast array of kit to catch the eyes of the sizable selection of journalists that made the trip across London. Perhaps the most appealing of the selection were the flat-screen TVs on display. These included the new TH50PV500, which not only boasts Panasonic’s fantastic colour management technology, but offers high-definition broadcast capabilities into the bargain. Offering viewers an impressive, lifelike 8.6-billion colours – some five-billion more than previous models – the visuals are really something to behold. As part of the Viera range it retains the elegant look we are familiar with, has that all-important HDMI connection and incorporates compact 16mm wide speakers into both sides of the panel. This 50-inch screen is joined in the range by the 37-inch TH37PV500 and 42-inch TH-42PV500. Of course the Viera range also extends to LCD-TVs and the TX-26LXD500 and TX-32LXD500 certainly created a fine impression, serving up visuals to match anything seen on this format. There were a couple of slick, more affordable solutions and plenty more worthy of note to boot, including some sound progression in the DVDrecorder sphere. Panasonic’s fresh selection of ideas certainly created the right impression and this, alongside their recent measures to help the retailer, should assure them of successes aplenty in 2005. TOTAL HOME TECHNOLOGY There’s so much more to Crestron: 0208 439 7272 www.crestron.co.uk • • • • • • • • you’ve scoured the web to find him the best deal on a crate of Guinness, a new AV receiver and a mail order bride. Actually, that last bit is a lie - in this tough time for electrical retailers, we couldn’t endorse the very Internet dealers currently eating into the business of our beloved readers... NICE ONE SONY It was a big month for the big guns. Sony Europe chose the clement surroundings of Bordeaux to introduce journalists from across the continent to what the year holds in store for them. Billed as their Media Experience, the event included a dinner at the town’s Chamber of Commerce, a network clubbing party and a number of technology workshops and activities to choose from. Personally I used this opportunity to fully scrutinise Sony’s new HDTVcompatible kit and learn about their global strategy for the Blu-Ray format, which they are so avidly backing. With sleek, functional products with intelligent recording and playback already en route it would be difficult to bet against this option really making it into the big time. The trip also offered us a chance to explore the preserved and natural environment of Arcachon Bay, taste wine and get to grips with of Sony’s most functional recording equipment along the way. Another of the industry’s major players to take the press under their wing this month, get them well and truly toasted and attempt to take advantage of their better nature in the early hours of the morning were Toshiba. While I was in France, it was our Editor-in-Chief Stuart Pritchard who was out in rural East Anglia with this particular crowd and he’ll have a full report of what transpired next month. BUILT TO SERVE Cambridge Audio serve up a treat They might not have the budget of the giant Japanese corporations, but back in London at The Ivy, Cambridge Audio had a very serious product for the press to scrutinise. The Azur 640H has already been grabbing the attention of the nationals, and so it should. This 160Gb music server includes a CD burner, offers wireless connectivity to a PC, Mac or another 640H and offers top quality CD playback. With the capacity to store between 300 and 3,000 CDs and serve out files music files stored on a computer, it rewards the consumer with one hell of a lot for their £500 investment and I’m sure than more than a few of the journalists present tried to make off with one! Of course these weren’t the only opportunities we were afforded to get out of the office and aside from scaring off Burberry cap sporting, bolt cutter wielding Essex boys from the bulging company bike racks we’ve also had the chance to scrutinise technologically enabled yachts and see how the other half are living at the Smart Home Show at the NEC. We’ll have a full report on the latter next month, as well as all the details from a host of other key events – including the BFA’s AGM and the latest subwoofer technology from Velodyne, which Redline are all set to present. TouchPanels Control Systems Audio & Video Distribution Digital Home Theatre 7.1 Surround Sound Lighting Control Dimmers & Keypads Thermostats & Intercom 11 > SOUND & VISION EYE ON THE INDUSTRY Eye On The Industry THE WHO-WHAT-WHERE-WHEN-WHY OF AV... ATTENTION PLEASE! If you have news of any industry appointments or dismissals, achievements or crises, acquisitions or additions, and you’d like to see them in print, email the details to Hamish@soundandvisionmagazine.co.uk FATE, UP AGAINST RETAIL Panasonic’s new range could come with a 10 percent discount for you.. SOUND IN THE ROUND SACD may well have not witnessed the rapid growth many predicted since its inception, but according to Linn’s Managing Director, Ivor Tiefenbrun MBE, the multi-channel audio formats remain a strong part of the future of home entertainment. “I believe surround sound,” he began, “will become an essential aspect for all home entertainment systems for music and cinema.” “It will,” he continued, “eventually become universal. Compatibility with 5.1 cinema systems is very important for all music formats. SACD’s surround capability also lets us record music in more authentic ways. Much of the music we enjoy today was originally performed and enjoyed in the round. The modern concert hall stage and ‘stereo presentation’ is not the only, nor the best, way for music to be presented. It is just one that we have grown accustomed to over the last 100-years as technology made the construction of cheap, large span concert halls possible and widespread.” In their 30-years of business, Linn have remained committed to the reproduction of superior sound and attempting to relay, with the utmost realism, the thrills and emotion of a live performance. Linn isn’t, however, just a manufacturer of audio, home theatre and multi-room systems; as an independent record company, the firm retains a unique relationship with global music technology and its application in the recording studio. As a result, Linn’s MD believes his team have a responsibility to help its customers eek out the highest quality sound reproduction: “High-quality formats,” he explained, “are an essential pre-requisite for better sound and the Hi-Fi industry relies on quality formats to enthuse customers who seek the most involving systems and the most accurate music reproduction.” Linn have a healthy relationship with SACD, supporting it both through their record label and the release of components with SACD compatibility. “Sound quality and security together with compatibility with CD make SACD very attractive,” Ivor explained. “A high-quality multi-channel music format is what our industry needs to secure its future. We hope that the SACD market will continue to grow, but it depends on on-going support and enthusiasm from the format champions and the record industry. There is a limit to the commitment a small company like Linn can make no matter how committed we are. I believe the audio industry will support SACD if we can demonstrate that the format is attractive, secure and reliable.” Clearly the array of bonuses it offers are apparent to those of us in the know, and continuing to push this format could prove thoroughly beneficial to both the listener and our industry. For further information contact: www.superaudio-cd.com. 12 The disenchantment within the AV industry, it would seem, is ongoing and the latest reader of ours willing to put his thoughts into print is Dave Leatherbarrow of MTV, Glen Vine, Isle of Man. “My belief,” Dave begins, “is that the dealers had already lost both their faith and trust in certain manufacturers, but now feel a loss of loyalty as well.” He went on to eloquently expound his proposed way of dealing with the situation: “Whilst certain manufacturers deny any involvement in the offerings made on the Internet, which reflect prices offered to the public way below those which the manufacturer invoices us, having deducted our off invoice terms and retros we cannot even buy at those prices. Logic would say, if the product offerings on the Internet bear the brand name and same model number of those manufactures who supply us directly, then the manufacturer MUST have supplied the product to those making the offerings on the Internet. When we try to apply that logic through dialogue to the manufacturer they wish to dissuade us from this basic thinking pattern by saying it is the dealers, disguised as Internet traders, who are promoting such prices. I couldn't find any dealer whose net terms could reflect prices such as those offered on the Internet, let alone adding a profit and VAT! If the brand name etc. advertised on the Internet is the same as those supplied to the manufacturers’ "preferred" dealers, then that manufacturer must be in a position to trace how the product has got into the Internet market channel - they provide similar information to GFK for their tracking service. We clearly have a situation that is causing a great deal of not only distress to the dealerships, but also a great deal of mistrust toward the manufacturers. It is very easy to just jump on the bandwagon, hurling innuendo and comment to and fro, but the main issue won’t be addressed. The issue is that the public are having prices offered to them via the Internet that suggest the traditional electrical retailer is trying to rob them of one hell of a lot of their hard earned money and making a colossal profit. This is, as we all know, far from the truth. The only realistic way forward is to engage in dialogue with the manufacturers with whom the dealership has misgivings. This I believe could only be done by having an elected delegation meeting with RETRA, listing a clear and concise agenda and clearly identifying the problem areas. It is important at this juncture to ensure, as I THE BIG APPLE With AV and IT increasingly in a process of convergence, news that Apple are to become a member of the Blu-Ray Disc Association’s (BDA) Board of Directors should be music to the ears to all championing this format as the High Definition storage solution of the future. Apple has been a leader in driving consumer adoption of DVD authoring since January 2001 and is also helping bring High Definition (HD) to market with a complete line of HD content creation tools for consumers and professionals alike including iMovie(R) HD, Final Cut(R) Express HD and Final Cut Pro(R) HD editing software. “Apple has a long history of technical innovation around DVD believe myself, the manufacturers understand that we wish to embrace them and work with them. This cannot be overstressed: we both seek the common end of maintaining a market channel which embraces the technology and the quality of the product as brought to the market place by the manufacturer at a price which is, in reason, fairly uniform throughout the various market channels, which can provide a reasonable living for the manufacturers’ staff, the dealerships and their staff. It is a fact, which many of the dealers do respect, that manufacturers do give us support and some far more than others, but it does remain a concern when the pricing policies reflected on the Internet are not in line with those brought through the dealer channels as I know them. In RETRA the dealership has a respected arbitrator who, hopefully, could encourage transparency by the manufacturer to find how the products offered on the Internet have found their way to the market place if it is the case, as they assure us, that they have not supplied the hardware and software, and their support of the Blu-Ray Disc format is a testament to their commitment of ongoing innovation. The BluRay Disc format provides the immense capacity and the revolutionary functionality that Apple's loyal customer base will be sure to enjoy,” explained Maureen Weber, chief BDA spokesperson and general manager of HP's Optical Storage Solutions Business. “We're thrilled about Apple joining our 16-member board, and we look forward to working with them on the development and promotion of the Blu-Ray Disc format.” For further information contact: www.blu-raydisc.com products. Our message to the manufacturer is, with the greatest respect to them, they are employees of an organisation, we have the responsibility of the families of our staff and our livelihoods to consider. They, as the employees, can walk away to another job - we have far more at stake. My plea to the manufacturers is PLEASE do not allow any more time to pass nor for this to get to a time of crisis, but grasp the nettle now, bite the bullet and let us through dialogue bring these issues, with total transparency, honesty and integrity, to the table together in the presence of RETRA and embrace this issue together, before any more dealers, who've done so much for so long for our industry, are found wanting as their businesses are either closed or worse, taken from them.” While many retailers no doubt share Dave’s fears, it is good to see such healthy, proactive proposals being offered in an attempt to nip the growing bitterness in the bud and ensure a solution can be reached. And with the livelihoods of many of our readers at stake, it would seem time is of the essence. These pleas have not gone unheard and already we have seen action from one or two big names seeking to stop the rot. One of these is Panasonic who are reportedly offering an additional 10% discount to dealers for every product sold to the consumer on the shop floor. Acknowledging the significance of Panasonic’s 900 dealerships, the importance of their sales staff and the financial burdens they are faced with, relative to competing Internet traders, we understand that RETRA’s membership have, for the most part, welcomed the move. With Sony and Philips also offering similar schemes, once a dealer identifies the percentage of their products shifted directly as a result of hard graft in store, they will be rewarded with the discount. Obviously the accuracy of the supplied figures will be subject to reviews. However, there is no doubting this constitutes a positive step forward and could, retailers everywhere are no doubt hoping, inspire other manufacturers to do the same. AT THE SHARP END Sharp Electronics Europe clearly mean business as CEO Hans Kleis has announced his strategy to double the turnover of the Japanese technology group in Europe by the end of fiscal year 2007. He plans to achieve this by focusing on the three strategic divisions of LCD-TV, Document Solutions and Solar. The plan was unveiled at CeBIT. Apart from further developing the existing key markets, Sharp will, to an increasing extent, invest in the prospering markets in the East of Europe where the demand for high-tech products is growing steadily. As examples, besides Russia, Kleis mentioned the new EU member states, where Sharp's sales structure will be strengthened as a first step. In the fourth quarter of 2004 Europe, for the first time, overtook Japan to become the largest market for LCD-TVs in the world. However the potential for further growth remains: in Germany alone, there are 60 million CRT TVs which could, prospectively, be replaced with modern, flat panel TV sets. Here, consumer demands differ widely from the early adopter who wants to have HDTV-compatible products today to enjoy superb picture quality on a large screen flat TV, to the consumer who is happy to have a TV with a great picture, but without a host of technical features. With the Four-Panel Strategy presented at CeBIT, Sharp proclaim to be the only manufacturer worldwide to cover the entire spectrum demanded by customers. With the products to match their ambition, charting their progress over the next few years should certainly prove interesting. For further information contact: www.sharp-eu.com 13 > SOUND & VISION EYE ON THE INDUSTRY ON THE PANEL BOOK A DATE Although it has only just passed, already the organisers of the Bristol show have announced details regarding next year’s event. Sound & Vision 2006 will return for the 19th time on Friday, February 24th, running through to Sunday 26th. Open 10-5 each day, it will be held in the familiar surroundings of the Bristol Marriott, Castle Street and should – as one of the most significant events on the audio and AV calendar – draw in big names from throughout our industry. For further information contact: www.bristolshow.co.uk SCOTLAND FOREVER This year the organisation of the all-important Scottish Hi-fi & Home Cinema Show will pass back to Roy Bird and his team at Chesterfield Communications. Roy boasts a great deal of experience in show organisation and should bring considerable skills as well as economies of scale to the building process. Immediate changes have already been instituted, with the show renamed Scottish Sound & Vision 2005, bringing it into line with Roy’s other events in Manchester and London. Other significant moves are also afoot. Scottish Sound & Vision 2005 will, for example, now be held in the Radisson SAS Hotel in Glasgow on the weekend of the 8th – 9th October. The venue offers top class facilities for both exhibitors and visitors and is located in the City Centre adjacent to Glasgow Central train station. On offer will be a range of demonstration rooms of various sizes, converted bedrooms and shell scheme type trade space, with the overall number of rooms limited to ensure a speedy take up of space. With the other two shows in his portfolio, a multi-show discount will be offered to exhibitors, helping them to get the most for their money. Dealers throughout Scotland are already being approached with a view to taking part and a significant number, we’re told, have already committed themselves. At the heart of the Show there will be a “ShowShop” where manufacturers, distributors and retailers will have the opportunity to sell on ex-demonstration, end of season and discontinued lines, which will be pooled from the various Dealers. Clearly Chesterfield Communications have a lot of fresh ideas to bring to the table and we look forward to hearing further news of their plans for Scotland’s biggest AV event. For further information contact: +44 (0) 182 974 0650 www.chestergroup.org 14 A couple of months back we heard talk that specialist AV distributor Steljes were about to branch out and now the rumours have become a reality. The firm has proudly announced the addition of the spanking new Samsung Consumer Flat Panel TVs to its product portfolio. As the world’s largest manufacturer of flat panel displays, plasma and LCD-TVs and, we are told, the fastest growing global brand, Samsung’s design innovation and record investment in research and development has ensured success in these key markets. Steljes are delighted to have added the range to their stable, as they believe it will enhance the strength and balance of their portfolio of world class collaborative and display technologies. The extension of the Steljes’ range, to include these products, is befitting of the corporate and commercial convergence taking place in the technological world. The comprehensive selection will enable them to offer a solution-based approach to markets and applications, in the corporate, commercial and consumer sectors. Plasma TVs are a key component part of the new range and a host of options are available in sizes of 37-to 63-inches, with an 80-inch model said to be on the way. These boast ALIS technology and Samsung's unique DNie (Digital Natural Image Engine). Their LCD-TVs, meanwhile, will be available with 15 to 46-inch screens and boast some slick, cutting-edge designs. A number of DLP TVs will also be available, including the award-winning 50-inch SP50L7 model, incorporating the most advanced chip technology available on today’s market combined with stunning good looks. Paul O'Reilly, Distribution Sales Director, Steljes commented: “To thrive and grow on the scale Samsung has achieved requires a strong brand, as well as innovative products. We believe that this will prove to be a mutually beneficial deal for Steljes, Samsung and all our resellers.” For further information contact: www.steljes.co.uk GOOD OLD ARSENAL Arsenal may well not win the title this season, but fan Ian Crane had his woes somewhat alleviated when he won a JVC QP-F70 Home Cinema System after entering a draw in the 2004-05 season voucher book. He was even more delighted to learn he was able to visit Highbury with a friend to collect his prize, get his hands on the Premiership trophy before it begins its now seemingly inevitable journey across to West London and take a guided tour far the around the hallowed stadium, before By greatest Arsenal move to their new home at team the world has Ashburton Grove. ever seen? Following his VIP morning, Mr Crane headed off to play with his new toy – from which he will be able to enjoy the rest of Arsenal’s season on the box in superb surround sound. As Official Consumer Electronics Supplier to Arsenal Football Club, JVC will also be offering another chance to win one of their award-winning products in next year's voucher book; Arsenal fans keep your eyes peeled for that one. Back in the day the banner at Highbury read “JVC and Arsenal – the perfect match” and this certainly seems to be the case for this lucky fan. The Gooner dominated team here at What’s New wishes him well. For further information contact: +44 (0) 208 450 3282 www.jvc.com THE GOSPEL OF JOHN When it comes to technology, there is no denying John Lewis know what sells. Last year, by the end of December 1.272-million DAB receivers had been sold in the UK and the Digital Radio Development Bureau predicts that another 1.2-million will be shifted this year. No one sells more digital radios per store than John Lewis and thanks to the department store’s substantial selection, their sales in this area have shot up by 57%. Recently the company identified its most wanted list of DABs for the Spring and Summer of 2005… and, as always, it is always worth noting what they deem these to be. Having allocated models for every price point, at the entry level they plumped for Roberts, light and portable, £69.50 Gemini RD15. Their top, mid-priced choices are the thoroughly stylish Sharp FVDB1ES, Intempo’s well known PG01 and, of course, PURE’s much lauded Evoke 1XT. For premium prices, meanwhile, the respected retailers predict Panasonic’s slimline RF-D1 and Sony’s sleek, Mega Bass boasting XDRS1 will be the season’s big sellers. The ubiquitous PURE FEELING BLU According to In-Stat, new digital delivery services are not likely to supplant the DVD business, but rather bring digital entertainment to people by adding either convenience or accessibility that complements what the “Packaged Goods” can provide. “More consumers,” their recent research has shown, “want instant access to video on their TV sets, portable devices and cell phone handsets, but DVDs will continue to be a popular medium and will continue to experience substantial growth.” According to the high-tech market research firm, the worldwide value of all published DVD products is expected to continue growing rapidly with a Compound Annual Growth Rate of 18.2%, from about US$33-Billion during 2004, up to US$76.5-Billion by 2009. “In North America, HD DVD will jump start a round of growth for High Definition versions of Hollywood movies, as consumers begin replacing their libraries of old VHS tapes and DVDs,” says Gerry Kaufhold, In-Stat analyst. “HD DVDs will appear later this year, to take advantage of the growing installed base of HDTV sets in the US. However, we expect Blu-Ray products to take off in Asia in 2006, and in Europe and the ROW during 2007. Music videos, DualDisc products and locally produced DVDs will account for 20% of the market value by 2009." In-Stat concluded that outside of North America, Blu-Ray discs will become the dominant High Definition format, because it is backed by what they describe as the “who’s who” of international consumer electronics manufacturers, and “ultimately provides more storage capacity and better features.” The information revealed is part of a more substantial report providing in-depth discussion and analysis of five trends that are shaping the DVD industry, and three trends that are shaping network-connected TV services. It contains forecasts for the regional and worldwide value of DVD markets broken out by Standard DVDs, BluRay DVDs, HD DVDs and music and locally produced DVDs and can be purchased online at the website below. For further information contact: www.in-stat.com MASTER OF ARTS To celebrate the introduction of the new range of wide-screen LCD-TVs from Japanese manufacturers iiyama, major UK distributor ArtSystems launched an impressive advertising campaign back in November 2004. As part of this, they offered one lucky reader of What's New the chance to win a 27-inch version, the ProLite C270WT. ArtSystems wish to offer their congratulations to the triumphant party who should already be enjoying the full iiyama visual experience! The distributors campaign has certainly proven successful for them. ArtSystems are reported to be “genuinely astounded by the response from the features and adverts published over the last few months.” They are, their statement continued, “delighted that iiyama LCD-TV's are finally getting the recognition and interest they deserve.” This should, of course, come as little surprise as their LCD-TVs offer exceptional quality, but at a price/performance ratio more than palatable to consumers. “The old adage you only get what you pay for certainly does not apply to iiyama,” ArtSystems expound. The C270WT produces pictures of great brightness and contrast, backed by progressive scaling. It comes equipped with a built-in digital processor and essentially, for those who seek some longevity from their products, it is HDTV-ready. With all the inputs anyone can need, a pair of neat built-in 8-Watt NICAM speakers and a host of smart functions including Picture in Picture, this screen has everything necessary to make it a thoroughly popular offthe-shelf solution. ArtSystems has been distributing iiyama products for some time, helping to build them into a leading name in CRT and LCD monitors. The natural progression into the home entertainment market only comes with the confidence of having a good product range and, with iiyama on board, that exactly what this firm boast. For further information contact: +44 (0) 870 224 3612 www.artsystems.co.uk FOUR THE BEST Denon UK are making the headlines once again, thanks to their latest batch of victories at the prestigious Home Cinema Choice Awards. The brand ran out winners in four of the most significant categories and received more awards than any other brand. In the ceremony - presented by Star Wars C3PO actor, Anthony Daniels – Denon win again! claimed the Best High-end DVD-Player for their DVD-A1XV, Best High-end AV Amp for the AVC-A1XV, Best Mid-range DVD-Player for the DVD-3910 and Best Mid-range AV Receiver for the AVR-2805. Mike O'Mahony MD of Denon remarked: “I'd like to thank my mum, my agent, my PR man and all the Denon engineers who slaved away to make these Awards possible. Quality rules!” For further information contact: +44 (0) 123 474 1200 www.denon.co.uk 15 > SOUND & VISION EYE ON THE INDUSTRY GERMANY CALLING FIT FOR THE JOB Home entertainment furniture specialist Optimum International has strengthened its UK sales team with the appointment of fitness fanatic Lee Teal. Based at Optimum's York headquarters, Lee joins the company as Northern Area Sales Manager. At 29-years of age, he is a qualified personal trainer and former health club manager, with a wealth of experience in sales and marketing. In his new role, Lee will be responsible for supporting Optimum’s existing client base and driving sales in the Midlands, North of England and Scotland. He will also be developing new business opportunities as the company targets further growth in the UK market. “This is a really exciting time to join the company,” Lee expounded, “as it has big expansion plans. I'm definitely fit to rise to the challenge and am looking forward to pushing sales to the limit.” In his spare time, Lee is a keen cyclist and is currently in training for the London Triathlon. He is also getting into gear for his wedding to fiancée Chantal Knowland, Optimum's Business Accounts Coordinator, in August 2005. As one of the UK electrical retail trade’s leading suppliers of luxury stands for domestic TV, home cinema and Hi-Fi equipment, with over 500 electrical retailers already under their wing, this should constitute another step in taking the firm to an even wider audience. For further information contact: +44 (0) 190 469 0089 www.optimum2000.com This September the biannual feast of technology that is the IFA show returns to Berlin. With over 1,000 exhibitors and 273,800 visitors attending 2003’s event, this makes it one of the biggest consumer electronics events in the world. Described by its organisers as “the industry's No. 1 place for orders,” last time around these provided a volume of €2.4billion of business. As a trade fair for both the experts and the public, IFA boasts special services for trade visitors and a varied program with special events for consumers. In 2003 6,800 accredited journalists from 78 countries made the trip, with the event securing 95 hours of TV reports in Germany alone. This year the show will run from the 2nd to the 7th of September and the organisers are certainly predicting big things, as Dr. Rainer Hecker, Chairman of the Supervisory Board of one of the organisers GFU explained: “As organisers of the IFA we are expecting to repeat and even surpass the success of 2003. The subjects that will be setting the trends are already becoming apparent. As in previous years, they will influence future market trends and the shape of the market, as well as creating new markets.” Thanks to the successes reported in 2003, IFA has experienced a sharp increase in growth. As a result the organisers will be opening up new halls, with the areas dedicated to displays set to be 15 to 20 per cent larger than before. The show comprises six thematic areas, helping to highlight the diversity of the kit on display and guide visitors around the sizable arena with ease. Each show acts as the launch pad of some 10,000 new products and few are more worthy of your attendance. For further information contact: www.ifa-berlin.de GROWING UP The doom and gloom afflicting significant sections of our industry is clearly not all pervading. According to statistics published on the IFA website, in 2004 the various consumer electronics product groups generated total sales of €19.98-billion, representing an increase of approximately 8.3% over the previous year. Of this, total entertainment electronics sales amounted to €10.78billion. Growth has exceeded all forecasts and is five times greater than the average figure of 1.6% for the economy as a whole. “This is proof of our success in overcoming an initial reluctance on the part of buyers in many areas, and this in turn is a clear indication of the appeal of our products and the innovative strengths of our entire industry. On closer examination of the individual segments it is evident that growth has not been confined solely to those areas where additional demand has been stimulated by interesting new devices and appliances. Where new technology is beginning to replace older systems too these developments are in most cases leading to substantially improved sales within a very short time,” explained Hans-Joachim Kamp, Chairman of the Consumer Electronics Division of the ZVEI. The upsurge in sales can be attributed in particular to new digital technology and the associated diversity of new devices and services. These consist mainly of flat screen systems, new storage media such as DVD and hard disk recorders, digital television, both terrestrial and via satellite, MP3 devices, in-car navigation systems and storage media such as recordable DVDs. For further information contact: www.ifa-berlin.de BE A WINNER GOING SOLO Leading home entertainment furniture manufacturer Alphason Designs is all set to repeat last year’s highly successful window display competition with an even bigger and better event this year to celebrate it’s 20th anniversary. The top prize for the most imaginative and eye-catching entry will be an all-expenses paid trip to CES in Las Vegas (January 2006) for a lucky retailer and their partner. To help retail customers produce a winning presentation, Alphason’s design agency have generated a special package of highprofile promotional posters to be used in store. Retailers, selected by their Alphason area sales agent, will also be supplied with a selection of units from the range to help them create an inspiring display. By way of a thank you for their contributions, the retailers will be allowed to keep this stock. For further information contact: +44 (0) 194 288 5600 Arcam are reportedly delighted to announce the appointment of Paul Darwin as Business Development Manager. Paul joins Arcam at a time that sees one of Britain's leading specialist companies addressing exciting new product areas, including high-performance integrated high-fidelity systems such as Solo and the forthcoming music server in the FMJ series, the MS250. Paul is a keen music enthusiast and has, during a long and successful career at Naim, established a reputation for building long-lasting successful business relationships within the specialist sector. He joins a team at Arcam that is gaining a reputation for delivering a winning combination of top notch products with exceptional service, training and backup support. His arrival at Arcam reinforces the commitment Arcam has made to support the best independent specialist dealers with the best team in the business. Says Charlie Brennan, Managing Director, "Paul's background and experience will be a great asset to Arcam in the future. His extensive retail knowledge and love of curries make him the ideal man for the job." For further information contact: +44 (0) 122 320 3200 www.arcam.co.uk 16 INCREASING EXPOSURE INTO THE FUTURE Following on from the huge success of 2004’s Both Acoustic Energy and Boston Acoustics have achieved significant Futurevision Seminars, JVC are gearing up for growth during 2004/05, due to their product quality, brand strength and another batch in 2005 as part of their new emerging market sectors. To enable both brands to increase their commitment to their dealer network. This year exposure and subsequently take advantage of the growing number of the seminars will be extended to their dealers business opportunities that these new markets offer, the AE Group has in Ireland and will take place between April appointed Ric Stevenson to handle PR from 1st April 2005. 6th May 17th in Chichester, Bromsgrove, Ric founded RSPR last year following seven years writing, editing Warrington, Newcastle, Nottingham, Taunton, and running the ER Group. In addition, Ric has long been a key Newport, Norwich, Glasgow, Belfast and contributor/reviewer to various Hi-Fi and AV trade and consumer titles. Dublin. Prior to the ER Group, Ric spent five years managing a small electrical The seminars have been ordained to shop and has an electrical and mechanical engineering background, highlight to those working with JVC’s range the having graduated from Portsmouth University with a degree in systems unique technologies found therein. They will also serve as an introduction to the engineering and business studies in 1989. new and exciting range of products the Japanese giants will be “I am very excited to be launching this Spring. The Futurevision Seminars constitute a working with one of the UK’s fantastic opportunity for dealers and sales personnel to leading loudspeaker explore and understand the features and benefits of JVC’s manufacturers,” Ric commented. 2005 range, building on their existing knowledge to assist “Acoustic Energy is a company them when making sales throughout the year. with a great history, class leading For further information contact: +44 (0) 208 450 3282 products and enviable brand www.jvc-europe.com strength. The Boston Acoustics deal means the AE group portfolio Back to school with JVC now encompasses a huge range of award-winning custom installation, in-car and outdoor loudspeakers to capitalise on these growing markets. I look forward to becoming an integral part of the brands’ ongoing success.” For further information contact: www.acoustic-energy.co.uk Some of Boston Acoustic’s latest options www.boston-acoustics.co.uk 17 SOUND & VISION EYE ON THE INDUSTRY BAND OF GOLD Bandridge Europe has chosen BBG Distribution Ltd as its new Exclusive Distributor for all Bandridge and Profigold connection products. BBG, an established specialist distributor for Audio AV & IT Accessory products since 1993, will be stocking and shipping 350 of the top selling products from Bandridge & Profigold immediately. Bandridge is a high quality, product line, a genuine one stop solution and is Europe's fastest growing supplier of connection products. For further information contact: +44 (0)20 8901 2662 www.bandridge.co.uk www.bbg-av.com EXHIBITIONS The facts of Life 18 3 5 4 2 ey'd t exist, th ws didn' d? ... if sho on be invente very so 5ws 200 ent Sho ainm e Entert Hom MANAGING BASS ing Show The Spr The Nor w ttish Sho The Sco Scottish & Sound Vision w thern Sho The Quality Home 28 - 29 Consumer The Quality the Year Event of NS ITIO IB EXH s Fact The Life! of 6 2 2006 our Get y p o c y ! NOW s Show inment Enterta 2006 January ogy New Technol op 2 Day ShowSh 8-9 2005 October SAS, Glasgow Radisson The UK's Best Quality Shows 2 Scottish Sound & Vision 6 The Quality Home Entertainments Show The Quality Consumer Event of the Year New Technology 2 Day ShowShop 28 - 29 January 2006 Hea M od P IT valid th Te O ac ce fo ro Th lepho RE ss SA r bo w Re is tic ne T fo F th da us IC r th E du ys ce ket . 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President of Velodyne Bruce Hall will be there to introduce his firm’s new SMS or Subwoofer Management System. SMS is a stand-alone Auto Room EQ management system that can be connected to any subwoofer. It comes complete with a comprehensive cable and microphone kit and will retail in the UK for around £425. As well as affording attendees this unique introduction Bruce will also provide them with a general overview of the direction that Velodyne's existing and new products will take in the next 12 months. The presentation will conclude with details of Velodyne's DAD project in association with Texas Instruments. DAD or Digital Auto Drive is sponsored by the US Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency. This is a field test intended to accelerate research and development in autonomous ground vehicles that will help save American lives on the battlefield. This will offer a unique insight into the technological capability employed in Velodyne's engineering division and should make for extremely interesting listening. The event is set to take place on the Sunborn Yacht in London’s docklands and What’s New will be there, to ensure you get all the necessary details of these exciting developments. For further information contact: +44 (0) 131 555 3922 URE BROCH TRADE 1 s GP Acoustics (UK) Ltd has announced the appointment of Marc Trudeau as Development Director for its range of KEF and Celestion consumer electronics products. With the group expanding - and enjoying growth and unprecedented international product acclaim - this new appointment is one of a series of important key personnel promotions and new staff announcements to be made by the company over the coming months. A master of science in electrical engineering, Marc is a Graduate of the University of Lowell, Massachusetts. In his professional career he has delivered exceptional end-user experience and commercial successes in worldwide markets for 22-years. Recently, he helped identify the market opportunity and managed the development of KEF's KIT100 Instant Theatre, employing a novel acoustical configuration and behind-the-scenes automation to reduce set up complexity. The KIT100 has become a worldrenowned success for KEF. “My primary objective is to continue to develop solutions for consumers - making the entire use and ownership of electronics products a simple and joyful experience. KEF has already started to move in this direction and we want to expand the philosophy across the brand and range mix.” Marc takes up his responsibilities with immediate effect, working from the Maidstone office. For further information contact: +44 (0) 162 267 2261 www.kef.com www.celestion.com Smart furniture manufacturers futureglass have announced the appointment of a new sales agent, Paul McPherson. Paul will be working for the firm in London and the South East. Having worked in the industry since 1987 - initially at Hi-Fi Experience in London and latterly at VEDA as their Area Sales Manager this is a promising appointment for both parties. “Paul is a welcome addition to the futureglass family,” Gareth Phillips, designer and owner of futureglass, told us. “Over the coming months he will be focusing on expanding the futureglass retailer network and bringing our GEM Audio-Visual and Media Storage range to a wider audience, bringing with him a wealth of experience and enthusiasm for our expanding retailer base whilst at the same time offering a higher standard of support to our existing retailers.” Paul will be based in Romford and can be contacted on 07949 910455 or sales@futureglass.co.uk For further information contact: www.futureglass.co.uk ou net.c p.o rg o.uk GOING TO YOUR GP RAISE THE GLASS Ch Com ester mu field nic ati on Every month it seems a new milestone is passed in DAB and on the 15th of March a very special one was met by the market-leading PURE Digital. This was the date the firm shipped their 500,000th model. Now halfway to that million mark, the radio was delivered to the John Lewis store on Oxford Street, London. As one of the major proponents of the technology this was a fitting choice… and may we be amongst the first to congratulate PURE on their achievements and ongoing innovation in this sphere. For further information contact: +44 (0) 192 327 7488 www.pure.com Te Fa l: 01 roy x: 08 829 ww @ch 45 7406 w.c es 28 he tergrp 0 00 50 ste rgr .fs 65 PURE GENIUS Pa Apri l0 rk 5 In ar n, He Ve W nu k Ho est e: Pa in athrow Fo tel: Dray rk r m 02 to In n n, n, > Ref . ticket This tocopied. with uing pho d que Reduce et. tick this s 3 5 4 Tel: 01829 740650 Fax: 0845 280 0065 roy@chestergrp.fsnet.co.uk www.chestergroup.org Remember when people used to hide their TV in a cabinet? That was before the Hitachi Platara Plasma TV. A winner at this year’s IF Design Awards, you’ll want everyone to see the Platara’s stunning looks. And the outstanding picture quality of the Platara range comes with a 32", 37" and 42" screen, so it will look impressive in any room. For more information about Hitachi’s Plasma and LCD range, visit www.hitachidigitalmedia.com TECHNOLOGY CORNER TECHNOLOGY CORNER The slim CRT should shake up the market... Breathing New Life You might well have thought the tubular bell had tolled and the CRT-TV was already a complete write off. Not so, says SARAH ADCOCK, as she performs a hasty resuscitation… No one could really argue that the future of visual entertainment was cut and dried and hold together a coherent argument. After all, while we suspect HDTV will be what everyone wants, whether plasmas, LCD-TVs or projectors reign victorious in the format wars is anyone’s guess. Each has its own advantages and popular appeal and each remains a growth market. That said, other, less wellknown technologies such as SED continue to catch the eye and will prospectively eat into this share. However, while that might be the case, the major manufacturers continue to shift more CRT-TVs than all of these pretenders put together… and if the predictions are to be believed, they will continue to do so for a good while yet. Of course, there is a chance that each format will retain its slice of the pie and they will all continue to thrive in a state of technological détente, but there is also the possibility that a new technology, already making its way to the market thanks to LG and Phillips, could become the biggest of them all. To be fair, the word ‘new’ has been used loosely in this context, as the Cybertube+ SuperSlim actually has a lot in common with our old friend the CRTTV. Indeed, it is founded on the familiar and much maligned cathode ray tubes, yet contributes to final products with the sleek flat display profile and elegant looks to rival the pretenders to this throne. Described by its manufacturers as “the pinnacle of today’s picture tube development,” it allows manufacturers to develop television sets a mere 35cms in depth, affording users exceptional visuals. Thus, while critics everywhere continue to write off the CRT-TV, chastising it for its bulky dimensions, inappropriate in an era when style is prized so much, the boffins have been busying themselves, readying a response. And here it is: the SuperSlim TV. Of course, developments in CRT technology are nothing new and throughout its lengthy life CPT (Colour Picture Tube) manufacturers have sought to refine it. Virtually every component in a CPT - from the electron gun to the deflection yoke, shadow mask and screen phosphors - has undergone a continuous process of improvement. Advances in gun and yoke design have shortened the gun and increased the deflection angle, leading to a reduction in the front-to-back depth of CPTs. However, the new Cybertube+ SuperSlim takes these progressive accomplishments a step further. cutting costs Through developing a system-level approach to tube design, computer aided design techniques have been employed to move the gun forward into the yoke. It is this innovative technique that has allowed the front-to-back depth of the tube to be reduced by up to 30%. The result is Cybertube+ SuperSlim tubes of a paltry 35cm in depth for a 21-inch 4:3 format or a 32-inch widescreen tube, compared to the conventional 43cm for a 21-inch RF and 50cm for a 32-inch widescreen option. It was back in 2003 that LG.Philips Displays first demonstrated the potential of this technology. Their prototype 32-inch Wide Screen Real-Flat SuperSlim model featured a colour picture tube with a 125° deflection angle, while their 21inch Real-Flat SuperSlim option boasted a colour picture tube with a deflection angle of 110°. The latter encompassed a hybrid deflection yoke, offering the kind of performance that won plaudits immediately. The 21-inch SuperSlim tube is compatible with standard staticfocus chassis electronics, making for an easy design-in process. All new SuperSlim models are designed to be direct drop-in replacements for standard tubes and only require minor chassis modifications using standard components. As a result, aside from the new cabinet styling, putting these models into production requires the minimum design effort and investment from manufacturers. From this they’ll create a next generation TV set with the capability to reap huge rewards in a particularly tough market. The relatively small investment required and the mature nature of the CPT technology should ensure that SuperSlim models will hit the market at particularly competitive price points, whilst they also offer costing benefits in the total logistic chain. Their smaller dimensions will take a significant slice out of, for example, shipping and storage costs, whilst existing infrastructure and proven manufacturing methods will ensure these innovative solutions can be produced in a sufficiently large volume to guarantee a healthy economy of scale. into production Bolstered by a long life and exceptional picture quality – which offers great colours, an excellent contrast ratio and freedom from motion artefacts - the companies behind this technology believe existing flat-screen options will struggle to compete. They have successfully addressed the major criticism that has hitherto been levelled at visual options founded upon the cathode ray tube. It was its bulky stature and inconvenient dimensions that plasmas and LCD-TVs have successfully challenged in the past, but these newfound, smoothly styled, slender options emerging from the LG.Philips Displays stable genuinely look the part and slip comfortably into the most modish of environments. None of this is hollow talk and LG.Philips Displays have put their money where their mouth is. In November of 2004 production of the Cybertube+ SuperSlim models and the world’s thinnest colour picture tube models began in China and Korea. The team were already the first player to launch the slim CPT in the world when, in early 2004, production began at the company’s plant in Durham, England. This is, of course, just the start. Since the introduction of Cybertube+ SuperSlim, LG.Philips Displays has received keen interest from a number of big names, seeking to collaborate with them in the production of new products. Manufacturers to already embrace the technology include LG Electronics, Skyworth, Thomson, Mivar and Schneider Electronics, among others. It was estimated that Cybertube+ SuperSlim’s annual volume can reach one million units this year and, based upon its credentials, there is no reason to think otherwise. The positive response it has already been greeted with has encouraged LG.Philips Displays to develop different sized models too, so expect the options available to expand as time goes on. According to Wiebo Vaartjes, Chief Sales Officer, LG.Philips Displays, “For its optimal picture quality, excellent contrast ratio, viewing angle and response time as well as its best price/performance ratio, CRT remains at the forefront of TV set production.” With the introduction of Cybertube+ SuperSlim it could be a long time before it is usurped. FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: www.superslim.com 21 AUDIO AND VIDEO DISTRIBUTION A Healthy Serving These days a system that sits in a single room can comfortably cater for a whole lot more. DARREN HARVEY dips into the burgeoning world of distribution… As technology evolves one of the things that is always a focus for manufacturers is convenience and what, in the entertainment world, could be more convenient than accessing a music or DVD collection from any given room around the home? Very little, it would seem, particularly in light of the number of developments we’ve been witnessing in this area of late. What was once the preserve of a tiny, privileged minority, is rapidly becoming an attainable goal for the multitude. Yes, more and more companies are embracing the concept of multiroom entertainment. Some of the names that are causing a stir have proved a surprise addition to the ranks, whilst for others embracing wholehouse audio and video constitutes a natural evolution of their automation roots. Whether the companies’ origins lie in control or audio and video relay, however, isn’t particularly relevant, as representatives from both are delivering equally impressive solutions. Covering what has become such a major industry in its entirety may be beyond the scope of the next four pages, but they should provide a glimpse of how diverse, and how competitive, the AV distribution market has become... AMX MAX Distributing both video and audio, AMX's latest MAX digital content server is the perfect solution for users wishing to create a single media library. Music and movies can be accessed instantly in their native format from multiple locations around the home and, with improvements such as better recording, playback, art retrieval and security all added to the spec of the server's predecessor, MAX remains a great option for multi-room AV. Contact: +44 (0) 190 434 3100 ww.amx.com LIVING CONTROL MUSICBOX 3 Described by its manufacturers as the Bentley of the home digital server world, Living Control’s MusicBox 3 can deliver dynamic audio from thousands of CDs to every part of a home thanks to a high-resolution audio chip-set and precise bit-for-bit transfer. Adding tracks is quick and easy and up to three different songs can be enjoyed simultaneously. Additionally, music can be downloaded from the Internet and even shared with an iPod, making Living Control's design a truly multi-talented creation. Contact: +44 (0) 168 986 1188 www.livingcontrol.com www.csesolutions.co.uk NAD C720BEE STEREO RECEIVER NAD's C720BEE is fully remote controlled and represents a combination of the award-winning C320BEE amplifier and an RDS AM/FM tuner. A multi-source Zone 2 capacity permits a user to listen to music independently in another room in the house, by simply adding an extra amplifier and speakers. Fitted with seven line inputs, the C720BEE employs its designers' proprietary PowerDrive topology, giving this receiver impressive dynamic power. Contact: +44 (0) 190 831 9360 www.nadelectronics.com RUSSOUND SMS3 SMART MEDIA SERVER With the ability to store and manage both audio files and digital photographs, the SMS3 from manufacturer Russound and distributor The Multi-Room Company clearly has wide-ranging talents. Affording the user easy access to their music collection from any location in a property, the server supports simultaneous playback of different tracks and employs a user-friendly and striking TV interface for easy operation. A 160Gb hard drive, CD-ROM and access to Internet radio are other noteworthy features, as is a unique Personal Media Assistant, which has the capacity to monitor and 'learn' a user's musical preferences and organise files by activity, theme or occasion. Flexible and reasonably priced, the SMS3 also looks the part with its slick black finish. Contact: +44 (0) 124 253 9100 www.multi-room.com 22 OPUS OCTOPUS Based on A-BUST technology and making use of CAT5e cabling, the Opus Octopus system has the ability to serve an entire home with audio and video from a central location. To facilitate this six audio source and six composite video inputs are provided, allowing the system to cater for up to four main and four sub zones. Keypads and remotes in every room provide quick and user-friendly access to media, whilst a complementary range of unobtrusive speakers is another option sure to tempt consumers. Recent updates allow the system to be installed without wall control keypads, making a retrofit eminently achievable. Contact: +44 (0) 845 090 2266 www.opus-technologies.co.uk SYSTEMLINE MODULAR Systemline recently announced that the award-winning Modular multi-room home entertainment system has been enhanced with the introduction of optional 'multisource' audio and video distribution components. The new parts allow up to six individual users to enjoy up to six different sources (in up to eight separate rooms) simultaneously. This flexibility makes the Modular system suitable for homes of all sizes and, with prices starting from under £1,000, Systemline could tempt many entry-level consumers. Contact: +44 (0) 127 950 1111 www.armourhe.co.uk DENON AVR-3805 The AVR-3805 from Denon is a seven-channel AV receiver with multiroom functionality. The latter provides users with a select function that permits sources to be selected for output to a specified zone or zones, whilst a host of other technologies guarantees exceptional performance all round. Amongst these is the new D.D.S.C.-Digital circuitry, a configuration designed by Denon to optimise the performance of every element of the surround processor. With an array of connectivity options, the AVR-3805 would sit comfortably at the heart of a high-quality home entertainment set-up. Contact: +44 (0) 123 474 1200 www.denon.co.uk IMERGE SOUNDSERVERS Imerge have a number of solutions for the homeowner wishing to benefit from multi-room audio. Perhaps best known is the S2000 Mk2, a server with up to four discrete outputs, a TC interface, a 56k V.90 modem that provides a connection to an extensive online CD database and between 80Gb and 250Gb of hard disc space. The M2000 server offers even more, with up to 500Gb storage capacity, between four and 16 outputs and support for the company's NP200. The latter, a Networked Audio System, facilitates the streaming of SoundServer audio over an Ethernet network, providing both the S2000 and M2000 with added distribution options. Finally, Imerge also offer XiVA-tacta software for pocket PC, which allows access to any SoundServer via a wireless LAN. Contact: +44 (0) 195 478 3600 www.imerge.co.uk ELAN SYSTEMS VIA!DJ Elan's VIA!dj is a digital audio storage and music management system that comes with a 160Gb hard drive and four discrete pairs of audio outputs, the latter allowing the device to act as four individual CD-changers. Accessible through any VIA! Touchpanel or TV, these products are suitable for use in multi-room audio and home theatre applications alike and have recently been updated. New features include super fast ripping speeds and an iPod download and networking capability. With both entry level and high-end variants available (the dj-s and dj-hc respectively), Elan are appealing to a wide customer base. Contact: +44 (0) 151 326 1832 www.elanhomesystems.com 23 AUDIO AND VIDEO DISTRIBUTION DIGITAL FUTURE SOLUTIONS IDYL A multi-room audio server, DF Solutions' iDyl is a high-spec product that offers either a 160Gb or 300Gb hard drive. CD-quality audio can be distributed to a maximum of 16 zones thanks to amplified audio outputs, which connect via cabling to in-wall and in-ceiling speakers or wall-mounted speaker posts, whilst audio files can be easily added via a PC CD-ROM drive. Also part of the package is Room Commander software which, when installed on a hand-held Wi-Fi device, provides efficient control of any room hooked up to the server. Stylish into the bargain, the iDyl delivers in every department. Contact: +44 (0) 287 035 8894 www.digitalfuturesolutions.co.uk CRESTON CNX-BIPAD8 Perhaps best known for the excellent control solutions, Crestron also produce some impressive AV distribution kit. The CNX-BIPAD8, for instance, is a 16source/8-room professional audio distribution processor suitable for use in homes of all sizes. Audiophile grade sound can be delivered, via pre-amplified CAT5 RCA outputs or structured wiring, to all parts of a home, making the CNX-BIPAD8 a good choice for high-end multi-room installations. Contact: +44 (0) 20 8439 7272 www.crestron.co.uk LIVING CONTROL CVX Living Control's CVX is a high-quality videoswitching option for use with the company's Afinity system. In combination with a RoomBox6, for example, it can provide the ability to choose between six different high-resolution video sources from six different rooms. Switching between DVD, TV, a video game or VCR playback is a painless procedure and, with a buffered 100-metre range ensuring that every part of a home can benefit, the CVX would doubtless prove a useful addition to many home entertainment systems. Contact: +44 (0) 168 986 1188 www.livingcontrol.com www.csesolutions.co.uk 24 LEVITON ENTERTAINMENT AND APPLICATIONS PLATFORM Recently unveiled by The Multi-Room Company at the Bristol Sound and Vision Show, the Leviton Entertainment and Applications Platform (LE&AP) can provide a home with a central networking point that will allow for the storing and sharing of music files, videos, photos, the Internet and more. At its heart sits the Digital Distribution Server, which incorporates an eight-zone commercial grade residential gateway and firewall, 120Gb storage space and four USB 2.0 expansion ports. Expandable thanks to its modular format, the main unit is expected to retail for around £2,200 with a control solution available for £320. Contact: +44 (0) 124 253 9100 www.multi-room.com CAMBRIDGE AUDIO AZUR 640H Launched at CES, Cambridge Audio's Azur 640H is a 160Gb music server, which incorporates a CD-burner and provides wireless connectivity to a PC, Mac or companion 640H. Based upon the audiophile-grade 640c CD-player, it can deliver exceptionally good CD playback as well as playing host to a maximum of 3,000 albums. Even more impressively, the 640H is available for only £500, a fact that's certain to make it a popular choice with consumers. Contact: www.cambridgeaudio.com OPUS 500 SERIES Opus' luxury multi-room entertainment system is a complete audio and video solution for residential properties. Requiring only a single run of cabling, a single system can be stretched to serve 24 main zones and 24 sub zones (each master control unit serves four main and sub zones) and is compatible with virtually every brand of source component, including hard disc servers. An intuitive control solution is also provided, with main zone keypads fitted with full LCD displays that display equipment status, RDS radio station names and volume amongst other things. Easily integrated with other 'smart' home systems, the 500 series also includes amplifiers and accessories. Contact: +44 (0) 845 090 2266 www.opus-technologies.co.uk LINN KNEKT KIVOR INDEX The Knekt KIVOR INDEX from Linn is a high-performance, pitch accurate music library, designed specifically for simpler multi-room applications. Capable of storing 2500-hours of uncompressed audio and of providing access to up to eight users simultaneously, it features the company's verstaile REKURSIV music management software and can interface with a Knekt system via LINNK or a third party control via RS232 and an Ethernet port. Whether finished in black or the pictured silver, the KIVOR INDEX has much to recommend it. Contact: +44 (0) 141 307 7777 www.linn.co.uk KALEIDESCAPE Launched in the UK last year, the Kaleidescape system is an entertainment server that will efficiently deliver highquality content around a home. Boasting sizeable hard drives with room for 180 DVDs (expandable to 3.3-terabytes – enough space to accommodate around 500 movies), the Kaleidescape server is complemented by the Kaleidescape Movie Player and DVD-reader, all three connected via a 100Base-TX switched Ethernet network. Together, the three form a user-friendly, high-performance and undoubtedly convenient way to enjoy visual entertainment. Contact: www.kaleidescape.com WHD DAM6000 DAM6000 is a multi-room audio distribution system from German manufacturers WHD. Employing a single, central stereo set, music is distributed in digital audio quality over a single run of CAT5 cable. Up to six sources can be connected to the central unit, which also connects to two 20W roomcontrol amplifiers, a set of stereo speakers and to one or more keypads. Impressively, 'audio-scene' pre-sets can be set-up, allowing a user to benefit from music from a certain source, at a certain level, in a certain room on demand, whilst a built-in timer gives a user even greater flexibility. Contact: 0 6172 / 2 663098 www.whd.de NAD NETCAP NETWORK RECEIVER A relatively new addition to Lenbrook's range of NAD products, the NetCap Network Receiver is an affordable (£349.95) device which allows music, images or movie files stored on a network PC to be accessed from around the home, turning a standalone computer into a home entertainment hub. Simply by connecting the NetCap to a standard AV receiver, such media can be decoded and formatted to play through a user's home cinema set-up and, with generated playlists and a handy remote control also featured, NAD have certainly come up with a worthy addition to the AV distribution market. Contact: +44 (0) 190 831 9360 www.nadelectronics.com ONKYO TX-NR5000E As Onkyo's flagship AV receiver, the TX-NR5000E is unsurprisingly an impressive design. Fully upgradeable (with a built-to-order option also available), the modular product boasts a pair of iLink digital inputs for bit-for-bit transfer and a high-quality audio/video HDMI interface for compatibility with the latest components. Ultra THX2-certified, the TXNR5000E also offers seven 200W channels and can be connected to a PC network via an Ethernet port, with the ability to access audio files and Internet radio thanks to the company's Net-tune client processor. With 11 clients simultaneously operable on one network, Onkyo can help provide an impressive multi-room audio system. Contact: +44 (0) 149 468 1515 www.onkyo.co.uk INVISION UK Invision specialise in awardwinning products for AV systems and the automated home, so bringing entertainment to every corner of a property is no doubt close to their hearts. Products such as the AudioReQuest hard disc server make this clear: capable of being hooked up to an Ethernet network, the server can be configured to serve up to six users simultaneously and proves a versatile option. The company also employ Netstreams products, components again aimed at consumers in search of whole-house audio. The DigiLinx range contains everything needed for a successful set-up, including the SpeakerLinx amplifier (which also acts as a network controller with integrated web server), the MediaLinx Legacy Audio Converter (which converts traditional audio sources to TCP/IP-based streams) and the PowerLinx, an intelligent power supply capable of supporting 21 amplifiers. And, with control solutions for the above also available, along with many more products, Invision UK are undoubtedly experts when it comes to AV distribution. Contact: +44 (0) 144 967 7233 www.invisionuk.com 25 INSTALLATION FOCUS The Future’s Light Intelligent lighting control is increasingly an integral part of the fully fledged home cinema system. KATIE BATES takes a closer look at some of the options available to the budding installer… There was a time when audio-visual systems were founded exclusively on audio and visual technology. In the dark days, there was sound and there was vision. Over time the two became successfully united together, raising the stakes in terms of performance, giving birth to the concept of a home cinema and the audio-visual industry. Whatever kit was worked into the system could, of course, be controlled from the comfortable confines of the user’s chair. However, human beings are naturally lazy and prize convenience… and soon this wasn’t enough. Why not take things to the next level and allow them control over much, much more? It could be deemed as nonsensical to have the power to hit play from a distance, but not lower the lights to an appropriate level, given the significance of the correct ambient light when chasing the perfect picture. It was in this context that smarter systems of control and automation for the home emerged... and then there was light. Ever since we launched our sister publication, International Smarthouse, many years ago, the team here have had the opportunity to explore a whole host of stunning residential installations. The centrepiece of these has invariably been the home theatre. It has been this where the major investment has been made and all the stops have been pulled out to reward the lucky homeowner with the finest vision and sound quality to be found this side of an IMAX cinema. Whether decked out with a sizeable selection of the most sonorous speakers or discreetly decorated with the most stealthy in-wall options; whether boasting one of the latest DLP Every part of the home can benefit from lighting control projectors, a more substantial LCD option or a sparkling plasma, one element has remained consistent: the swanky touch-screen that has adorned the coffee table has afforded the user some degree of control over their lighting. Of course it hasn’t always been limited to this. Sometimes, it would be able to register automated control over curtains, a whole-house audio system and a whole lot more. While these elements differ, though, as a hardened reviewer you know that a simple touch of a button is likely to offer access to an array of lighting scenes, appropriate to every scenario, sociable or otherwise. More than this, hitting play should ensure lights are lowered to an appropriate level, ensuring the minimum of reflection on your screen and finest cinematic environment as the movie kicks in. This in itself can be the tip of the iceberg and, as many of you will know, these days it is even possible to have systems of lighting control which, in conjunction with the relevant sensors, will be able to light a path guiding the homeowner around their house at night automatically. Meanwhile, many will have the capacity to remember an average day’s use and run through this when the owner is away, providing the appearance of a lived in house for security reasons. So, revelation though it was in its day, there is far more to lighting control in the 21st century than the old dimmer switch and in the era of integration, distinguishing between this and home cinema is becoming increasingly unnecessary. grafik design One of the biggest names in lighting control is Lutron. With the company’s kit gracing homes and businesses around the world, from Buckingham Palace to Grand Central Station, the firm has been an innovative force in this area, since the development of the first dimmer switch many moons ago. There are few names we come across more regularly when charting the installation world and, fittingly, Lutron offer a myriad of solutions catering for many different needs. Their Telume switch, for example, might look like a regular dimmer, but it is equipped with an infrared sensor offering users one of the simplest routes to lighting control about. Whilst whole-house installations might remain the most desirable, many customers simply don’t have the necessary wedge for one of these, but still seek a single room solution to bolster the performance of their cinema system. In such a scenario Lutron's GRAFIK Integrale system – designed to offer one touch control over all the lights in a solitary room – can be ideal. This offers four preset lighting scenes accessible from the control faceplate and an additional 12 stored in the control unit. As the lighting market has developed and become more competitive Lutron have always sought to expand and diversify to stay ahead of the game. One manifestation of this has been the Sivoia QED (Quiet Electronic Device) product line, which offers near-silent, automated control of a set of blinds at the push of a button. This can operate independently or integrated with a HomeWorks or GRAFIK Eye control system. To give them more credence in 26 an RS232 to RS485 optically isolated driver and runs Futronix PFX v807 programming and control software for whole-house lighting systems. This set-up also has an added advantage in that up to 100 extra scenes can be programmed and exchanged between systems, with full-function timer operation and the astronomical time clock giving perfect sunrise/sunset control. This particular project is effective in highlighting the benefits Futronix can bring to the modern home. Not only were they able to bring intelligent lighting, but their system also allows for the remote control of the blinds in the master bedroom and successfully incorporates non-standard lighting features, including low-energy lighting in cupboards. Even the bathroom isn’t beyond its reaches, with the extractor fans tied into the system. Of course all this might make it sound thoroughly complicated and put some of you off installing it. It should, therefore, be noted that the contractors who carried out the electrical and data cable installation were not previously familiar with Futronix systems. However, thanks to the technical information and assistance from the company as well as the relative ease of installation, they have subsequently been specifying and installing Futronix systems in many of their other projects! the road to Helvar Let there be i-Light... the style stakes they have also collaborated with ultra chic brand Bang & Olufsen. As a result the Danes’ finest AV kit can link seamlessly together with the HomeWorks and GRAFIK Eye systems, putting everything under control of a B&O remote. The HomeWorks system is a particularly flexible one, of a modular structure. Should a client seek a more expansive solution for their home, a series of connected dimmers and keypads can be added in whichever room they are required. These will work in conjunction with a discreetly located central unit to afford the end user the most amenable control wherever they desire it. With a potential of 256 zones, internal memory and an astronomic clock nothing will prove too much for this option – in fact it can even mimic a daily pattern of light use, for security reasons, when the owners are away. Never mind simply embellishing that home cinema with the right light to aid the perfect vision; these days you can offer your client that much more. in the money When it comes to complete, whole-house lighting solutions another firm pervading the consciousness of the informed installer these days is Futronix. If it’s good enough for a Russian billionaire, then its credentials are difficult for anyone else to question… and that’s exactly what this system proved for one particularly affluent Eastern European who stumbled across the company’s London showroom. The client was after a system able to cater for an entire, remodelled, multi-storey home and Futronix’s PFX system proved able to do exactly that. The project consultants were able to provide a full plan for the entire property, identifying the requirements for, amongst other things, a dedicated Home Cinema projection room and several distinctive architectural features. The latter included up-lit glass treads in the main staircase, which needed to be incorporated into pre-programmed scenes, with non-lighting elements such as curtains and bathroommirror demisters also controlled by the same system. The final project required the use of some 140 circuits and 30 switch plates, whilst the owner had also requested full-system control from a personal computer with a colour touch-screen – the vital element when it comes to convenient control. The resultant system comprised 10 Futronix PFX16 control panels, linked together by an RS485 network to the home's computer room. There is an independent but linked Futronix system for each of the property's five floors, with an SP4 infra-red controlled plate installed in every room offering the user an impressive 20 programmed scenes and the fullest remote control. Thanks to the all-digital nature of these lighting controls, the fading between scenes makes the transition between one and the next smooth and natural. Centralised computer control for the entire lighting system was achieved via a dedicated network linking the second-floor computer room and all PFX panels. The computer itself is connected to a touch-screen via One of the biggest events in Europe for installers seeking to learn more about the options available to them is the ISE show and, back in January, over in Amsterdam at the RAI, I-Light were certainly catching the eye. Their stand was just around the corner from ours and this afforded me an excellent opportunity to take a closer look at what they have to offer. This included the firm’s Zen Range of mood lighting, which can be deployed in either a single room or a whole-house environment. The modular Zen system is hooked up using that old installer’s friend, CAT-5 cabling, and can be expanded to create systems with up to 248 circuits with 100 devices. Each individual dimmer in the Zen system boasts an integral time clock, an LCD display to further ease operation and allows the user to summon up any of 32 different lighting scenes at the touch of the button. But what of the AV technology? Well, thanks to its Audio Visual Gateway, the Zen lighting system can be linked effectively up to a home cinema system and will make so much more of that room Speak to custom installer Smart House Solutions and – on the basis of a contemporary Essex-based installation they enacted - they have another preference when it comes to lighting control. In the abode we were introduced to it was Helvar's DIGIDIM ä lighting control system that assumed this pivotal role alongside the Opus multi-room system, a Pioneer plasma and some of Artcoustic’s sleekest speakers. “Lighting control is an essential element in any home cinema installation,” explained Simon Ball, MD of Smart House Solutions. “The whole movie experience can be spoilt by poor lighting. We decided to install Helvar's DIGIDIM ä as it is the ideal system for this type of application: easy to install, simple to use and versatile in application. In addition, the simplicity of programming the lighting scenes ensures that the perfect lighting scene is just the touch-of- a-button away!” The system puts the user in control courtesy of the hand-held, infrared remote control. A variety of wall plates are also available, but regardless of how they chose to harness their system, those benefiting from Helvarpowered lighting will be privy to the convenience afforded by a number of pre-set lighting scenes available. As a versatile option it will cater for a variety of needs and is already proving popular both with installers and their clients. For the former it proves a veritable breeze to slip in as the DALI Assume control with Helvar 27 INSTALLATION FOCUS (Digital Addressable Lighting Interface) communication protocol only requires a free topology, polarity free, two-wire control bus (using standard electrical installation cable) that can be installed alongside the 240V wiring - or in a separate conduit according to convenience. Wiring and configuration is designed to be kept to a minimum, yet the system allows fully independent control of up to 63 DIGIDIM devices on a single lighting circuit, making it more than sufficient for almost any residential need. Of course, as technology advances wiring itself isn’t always necessary and a wireless solution can cut the costs significantly for the client and make the installation unusually straightforward for the installer. We might not be quite there yet, but Rako Controls – who were also present at the ISE show – are getting close. Yes, rather than cause the level of upheaval we associate with the re-wiring necessary in the installation of the most complex lighting systems, their relatively simple lighting control options offer a host of creative dimming options and wireless control, without any need to replace conventional circuitry. Sufficiently sophisticated for many residential projects, they can be installed quickly and without fuss. Rako negate the use of control wiring by employing coded FM radio signals. As a result, push button controls can be mounted anywhere without the need for expensive or disruptive building work. An impressive range of accessories is available, allowing these to interface effectively with an audio-visual or auxiliary system. With the usual array of scenes available, capable of smoothly and seamlessly changing on the client’s whim, this great value system is an excellent one for any installer to have in their arsenal. answers from Crestron The name Crestron and custom installation are almost synonymous with one another these days and no firm has done more to further the advancement of the intelligent control industry than the boys in blue, who are nearly always at any show even remotely relevant to CI. Although best renowned for their swanky touch-screens and systems of control, it is Crestron’s ambition to offer what they term the Total Home Solution that seems to drive them in the residential market these days. Lighting is, of course, a fundamental element of this and therefore it was little surprise to see them dip into this area once more last year, with the release of an entire line of lighting control modules, dimmers and switches. Launched at the Lightfair International 2004, these were termed the LightSource. Described by its manufacturer as “the industry's most comprehensive lighting control and automation solution,” it encompasses five automation enclosures, seven module options and remote room dimmer and switch options. As a Crestron product, it seamlessly interfaces with all 25 of the company’s user interfaces - often deployed to harness other systems of lighting control and, of course, AV kit. At the heart of the system is the PAC2 control processor, which links touch-panels, keypads, remotes and the web to the lighting and climate control modules located in the Crestron home Intelligent lighting has become an important part of the modern home automation enclosure. In addition to controlling the lighting system throughout the home, the PAC2 enables the homeowner to seamlessly integrate other systems such as HVAC and security. The system is bolstered by the addition of the thoroughly proficient D3 Pro software: Crestron's comprehensive lighting, HVAC and security software suite. This is an amenable Design and Development tool for the system integrator and provides the necessary documentation for a successful installation, making your life on the job easier. Crestron’s increasing involvement in light control has been welcomed in many quarters as it negates many of the difficulties associated with hooking one control system up to another lighting system, a separate AV system and potentially alien HVAC or security systems. As their drive towards offering everything under one umbrella continues, it will be interesting to see the implications this has for existing lighting specialists and how they react to it. It will also be fascinating to see what the uptake is like amongst installers, given the array of prospective benefits it will offer them. The lighting systems that we have explored here are just the tip of the iceberg in a diverse and dynamic market riddled with great solutions that can make all the difference for the customers. As an installer, picking the right one remains tough with such an abundance of choices, but invariably it will be your job to specify a system on Rako’s behalf of your clients. Regardless of innovative accessories which you favour, or why you favour it, that they are becoming a necessary inclusion in a home cinema installation can no longer be questioned. Not simply about convenience, attaining that level of light, where the contrast of the picture is maximised, external reflection is minimised, but the popcorn is remains visible, can be a tough business. Fortunately we are not short of people offering a helping hand. That swanky touch-screen that Crestron, AMX or another supplier has become so much more than a universal remote. A couple of finger movements and not only will it offer direct control over – potentially – an entire DVD collection, your projector, the accompanying electric screen and an entire surround sound set-up. It could also allow you to turn the bedroom light off, illuminate the exterior of the house or even run the bath, pop the kettle on and order some beers in from Tesco. The lighting, however, has to be considered the next most essential element in line after the AV control and it is to this end that the market has grown. As these systems continue to evolve and offer a more chic look as we’ve seen with Lutron, the more convenient and cheaper installation offered by Rako, or the most natural integration – as characterised in this instance by Crestron – their proliferation will only increase. Keep an eye on the world of lighting control – it might not be long before we’re all privy to the benefits it affords. FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: See the light, with Futronix... 28 Lutron: +44 (0) 20 7702 0657 www.lutron.com Futronix: +44 (0) 188 337 3333 www.dimmer.co.uk i-Light: +44 (0) 189 287 0072 www.ilight.co.uk/home Rako Controls: +44 (0) 870 043 3905 www.rakocontrols.com Crestron: +44 (0) 20 8439 7272 www.crestron.com COMMERCIAL INSTALL Merging Forces With our working world in constant flux, SAM FULLER takes a closer look at installation and market change… Artcoustic’s art like speakers grace the Carpe Diem bar bar in Plymouth. Here, custom installation specialists Archangel specified the famously discreet speakers of Danish company Artcoustic, which have made it into many a cutting-edge home-based project. The owners contacted ACIS as they were looking for an unobtrusive system to provide great sound, yet harmonise with their décor. Plumping for Artcoustic's products was only natural as the firm’s goal has always been to combine attractive aesthetics and sound quality, without making sacrifices to either. Inside their slender low-resonance cabinets the tech savvy would find handbuilt crossovers and high-quality, dynamic drivers amongst other things. The range is available in an astonishing number of finishes and Artcoustic boast an extensive library of digital prints and a huge collection of designer fabrics from which clients make a selection. Often, as in this installation, the final speakers simply look like attractive art adorning the wall for purely aesthetic purposes. The Carpe Diem install also incorporates a 42-inch Panasonic plasma screen, mounted alongside a QED room link system that allows the viewing and control of Sky TV, a five-disc CD-player and an I-Book G4 laptop, with a custom music library created specifically for the bar. Cutting-edge installations are everywhere and the more often they are found, the more familiar potential clients will become with them… and the more au fait they become with the convenience and aesthetic boons they offer, the more likely they will be to demand these things in their own home. taking control That there is a growing synergy between the conventional AV and the custom installation markets is difficult to question. As the residential, automation-encompassing market continues to grow, manufacturers with a history in audio and the conventional audio-visual arena are also cutting their teeth in this arena. Companies with a significant history and credentials in the two-channel market – like, for example, Monitor Audio – are now producing some of the most innovative in-wall and in-ceiling speakers about, perfect for bringing the most discreet of sounds to areas of the home previously not privy to exceptional musical relay. This means the Monitors, Polks and Jamos of the world are now going head to head with firms like Opus and Elan, who also make speakers specifically directed at the installation end of the spectrum. An LCD-TV meanwhile, from a Sharp or a Sony, will sit as comfortably on the shelves of an independent electrical retailer as it will on a particularly functional mount in the kitchen, once a custom installer has hooked it up to an intelligent video distributing network… Manufacturers are diversifying, many products are universally applicable and the popular vision of what people demand from their home entertainment is changing. All of this makes it an interesting time to be around. With the development of the installation sector, it also means we have to broaden our gaze to stay ahead of the game. As many installers and manufacturers of automation and intelligent distribution systems will tell you, much of their business was born out of work in the commercial sector. After all, only five or six years ago there was no residential market to speak of, yet in this half decade it has emerged from nowhere and now, for example, for a big player like Crestron – with roots in the commercial sector - it accounts for half of their business. It was the affluent business people; the men and women who witnessed the convenience automation technologies could bring to the corporate sphere, who inadvertently gave birth to the residential sector. While much of the technology used in both areas is universally applicable, gradually the increasing home-based demand has affected the marketplace. Installers with an eye for the different demands of the homeowner have come to specialise in this area, whilst manufacturers have learned to develop products that are intuitive and aesthetically chic enough for the most cackhanded and house proud consumers. In spite of this, however, a huge degree of crossover between the commercial and residential arena remains. After all, last year Crestron released some of the hottest touch-screens available to residential installers at Infocomm – traditionally a commercial installation event. And Integrated Systems have, along with CEDIA and their equivalent partners, successfully united these markets under one roof with their recent shows. While aesthetics and convenience can lead to a smart installation in the corporate sphere, sometimes there is far more to it than that. Take the use of some Bayer Dynamic MSC wired conference units and a Crestron TPS 6000 touch-screen installed as part of a 40-delegate conference system at Crawly council in Sussex. Undertaken by Advanced Digital Solutions (ADS), the results of this operation afford the chairman complete control of discussions in the chamber as he is able to simply activate their microphone, if they request this, by pressing an appropriate button. Such installations help to highlight the dynamism and flexibility of the products in use and help to bring the names, products and interfaces involved closer to the public’s consciousness. Another similar example of an installation was undertaken in the Centre for Developing Regions in Brussels. In this system AMX’s renowned Modero touch-screens were deployed to afford speakers control of an array of facilities to aid their presentation as well as offering automated environmental control and clever communication links with other rooms. The smoothly styled, 7.5inch screens might seem simple enough to navigate, but with full control over six cameras, translation systems, recording equipment and much more easily accessible from them this system – which had AMX’s Netlinx NI-4000 at its heart – the versatility and powers of these components becomes very clear. With this in mind, of course, levying control over a home theatre, lighting, multi-room audio and even climatic control seems eminently achievable. These are just two examples of automation spreading through society, and projects such as this are found far further afield than the board room and the houses of those that grace it. Even more progressive educational establishments and places of worship have started to embrace it. Such projects can prove enlightening in helping us to understand the full potential of the kit which we are dealing with, as well as educative for the general public who are more likely to encounter them and become familiar with the benefits modern day technology can offer. They can also, when it comes to projects like that at the Carpe Diem bar, afford installers the chance to diversify and bring their abilities to the wider world. Perhaps the worlds of AV, residential and commercial installation aren’t actually as distinct as some would have you believe… Taking control in Brussels with AMX across the bar In this kind of environment, it is important that we don’t lose sight of developments in the commercial sector, which is why we keep our beady eye on this side of affairs too. A recent example of an installation to catch our eye that represents much of what has been said occurred in the Carpe Diem 29 > SOUND & VISION INSTALLER PRODUCTS What’s New? Installer COMPILED BY TOBY WATSON DARING TO BE DIFFERENT How do you differentiate yourselves from the myriad of other distributors in the CI marketplace? That was the challenge that the Multi-Room Company had to address when the company was formed five years ago. The answer seemed simple enough - choose high-quality products, with the right mix of technology and usability, but importantly choose the right people to deal with. Not the easiest of tasks, so plenty of time and effort was invested into searching out products and companies that would meet those criteria. It didn't take long to identify Russound as a key target - a company with 38-years of experience in the installation arena, with an unprecedented reputation for reliability, honesty, and support. Russound's model has informed and inspired the development and importantly the culture at the Multi-Room Company, a fact that has been recognised by Russound who awarded the Multi-Room Company their coveted Distributor of the Year award in 2004. Multi-Room committed to understand every one of Russound's products, even sending key staff over to the States to spend time actually working with their installers and developers so that they could see the products in action; and to understand the practical issues involved with planning, specifying and installing the products. After all, if you are going to be taken seriously by your customers you need to be able to teach and advise from real experience. Russound, having recently acquired the patent covering Powered Volume Controls, are very excited that they now have the freedom to innovate as well as expand this marketplace with the introduction of the brand new R-MEGA high-performance powered volume control technology. This new product launch reinforces the fact that the MultiRoom Company are here to help support and build their client’s businesses as its introduction to market is being backed by a programme of full training - in fact two days out of every week are being devoted to customer training; given free of charge to the company’s customers who include electricians, installers and retailers. The training offered by the company is not just focused on dry product training, as the management team has years of experience in construction, electronic engineering and importantly sales & installation - so they have solutions and ideas that can really make a difference to their customers’ businesses - from tips to building regs right through to audiophile system tweaks! As a team they understand that all of their classroom support and theory can amount to nothing when an installer is faced with the real world problems and snags, that is where their support on the job makes such a difference. After all it was how they were trained. Russound’s R.NET enabled CAV6.6 AV controller 30 Multi-Rooms’ product portfolio offers solutions for any installer or retailer: Russound manufacture award winning multi-room audio & video products, their proprietary RNET enabled products are the most complete integrated multi-room systems currently on the market. Atlantic Technology have been manufacturing high-quality Home Cinema speakers for nigh on a decade and a half, they are now the biggest THX licensee in North America, their new Home Cinema Electronics, and custom installation speakers, are proving to be a real hit. CentraLite Systems, from Mobile Alabama in the USA, make a range of incredible lighting and control systems, the new CL24 and CL48 offer incredible value for money for either 24 or 48 circuits at a cost substantially below that of any other comparable automated lighting control system - period! HAI, or Home Automation Inc., produce a range of automation controllers and peripherals that deliver sophisticated levels of integration for both home and commercial applications, including HAI Home Control for Windows Media Center. Leviton, one of America's largest privately owned companies, have been making class leading networking products for years, which range from plugs & sockets, punch down panels and wiring cans to the new LE&APs multi-media server that was given it’s world consumer debut at this year’s Bristol show. Leviton currently enjoy over 40% of the new build market and 60% of the total structured wiring market in the USA. In short, Multi-Room offer a range of high-performance products, from excellent companies and most importantly offer high-quality training and support. If you don't deal with the Multi-Room company yet, you owe it to yourself to give them a call; we've seen some genuinely innovative and problem solving products, and a great team. Believe them when they say that the Multi-Room Company delivers... For further information contact: +44 (0) 124 253 9100 info@multi-room.com. Leviton’s Digital Distribution Center WHAT’S NEW A GREY DAY Beamax’s innovation is continual and this month, as a result of extensive research and development, they are set to bring a new revelation to the fore in the form of their High Contrast Fabric. The ingenious fabric actually increases the perceived deepness of the black projected on the screen and ensures images are seen more easily in high ambient light conditions. The High Contrast Fabric will be available in the M, M-silver, A and A-Velvet screen series. Price range from £285 to £939 depending on the size and model. While modern projectors have the power to create a very bright image, the quality of a movie is often determined by the contrast. Beamax’s new screens, made from grey fabric, strengthen the perceived black. They also make it easier to see the projected image in well lit conditions viewing making the theatre you install more versatile. The High Contrast Fabric boasting screens will prove particularly effective when used alongside entry level projectors, discernibly improving their contrast levels. For further information contact: +44 (0) 800 917 5943 www.beamaxed.co.uk A TEXT MESSAGE The highly regarded OPUS 500 Series Multi-Room Entertainment System keeps on growing, most recently with the launch of the TXT500 Text Interface Unit. This low-cost device for the OPUS 500 Series Multi-Room Entertainment System delivers album, artist and track information to the OPUS WCU500 Wall Control Keypad from virtually any Sony CD multi-disc player or XIVA-based hard disc server. The hard-disc servers which use XIVA protocol can be fully integrated into the OPUS 500 Series Multi-Room Entertainment System and their text information displayed on the WCU500 Wall Control Keypad. Currently this includes units from a diverse list of companies including Marantz, Imerge and Elan. Additionally, the TXT500 features USB and RS232 ports, which will allow the TXT500 to benefit from software upgrades in the future. Its encompassed software application creates a link to an online music database from which artist, album and track information can be downloaded and edited, allowing users to scroll through an expansive library of music on screen, in the most convenient of manners. The TXT500 is available now for a very reasonable £170 and adds a whole new element to this already thoroughly proficient multi-room system. For further information contact: +44 (0) 845 128 3952 www.opus-technologies.co.uk 31 > SOUND & VISION INSTALLER INDUSTRY Installer Industry COMPILED BY TOBY WATSON Beyerdynamic have been announced as the soul UK distributor of Blue Sky speakers. For further information contact +44 (0) 144 425 8258 www.beyerdynamic.co.uk BREAKING INTO CHINA Things are looking good for Integrated Systems as their show hits China this month, following a successful debut in May 2004. Jointly organised by the same three US-based associations behind its familiar European sister show, it boasts offerings from 100 international and local brands, including AMX, Analog Way, Barco, Bosch, Christie Digital, Clarity Visual Systems, Crestron, Da-lite, dnp, Epson, Frank Smart Home, Grandview, Infocus, Jamo, Jupiter Systems, Genelec, Panasonic, Mitsubishi, GQY, projectiondesign, Sanyo, SpeakerCraft, Stewart Filmscreen, Synelec, Toshiba, TV One, Vega, Vtron, WolfVision and many more. According to IS China's Project Director, Mr Trevor Soh, “This year’s showcase will feature an expanded exhibition and education profile with a comprehensive mix of technologies and solutions for both the commercial and residential sectors.” A Residential Home Theatre & Technology Pavilion has been added, showcasing the latest in Home Theatre and Integration technology, whilst over 30% of the exhibiting companies will be launching new products at the showcase. Chief Representative of Genelec, Mr Jouni Maaranto hopes that the Residential focus will help to build this market in China: “As the leader of enhanced home theatre industry, Genelec is confident of China's market prospects. We hope we can bring the China home theatre system market to greater heights with our participation in IS China 2005.” The exhibitors certainly have great expectations for the show. “The exponential growth of the Chinese market calls for more advanced AV 32 technology to support its development,” explained Epson China's Sales Engineering Manager, Mr Zhou Tao. “Total projector sales in China for the next five years are projected to sustain a double-digit growth. As one of the world's major projector manufacturers and supplier of the core projector technology, we would like to thank IS China for providing us with such an effective platform to help us communicate with potential customers, manufacturers and media from the industry.” No major show with automation inclinations can be complete without Crestron and their District Manager, Mr Bruce Xiong, explained how the firm will exhibit newly designed touch-screen and software technology in China. “We will also,” he continued, “present other sophisticated commercial and residential integration devices which will interest the industry professionals. In line with the rapid development of the China's integration devices market for both the commercial and residential sectors, this will be an avenue for more business opportunities.” The event will be complemented by a series of professional seminars on AV technologies and products during the exhibition period. This will include 15 technical sessions for professionals to learn about audio-visual and systems technology development in both the commercial and residential sector. The event will be held at Shanghai Everbright Convention and Exhibition Center, from the 27th to 29th April. We will report on how it fares next month. For further information contact: www.is-china.com ARMOUR EXPAND The recently renamed Armour Home Electronics is pleased to announce that it has reached an agreement with NAD (Lenbrook UK) that will enable Armour to offer selected NAD products to its Systemline Modular Approved Installers. Glenn McClelland, Armour Home Electronics’ Managing Director, stated, ”We have evaluated a large number of products over recent months and have concluded that selected NAD models are a superb match for our Systemline Modular multi-room products.” He continued, “We are therefore delighted that NAD has agreed to allow us to offer six selected NAD models to our Systemline Modular Installers. They are the perfect source components for typical 'Modular' multi-room installations.” Neil Wilson, Managing Director at Lenbrook UK, said “This is an excellent opportunity for both companies. NAD electronics have become increasingly ‘multi-room friendly’ with each revision and we are pleased that these advances have been recognised by an industry leader such as Armour, who are ideally positioned to bring these products to this very specialised market.” The following NAD models will be available from Armour Home Electronics from early April 2005: the C162 Pre-amplifier (£429.95), C422 Tuner (£189.95), C542 CD-Player (£329.95), T562 DVD-Player (£399.95), T571 5-disc Multi DVD/CD-Player (£349.95) and T743 A/V Receiver (£399.95). This is an excellent addition to the Armour range and highlights the growing importance of the multi-room sector. For further information contact: +44 (0) 127 950 1111 www.armourhe.co.uk BACK TO SCHOOL The International Communications Industries Association (ICIA) is expanding its audio-visual design, education and certification programs in Europe with a series of Design Schools in 2005 and the first certification testing ever outside the US. Design School Level 3: Systems Design, which focuses on how to analyse, select and plan seamless equipment interoperation to deliver a desired outcome, was offered March 10th, 2005, immediately followed by CTS-Design (Certified Technology Specialist-Design) certification testing. RGB Communications hosted these important educational opportunities at their training facilities in Berkshire, UK, whilst key control systems providers AMX sponsored the event. ICIA's certification program is renowned among AV professionals as being a top notch option. ICIA has sponsored certification for the AV industry for more than 30 years at both general and specialised levels; indeed, there are currently 2,600 holders of ICIA certifications worldwide, illustrating a 45% increase since 2003-2004. ICIA were also proactive at the ISE show back in January, when students from around Europe attended the three-day Design School Level 1: The Principles of Applied AV Design. This allowed them to explore the principles of design for proper visual display systems, audio systems and control systems. This was hosted and supported by Extron Electronics in its Amersfoort, Netherlands, facility, where ICIA will hold the Design School Level 2: Facilities Design in September this year. Professionals from across Europe attended the first of these courses. Murray Clark from the UK noted that while the course was hard work, it “more than met my expectations and was very informative and well presented... I am looking forward to attending Level 2 in September.” Zeljko Cacinovic from Croatia commented that the course was useful and fun and helped him systematise his existing knowledge as well as fill in the gaps. “I learned a lot about sound,” he exclaimed, “but the greater benefit of those three days was getting the big picture of designing audio-visual systems.” As the AV industry continues to grow, the ICIA's international Industry Awareness Campaign has seen the association promoting the value of hiring qualified, certified professionals and companies… and thanks to these courses you can be one of the best of them. For further information contact: +44 (0)1732 771658 www.infocomm.org/education/certification Whole house automation Award winning products Generous installer margins Online training programme Full technical support Touchscreen or keypad control Reliable technology, realistic prices P +44 (0)151 236 1832 info@elansystemsuk.com www.elanhomesystems.com 33 > SOUND & VISION CEDIA SPEAKS The Expositionists! CEDIA’s Operations Director Wendy Griffiths offers the very latest update on the industry event of the year, other association activities and developments from within the membership. With CEDIA Expo now little more than eight weeks away, things certainly seem to be falling into place. The sun is shining, there is a spring in our step and Birmingham’s hotel booking hotlines are starting to feel the strain. Throughout the smarter end of the AV industry and amongst installers everywhere, talk is rife of what this year’s event will have in store and how it will live up to its predecessors – after all, the Expo seems to improve with every year. 2005 should be no exception and as CI continues to work its way into the public eye – in ways that we highlight below – the opportunity to push at the boundaries and bring it to the populace has never been as evident. Thus, while the new Smart Home Show should help to introduce the clients that drive our market to the idea of automation, attendance at the Expo remains imperative – for where else can we be educated, inspired and furnished with all the contacts we could need under one roof? WHAT'S ON THE BOX CEDIA members continue to market themselves very successfully both independently and as hugely important and welcome contributors to CEDIA's high-profile marketing campaign. On 20th April, Channel 4's popular Grand Designs will feature a project in Gloucester demonstrating the custom installation work of CEDIA member Beyond The Invisible. As a contrast to this main property, Kevin McLeod also visits another high-tech property - a luxury property equipped with all the electronics you could possibly wish for by CEDIA member Dawson's. This promises to be another high-profile showcase for custom electronic installation, with an estimated audience for the show in the region of five million. Also, in April, e-Life, the TV series that celebrates the role of technology in business innovation, began its new run on Tuesday nights on the CNBC Europe channel with a particular focus on the connected home. CEDIA and its members have worked closely with the show's production team to demonstrate how electronic technology is too good to be confined to the workplace by taking viewers inside some of the world's most sophisticated and intelligent connected homes. Each show will feature a 10minute segment on home electronic technology and custom installation, broadcasting their benefits to CNBC Europe viewers. Because the show is syndicated to satellite and terrestrial broadcasters in over 40 countries across Europe, the Middle East and Africa, not to mention travellers on 15 major airlines, an audience in excess of 100 million is expected to see the show. Make sure you tune in to see custom electronic technology in action when the show airs in the UK at 19.30. And, if you would like to get involved in the CEDIA PR campaign, then please contact me or our agency, Wildwood PR, where Jeff, John, Eleanor and the team will be delighted to hear from you: firstname@wildwoodpr.co.uk or telephone +44 (0) 140 389 2720. Keep in the know with CEDIA’s seminars... INTRODUCTION TO CUSTOM INSTALLATION COURSE As part of the extensive CEDIA Expo seminar programme, we have also arranged an extensive, two-day foundation course. The first day of theoretical training for this course actually takes place ahead of Expo on 24th May at the Hitchin Priory Hotel, Hitchin. Day two of this course puts the theory into practice with a hands-on, full day workshop at the CEDIA Expo, enabling delegates to grow in knowledge, confidence and skill. This course is ideal either as a forerunner to the Designer and Installer training and exams, as a refresher course on basic skills or as a quick start for newcomers entering into the custom installation industry. For more details and to book a place, please email expo@cedia.co.uk, call CEDIA on +44 (0)146 262 7377 or visit the CEDIA website www.cedia.co.uk. PRE-REGISTER NOW! You can now pre-register for both the seminars and the exhibition at this year's CEDIA Expo (27-30 June 2005), International Convention Centre, Birmingham. Delegate places on over 70 seminars, workshops and other training activities, which begin on Monday 27th June, can be pre-booked in advance with a bigger than ever early bird seminar booking discount. For those who simply wish to visit Expo, which opens a day later, then registration is free of charge until 15th May 2005. To see details of the range of courses on offer and to pre-register, you can use the booking form at the back of the CEDIA Expo Seminar Guide. For a copy please email expo@cedia.co.uk, call CEDIA on +44 (0)146 262 7377 or visit the CEDIA website www.cedia.co.uk. You can also pre-register for both seminars and Expo using the dedicated CEDIA Expo section of the website www.cedia.co.uk/expo2005. And remember, if you're looking for a bed for the night, then our accommodation partner for CEDIA Expo is Jigsaw Conferencing, who can be reached on +44 (0) 870 750 1532. The headquarters hotel will again be the Hyatt Regency in Birmingham. PUTTING CUSTOM INSTALLATION ON SHOW As well as looking forward to the forthcoming Expo in June, CEDIA is also working with exhibition organisers to spread the word about home electronic systems to a wider consumer audience. CEDIA, along with a number of designer / installer and manufacturer members, not only took stands at the inaugural Smart Home Show, which began on Thursday 14th April at the NEC in Birmingham, but were also heavily involved in contributing to the event's seminar programme. A full report on this event follows in the next issue of What’s New. At the Bathrooms & Kitchens Expo (10th-11th May 2005, Excel Centre, London), Steve Martin, CEDIA's Education Chair is speaking on A Smarter Place To Be: Technology To Enhance Your Kitchen and Bathroom. This seminar takes place on Tuesday 10th May at 15.00 Hrs. CEDIA is also supporting a dedicated home electronics technology section of Grand Designs Live! (10th-12th June, Excel Centre, London). Shell schemes within this section are available to all CEDIA members at an exclusive discounted rate. The event is expected to attract over 30,000 visitors, and is being promoted in association with The Times newspaper, Channel 4 and Heart FM. For more details on exhibiting at Grand Designs Live! please contact Mike Dynan on +44 (0)124 549 1717. More news on the industry's involvement with consumer exhibitions will follow in our next bulletin. 34 AWE at the Expo 2004 BUILDING SPECIFIERS GET THE MESSAGE CEDIA members continue to take a pro-active approach in marketing themselves to the increasingly influential building specifiers segment of the market. Two efforts have recently caught our attention. Guildford based One Touch Solutions held a three-day open seminar event in conjunction with leading UK smart home technology manufacturer Square D at their show room premises in March. Aimed at introducing 21st Century technology into today's homes, the event attracted architects, property developers and builders to smart home and home entertainment networking in new build properties. Also in March, Dorset-based CEDIA member Dawson’s held an open house week at its premises for property developers. The event proved so successful in giving them an insight into custom electronic technology that the week eventually turned into a fortnight! That's what I call popularity! AND FINALLY… A big thank you to our regional training event sponsors, AMX, Helvar, KEF and Lutron, for their support in the latest successful event, which took place in March at Hollins Hall Hotel in Shipley, West Yorkshire. A total of 44 delegates attended the event, which featured businessfocussed courses on subjects such as building a brand, goal-setting and how to exhibit effectively, as well as the CEDIA Foundation Course Making The Transition From Retail To Custom and the CPD course Designing Future Ready Homes. The board also provided delegates with an overview of recent CEDIA news and activities, which included the announcement that the likely destination for the Autumn Regional Training Event and CEDIA AGM will be sunny Brighton! More details on the dates, venue and seminars on offer will follow in due course. SHORT CIRCUITS A brief wander around the smart end of our industry MANAGING SOLUTION DF Solutions have strengthened their senior management team with the appointment of one of the industry's most respected and well-known personalities - Jon Alway. Jon, 38, joins DF Solutions at an important time, with the impending launch of an exciting new product at the CEDIA Expo this June. Commenting on his appointment, Jon said “I am very excited to be working with a company that is at the forefront of custom audio and digital media technology, and I look forward to visiting my many acquaintances and communicating the power and flexibility DF Solutions' products can give them. The iDyl Multiroom Audio Server offers the installer so much more in areas such as easeof-installation, post-install support and day-to-day usage. Just how simple and intuitive a product platform DF Solutions provides has to be seen to be appreciated.” David Perry, the company principal, commented: “With over 15 years in the industry, I was very impressed with Jon's experience and knowledge.” Contact: www.digitalfuturesolutions.co.uk BLINDED BY THE SUN One particular project in Carshalton, Surrey has highlighted the benefits CI can bring, with its automated solar protection system of 25mm pleated blinds, which is controlled by solar sensors but also driven by solar power. Each houses includes south-facing two-storey, double-glazed, timber-framed conservatory to maximise solar gain and reduce the amount of artificial heating required in winter. In summer, meanwhile, the automated solar protection, designed by Burgess Fabric Engineering of Colchester, makes full use of control technology from blind automation experts Somfy. “This is an excellent example of smart home technology being used for the good of the environment,” John Burgess of BFE explained. Contact: www.somfy.co.uk LIFESTYLE CHOICES CEDIA has received another ruling in its favour from the Trademark Trial and Appeal Board in the action brought by Bose Corporation to cancel CEDIA’s trademark registrations in the term Electronic Lifestyles. The Board denied Bose’s motion for summary judgment and refused to consider Bose’s fraud claims against CEDIA as to the registrations. CEDIA had previously received a ruling that one of Bose’s claims was filed too late and that CEDIA's registration in the publications category could not be cancelled under the grounds that it would cause confusion in the marketplace, as initially filed by Bose. Contact: www.cedia.org 35 CONTACT BOOK •A Aanvil Audio Woodvale, Heath Road, Woolpit, Bury St Edmunds, IP30 9RU T: +44 (0) 135 924 0687 www.aanvilaudio.com Bishopstone Bucks, HP17 8SF T: +44 (0) 870 240 1162 F: +44 (0) 20 7691 7844 jason@aldoussystems.co.uk www.aldoussystems.co.uk Absolute Sounds Ltd 58 Durham Road, London, SW20 0TW T: +44 (0)20 8971 3909 Algar Distribution 25 Bay Tree Close, Newton Longville, Bucks, MK17 0DT T: +44 (0) 190 836 8021 F: +44 (0) 190 836 8024 M: +44 (0) 797 375 6158 enquiries@algar-distribution.com www.algar-distribution.com ACM Installations Ltd (South) Holed Stoned Barn Stisted Cottage Farm Bradwell, Essex,CM77 2DZ +44 (0) 870 242 3285 vince@acminstallations.com ACM Installations Ltd (North) 71 Westerngailes Way, Hull, E Yorks, HU8 9EQ T: +44 [0] 14 8237 7530 Aca-Apex Ltd Apex House 10 Ivinghoe Way Edesborugh Dunstable T: +44 (0) 152 522 0782 Acoustic Energy Ltd 16 Bridge Road, Cirencester, Glos, GL7 1NJ T: +44 (0) 128 565 4432 F: +44 (0) 128 565 4430 uksales@acoustic-energy.co.uk www.acoustic-energy.co.uk Acoustic Partnership, The Unit 8, Saltash Business Park, Forge Lane, Saltash, Cornwall, PL12 6LX T: +44 (0) 870 047 0047 F: +44 (0) 870 047 0048 info@revolveraudio.com Acoustic Solutions Ltd The Grand Union Buildings, 54 High Street, Weedon, Northants, NN7 4QD T: +44 (0) 132 734 2255 F: +44 (0) 132 734 2298 sales@acousticsolutions.co.uk www.acousticsolutions.co.uk Activ Distribution Unit 16 Plantagenet House Kingsclere Industrial Park Kingsclere, Hampshire RG20 4SW T: +44 (0) 163 529 1357 F: +44 (0) 163 529 1356 www:activdistribution.com email:mark.perfect@activdistribution.com AKAI Prima International Plc, Prima House, Premier Park, Oulton, Leeds, LS26 8ZA T: +44 (0) 113 251 1500 F: +44 (0) 113 251 1515 sales@akai.eu.com www.akai.eu.com Aldous Systems (Europe) Ltd The Chestnuts, 28 Allison Loudspeakers 470 Stanford Road, Daville, Kentucky 40422 , USA T: (859) 236-8298 F: (859) 236 7476 Alphason Designs Ltd Alphason House, Bolton Road, Atherton, Greater Manchester, M46 9AW T: +44 (0) 194 288 5600 F: +44 (0) 194 287 6955 sales@alphasondesigns.com www.alphasondesigns.com Alltrade Aerial & Satellite Ltd Unit 4, Sussex House, Business Park, 274 Old Shoreham Road, Hove, BN3 7EU T: +44 (0) 845 075 0751 F: +44 (0) 870 770 9151 AMX UK Ltd Auster Road, Clifton Moor, York, N. Yorks, YO30 4GD T: +44 (0) 190 434 3100 F: +44 (0) 190 434 3101 uksales@amxuk.co.uk www.amx.com Anatek Audio 19 Springfield Avenue, Telcombe Cliffs, Peacehaven, East Sussex, BN10 7AR T: +44 (0) 781 768 1402 www:anatek-audio.co.uk Anders+Kern UK Ltd Norderstedt House, James Carter Road, Mildenhall, Suffolk, IP28 7RQ T: +44 (0) 163 851 0900 F: +44 (0) 163 851 0901 sales@anders-kern.co.uk www.anders-kern.co.uk Ansar Audio Capacitors Ltd Units F & G, Cambrian Buildings, Coney Green, Oswestry, Shropshire, SY11 2JL T: +44 (0) 169 167 9191 F: +44 (0) 169 167 9191 ansar@dial.pipex.com Anthony Gallo Acoustics The Inox Building Caldwellside Lanark, Lanarkshire Scotland, ML11 7SR API (UK) Ltd 8 Marchmont Gate Boundary Way Hemel Hempstead Herts HP2 7BF T: +44 (0) 144 223 3853 F: +44 (0) 144 223 1860 Apollo Hi Fi Furniture Ltd Castle Works,High Street, Tipton,DY4 8HJ T: +44 (0) 121 520 5070 F: +44 (0) 121 522 2055 sales@apollohifi.co.uk www.apollohifi.co.uk Arcam Pembroke Avenue, Denny Ind. Centre, Waterbeach, Cambridge, CB5 9QR T: +44 (0) 122 320 3200 F: +44 (0) 122 386 3384 support@arcam.co.uk www.arcam.co.uk Artcoustic Loudspeakers Studio 6, Pickwick House, 20 Ebenezer Street, London, N1 7NP T: +44 [0] 20 7490 7202 F: +44 [0] 20 7490 0526 artcoustic@artcoustic.com www:artcoustic.com Art Loudspeakers 3 Duke Road,Troon Scotland, KA10 6QR T: +44 (0) 129 231 9416 F: +44 (0) 129 231 9416 info@loudspeaker-art.com www.loudspeaker-art.com Art Systems Limited Unit 10 - 12 Glaisdale Point Glaisdale Parkway Nottingham, NG8 4GP T: +44 (0) 115 9380 380 F: +44 (0) 115 9380 381 steve.kilroy@artsystems.ltd.uk www.artsystems.co.uk Ash Designs Ltd, Unit One, Kingsley Business Park, New Road, Kibworth, Leicestershire, LE8 0LE T: +44 (0)116 279 6601 F: +44 (0)116 279 6602 www:gamepod.co.uk Atacama Audio Winston Ave., Croft, Leicester, LE9 3GQ T: +44 (0) 145 528 3251 F: + 44 (0) 145 528 3908 post@atacama-audio.co.uk www.atacama-audio.co.uk ATC Loudspeaker Technology Ltd. Gypsy Lane, Aston Down, Stroud, Gloucs, GL6 8HR T: +44 (0) 128 576 0561 F: +44 (0) 128 576 0683 info@atc.gb.net www.atc.gb.net ATV 59 The Glade, Fetcham, Surrey, KT22 9TF T: +44 (0) 137 245 6921 Audio Atmosphere 29 Drake Avenue, Penkridge, Staffs, ST19 5UA stuart@audioatmosphere.com Audiofreaks 15 Link Way, Ham, Surrey, TW10 7QT T: +44 (0)20 8948 4153 F: +44 (0)20 8948 4250 AudioControl.co.uk 20 Folder Lane, Sprotbrough Doncaster, South Yorkshire DN5 7PB T: +44 (0)130 285 6330 F: +44(0)130 285 6330 info@audiocontrol.co.uk Audio Group (UK) Ltd Unit 3, Saltash Business Park, Saltash, Cornwall, PL12 6LX T: +44 (0) 175 284 8816 sales@audiogroupinternational.co.uk T: +44 (0)20 7940 2200 F: +44 (0)20 7940 2233 Audio Reference Unit 8, Enterprise Park, Slyfield Industrial Estate, Guildford, Surrey, GU1 1RB T: +44 (0) 125 270 2705 F: +44 (0) 148 330 1412 info@audioreference.co.uk www.audioreference.co.uk Audio Synthesis PO Box 50, Nottingham, NG9 1DZ T: +44 (0) 115 922 4138 F: +44 (0) 115 922 9701 salesinfo@audiosynthesis.co.uk www.audiosynthesis.co.uk AUDUSA & Co 4 Arundel Road, Kingston upon Thames, Surrey, KT1 3RZ T: +44 [0] 2082419826 F: +44 [0] 2082410999 sales@audusa.com Audio Note (UK) Ltd Unit C, Peacock Ind Est., Lyon Close, 125-127 Davigdor Rd, Hove, East Sussex, BN3 1SG T: +44 (0) 127 322 0511 F: +44 (0) 127 373 498 info@audionote.co.uk AVF Group Limited Hortonwood Industrial Estate, Telford, TF1 7YE T: +44 [0] 1952 678855 F: +44 [0] 1952 606205 sales@avf.co.uk www.avf.co.uk Audiosolutions Sales & Marketing 63, Love lane. Pontefract, West Yorkshire, WF8 4EG T: +44 (0) 197 779 8844 www.a-audiosolutions.co.uk sales@a audiosolutions.co.uk Avid Unit 52, 137 North Gate, Alconbury Airfield, Alconbury, Huntingdon, Cambridge, PE28 4WX T: +44 (0) 148 045 7300 F: +44 (0) 148 045 7057 info@avidhifi.co.uk www.avidhifi.co.uk Audio Technica Ltd Unit 2, Royal London Ind. Estate, Old Lane, Leeds, LS11 8AG T: +44 (0) 113 277 1441 F: +44 (0) 113 270 4836 Audio Visual World 59 Golders Green Road London NW11 8EL T: +44 (0) 208 455 3490 www.audiovisualworld.co.uk Audion International Limited Chez Reynaud, Le Haut Mont 17360, La Genetouze, France T: +33 546 043282 F: +33 546 043693 email: info@audion.co.uk Audiophile Club, The PO Box 6477, London, 13 4AY T: +44 (0)20 8882 2822 F: +44 (0)20 8372 3772 sales@audiophileclub.co.uk www.audiophileclub.co.uk Audiophile Base Sales & Marketing, Wood Lea Cottage, Church Road, Southborough Common, Kent, N4 0RT T: +44 (0) 189 261 9319 M: +44 (0) 771 576 3777 sales@audiophilebase.com www.audiophilebase.com Audio Partnership PLC Gallery Court, Hankey Place London, SE1 4BB AVM Ltd AVM House, Hawley Lane Farnborough GU14 8EH T: +44 (0) 125 251 0363 www.avmltd.co.uk sales@avmltd.co.uk AWE Europe Ltd B1 Longmead Business Centre, Longmead Business Park, Blenheim Road, Epsom, Surrey, KT19 9QQ T: +44 (0) 137 272 9777 F: +44 (0) 137 272 9757 av-sales@awe-europe.co.uk www.awe-europe.co.uk Azego Technology Services Limited Systems House, Loddon Centre, Wade Road, Basingstoke, RG24 8FL T: +44 (0) 125 681 1811 F: +44 (0) 125 681 1855 jon.alway@azego.com www.azego.co.uk •B BADA PO Box 330, Newton Abbott, TQ12 2ZR T: +44 (0) 870 126 9137 F: +44 (0) 870 126 9138 info@BADA.co.uk www.bada.co.uk Bandridge see BBG Distribution Ltd simon@active-sound.com www.active-sound.com info@cherished-recordcompany.co.uk Barco UK Ltd 50 Suttons Park Avenue, Reading, Berks, RG6 1AZ T: +44 (0) 118 929 0105 www.barco.com Bose Ltd 1 Ambley Green, Gillingham Business Park, Gillingham, Kent, ME8 0NJ T: +44 (0) 870 741 4500 F: +44 (0) 870 741 4545 Choice Hi-Fi 52 Milton Road, East Sheen, London, SW14 8JR T: +44 (0)20 8392 1959 F: +44 (0)20 8392 1994 info@choice-hifi.com BBG Distribution Ltd Unit 3 Barrett Way, Tudor Road, Harrow, Middlesex, HA3 5QS T: +44 (0)20 8863 9117 F: +44 (0)20 8863 7119 mail@bbgdistribution.co.uk www.bbg.eu.com Boston Acoustics Distribution (UK) Limited 16 Bridge Road, Cirencester Gloucestershire GL7 1NJ T: +44 (0) 128 565 0814 www.boston-acoustics.co.uk Beamax Bleekveldstraat 7 B 3900 Overpelt Belgium T: 0800-9175 943 F: 0800-9175 945 B.F.A. PO Box 365, Farnham, GU10 2BD T: +44 (0) 142 871 4616 F: +44 (0) 142 871 4616 chrisc@british-audio.org.uk info@british-audio.org.uk www.british-audio.org.uk B & W Loudspeakers UK Dale Road, Worthing, West Sussex, BN11 2BH T: +44 (0) 190 322 1500 F: +44 (0) 190 322 1501 Uksales@bwspeakers.com www.bwspeakers.com B-Tech International Ltd 4 Meridian Centre Vulcan Way, New Addington Croydon, CR0 9UG T: +44 (0) 168 984 8535 F: +44 (0) 168 984 1087 info@b-tech-int.com Bang & Olufsen UK Ltd 630 Wharfedale Road, Winnersh Triangle, Berkshire, RG41 5TP T: +44 (0) 118 969 2288 F: +44 (0) 118 969 3388 www.bang-olufsen.com Beyerdynamic (GB) Ltd 17 Albert Drive, Burgess Hill, Sussex, RH15 9TN T: +44 (0) 144 425 8258 F: +44 (0) 144 425 8444 sales@beyerdynamic.co.uk www.beyerdynamic.co.uk Black Rhodium 2 The Paddocks Ascot Business park Long Bridge lane, Derby, DE24 8ST T: +44 (0) 133 275 5766 F: +44 (0) 133 220 0698 enquiries@blackrhodium.co.uk Blok 65 Castle Street Saffron Walden CB10 1BD T: +44 (0) 179 951 6520 F: +44 (0) 179 951 6521 Brian Reeves (REVOX) 184 Finney Lane, Heald Green, Cheadle, Cheshire, SK8 3PU T: +44 (0) 161 499 2349 F: +44 (0) 161 499 9381 Brian-revox@freeuk.com www.revox.freeuk.com •C Calculus Software Solutions Ltd Branksome, Mill Hill,Edenbridge Kent, TN8 5DQ T: +44 (0) 845 125 9192 F: +44 (0) 173 286 5997 www.findesolutions.com rhw@findesolutions.com Canton Uxbridge House, 3 Wakefield Place, Gosport, PO12 2JT T: +44 (0) 239 250 1888 F: +44 (0) 239 250 1999 canton@standesign.co.uk www.canton.de Cartridge Man, The 88 Southbridge Road, Croydon, Surrey, CR0 1AF T /F: +44 (0)20 8688 6565 Castle Acoustics Ltd Shortbank Road, Skipton, N.Yorks, BD23 2TT T: +44 (0) 175 679 5333 F: +44 (0) 175 679 5335 CEDIA UK The Pixmore Centre, Pixmore Avenue, Letchworth, Herts, SG6 1JG T: +44 (0) 146 262 7377 F: +44 (0) 146 262 0429 sales@cedia.co.uk www.cedia.co.uk Celestion Consumer Division Tovil, Maidstone, Kent, ME15 6QP T: +44 (0) 162 268 7442 F: +44 (0) 162 268 7981 www.celestion.com Chapter Audio Ltd 42 Thornton Hill, Exeter, Devon, X4 4NS T: +44 (0) 139 268 6797 F: +44 (0) 139 267 6795 sales@chapteraudio.com www.chapteraudio.com Cherished Record Co PO Box 21, Liskeard, PL14 5YP T: +44 (0) 157 936 3603 F: +44 (0) 157 936 3604 Chord Company Ltd, The Chord Company House Units 21-24, The Millsway Centre, Amesbury, Salisbury Wiltshire, SP4 7RX Tel: +44 1980 625700 Fax: +44 1980 625070 chord@chord.co.uk www.chordelectronics.co.uk Chord Electronics Ltd The Pumphouse, Farleigh Bridge, Farleigh Lane, East Farleigh, Kent, ME16 9NB T: +44 (0) 162 272 1444 F: +44 (0) 162 272 1555 sales@chord.softnet.co.uk www.chordelectronics.co.uk CKS Entertainment Systems Ltd High View House, Charles Square, Bracknell, RG12 1DF T: +44 (0) 134 430 7788 F: +44 (0) 134 445 6710 cksgroup.co.uk/entertainment Clipsal Integrated Systems Braywick House East Windsor Road, Maidenhead Berkshire, SL6 1DN T: +44 (0) 162 850 8530 www:clipsal.co.uk Claritycap Industrial Capacitors (Wrexham) Ltd Miners Road, Llay Industrial Estate, Wrexham, LL12 OPJ T: +44 (0) 197 885 3805 F: +44 (0) 197 885 3785 sales@icwLtd.co.uk www.icwLtd.co.uk www.claritycap.co.uk Coles ElectroAcoustics Ltd Pindar Road, Hoddesdon, Herts, N11 OBZ T: +44 (0) 199 246 6685 F: +44 (0) 199 244 6583 sales@coleselectroacoustics.com www.coleselectracoustics.com Colourgen Ltd The AmBer Centre, Oldfield Road Maidenhead, Berks SL6 1TH tel: 01628 588777 fax: 01628 588716 E-mail: avsales@colourgen.com www.colourgen.com Comfort Home Controls 39 Cartlon Avenue Chester, CH4 8UE T: +44 (0) 124 468 0675 www:comfort.org.uk andrew@home-control.co.uk Convergent-AV Ltd 8 Fraser Drive, Blackwood, ML11 9YP T: +44 (0) 1555 890120 F: +44 (0) 1555 890120 info@convergent-av.co.uk www.convergent-av.co.uk CR Electronic Design Wansfell House, 33 Briar Close, Hawkwell, Hockley, Essex, SS5 4HD T: +44 (0) 170 220 0111 credaudio@uk2.net www.crdevelopments.com Crestron (UK) Ltd Neptune House,, 2 Portsmouth Road, Kingston Upon Thames, Surrey, KT1 2LU T: +44 (0)20 8439 7272 F: +44 (0) 20 8439 7273 info@crestron-ltd.co.uk www.crestron.com Crane Audio Enterprise House, Ocean Village Southampton, SO14 3XB T: +44 (0) 870 444 1056 sales@craneaudio.com 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 info@creekaudio.co.uk www.creekaudio.co.uk Cromwell Business Systems King's View House, 3 Bartholomew's Walk, Ely, Cambs, CB7 4EA T: +44 (0) 135 365 0900 F: +44 (0) 135 365 0930 C.S.E. Unit 9, Centre Park Holdings, The Airfield, Tockwith, York, YO26 7QF T: +44 (0) 142 335 9054 F: +44 (0) 142 335 9058 Custom Design (Newcastle) Furniture Manufacturer, Unit 11, Bath Street Ind. Est., Walker, Newcastle Upon Tyne, NE6 4PH T: +44 (0) 191 262 4646 F: +44 (0) 191 262 4646 cdncle@aol.com Custom Sight & Sound PO Box 4146 Epping, Essex CM16 6HJ T: +44 (0) 199 257 3030 F: +44 (0) 199 257 4030 mdc.hifi@virgin.net www.revox.de Cyrus Electronics Spitfire Close, Ermine Business Park, Huntingdon, Cambridgeshire PE29 6XY T: +44 (0) 148 043 5577 F: +44 (0) 148 043 7715 info@cyrusaudio.com •D D&T Electronics Unit 5 Woodfield House Woodfield Road, Altrincham Cheshire WA14 4ED T ++44(0)870 444 5929 F +44(0)870 444 5945 mark@dandt.co.uk www.dandt.co.uk dCS Ltd Mull House, Great Chesterford Court, Great Chesterford, CB10 1PF T: +44 (0) 179 953 1999 F: +44 (0) 179 953 1681 dfuller@dcsltd.co.uk wwwdcsltd.co.uk David Denyer PR Church House, Church Lane, Nursling, Hampshire, SO16 OYB t: +44 (0) 23 8073 6838 f: +44 (0) 23 8073 6839 m: +44 (0) 7976 646404 david.denyer@dial.pipex.com DBS AUDIO Sentinel House, Northgate Avenue, Bury St Edmunds, Suffolk, IP32 6BZ T: +44 (0) 128 472 3933 F: +44 (0) 128 472 3933 M: +44 (0) 777 618 8547 DBSaudio@AOL.COM Decibel Distribution Ltd 9 Darluith Park, Brookfield, Renfrewshire, PA5 8DD T /F: +44 (0) 150 532 1351 M: +44 (0) 797 652 8537 sales.decibel@virgin.net Deltron Components Ltd Roxburgh House, Foxhills Industrial Park, Scunthorpe, North Lincolnshire, DN15 8QJ T: +44 (0) 172 428 0120 F: +44 (0) 172 428 0353 Demion Products A/V Accessories, 17 Woodland Avenue, Wokingham, Berks, RG41 3HL T: +44 (0) 118 977 4085 F: +44 (0) 118 978 5507 www.demion.co.uk Denon UK Hayden House, Chiltern Hill, Chalfont St. Peter Bucks, SL9 9UG T: +44 (0) 123 474 1200 www.denon.co.uk Design e 9 Bellevue Lane, Emsworth, Hampshire, PO10 7PX T: +44 (0) 124 337 7899 info@Designe.freeserve.co.uk www.Designe.co.uk DF Solutions Digital Future Solutions 7 Somerton Grange, Coleraine, Co Londonderry, N Ireland, BT51 3GB T: +44 (0) 287 035 8894 www.digitalfuturesolutions.co.uk david.perry@digitalfuture solutions.co.uk CONTACT BOOK Dixons 200 The Campus, Maylands Avenue, Hemel Hempstead, Herts, HP2 7TG T: +44 (0) 144 235 3000 F: +44 (0) 144 223 3218 Dolby Laboratories Wootton Bassett, Wiltshire, SN4 8QJ T: +44 (0) 179 384 2100 F: +44 (0) 179 384 2101 info@dolby.co.uk www.dolby.com DRDB The Radio Centre, 77 Shaftsbury Avenue, London, W1D 5DU T: +44 (0)20 7306 2633 F: +44 (0)20 7470 0062 DTS Europe 5 Tavistock Estate, Ruscombe Lane, Twyford, Berks, RG10 9NJ T: +44 (0) 118 934 9199 F: +44 (0) 118 934 9198 dtsinfo@dtsonline.co.uk www.dtsonline.com Dynaudio UK PO Box 1010, Maidstone ME14 4WZ T: +44 (0) 207 378 1810 F: +44 (0) 870 112 3947 info@dynaudio.co.uk •E E.A.R./Yoshino Ltd. Coombe Grove Farm, Ermine Way, Arrington, Cambs, SG8 0AL T: +44 (0) 122 320 8877 F: +44 (0) 122 320 8761 earyoshino@aol.com www.ear-yoshino.com ECT Ltd Projection screen and accessories PO Box 4020, Pangbourne Berkshire, RG8 8TX T: +44 (0) 118 984 1141 F: +44 (0) 118 984 1847 adam@ect-av.com www.ect-av.com Elan Systems (UK) Ltd Unit 4, Pumpfields Road, Liverpool, L3 6BA T: +44 (0) 151 236 1832 F: +44 (0) 151 255 1194 info@elansystemsuk.com www.elanhomesystems.com Eltax UK The Old Granary, Sycamore Yard, Blakesley, Towcester, Northants, NN12 8QY T: +44 (0) 132 786 0789 F: +44 (0) 132 786 1058 office.uk@eltax.com www.eltax.com Eminence Speaker Europe Ltd Grantley Way, Wakefield, WF1 4PY T: +44 (0) 192 423 9999 Fax: +44 (0) 192 423 9988 email: info@eminencespeaker.com www.eminence-speaker.com Emotive Excellence 5a Market Street, Watton-under-Edge, Glos, GL12 7AE T: +44 (0) 145 384 3682 F: +44 (0) 145 384 3682 EPOS Acoustics 12 Avebury Court, Mark Road, Hemel Hempstead, Herts, HP2 7TA T: +44 (0) 144 226 0146 F: +44 (0) 144 224 3766 info@epos-acoustics.com www.epos-acoustics.com ESLab Ltd Penlands Vale, Steyning, West Sussex, BN44 3PL T: +44 (0) 190 381 4618 martin@controlq.co.uk www.eslab.co.uk ETHOS Acoustics Ltd 268A Kingshill Avenue, Hayes, Middx, UB4 8BY T: +44 (0)20 8842 0020 F: +44 (0)20 8842 0020 European Precision Moulding Ltd/Red Scorpion Industries Storefast Estate, Northend Park, Corner Road, Betsham, Kent, DA13 9LJ T: +44 (0) 147 483 4345 F: +44 (0) 147 483 4340 Excel Audio Systems Ltd. 39 Highfield Road, Acton, London, W3 0AJ T: +44 (0)20 8354 0820 F: +44 (0)20 8354 0834 sales@excelaudio.co.uk www.excelaudio.co.uk Expert Stylus & Cartridge Co PO Box 3, Ashtead, Surrey, KT21 2QD T: +44 (0) 137 227 6604 F: +44 (0) 137 227 6147 Exposure Electronics The Works, 59 North Street, Portslade, East Sussex, BN41 1DH T: +44 (0) 127 342 3877 F: +44 (0) 127 343 0619 •F Falcon Acoustics Ltd Unit 12, Damgate Industrial Estate, Acle, Norwich, Norfolk, NR13 3DJ T: +44 (0) 149 375 1100 F: +44 (0) 149 375 1155 sales@falcon-acoustics.co.uk www.falcon-acoustics.co.uk Ferguson Hill Studios 178 Royal College Street, Camden, London, NW1 0SP T: +44 [0] 207 284 0969 www:fergusonhill.co.uk info@fergusonhill.co.uk Finlux UK Finlux House, Caen View Rushy Platt, Swindon Wiltshire SN5 8WQ tel: 01793 870316 fax: 01793 870318 Focal-JM Lab UK Jesson House, Tower Street, Coventry, CV1 1JN T: +44 (0) 845-6602680 j.dahele@focal-jmlab.co.uk info@focal-jmlab.co.uk Fryer Sales & Marketing Ltd Unit 4, The Nelson Centre, Portfield Road, Portsmouth, PO3 5SF T: +44 (0) 239 269 0999 F: +44 (0) 239 269 0666 info@fryersales.com www.fryersales.com Fujitsu General (UK) Co Ltd Limited, Unit 150, Centennial Park, Centennial Avenue, Elstree, Herts, D6 3SG T: +44 (0)20 8731 3450 F: +44 (0)20 8731 3451 sales@fujitsu-general.co.uk www.fujitsu-general.co.uk Futronix Ltd. 143 Futronix House, Croydon, Caterham, Surrey, CR3 6PF T: +44 (0) 188 337 3333/3334 F: +44 (0) 188 337 3335/3336 sales@futronix.info 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 reception@futureglass.co.uk FX Furniture The old Vicarage, Church Lane, Clarbrorough, Northants, DN22 9NA T: +44 (0) 177 786 9809 F: +44 (0) 177 786 9041 craig@fx-furniture.com www.fx-furniture.com •G Games & Lifestyle Technology, Corporate A/V & Promotions Staffing, Level 4, 141-142 Fenchurch Street, London, EC3M 9B direct line T: +44 (0) 20 7877 3373 switchboard T: +44 (0) 20 7929 2999 philip@emailyourcv.com Garden Light & Audio Woodlea Cottage, Church Road, Southborough Common, Kent T: +44 (0) 189 261 9319 sales@glaa.co.uk www.glaa.co.uk Gecko Inc Ltd 18-24 Brighton Road, S. Croydon, Surrey, CR2 6AA T: +44 (0)20 8603 0480 F: +44 (0)20 8688 2491 info@gecko.uk.com Genco Systems Ltd Design & Installation 26-28 Queensway Enfield, Middlesex EN3 4SA T: +44 (0) 208 443 2820 F: +44 (0) 208 442 2847 E: sales@gencosystems.demon.co.uk Harvard Technology Group Unit C, Lombard Business Park 20-26 Purley Way, Croydon, Surrey, CR0 3JP T: +44 (0) 845 450 1480 F: +44 (0)20 8665 1333 W: www.gencosystems.demon.co.uk Henley Designs Ltd Unit 11, Moorbrook, Southmead Industrial Park, Didcot, Oxfordshire, OX11 7HP T: +44 (0) 123 551 1166 F: +44 (0) 123 551 1266 info@henleydesigns.co.uk www.henleydesigns.co.uk Glaive Ltd Unit 7 Wren Ind Estate, Coldred Road, Maidstone, ME15 9YT T /F: +44 (0) 162 266 4070 sales@glaive.co.uk sales@insert-audio.co.uk www.glaive.co.uk www.insert-audio.co.uk Glenfield Software 7 Eaton Court Colworth Business park St Neots PE19 8YH T: +44 (0) 148 040 7700 F: +44 (0) 148 047 3734 sales@glenfieldsoftware.com www.glenfieldsoftware.com Graff Electronic Machines Ltd Woodhill Road, Collingham, Newark, Nottinghamshire, NG23 7NR T: +44 (0) 163 689 3036 F: +44 (0) 163 689 3317 sales@graffelectronics.co.uk www.graffelectronics.co.uk G T Audio Cherry Hollow, Higher Denham, Bucks, UB9 5EJ T: +44 (0) 189 583 3099 F: +44 (0) 189 583 2594 gt.audio@tesco.net www.gtaudio.com •H Hadcock G.F.C. (Manufacturer) Langley House, 11 Highwood Road, Uttoxeter, Staffs, ST14 8BQ T: +44 (0) 188 956 9166 F: +44 (0) 188 956 9166 HAMA PVAC Ltd Unit 4, Cherrywood, Chineham Business Park, Basingstoke, Hants, RG24 8WF T: +44 (0) 125 637 4700 F: +44 (0) 125 637 4749 Harbeth Audio Limited 3 Enterprise Park, Lewes Road, Lindfield, West Sussex, RH16 2LH T: +44 (0) 144 448 4371 F: +44 (0) 144 448 7629 sound@harbeth.co.uk www.harbeth.co.uk Harman Consumer UK 6 Elstree Gate, Elstree Way, Borehamwood, Herts, WD6 1JD T: +44 (0)20 8731 4670 F: +44 (0)20 8731 4699 info.uk@harman.com www.harman.com www.harvardtechnologygroup.com Hitachi Europe Ltd Whitebrook Park Lower Cookham Road, Maidenhead Berkshire SL6 8YA T: +44 (0) 162 864 3000 F: +44 (0) 162 858 5000 www.hitachidigitalmedia.com •I If designs 143 Huddersfield Road Huddersfield, West Yorkshire HD8 8LB T: 01484 606 900 innovation@ifdesigns.co.uk 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 sales@ikonavs.com www.ikonavs.com iLight Limited Unit 4 Enterprise Centre Penshurst, Tonbridge, Kent TN11 8BG T: +44 (0) 189 287 0072 F: +44 (0) 189 287 0074 sales@ilight.co.uk www.ilightgroup.com Imerge Ltd Unit 6, Bar Hill Business Park, Saxon Way, Bar Hill, Cambridge, CB3 8SL T: +44 (0) 195 478 3600 F: +44 (0) 195 478 3601 info@imerge.co.uk www.imerge.co.uk Invision UK Ltd Field Wood House, Bacton Road, Haughley Green, Stowmarket, IP14 3RQ T:+ 44 [0] 144 967 7233 www:invisionuk.com info@invisionuk.com Iroquos PR 15 Ingestre Place, Soho, London, W1F 0JH T: +44 [0] 207 439 8537 Isoblue Ltd 25 Victoria Road,Draycott Derby, DE72 3PS T: 01332 875700 product@isoblue.com www:isoblue.com/products •J Jamo UK Unit 32, Greenlands Business Centre, Redditch, Worcs, B98 7HD T: +44 (0) 152 750 2502 www:jamo.com JVC UK Ltd JVC House, JVC Business Park, 12 Priestly Way, London, NW2 7BA www.jvc-europe.com T: +44 (0) 20 8450 3282 F: +44 (0) 20 8208 3038 •K KEF Audio (UK) Ltd Eccleston Road, Tovil, Maidstone, Kent, ME15 6QP T: +44 (0) 162 267 2261 F: +44 (0) 162 275 0653 www.kef.com Keene Electronics Ltd Unit 9 Old Hall Mills Business Park Little Eaton Derbyshire DE21 5DN +44 (0)870 990 9000 www.keene.co.uk Klegg Audio UK PO Box 34949, London SW8 5XN T: +44 (0) 870 075 5344 www.klegg.com KM Acoustics Unit 8 Torafen Business Centre Panteg Way, Pontypool NP4 0LS Konnectson UK Ltd Cirrus House, Glebe Road Huntingdon, Cambs PE29 7DL T: +44 (0) 148 043 4441 F: +44 (0) 148 043 3312 •L Lafayette Europe Ltd Contact House, Ditton Road Widnes, Cheshire, WA8 0TH T: +44 (0) 870 410 0415 F: +44 (0) 870 410 0413 www.lafayette-europe.com info@lafayette-europe.com Lamba Plc Unit 1, Southfields Road, Dunstable, Beds, LU6 3EJ T: +44 (0) 158 269 0600 F: +44 (0) 158 269 0400 sale@lamba.plc.com Lawton Trade Supplies 22 Willows Court, Sandwell Bus. Park, Crystal Drive, Smethwick, W. Midlands, B66 1RD T: +44 (0) 121 511 1128 F: +44 (0) 121 544 6877 mail@lawtontrade.co.uk Lektropacks (UK) Unit 6, Metro Industrial Centre, St Johns Road, Isleworth, Middx, TW7 6NL T: +44 (0)20 8847 2776 F: +44 (0)20 8560 8050 lektropacks@btinternet.com www.lektropacks.co.uk Lenbrook UK Ltd Unit 2, Old Wolverton Road, Old Wolverton, Milton Keynes, MK12 5NP T: +44 (0) 190 831 9360 F: +44 (0) 190 832 2752 info@lenbrook.co.uk www.lenbrook.co.uk L.G. Electronics UK Ltd 264 Bath Road, Slough,Berks, SL1 4DT T: +44 (0) 870 607 5544 F: +44 (0) 175 351 7445 Linn Products Ltd Floors Road, Waterfoot, Eaglesham, Glasgow, G76 0EP T: +44 (0) 141 307 7777 F: +44 (0) 141 644 4262 www.linn.co.uk Living Control Ashton House, Farnborough Hill, Orpington, Kent, BR6 6DA T: +44 (0) 168 986 1188 F: +44 (0) 168 985 9915 info@livingcontrol.com www.livingcontrol.com Living Voice 7 Harrington Mills, Leopold Street, Long Eaton, NG10 4QE T: +44 (0) 115 973 3222 shout@definitiveaudio.co.uk www.definitiveaudio.co.uk Lockwood Audio Unit 8, 724 Field End Road, Ruislip, Middx, HA4 0QP T: +44 (0)20 8864 8008 F: +44 (0)20 8864 3064 sales@lockwood-audio.co.uk www.lockwoodaudio.co.uk Loewe (Linn Products) PO Box 8465, Prestwick, KA7 2YF T: +44 (0) 129 247 1568 F: +44 (0) 129 247 1554 helplin@loewetv.co.uk www.loewe.de Lutron EA Ltd 6 Sovereign Court Wapping London E1 9HW T: +44 (0) 207 702 0657 F: +44 (0) 207 480 6899 gsimmonds@lutron.com www.lutron.com •M Mango Marketing Limited 1b The Quadrant Quadrant Way, Weybridge KT13 1VV T: +44 (0) 193 282 9077 F: +44 (0) 193 282 7576 Web: www.mangomarketing.com Mana Audio Ltd. (Manufacturer) Unit E, Amlwch Ind Estate, Amlwch, Anglesey, LL68 9BX. T: +44 (0) 140 783 0530 F: +44 (0) 140 783 0535 post@mana.co.uk http://mana.co.uk Marantz Hi-Fi UK Ltd Kingsbridge House, Padbury Oaks, 575-583 Bath Road, Longford, Middx, UB7 0EH T: +44 (0) 175 368 0868 F: +44 (0) 175 368 0428 Martek (UK) Ltd Unit 1 Shepherds Grove Estate West, Stanton, Suffolk, IP31 2AR T: +44 (0) 135 925 3555 F: +44 (0) 135 925 3559 www.martekuk.co.uk sales@martekuk.co.uk Marata Vision 20 Greenhill Crescent, Watford Business Park, Watford, Herts, WD18 8XD T: +44 (0) 192 349 5595 F: +44 (0) 192 349 5599 info@marata.co.uk www.marata.co.uk Max Distribution Co Ltd The Old Bakery, High Street, East Malling, Kent, ME19 6AJ T: +44 (0) 173 284 0845 F: +44 (0) 173 284 1845 sales@the-max.co.uk www.the-max.co.uk Maxell Europe Ltd. Multimedia House, High Street, Rickmansworth, Herts, WD3 1HR T: +44 (0) 192 349 4400 F: +44 (0) 192 349 4410 sales@eu.maxell.com www.eu.maxell.com Meiloon UK 53 Winstanley Lane, Shenley Lodge, Milton Keynes MK5 7BT T: +44 (0) 190 820 0844 vcuk@btinternet.com www.meiloon.com.tw Meridian Audio Ltd Stonehill, Huntingdon, Cambs, PE29 6EX T: +44 (0) 148 044 5678 F: +44 (0) 148 044 5687 admin@meridian.audio.com www.meridian-audio.com Metropolis Music 6 London Road, Tunbridge Wells Kent, TH1 1DQ T: +44 (0) 189 253 9245 jj@metropolis-music.co.uk Mission Stonehill, Huntingdon, Cambs, PE29 6EY T: +44 (0) 148 042 3700 F: +44 (0) 148 042 3701 www.mission.co.uk Mitsubishi Electric Europe Travellers Lane, Hatfield, Herts, AL10 8XB T: +44 (0) 170 727 8684 F: +44 (0) 170 727 8541 www.mitsubishielectric.co.uk MJ Acoustics 9 Venture Court, Boleness Road, Wisbeach, Cambridge, PE13 2XQ T: +44 (0) 870 744 5080 F: +44 (0) 870 746 9380 sales@mjacoustics.co.uk www.mjacoustics.co.uk Mode lighting The Maltings, 63 High Street, Ware, Hertfordshire, SG12 9AD T: +44 (0) 192 046 2121 www.modelighting.com Monitor Audio Ltd. 24 Brook Road, Rayleigh, Essex, SS6 7XL T: +44 (0) 126 874 0580 F: +44 (0) 126 874 0589 info@monitoraudio.co.uk www.monitoraudio.co.uk Monster Europe Ltd 54 Clarendon Road Watford, Herts. WD17 1DU T: 01923 431 634 Moth Group 10 Dane Lane, Wilstead, Bedford, MK45 3HT T: +44 (0) 123 474 1152 F: +44 (0) 123 474 2028 moth@britishaudio.co.uk www.britishaudio.co.uk Moulded Cords & Cables - MCC Unit 15, The Western Centre, Western Road, Bracknell, Berks, RG12 1RW T: +44 (0) 134 486 8200 F: +44 (0) 134 486 8208 sales@mcc-cables.com www.mcc-cables.com Multi-Room Company, The 4 Churchill House Churchill Road, Cheltenham GL53 7EG Tel: +44 (0) 124 253 9100 Fax: +44 (0) 12 4253 9300 info@multi-room.com www.multi-room.com Musical Fidelity Ltd. 15/16 Olympic Trading Est., Fulton Road, Wembley, Middx, HA9 OTF T: +44 (0)20 8900 2866 F: +44 (0)20 8900 2983 Musonic UK Ltd. Unit 13, Wenta Business Centre, Colne Way, Watford, Herts, WD24 7ND T: +44 (0) 192 321 3344 F: +44 (0) 192 321 3355 sales@musonic.co.uk www.musonic.co.uk Myryad UK See BBG Distribution •N Naim Audio Southampton Road, Salisbury, Wilts, SP1 2LN T: +44 (0) 172 233 2266 F: +44 (0) 172 241 2034 Nakamichi UK Ltd 12 Park Place,,London, SW1A 1LP T: +44 (0) 207 647 6205 F: +44 (0) 207 495 2804 www.nakamichi.com National Instruments Corporation (UK) Ltd Measurement House, Newbury Business Park, London Road, Newbury, Berks, RG14 2PS T: +44 (0) 163 552 3545 F: +44 (0) 163 552 4395 info.uk@ni.com www.ni.com/uk NEAT Acoustics Ltd. Unit 1a, Stanton Grove Ind Estate, Barnard Castle, County Durham, DL12 8UJ T: +44 (0) 183 363 1021 F: +44 (0) 183 363 0022 bob@neat.co.uk NEMKO Ltd. 15 Chelsea Fields Estate, Western Road, London, SW19 2QA T: +44 (0)20 8646 8383 F: +44 (0)20 8646 8099 marketing@nemko.co.uk www.nemko.co.uk New Media Image 16 Lodge Road, Havant, Hants, P09 3LL T: +44 (0) 239 245 1006 F: +44 (0) 870 167 4453 s.j.montgomery@ntlworld.com Nexus Technologies Pty. Ltd 45 Vannam Drive, Ashwood, Victoria, Australia, 3147 sales@nexuscomparators.com www.nexuscomparators.com NHT Unit 4, Pumpfields Road Liverpool, L3 6BA T: +44 (0) 151 236 1832 F: +44 (0) 151 255 1194 www.nhthifi.com Nordost (UK) Ltd 1st Floor, Unit 7, Aber Park Ind. Estate, Aber Road, Flint, Clwyd, CH6 5EX T: +44 (0) 135 273 0251 F: +44 (0) 135 273 1273 enquiries@nordostuk.com www.nordost.com Nottingham Analogue 128 Cordy Lane, Underwood, Nottingham, NG16 5FD T: +44 (0) 177 376 2947 F: +44 (0) 177 353 356 NXT - New Transducers Ltd Cygnet House, Hinchingbrooke Park, Huntingdon, Cambs, PE29 6FW T: +44 (0) 870 777 5555 F: +44 (0) 148 084 6190 info@nxtsound.com www.nxtsound.com •O Obelisk Audio Designs 32 Stapleford Close, Romsey, Hants, SO51 7HU T: +44 (0) 179 450 1235 tim_dainton@hotmail.com O'heocha Design Ltd UK & Ireland, Rossaveal, Baile na hAbhainn PO, Galway, S. Ireland T: +353 9150 6970 T: +44 (0) 156 478 2502 F: +353 9150 6972 oheocha_design@yahoo.co.uk www.o.d.co.uk CONTACT BOOK Onkyo Onkyo Europe UK Office, Suite 1, Gregories Court, Gregories Road, Beaconsfield, Bucks, HP9 1HQ T: +44 (0) 149 468 1515 F: +44 (0) 149 468 0452 onkyo@onkyo.co.uk www.onkyo.co.uk Optimum International 2000 Ltd 6 Pioneer Business Park, Amy Johnson Way, Clifton Moor, York, YO30 4TN T /F: +44 (0) 190 469 0089 info@optimum2000.com www.optimum2000.com Optoma Europe Ltd 42 Caxton Way, Watford Business Park, Watford, Herts, WD18 8QZ. UK. T: +44 (0) 192 369 1866 F: +44 (0) 1923 691888 www.optomaeurope.com www.themescene.tv www.optamthinclient.com Opus Technologies Gallery Court, Hankey Place, London, SE1 4BB T: +44 (0) 845 090 2266 F: +44 (0)20 7940 2233 info@opus-technologies.co.uk www.opus-technologies.co.uk Orelle Ltd. Unit 5, Silicon Business Centre, 6 Wadsworth Road, Perivale, Middx, UB6 7LZ T: +44 (0)20 8991 9200 F: +44 (0)20 8997 4060. info@orelle.co.uk www.orelle.co.uk Origin Live Unit 5, 362b, Spring Road, Sholing, Southampton, Hants, SO19 2PB T: +44 (0) 238 057 8877 F: +44 (0) 238 057 8877 originlive@originlive.com www.originlive.com Partington & Co Orchard Farm, Fawkham Road, Longfield, Kent, DA3 7QP T: +44 (0) 147 470 9299 F: +44 (0) 147 470 9295 Paradigm Audio Visual Ltd Swan Works, Box End Road Bromham, MK43 8LT T: +44 (0) 1234 843388 F: +44 (0) 1234 854477 email:sales@rearpro.com www.rearpro.com PATH IXOS Unit 8, Dormer Road, Thame Industrial Estate, Thame, OX9 3UD T: +44 (0) 184 421 9000 F: +44 (0) 184 421 9099 info@ixos.co.uk www.path.co.uk www.ixoscable.com Pear Audio Ltd. 7 Prospect Place, Alnmouth, Alnwick, Northumberland, NE66 2RL T: +44 (0) 166 583 0862 F: +44 (0) 166 583 0051 john@pearaudio.com Philex Electronics Ltd Philex House, Kingfisher Wharf, London Road, Bedford, MK42 0NX T: +44 (0) 123 426 3737 F: +44 (0) 123 426 7400 sales@philex.com www.philex.com Pickering Cartridges 24 Gillygate, York, YO31 7EQ T: +44 (0) 190 464 2463 sales@pickeringuk.com pickeringuk.com Picture The Sound 13 Weston Road, Guildford, Surrey, GU2 6AU T: +44 (0) 700 044 3426 T: +44 (0) 7000 HIFICO F: +44 (0) 148 345 4992 Overkill Audio 2 Shelford Farm, Earith Bridge, Earith, Cambs, PE28 3PS T: +44 [0] 148 784 2911 F: +44 [0] 148 784 1341 Pink Triangle Partnership Ltd Unit 21 Marlow Business Centre, Batavia Road, New Cross, London, SE14 6BQ T: +44 (0)20 8694 9609 F: +44 (0)20 8694 7450 info@pink-triangle.com www.pink-triangle.com Owl Video Systems Ltd Horsted Square Bellbrook Ind Park, Uckfield, E. Sussex TN22 1QG T: +44 (0) 182 576 6123 F: +44 (0) 182 576 0246 www.owlvideo.com Pioneer GB Ltd Pioneer House, Hollybush Hill, Stoke Poges, Slough, Berks, SL2 4PQ T: +44 (0) 175 378 9789 F: +44 (0) 175 378 9528 www.pioneer.co.uk •P P&C Industries Unit10A -10B, Newton Hall, Newton, Cambridge, CB2 5PS T: +44 (0) 122 387 0712 F: +44 (0) 122 387 2654 company@pcindustries.co.uk www.hiway.co.uk/pcindustries Plasmatvinfo.com Limited Dorisima House, Ipswich Road Brantham, Manningtree CO11 1NR, Essex United Kingdom Tel: +44 (0)1206 391001 Fax: +44 (0)1206 391096 Panasonic (UK) Ltd Panasonic House, Willoughby Road, Bracknell, Berks, RG12 4PF T: +44 (0) 134 486 2444 F: +44 (0) 134 486 1656 PMC Ltd Flying Mole Bryston 43/45 Crawley Green Road, Luton, LU2 0AA T: +44(0) 870 444 1044 F: +44 (0) 870 444 1045 sales@promonitor.co.uk www.pmc-speakers.com PM Components Ltd Selectron House, Jenkins Dale Industrial Estate, Chatham, Kent, ME4 5RD T: +44 (0) 163 484 8500 F: +44 (0) 163 484 867 Polk Audio 68 St John Street, Clerkenwell, London, EC1m 4DT T: +44 (0) 207 702 5277 F: +44 (0) 207 251 2487 Precious Metals 13 Weston Road, Guildford, Surrey, GU2 8AU T: +44 (0) 148 382 7722 info@hifico.co.uk Premier Mounts (Europe) Swallow House Shilton Industrial Estate Coventry, CV7 9JY T: +44 (0) 247 661 4700 F: +44 (0) 247 661 4710 sales@mounts.com www.mounts.com Presence Audio Woodside, Spronketts Lane, Bolney, Haywards Heath, W. Sussex, RH17 5SA T: +44 (0) 144 446 1611 F: +44 (0) 144 446 1510 Prima International Plc Prima House, Premier Park, Oulton, Leeds, LS26 8ZA T: +44 (0) 113 251 1500 F: +44 (0) 113 251 1515 Service@prima-international.com prima-international.com Prism Media Products Ltd William James House, Cowley Road, Cambridge, CB4 0WX T: +44 (0) 122 342 4988 F: +44 (0) 122 342 5023 sales@prismsound.com www:prismsound.com Proac (Celef Audio) Highpoint House, Riding Row Buck Road Industrial Estate Brackley, NN13 7BH T: +44 (0) 128 070 0147 Projecta BV PO Box 191 6000 AD Weert The Netherlands T: +31 495 580 858 F: +31 495 580 845 email:philipsen@project.nl www.projecta.nl Prospero Recruitment Ltd 3rd Floor, Clerkenwell House 67 Clerkenwell Road, London EC1R 5BL T: +44 (0) 207 404 6383 F: +44 (0) 207 404 6323 rjgrays@prosperorecruitment .com www.prosperorecruitment.com Pulse Marketing PR & Marketing Agents, 25B Hockerill Street, Bishop's Stortford, Herts, CM23 2DH T: +44 (0) 127 965 5955 F: +44 (0) 127 965 6004 info@pulsemarketing.org www:pulsemarketing.uk.com Pure Digital Home Park Estate, Kings Langley, Herts, WD4 8LZ T: +44 (0) 192 327 7488 F: +44 (0) 192 327 0188 sales@pure-digital.com www.pure-digital.com P.W.B. Electronics 18 Pasture Crescent, Leeds, LS7 4QS T: +44 (0) 113 268 2550 pwb@belt.demon.co.uk www.belt.demon.co.uk •Q Quad Electroacoustics Ltd IAG House, Sovereign Court, Ermine Business Park, Huntingdon, Cambs, PE29 6XU T: +44 (0) 845 458 0011 F: +44 (0) 148 043 1767 info@quad-hifi.co.uk www.quad-hifi.co.uk Quadraspire Ltd 305 Kelston Road, Bath, BA1 9AB T: +44 (0) 122 533 3360 F: +44 (0) 122 533 8083 qsales@quadraspire.com www.quadraspire.com QED Audio Products Ltd Unit 16, Woking Business Park, Albert Drive,Woking, Surrey, GU21 5JY T: +44 (0) 148 374 7474 F: +44 (0) 148 354 5600 panic@qed.co.uk •R Recoton Lise Meitner Strasse 9, Pulheim, Germany, 50259 T: +49 223 498 4080 www.recoton.com Redline Unit 11B, 72 Newhaven Road, Edinburgh, EH6 5QG T: +44 (0) 131 555 3922 F: +44 (0) 131 555 3964 info.redline@virgin.net angie@red-line.co.uk Reference Point Computers The Old Post Office, Overbury, Tewkesbury, Glos, GL20 7NT. T: +44 (0) 845 634 2032 F: +44 (0) 845 634 2033 Rega Reseach 119 Park Street, Westcliff-on-Sea, SS0 7PF T: +44 (0) 170 233 3071 REL Acoustics Ltd North Road, Bridgend Industrial Estate, Bridgend, CF31 3TP T: +44 (0) 165 676 8777 F: +44 (0) 165 676 6093 contact@rel.net www.rel.net Remote Media Ltd Rectory Farm Barns Rectory Farm, Little Chesterford Saffron Walden, CB10 1UD T: +44 (0) 845 458 3705 www.remotemedia.co.uk jason@remotemedia.co.uk Revox See Custom Sight & Sound Ringmat Developments P.O. Box 200, Brentwood, Essex, CM15 9FB T: +44 (0) 127 720 0210 F: +44 (0) 127 720 1225 inifienq@ringmat.com www.ringmat.com Roksan Audio Ltd Unit 6 Northfield Industrial Estate, Beresford Avenue, Alperton, Middlesex, HA0 1NW T: +44 (0)20 8900 6801/6802 F: +44 (0)20 8900 0734 info@roksan.co.uk www.roksan.co.uk Royd Loudspeakers Co. Ltd Unit B2, Stafford Park 15, Telford, Shropshire, TF3 3BB T: +44 (0) 195 229 0700 F: +44 (0) 195 229 0190 Ruark Acoustics Ltd 59 Tailor's Court, Temple Farm Ind. Est., Southend-on-Sea,Essex, SS2 5TH T: +44 (0) 170 260 1410 F: +44 (0) 170 260 1414 info@ruark.co.uk www.ruark.co.uk Russ Andrews Accessories Ltd. 2B Moreland Court, Westmorland Business Park, Shap Road, KENDAL, Cumbria, LA9 6NS T: +44 (0) 845 345 1550 F: +44 (0) 153 979 7325 info@russandrews.com www.russandrews.com •S Sagem Communications Knyvett House, The Causeway Staines, Middx T: +44 (0) 156 477 2200 F: +44 (0) 156 477 7736 www.sagem.com Samsung Electronics Ltd Unit 1, Hook Rise Business & Indusrial Centre, 225 Hook Rise South, Surbiton, Surrey, KT6 7LD T: +44 (0)20 8391 0168 Samuel Johnson Audio Ltd 80 Johnstone Avenue, Hillington, Glasgow, G52 4NZ T: +44 (0) 141 810 2828 F: +44 (0) 141 810 2829 sales@sjaudio.co.uk www.SJAudio.co.uk Scandyna UK Ltd 5 Mayfield Lane, Martlesham Heath, Ipswich, Suffolk, IP5 3TZ T: +44 (0) 147 362 6600 F: +44 (0) 147 362 6700 richard.blackburn@btinternet.com Schneider UK Ltd Aura House, 77 Dane Road, Sale, Manchester, M33 7BP T: +44 (0) 161 374 0101 F: +44 (0) 161 374 0102 See Hear Ltd The Oast, Perry Court, London Road, Faversham, Kent, ME13 8RY T: +44 (0) 179 559 7590 F: +44 (0) 179 559 7591 info@seehear.co.uk 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 info@sennheiser.co.uk www.sennheiser.co.uk Sharp Electronics Sharp House, Thorpe Road, Newton Heath, Manchester, M40 5BE T: +44 (0) 161 205 2333 F: +44 (0) 161 205 7076 www.sharp.co.uk Silvernote P O Box 158, Cheshunt, Herts, EN7 6UH. T /F: +44 (0) 199 262 0905 www.silvernote.co.uk SIM2 UK Ltd Steinway House, Worth Farm, Little Horsted, Nr. Uckfield, East Sussex, TN22 5TT T: +44 (0) 182 575 0850 F: +44 (0) 182 575 0851 kate.buckle@sim2.co.uk www.sim2.co.uk SME Ltd Mill Road, Steyning, W. Sussex, BN44 3GY T: +44 (0) 190 381 4321 F: +44 (0) 190 381 4269 Info@sme-ltd.demon.co.uk www.sme.ltd.uk SOLO Manufacturing 228 Derby Road, Stapleford, Nottingham, NG9 7BG T: +44 (0) 115 939 2345 F: +44 (0) 115 939 2111 Songlines Fourteen Acre Lane Three Oaks, Hastings TN35 4NB, England T: +44 (0)1424 813888 mail@beauhorn.com http://www.beauhorn.com Sony UK Ltd The Heights, Brooklands, Weybridge, Surrey, KT13 0XW T: +44 (0) 193 281 6000 F: +44 (0) 193 281 7000 www.sony.co.uk Sonus Systems Ltd Unit 3a Cossal Ind Est., Coronation Road, Ilkeston, Derby, DE7 5UA T: +44 (0) 115 944 5027 F: +44 (0) 115 944 5126 Soundations Smyllum House, Lanark Lanarkshire, ML11 7ER T: +44 (0) 870 350 1349 Spendor Audio Systems Ltd. Station Road Industrial Estate, Hailsham, E. Sussex, BN27 2ER T: +44 (0) 132 384 3474 F: +44 (0) 132 344 2254 info@spendoraudio.com www.spendoraudio.com Standesign UK Uxbridge House, 3 Wakefield Place, Gosport, PO12 2JT T: +44 (0) 239 250 1888 F: +44 (0) 239 250 1999 sales@standesign.co.uk www.standesign.co.uk Stands Unique 70 Higham Road, Rushden, Northants, NN10 6DD T: +44 (0) 193 341 2227 F: +44 (0) 193 341 2215 info@standsunique.com www.standsunique.com Stoneaudio UK Ltd 23 Hinton Road, Bournemouth, Dorset, BH1 2EF T: +44 (0) 120 220 1735 F: +44 (0) 120 220 1315 info@Stoneaudio.co.uk www.stoneaudio.co.uk Symmetry Suite 5, 17 Holywell Hill, St Albans, Herts, AL1 1DT T: +44 (0) 172 786 5488 sales@symmetry-systems.co.uk SYN Factory U-vola Suspended Loudspeakers 33013 Gemona del Friuli (UD), Via del Fabbro, 9 Zona Art, Italy T: +39 (0432) 972 362 F: +39 (0432) 972 684 info@synfactory.com www.synfactory.com •T T&A See BBG Distribution T&T Communications Ltd. 1-2 Davy Road Gorse Lane Industrial Estate Clacton on Sea, Essex CO15 4XD T: +44 (0) 125 522 2111 F: +44 (0) 125 522 2100 Tannoy Ltd Rosehall Ind Est, Coatbridge, N. Lanarkshire, ML5 4TF T: +44 (0) 123 642 0199 F: +44 (0) 123 642 8230 www.tannoy.com enquiries@tannoy.com Target Audio Distribution Ltd 5 Gull Brook, Hemel Hempstead, Herts, HP1 1RR T: +44 (0) 144 225 9994 M: +44 (0) 973 147 441 Hants, SO21 3BH T: +44 (0) 125 639 7770 F: +44 (0) 125 639 8880 www.tdigroup.co.uk TEAC UK Ltd 5 Marlin House, The Croxley Centre, Watford, Herts, WD1 8YA T: +44 (0) 192 381 9630 F: +44 (0) 192 323 6290 Tech Link International Unit 8, Bat & Ball Enterprise Centre, Bat & Ball Road, Sevenoaks, Kent, TN14 5LJ T: +44 (0) 173 277 9400 F: +44 (0) 173 277 9344 salesdesk@techlink.uk.com www.techlink.uk.com Technical & General PO Box 53, Crowborough, E. Sussex, TN6 2BY T: +44 (0) 189 265 4534 Teklink Distribution 68 St John Street, Clerkenwell, London, EC1M 4DT T: +44 (0)20 7702 5277 F: +44 (0)20 7251 2487 Peter@tecklinkdistribution.com Tektronix Ltd The Arena, Downshire Way Bracknell, Berks RG12 1PU United Kingdom T: +44 (0) 134 439 2400 F: +44 (0) 134 439 2401 Thear Technology Limited (REVOX) TTL House, Sheeptick End, Nr Lidlington, Bedfordshire, MK43 OSF T: +44 (0) 152 584 1999 F: +44 (0) 152 584 1009 Townshend Audio 7 Bridge Road, Hampton Court, Surrey, KT8 9EU T: +44 (0)20 8979 2155 Trichord Research Ltd 6 Woodlands Close, Malvern Wells, Worcs, WR14 4JD T: +44 (0) 168 457 3524 F: +44 (0) 168 457 7380 graham@trichordresearch.com www.trichordresearch.com Tivoli Audio 59 Tailor's Court Temple Farm Ind Est Southend on sea Essex, SS2 5TH T: +44 (0) 170 260 1410 F: +44 (0) 170 260 1414 www.ruark.co.uk www.projectionandpresentation.com True-Colours Industries Unit 263, Lisburn Enterprise Centre, Ballinderry Road, Lisburn, N. Ireland, BT28 2SA T: +44 (0) 771 019 6949 F: +44 (0) 870 120 5923 support@true-colours.com www.true-colours.com TDI Tremiver Ltd West Farm, Winchester Road, Popham, Winchester, Tube Technology Compton House, Drefach LLANELLI, Carmarthenshire TCI Ltd Projection House, 19 Townley Way, Earls Barton, Northants, NN6 0HR T: +44 (0) 160 481 1661 F: +44 (0) 160 481 1715 tonytci@aol.com SA14 7BA T: +44 (0) 126 984 4771 F: +44 (0) 193 224 4455 techtube@lineone.net www.tubetechnology.com •U UAS Enterprises 131 Southampton Road, Ringwood, Hants, BH24 1HT T: +44 (0) 870 066 0406 F: +44 (0) 870 066 0407 gmc@uas.co.uk www.uasenterprises.com UKD 23 Richings Way, Iver, Bucks, SL0 9DA T: +44 (0) 175 365 2669 F: +44 (0) 175 365 4531 post@ukd.co.uk www.ukd.co.uk Unicol Green Road, Oxford, OX3 8EU T: +44 (0) 186 576 7676 Fax: +44 (0) 186 576 7677 www:unicol.com Usher Audio Technology 67 Kai-Fong St, Section 1, Taipei 10041, Taiwan T: 886 2 2381 6299 F: 886 2 2371 1053 www:usheraudio.com •V Vibe Technologies Ltd Tech House, Reddicap Trading Estate, Sutton Coldfield, B75 7BU T: +44 (0) 121 311 9090 F: +44 (0) 121 311 9001 info@v-i-b-e.com www.v-i-b-e.com Vieta UK Grimsdells Court, Grimsdells Lane, Amersham, Bucks, HP6 5EL T: +44 (0) 149 472 3444 sales@vieta-uk.com www.vieta-uk.com VPI (UK) PO Box 21 Liskheard PL14 5YP T: +44 (0) 157 936 3603 Virtual Reality Audio Systems Ltd PO Box 383, Brentwood, Essex, CM14 4GB T: +44 (0) 127 722 7355 F: +44 (0) 127 722 4103 info@virtualr.demon.co.uk Visual Displays 1 Farnham Road, Guildford, Surrey, GU2 4RG T: +44 (0) 207 222 9009 F: +44 (0) 207 233 2165 sales@visualdisplaysuk.co.uk www.visualdisplaysuk.co.uk Vivadi Plc Unit 38, Shrivenham Hundred Business Park, Swindon, SN6 8TZ T: +44 (0) 179 378 0033 F: +44 (0) 179 378 0044 info@vivadi.com www.vivadi.com Vivanco UK Ltd. Maxted Court, Maxted Road, Hemel Hempstead, Herts, HP2 7BY T: +44 (0) 144 240 3020 F: +44 (0) 144 240 3030 Vivante Productions Ltd. (Software) Unit 6, Fontigarry Business Park, Reigate Road, Sidlow, Reigate, Surrey, RH2 8QH T: +44 (0) 129 382 0509 F: +44 (0) 129 382 1965 sales@vivante.co.uk www.vivante.co.uk Vogels See BBG Distribution •W Waterfall See BBG Distribution Wavelength Distribution PO Box 364, Maidstone, Kent, ME15 9FE T: +44 (0) 162 220 1983 F: +44 (0) 162 276 1560 sales@wavelength-distribution.com www.sonicdesign.co.uk www.bocchino-audio.co.uk Wharfedale International Ltd IAG House, Sovereign Court, Ermine Business Park, Huntingdon, Cambs, PE29 6XU T: (0) 845 458 0011 F: (0) 148 043 1767 info@wharfedale.co.uk www.wharfedale.co.uk Wilmslow Audio Lt 50 Main Street, Broughton Astley, Leicester, LE9 6RD T: +44 (0) 145 528 6603 F: +44 (0) 145 528 6605 sales@wilmslowaudio.com www.wilmslowaudio.com Wilson Benesch Falcon House, Lime Stone Cottage Lane, Sheffield, S6 1NJ T: +44 [0] 114 285 2656 F: +44 [0] 114 285 2657 info@wilson-benesch.com •X Xixin Ltd Bilton Way, Luton, Beds, LU1 1UU T: +44 (0) 158 240 0340 F: +44 (0) 158 248 1498 www.xixin.co.uk •Y Yamaha Electronics (UK) Ltd 200 Rickmansworth Road, Watford, Herts, WD18 7GQ T: +44 (0) 192 323 3166 F +44 (0) 192 381 0410 www.yamaha-uk.com info@yamaha-uk.com Yello GB Ltd 32 Jordanvale Avenue, Whiteinch, Glasgow, G14 0QP T: +44 (0) 141 576 1772 F: +44 (0) 141 950 2737 sales@yellogb.com DIARY www.soundandvisionmagazine.co.uk The countdown for CEDIA is truly on… Next year’s Bristol show dates have been announced All set for IFA? Please send all correspondence to: What's New In Sound and Vision, Castle House, 97 High Street, Colchester, Essex, CO1 1TH Events 2005/6 It’s Show Time! MAY 05 11 AV In The City, Manchester GMEX Centre www.avinthecity.co.uk JUNE 05 8-10 27-30 22 INFOCOMM CEDIA Expo 2005 AV In The City, Dublin International OS, USA Birmingham, ICC City West www.infocomm.org +44 (0) 146 262 7377 www.avinthecity.co.uk SEPTEMBER 05 2-7 IFA 21 AV In The City, London 23-25 Hi-Fi Show and AV Expo 2005 Messe Berlin Cabot Hall Park Inn/Renaissance, Heathrow www.ifa-berlin.com www.avinthecity.co.uk +44 (0) 208 774 0847 OCTOBER 05 7-16 12-14 29-30 The Ideal Home Show [Autumn] Integrated Systems Asia Home Entertainment Show Earls Court, London Suntec, Singapore Renaissance Hotel, Manchester +44 [0] 208 515 2151 www.idealhomeshow.co.uk www.is-asia.com +44 [0] 1618398869 NOVEMBER 05 5-7 23-26 29 What Hi-Fi? Sound and Vision Show 2005 Hi-Tech House AV In The City, Edinburgh Novotel West, London Gostiny Dvor, Moscow EICC www.whathifishow.co.uk www.hitechhouse.ru www.avinthecity.co.uk FEBRUARY 06 1-3 19-24 Integrated Systems Europe Sound & Vision 2006 Brussels Expo, Belgium Marriott Hotel, Bristol www.iseurope.org www.bristolshow.co.uk IN WHAT'S NEW IN SOUND AND VISION NEXT MONTH... A Sounding Board – the most sonorous and chic speakers about Play On Player – the latest DVD-players to cause a stir Hello, Expo – our expansive preview of CEDIA’s annual show Extra, Extra – the biggest batch of industry news around ISSN 1478-1123 Editor: Hamish McNair-Wilson T: 44 (0)1206 505959 Hamish@soundandvisionmagazine.co.uk Editor-In-Chief: Stuart Pritchard T: 44 (0)1206 505924 F: 44 (0)1206 505929 stuart@soundandvisionmagazine.co.uk Editorial Assistant: Jacob Stow Publisher: Steve Duffy steve_oth@aceville.com Art Direction: Lee Whiteford lwhiteford@btconnect.com Designers: Rick Allen Dan Cross Advertisement Designer: Alison Williams Advertising Director: Theresa Jackaman T: 44 (0)148 049 8953 Theresa@soundandvisionmagazine.co.uk Contributors: Darren Harvey, Toby Watson, Katie Bates, Sarah Adcock, Sam Fuller Design & Repro: Ace Pre-Press T: 44 (0)1206 797541 Circulation Manager: Mick Orrin T: 44 (0)1206 505912 42 Subscriptions: To ensure you receive your free copy of What’s New in Sound and Vision every issue, go to www.soundandvisionmagazine.co.uk and simply fill in the online form Accounts Admin: T: 44 (0)1206 505900 Published By: Partridge Publications (2000) Ltd, Avenue Lodge, 60 East Street, Brighton, BN1 1HN. Tel. +44 (0) 1273 719900 Not for correspondence Printed in England All contributions are submitted and accepted on the basis of a non-exclusive worldwide licence to publish or licence to do so unless otherwise agreed in advance in writing. What's New in Sound and Vision recognises all copyrights and trademarks. Where possible, we have acknowledged the copyright holder. Contact us if we haven’t credited your copyright and we will correct any oversight. All contents © Partridge Publications (2000) Limited While we make every effort to ensure that everything we print in What's New in Sound and Vision is factually correct, we cannot be held responsible if factual errors occur. Please check any quoted hardware specifications with your supplier before purchase. The views expressed in this magazine are not necessarily those of the publisher. Copyright Partridge Publications (2000) Ltd © 01/07/03 - 30/06/04: 4,255 BRUSSELS EXPO, BELGIUM 1– 3 FEBRUARY 2006 MARK YOUR DIARIES In 2006 Integrated Systems Europe moves to Brussels, Belgium. Join other specialists from the Residential, Commercial and Professional AV systems industry from 1 – 3 February 2006 at Brussels Expo and secure your place at the European AV Systems Integration Event. FOR MORE VISITOR INFORMATION WWW.ISEUROPE.ORG IF YOU WISH TO EXHIBIT MAIL US AT EXHIBIT@ISEUROPE.ORG OR CALL +49 8102 89640 Integrated Systems Europe is a joint venture partnership of Listen up… …you’ve never heard it so good! Crestron offer the world’s best multi-zone distribution systems for whole-house audio and video. Producing the finest sound quality available, Crestron’s professional audio distribution processors deliver audio from any source into as many as 32 separate zones. To hear the whole story talk to Crestron on 020 8439 7272 • The C2N-DAP8 is a high-performance 7.1 digital audio processor and analog audio switcher, with automatic selection of decoding formats and 6 bands of graphic/parametric EQ. An ideal audio processing solution for digital boardrooms, conference rooms and auditoriums, the C2NDAP8 offers seamless Cresnet integration of all surround sound and audio switching features. • Designed for professional quality and ultimate reliability, the CNAMPX-7x200 is a high-powered digital surround sound amplifier with 7 channels at 200 watts per channel into 8 ohms, or 300 watts per channel into 4 ohms. Designed to be used with a powered subwoofer, it’s ideal for home theaters or large rooms. Crestron UK Ltd | Neptune House | 2 Portsmouth Road | Kingston | Surrey | KT1 2LU Tel: 020 8439 7272 | Fax: 020 8439 7273 | info@crestron.co.uk | www.crestron.co.uk