SOUND VISION INSTALL

Transcription

www.soundandvisionmagazine.co.uk
ISSUE 30 FEB 06
SOUND VISION INSTALL
From the publishers of SMARTLIFE INTERNATIONAL
STANDING PROUD
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IN THIS MONTH'S
ISSUE
5 FIRST GLIMPSE
Yamaha's latest speaker
system strikes gold...
6 EYE ON THE
INDUSTRY
We dig deep to uncover
the hottest gossip from
around the AV world
14 THE
MAGNIFICENT
SEVEN
The well-travelled SAM
FULLER unveils the
highlights of his CES
experience
15 SIMPLY THE
WEST
One of the best loved Hi-Fi
shows returns to Bristol
this month...
16 WHAT'S NEW?
Keep your eyes peeled
for this batch of cutting
edge kit
26 INTEGRATE TO
ACCUMULATE
HAMISH McNAIR-WILSON
casts aside New York, Paris
and Milan for a trip to
Brussels and ISE 2006...
FROM BELGIUM TO BRISTOL…
Belgium: land of chocolate, lace, strong, sweet beers and cutting edge, life
enhancing home automation. Having just touched down from the Integrated Systems
Show 2006 in Brussels, I feel culturally enlivened and saturated with knowledge
about the smartest forms of home networking, intelligent lighting, discreet speakers,
convenient control and much, much more. However, rather than sit back and smile
smugly to myself, safe in the knowledge I've garnered an insight into the future of
living on company expenses, I've dedicated much of this issue to sharing it with you.
Read on for a comprehensive review of an event that pulled in people from across the
globe; find out about the key launches and most significant revelations; peruse our
installation nation section to uncover the stories we extracted via special favours and
brute force and the products we cunningly slipped into our free corporate branded
bags and whisked back to the office for review.
Finished? Then take a step into the maritime world with our installation focus –
the definitive proof that navigating the ocean these days doesn't require a salty sea
dog to hoist your rig. With all the creature comforts of the most luxurious homes
around, superyachts are proving one mighty fine vehicle on which our top installers
can weave their magic.
Of course, while the installation market continues to grow, this year will be a
pivotal one for those operating in the conventional retail sector. That there are the
products out there to appeal is not in doubt. Turn, for example, to our main feature
this month and you'll find a host of surround sound speaker packages sure to strike
a chord with everyone looking for an off-the-shelf home cinema solution. Many of
these will be on show in Bristol later this month, as much of the AV industry flocks to
the West Country for its annual shindig at the Marriott. And we'll be there with them,
giving the latest kit the once over. With many exciting launches promised it should
prove a good one. See you there...
Hamish McNair-Wilson, Editor
Hamish@soundandvisionmagazine.co.uk
30 SWEET DREAMS
Sea bound SAM FULLER
slips into his sailor suit to
discover one of CI's finest
offshore operations
01/07/04-30/06/05: 4,309
22
26
5
32
32 INSTALLATION
NATION
All the latest products and
developments from the
smart sector
38 STORIES FROM
CEDIA
The ubiquitous CI
association enlightens us as
to their latest developments
40 CONTACT BOOK
Get yourself hooked up
courtesy of our business
directory
22 HEAR AND NOW
Compact speaker
packages are proving to
be big business: TERRY
ARNOLD shows us why
45 RECRUITMENT
Is the job a good 'un? Find
out in our fine new
recruitment section...
PLEASE SEND ALL CORRESPONDENCE TO: WHAT’S NEW IN SOUND AND VISION, 21-23 PHOENIX COURT, HAWKINS ROAD, COLCHESTER, ESSEX, CO2 8JY
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WHAT’S NEW
FIRST GLIMPSE
YAMAHA'S NEW SPEAKER PACKAGES BOAST BOTH
NATURAL MATERIALS AND SOUNDS CAPABLE OF
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5
> SOUND & VISION
EYE ON THE INDUSTRY
Eye On The Industry
THE WHO-WHAT-WHERE-WHEN-WHY OF AV...
ATTENTION PLEASE!
If you have news of any industry appointments or dismissals, achievements or crises, acquisitions or
additions, and you’d like to see them in print, email the details to Hamish@soundandvisionmagazine.co.uk
PARENTAL GUIDANCE
Armour Group plc, the UK’s leading consumer electronics group focused on the
home entertainment and in-car communication and entertainment markets, has
announced its acquisition of the leading home entertainment furniture manufacturer
Alphason Designs Ltd. The acquisition has been undertaken to further strengthen
Armour’s position in a growth sector of the audio visual market driven by the
increasing demand for flat-screen televisions; to create a comprehensive UK
distribution network into the consumer electronics market; and to deliver cost
savings through improved sourcing of product.
Alphason, which was incorporated in 1985, has been designing, manufacturing
and distributing specialist AV furniture for over 10-years, predominately marketed
under the brand. It has established very strong distribution channels across the
whole of the UK consumer electronics market with direct access to over 2,500 retail
outlets that range from the specialist independent retailers through to the multiples
that include John Lewis Partnership, Comet and Argos.
Commenting on the acquisition Glenn McClelland, Managing Director of
Armour Home Electronics, said: “The market for specialist AV furniture is expected
to grow over the coming years with the surge in demand for LCD and plasma
televisions. There are currently approximately 60-million cathode ray tube
televisions and 2.5-million LCD and plasma televisions in the UK.”
“We believe,” he continued, “that over the next five to seven years a
significant proportion of these CRT televisions will be changed for LCDs and
plasmas with a consequential increase in demand for the associated accessories
such as AV furniture. As the leading branded independent supplier of such
products in the UK, we expect Alphason to benefit from this conversion to LCD
and plasma televisions.”
Alphason Designs Ltd will be run as a separate operating unit within the
Armour Home Electronics division. In the enlarged Group, Armour Home Electronics
will account for approximately two thirds of the group sales and just over two-thirds
in terms of profit contribution. The remaining third of the Group’s business is
generated from the automotive division, Armour Automotive. John Reddington
becomes Managing Director of Alphason Designs Ltd and will sit on the Armour
Home Electronics’ Board of Directors
Commenting on the developments John Reddington said: “We are delighted to
be joining Armour Home Electronics. The move not only enhances our position as
the UK’s number one AV home entertainment furniture supplier, but also gives us
access to Armour’s enormous resources in design and development, global
sourcing and last, but not least, its excellent product range. With Armour as our
parent our future looks even more exciting.”
George Dexter, Chief Executive at Armour Group plc added: “I am delighted with
this acquisition. Alphason has been one of the few stars in the consumer electronics
marketplace for the past few years, repeatedly increasing sales and profits month
on month and year on year against a generally difficult marketplace. It is recognised
as the UK’s market leader in its sector, a sector that I am confident will continue to
grow driven by the conversion from CRT to flat-screen TVs. The acquisition is
expected to considerably strengthen Armour’s position in the UK consumer
electronics market and give the enlarged Group the ability to reach a wider
consumer audience with its product portfolio.”
For further information contact: +44 (0) 194 288 5600
www.alphasondesigns.com
PARK LIFE
The Hi-fi News September event, widely known as the Heathrow Show,
has been around for many years. Normally held in two hotels, in 2006 it
organisers announced that it will be consolidated into one – the
Renaissance Hotel Heathrow. With interest in the show appearing to have
slipped, this seems the natural way of conserving the show for those
enthusiasts that remain.
With the Park Inn Heathrow now available, Chesterfield
Communications - the name behind the Northern Sound & Vision and
Scottish Sound & Vision shows - has decided to set up what it has labeled
a “supportive event” here on the same dates: September 22nd-24th. The
Park Inn is certainly an appealing venue, with capacious rooms, a good
layout and healthy facilities. The event will be called the London Sound &
Vision Show and has been designed for enthusiasts, those new to the
world of specialist Hi-Fi and the rest of the family too.
The organisers at Chesterfield Communications would like to make it
clear that it hopes this latest addition to the Sound & Vision family will
compliment the existing show and constitute a positive move for the trade
as a whole. Having secured the venue, Roy Bird and his team are currently
hard at work putting together the finer details for their show, with
something a little special and enjoyable for all attendees promised. For
those interested in exhibiting, a full show pack will be available by the end
of the month. Chesterfield remain committed to bringing a breath of
fresh air into the trade and we look forward to hearing more news of its
latest venture.
www.chestergroup.org
AT THE CUTTING-EDGE
CES always offers the industry some insight into what the future of entertainment may hold, so for those who prize the most
immersing of pictures the Las Vegas event was to stimulate some serious excitement. It was here that Samsung chose to
unveil an 82-inch LCD-TV with LED backlight - the largest ever produced. This huge pre-production model is said to
dramatically improve performance and the viewing angle while, incredibly, decreasing thickness and power usage. Named
the LN-S8297DE, it featured a colour reproduction more than 33% larger than a conventional LCD-TVs and a contrast ratio
of 7,000:1. A next-generation model, this gargantuan solution is also an environmentally-friendly product and doesn't use any
mercury. Prices and availability have yet to be announced, but there can be little doubt that the multitude of innovations
encompassed within it will strengthen Samsung's position in a vital, growing market.
For further information contact: +44 (0) 208 391 0168 www.samsung.com/uk
6
MEMBERS ONLY
UPPING CAPACITY
BADA, the British Audio Visual Dealers Association, has
announced the addition of two new retail members to the
Association.
Home Media Ltd., based in Maidstone, have been probationary
members for three years and having been in business for that
period, are eligible for promotion to full membership. This was
ratified at the recent BADA board meeting and means that Home
Media, run by Simon Burton, have fulfilled all the necessary
criteria to be members of the BADA Bond Scheme. The promotion
is effective immediately and as such Home Media will feature on
all BADA advertising and on the public facing website.
Acoustica Ltd., with their head office in Chester, have also had
their application for membership approved by the board. Acoustica
has been owned by Geoff Coleman for the last 10 years and has in
that time grown to encompass three branches, with Acoustica in
Stafford and more recently Griffin Audio, the long established
Birmingham shop, joining the company.
BADA are very pleased to welcome these new members to
strengthen the Association's presence in the South-East and
North-West regions of the country. For the Hi-Fi buying consumer
it represents an affirmation of their local dealer’s commitment to
the maintaining of the highest standards of customer service and
demonstration facilities.
Ian Anderson, Chairman of BADA, said: “We warmly welcome
these new members to the Association, it brings to the Hi-Fi
buying public, in their respective areas of the country, a clear
demonstration that there are still retailers who care passionately
about the quality of product knowledge, service and customer
satisfaction that they offer. The commitment that both business
owners have shown to these factors will strengthen the
Association and can only be good for the industry.”
www.bada.co.uk
Panasonic and Toray to are set to build the world's largest plasma manufacturing
facility to date.
Operations will begin in July 2007, with the new factory set to be located next to
Matsushita PDP's third plant in Amagasaki, Japan. This will be the fourth plant in the joint
venture between Panasonic's parent company Matsushita and diversified chemical group
Toray Industries. Once up and running this will provide Panasonic with the largest PDP
production capacity of any manufacturer, boosting its output to over 11 million panels per
annum, via production technology yielding a world-first eight panels per sheet. The site
will come as a result of a 180 billion yen investment and will boast a production capacity
of six million panels per year. It is expected to reach full capacity by March 2009 and
effectively reinforce Panasonic's leadership in the global plasma market.
"The new plant will employ state-of-the-art process technologies and production
systems that are more advanced than those of the third plant in Amagasaki, which began
production in September 2005," said Mr. Ken Morita, President of MPDP. "The new
systems and technologies will bring greater mass production efficiencies to the whole
process while ensuring higher quality. Our new process technology allows a single
substrate to yield up to eight 42-inch panels, the highest number in the world.
According to a comprehensive production strategy aimed at further
enhancing production efficiencies in all PDP plants, each
production line will be specialised by screen size. As a
result, MPDP will be able to supply PDPs with more
speed and flexibility to meet the surging
world demand."
According to Panasonic's research,
the global PDP market will expand to 25
million panels by 2010. With an annual
output capacity of over 11 million
panels, Matsushita's most famous brand
hope to attain a global share of over
40%. And they've certainly set the
wheels in motion...
For further information contact:
+44 (0) 134 486 2444
www.panasonic.co.uk
7
> SOUND & VISION
EYE ON THE INDUSTRY
THE BIGGER THE BETTER?
BANGING HOUSE
Bang & Olufsen of Nottingham have shown the importance of location in
stimulating interest amongst buyers. The Danish firm, which relocated from
historical Trent Bridge to the trendy Lace Market area in the summer of 2005,
has been reaping the rewards of its higher profile location ever since. Having
relocating last June, the store on Bellar Gate has seen footfall rise by 113% - a
factor which has played a major part in helping the store’s sales growth to
increase by over 29.8%.
Ian Winn, Dealer Principal at both the Bellar Gate and Arnold stores, said:
“There is no doubt that the new location has paid dividends in terms of visibility
and accessibility which has contributed to these strong figures. The high-quality
nature and reputation of our product range has also seen us receive enquiries
from property developers looking to pre-wire properties with our cabling as they
look to gain competitive advantage in the market.”
The store, which recently earned critical acclaim from Karl McKeever,
acknowledged as one of the UK’s leading visual merchandising consultants,
boasts Bang & Olufsen's largest single floor in the country. Along with in-store
and in-home demonstrations, it also has a separate “BeoLiving” room. Wired up
with all of Bang & Olufsen’s latest products from its Beo range, the room
features a 100-inch projection screen and Ian is now inviting selected clients in
for one-to-one demonstrations.
This new Bellar Gate home opened in June 2005 and stocks the
complete range of Bang & Olufsen products, from the latest flat-screen and
plasma televisions, to CD and audio hard drive systems and the latest home
digital telephones.
For further information contact: www.bang-olufsen.com
Just when you were thinking LCD-TVs were catching up with plasmas in the
latter's traditional strength, size, things had to go and change. The scene for the
latest revelation in flat-screen technology was CES, with Panasonic or, more
accurately, Matsushita, the name behind it.
Las Vegas was the scene of the debut of a 103-inch (diagonally) highdefinition plasma panel, capable of running images of a 1080p resolution. The
screen was also on show at this month's Integrated Systems Europe and made
quite an impression. The industry giants that created it were able to overcome
the traditional problems associated with such huge plasmas - maintaining stable
discharge and picture quality across the panel. The improvements were thanks
to a new rib and phosphor system. The panel also uses Panasonic’s HD highspeed pixel drive and close relations of it – at 65-inches across – are already
shipping in Japan. The screen brightness is said to be the same as Panasonic’s
current 50-inch model, making this more sizeable solutions truly competitive.
Mr. Hiroyuki Nagano, Director, PDP Device Business Unit of Panasonic AVC
Networks Company, had this to say: "Demand for large-screen and high picture
quality TVs is expected to further increase as digital HD broadcasting service
continues to expand throughout the world. Also penetration of HD contents as
well as Blu-Ray Disc recorders and players will drive demand. Since Plasma is a
self-illuminating device, it offers superior characteristics on several measures
including dynamic contrast, true-to-life color reproduction, quick response time
for sports and programs with fast-moving images and a wider viewing angle - an
important factor for large screen display. These features make the Plasma
panel an ideal device for a large screen TV, and, as a result, global demand for
Plasma TV is growing rapidly."
"Until now, the market for 100-plus-inch screens was dominated by front
projection TVs. Panasonic now realises another option in this sector. Our 103inch 1080p PDP promises high-quality images with high-brightness, dynamic
contrast, high-resolution and excellent color reproduction that projection
displays cannot match. We believe it will create strong demand as a
multipurpose display for business, educational and medical applications as well
as home theater use," said Mr. Nagano.
This revelation is the latest manifestation of Panasonic's Ideas For Life
statement, whereby the firm is committed to providing customers with a better
visual experience. And with more than two million pixels (1,920x1,080) of
performance and a contrast ratio of 3,000:1, this new prototype should lead to
products that will do exactly that!
www.panasonic.co.uk
BLU MOVES
Imation has invested $10-million in the research, development and
production of HD-DVD and Blu-Ray discs. The corporation, a worldwide
leader in removable data storage media, has started to manufacture HDDVD and Blu-Ray optical recordable media in preparation for product
introduction early this year.
As a member of the Blu-Ray Disc Association (BDA) and DVD Forum,
Imation has dedicated teams completing technology development and final
product refinements for single layer and double layered discs in these
advanced optical formats. With more than 25-years of experience in the
optical disc field, Imation is widely recorded as a pioneer.
"Producing both Blu-Ray and HD-DVD recordable optical media
requires advanced manufacturing processes," said Craig Hill, Sales and
Marketing Manager at Imation UK. "Imation's continued technology
inventions and innovative approaches to modular manufacturing at our
Discovery Technology Centre position us well to produce both new optical
formats."
Throughout 2006, Imation plans to launch the BD-RE (rewritable) and
BDR (recordable) 25GB single layer and 50GB double layer Blu-Ray
formats. Imation also plans to launch the HD-DVD-R (recordable) and HDDVD-RW (rewritable) 15GB single layer and 30GB double layer HD-DVD
formats. Select formats will be available soon, based on drive and
recorder availability.
For further information contact: www.imation.com
8
YOU SED IT
Over a year ago the team here introduced you to the concept of SED... and what
was once a technology of much promise is now beginning to bear fruit. The
much anticipated Surface-conduction Electron-emitter Display technology,
developed by Toshiba and Canon, made quite an impression over at CES, where
fully operable displays were on show. SED screens are capable of bringing the
performance of a CRT TV to the sleek, appreciable dimensions of a plasma or
LCD-TV. The prototype we encountered at Vegas featured a 10,000:1 contrast
ratio - which could potentially be increased – and commercial products are
expected to be shipped by the end of the year.
For further information contact: www.canon.com www.toshiba.co.jp
VIVA LAS VEGAS
The 2006 International Consumer Electronics Show, CES, lived up to its billing
as the world's largest technology trade show once again. Taking place between
January 5th-8th in Las Vegas, the event attracted more than 150,000 attendees
from 110 countries and bore witness to the introduction of thousands of new
products and technologies from more than 2,500 exhibitors.
Throughout it duration, the show floor was packed with global executives
from the consumer technology, broadcasting, cable, content, engineering,
financial, motion picture, music and numerous other industries who converged
in Las Vegas over the four days. The show attendees heard from technology
industry visionaries and viewed a spectacular showcase of hot new products
and trends in audio, accessories, emerging technology, home networking,
home theater, mobile electronics, video and wireless.
"The 2006 International CES was a success in every sense of the word,"
said Gary Shapiro, president and CEO of CEA. "From the international
audience, major media and top buyers in attendance to the top-notch
keynotes and conferences, government leaders, entertainment superstars
and exhibitors, the 2006 International CES shifted from simply a trade show
to a major global event."
This year several major show records were set, including those for the
largest number of attendees present and most sizeable exhibition space
filled. As the international event of the year 23,000 overseas visitors also
made the trip.
All that made it were privy to a broad range of product and exhibitor
announcements, many of which will provide consumers with unprecedented
control over when, where and how they watch movies, listen to music, view
their digital photos and access information, education and entertainment
content. Convergence was a big trend on the show floor in 2006 as traditional
product categories merged together to create unique, multi-functional digital
devices. In addition, the convergence trend transcended the show floor with an
exciting array of announcements concerning cross-industry partnerships that
promise to give consumers a variety of choices in the way they obtain, view and
listen to digital content.
Reflecting the strength of the transition to HDTV, the show floor featured
the latest developments in display technologies, such as organic light emitting
diode (OLED) and surface-conduction electron-emitting display (SED), along with a
variety of products and innovations that build upon HDTV.
Other show highlights included the latest in Bluetooth, digital audio, digital
imaging, HD and satellite radio, home video production and in-vehicle entertainment.
"This year's show cemented the International CES' position as the global
launchpad for new technologies," said Karen Chupka, CEA's vice president, events and
conferences. "The CES has become the ultimate business strategy, as our exhibitors
are able to leverage the tremendous media coverage, partnership and marketing
opportunities that surround the show to grow their business."
In addition to standing as a product showplace, the 2006 International CES
included a star-studded array of 350 industry luminaries serving as keynoters, Industry
Insiders and conference speakers. The show kicked-off with a keynote from Microsoft's
Chairman and Chief Software Architect Bill Gates and included keynote presentations
from Sony Chairman and CEO Sir Howard Stringer, Intel CEO Paul Otellini, Yahoo!
Chairman and CEO Terry Semel and Google Co-founder and President of Products
Larry Page. Celebrities sighted at the 2006 International CES included Tom Cruise,
Ellen Degeneres, Tom Hanks, Robin Williams, Justin Timberlake, Morgan Freeman,
Ron Howard, Quincy Jones and more.
The 2007 International CES will be held January 8th-11th, 2007, at the same
location and should prove bigger and better than ever.
For further information contact: www.cesweb.org
9
> SOUND & VISION
EYE ON THE INDUSTRY
GIRL POWER!
Businessman Nigel Sherlock is embarking on a women-only recruitment
campaign - but can't be accused of discrimination. Nigel, who owns a number of
Bang & Olufsen franchises in Cheshire and Merseyside, has carried out research
which suggests he could as much as double his sales if he could recruit more
female staff.
The opportunity only came to light after comments from Manchester
University psychologist Dr Christine Bundy - and her response to Nigel's bid to
build business with Hi-Fi and TV buyers provided him with a shock. "Men may like
to read about the spec and style, but it's women who actually make the practical
decision of what or whether a home entertainment system should be installed this is because most people regard this as a piece of furniture in the broadest
sense, and women largely make decisions about style in the home," commented
Dr Bundy.
"Many women don't like going in to perceived male-gadgety environments
like home entertainment stores as they can be intimidating unless they know
what they are talking about. In many cases they actually do know their stuff, but
having women advising and demonstrating home entertainment systems to other
women in their homes may break down traditional domain barriers. It's The
Clarkson Effect. Jeremy Clarkson may be the man's man, but while he and his ilk
will bluster on about gadgets and electronics, it's actually the women of the
household who make the buying decisions in many cases."
This conclusion sent Nigel consulting lawyers and researching women's
buying preferences. "As we're in growth mode we'll interview anybody with
relevant experience, male or female. But The Sex Discrimination Act says that I
can choose someone of a particular sex to be offered a job when that job calls for
a man or woman to be employed for reasons of physiology," said Nigel.
"Essentially, that means scenarios in which women can be the only real
choice for the job - cab firms, gyms and certain types of retailers fall into that
category," he added. "This started when my wife and I, along with my store
management, were looking very carefully at how we could sustain our growth in
2006, and after some considerable head-scratching and research we concluded
that only a fraction of our customers were female. Research in our sector also
indicates that more people want to see home entertainment systems
demonstrated at home.”
He continued: "We asked a number of women what would persuade them to
consider doing business with us. They each said pretty well the same thing:
married or partnered women didn't like going in male orientated stores on their
own, even though they'd probably have the final say on purchase, and
professional working women - many of them single - didn't have time, but they
each liked the idea of seeing the equipment in context at home.
The answer is to take the system to their homes, but many also said they'd
prefer to be shown the equipment by other women. We thought this might be a
security issue on the part of the prospective customer, and, while it is to an
extent, a crucial factor is that prospective female buyers find it far easier to tune
in to what other women are saying, while women who are selling or advising can
present the equipment in a way a man never would.
It may actually work in another way as well. Sometimes a group of women
get together for home demonstrations, and some of my male staff have said it can
be quite scary or intimidating demonstrating to a group of women who clearly
know their stuff," he added.
For further information contact: www.bang-olufsen.com
SUPPORTING ROLE
PURE Digital - the most prolific player in the DAB market - is guaranteeing
its dealers a 2006 campaign of advertising, channel specific marketing
activities, retail exclusives, and high-class point of sale materials. The first
pillar in this campaign is the introduction of PURE's staff training and instore promotional DVD.
The DVD provides an introduction to DAB digital radio, detailed PURE
product range information and training, and three promotional videos which
can be used as in-store attractors.
The attractors feature three key PURE products - the Legato,
PocketDAB 2000 and EVOKE-1XT. The DVD contains over 20 minutes of
segmented sales training for fourteen products from across the PURE range,
and also features a surprise celebrity guest!
Colin Crawford, Director of Product Marketing, PURE Digital says: "We
have put huge effort into support and products, including exclusives for the
independent sector over the past two years, and are seriously ramping up
that effort with a concerted range of initiatives including the appointment of
dedicated support personnel for the independent channel, an increased
channel advertising and promotion programme and an expanding range of
POS and training aids, of which the DVD is just the first."
The PURE digital radio range has many unique features upon which it
has built its unrivalled reputation, including software upgrades via USB,
rechargeable ChargePAK batteries, Snoozehandle control and iVox voice
feedback. The first name to market with many new features such as ReVu
DAB pause, rewind and record functionality, MP3 playback from SD-card and
electronic programme guide support, huge commercial success has been
the result. And, with the right investment clearly forthcoming and full
support for their dealers very much in evidence, this looks set to continue.
www.pure-digital.com
ACROSS THE BOARD
After a great year in 2005, BBG have decided to strengthen their team at board level
for 2006 and beyond. The firm will, with immediate effect, be making some
important changes at the top in order to sustain their growth over the next year and
beyond. As a result of the changes Gordon Dutch will become BBG's CEO, having
been promoted from Sales & Marketing Director. Reg Dutch will keep his post as
Financial Director, but will replace Gordon Dutch as Company Secretary. The
board will be expanded too, embracing three new members: Matt Boast will
assume the position of Operations Director, Geoff Dutch becomes IT Director and
David Mills is now the Group Sales Director, promoted from Director of Sales for
Home Audio Division.
Gordon Dutch commented: "BBG is one of the fastest growing accessory
companies in the UK and as such we have always invested in our infrastructure.
Since acquiring the exclusive rights to Vogels, Bandridge, Profigold and Jamo in
the UK we have seen excellent results and we are keen to keep ourselves on the
front foot.”
“Chris Bennett, our Director of Sales for In car products, Stuart Rothwell, our
Director of Sales for Professional products and David Mills have all done great
10
things with their Divisions since joining us here at BBG and all have various strengths.
Chris and Stuart have proved especially strong in sales and David especially strong in
sales, management and planning. It is with this in mind that we have decided to move
David up to overall Group Sales Director and look to replace his current position with
someone new from outside BBG who has the relevant experience."
Each of the new directors brings a wealth of experience to the board at BBG at
an extremely exciting time in the company's development.
For further information contact: +44 (0) 192 320 5600 www.bbg.eu.com
KEEPING IT REAL
Following its recent triumph at the
What Hi-Fi Sound & Vision Magazine
Awards 2005, the Yamaha Digital Sound
Projector YSP-800 has scooped yet
another prestigious prize. The Good
House Keeping Awards 2005, held in
London, were the scene of the YSP800’s latest accolade for Best Innovation
Of The Year. Its slender dimensions and
ability to provide a fully surrounding
soundscape from a single, elegant box
clearly struck a chord with the judges.
Since its release, this ingenious product
has secured both rave reviews and
astounding sales and, with its profile
continuing to grow, this success should
continue throughout 2006.
+44 (0) 192 323 3166
www.yamaha-uk.com
FI HERE NOW
KEF UK has announced an addition to its ranks as the
company hopes to secure major growth in the year
ahead. The charismatic and vivacious Fi Michael
assumes the position of Marketing Communications
Manager, in a dedicated role designed to ensure KEF's
recent launches register the impact they deserve. We
caught up with Fi and the team at the recent ISE show
and, with a number of new products due – both in their
CI and multi-channel lines – she will be pulling out all
the stops to ensure they prove a success.
Fi is a well known and popular figure in the AV
industry. She started her career at Hi-fi World
magazine as Production Editor, after attending the
London School of PR, gaining a Postgraduate Diploma
pass with distinction in Integrated Approach to PR.
She had formerly studied at the University of
Westminster, achieving a BSc. in Business Information
Technology. After Hi-fi World, Fi went on to become
Marketing Project Manager at Tag McLaren Audio, before
joining NXT plc as Marketing Communications Manager.
Prior to joining KEF she was working in PR and Marketing
for Optoma Europe Ltd.
Fi joins KEF at an crucial time for the firm: “I couldn't
have come aboard at a better time; it's challenging but
very exciting to join such a winning team with some
amazing new products to handle!,” she exclaimed.
“Despite major product launches last year we still have
plenty more projects in the pipeline for 2006.”
Fi will report to Stephen Halsall, KEF’s UK Managing
Director.
www.kef.com
11
> SOUND & VISION
EYE ON THE INDUSTRY
FRIENDS IN THE NORTH
Once again, in defiance of the negative trends afflicting the industry, Chesterfield
Communications' Northern Sound & Vision Show came up trumps. Visitor statistics
this January revealed a 30% increase in footfall in 2006, with those showing
privileged tickets outnumbering last year's total attendance.
With this in mind, next year's show has already been booked. It will once again
take place at Manchester Airport's Radisson SAS on 27th-28th January 2007. The
unique venue benefits from some of the finest communications around as, as of
2006 boasts its own dedicated carpark, in addition to an increased frequency of
shuttle buses to ferry people to and from the show.
Over 80 exhibitors made the final cut in 2006 and already good reports have
been heard, with trendy speaker manufacturer Waterfall amongst those to voice
their praises. Room sales for 2007's event are already said to be faring well, so if
you fancy taking the plunge give Chesterfield a shout.
A MASTER PIECE
This year’s CES saw another world's first involving PMC
in the form of the launch of DTS-HD Master Audio. As
reported in this section last month, the stunning
demonstrations involved high-definition video content
with 7.1 discrete channels of surround which is bit-forbit identical to the master soundtrack. Playback was
provided courtesy of the PMC flagship BB5-XBD Active
(L,C,R) and the side and rear channels of MB2
individually powered by Bryston 7B SST ‘C-Series‘
mono blocks.
The running demonstrations wowed the crowds,
with over 60 seats filled every 20 minutes during the
four-day show. The stunning demo included clips of
major Hollywood feature films, concert videos and
music videos seen and heard for the first time in both
high-definition video and audio.
+44 (0) 870 444 1044
www.pmc-speakers.com
12
SHOW PREVIEW
Simply
The West
The Bristol Show will be back
for the 19th time next month:
SAM FULLER explains why you
should be there...
The Bristol Show has been around since I was a wee slip of a lad and it looks
like it will be around for the foreseeable future too. While some of the
industry's more traditional shows have lost ground or are having their places
on our calendar usurped by the fresher faces on the AV block, the west
country's contribution remains a dependable, evolving resource, pulling in both
big name exhibitors and genuinely interested punters. Described by its
organisers as the UK's biggest Hi-Fi and home cinema show, it is as highly
regarded as they come and always succeeds in pulling in a diverse range of
firms eager to launch the products they'll be staking their reputations upon in
the year ahead.
As usual, the show will take place in February and will be, for many, the
first opportunity to see some of the components that caused a stir over at CES.
Having grown and expanded beyond its conventional Hi-Fi roots, Bristol's
Sound and Vision now features everything from the smoothest AV furniture to
fully fledged multi-channel systems and from the most convenient LCD-TV
through to HDTV-ready projectors. In fact, last year HDTV was a bit of a theme,
with the team from What Hi-Fi? Sound and Vision pulling out all the stops to
deliver a stunning presentation suite filled with enthralled members of the
public throughout the event.
distance of Temple Meads station and, despite being a
fair trek from London, always secures a healthy turnout
from the consumer electronics press. That is hardly
surprising once you scour the list of exhibitors involved.
These span the spectrum from one man, workshop
based enterprises through to some of our biggest
transnational corporations.
Some of the latter present include the mighty
Pioneer, who excel in the delivery of high definition
visuals, Yamaha, who should have new plasmas and
projectors on show in addition to their much lauded
digital sound projectors, and kings of the LCD-TV castle,
Sharp. We've never traditionally associated this particular
event with most advanced, integrated systems of control,
but as the industry has evolved so has the Bristol show.
As a result, this year, we are delighted to announce that
home automation pioneers AMX, smart lighting system
specialists Lutron and manufacturers of the some of the
most handy universal remotes around, Philips iPronto,
will all have significant displays. There can be no doubt
that over the last few years a growing synergy between
the custom installation and conventional consumer
electronics industry has been evident and this latest manifestation of the move
will be great news to all those currently embracing the smarthouse sector.
speaker easy
Of course, when it comes to great speakers the Marriott has long served up
one of our finest showcases and 2006 will be no exception. There really are too
many names to mention in this area, but we'd feel mean not offering you a few
hints. With Anthony Gallo, B&W, Canton, Dali, Dynaudio, Eclipse, Jamo, KEF,
Linn, Monitor Audio and Tannoy all ready and willing to make their presence
felt, refined yet sonorous speakers are sure to be plentiful. We can verify that
Eclipse will have new kit worthy of your attention, having been treated to a
personal introduction at Abbey Road last year. I suggest paying particularly
close attention to their TD510s. Monitor, meanwhile, will also have its latest
i-deck options on hand, which are sure to strike a chord with those punters
who have embraced the world's most popular MP3-player.
This month projectors have been something of a theme at What's New's
HQ, with a raft of the beasts flooding in, helping us to put together our feature.
And those that make it down to the urban end of Somerset at the end of
February should prepare to see several of those we've included up and
running. Prospective highlights will be found at the SIM2 and InFocus stands,
where we fully expect sizable screens to be showing some of the sharpest,
most impacting images available in the residential world today.
Naturally, this is but a taster and the show will also be ridden with the
latest DAB receivers, DVD-players, integrated amplifiers and much, much
more. Even innovative servers will get some space, thanks to the forward
thinking Opposition Group. No matter what you're looking for to brighten up
your shops shelves in 2006, there will be an abundance of options on show in
Bristol... so book the time off and make the jaunt down – it's sure to be worth
your while!
talk the talk
Things kick off on Friday 24th and run through to the Sunday and, with no
dedicated trade day, the event will be open to the public throughout. In late
December it was announced that 157 brands had already signed up to exhibit
and this, particularly in light of the doom and gloom currently being espoused
around the AV sector, is no mean feat. Prices for entry range between £3.50 for
concessions to £7 for adults, with under 16s getting in for free. However, as a
member of the trade no doubt you'll get in for free – I know we always have.
Once inside, of course, it should be business as usual. You'll be able to see,
hear and handle hundreds of Hi-Fi and home cinema products, talk directly to
their designers and manufacturers, discover and keep up with the latest
developments before they become commercially available, while consumers
will have the chance to make many a purchase, often at knock down prices.
The Bristol Show has been a regular fixture in my diary ever since I joined
the AV industry some five years ago and it takes place, once again, at the
Marriott Hotel. This bustling venue is conveniently located within walking
14
FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT:
For further information contact: www.bristolshow.co.uk
INVISION UK
Bringing It Home
Invision UK have an exceptional track record in
sourcing the finest AV kit from around the globe.
HAMISH McNAIR-WILSON takes a look at their
latest barnstorming cinematic solutions...
At the start of March home improvers from across the land will descend
upon the Smart Home Show at Birmingham's NEC, desperate to cast their
eyes over the very latest, life-enhancing gear. One company sure to attract
attention are Invision UK, a distributor who will be displaying an extensive
range of home cinema solutions capable of making any movie theatre that
little bit extra special. Whether it’s convenient control, improved imagery,
sheer convenience or sleek surround sound solutions you seek, this firm will
have something to show. Yes, we confidently predict that stand 2507 in Hall
18 will be one of the places to be.
LESS IS MORE
Polk Audio's SurroundBar uses innovative patented SDA Surround technology to produce an immersing
soundscape from a solitary, slender shell. Hooked up to a multi-channel receiver, this remarkable speaker
uses unique signal processing and acoustical geometry - specifically designed to complement the human ear
- to unleash a genuinely surrounding experience on its listeners. Designed to be front mounted and styled to
suit a flat-screen TV, it can work its magic in virtually any environment and always looks the part. Its smart
43-inch aluminium enclosure houses seven mid-range drivers and three dome tweeters, with high-quality
construction evident throughout. The SurroundBar comes with a tilting wall-mounting mechanism to ensure
users of the optimum listening angle, and it comes in a black or titanium anodised finish.
SRP: £899
AT YOUR SERVICE
Servers are becoming big news in the home entertainment arena and the
Xperinet System is a particularly revolutionary option. Set to make its UK
debut at the Smarthome Show, this will sit at the epicentre of a home cinema,
affording users an incredibly convenient and attractive route to managing
their movie collection. Even the entry level Polaris can store up to 250 DVDs
from the box, the content of which can be instantly accessed by Title, Actor,
SEIZE CONTROL
The Harmony 895 is the latest
advanced universal remote control to
come out of the renowned Logitech
stable. The most feature-rich model
released to date, this is the first in
the award-winning family to use
both radio frequency (RF) and
infrared (IR) wireless signals.
Convenient control is assured,
with the innovative 895 even
able to work with
components hidden away
in cabinets. Capable of
harnessing control of
anything from
conventional AV kit to
an expansive, lavish
installation, it is a
seriously versatile
solution.
The 895 features a
vibrant, colourful
intuitive display,
dedicated Sky/Teletext
buttons and can even
be used to navigate
multimedia content
stored on a PC, thanks
to the USB wireless PC
transceiver. Its range
of 30 metres should
prove sufficient for
every application and
it is set up with ease
thanks to some
highly effective
online assistance.
Exceptionally
functional yet
affordable to all, the
Harmony 895 is sure
to be a hit.
SRP: £299.00
Director, Genre, censorship rating or year of release, from anywhere in the
home. With cover art and movie descriptions also available on screen, there
are no more user-friendly video libraries around. A range of options are
available for controlling Xperinet's amenable options, including AMX and
Crestron interfaces. And, with the server up and running, fiddling around with
disks will become a thing of the past.
SRP: from £5,950
OFF THE SCALE
That HDTV is on its way is beyond doubt. This year Sky TV are set to begin the big roll out, whilst
recordable high-definition formats are in the news more and more. However, one issue that is
rarely raised is the prospective problems in viewing standard definition TV. To fill an HDTV
screen with a conventional image, the picture has to be stretched exaggerating existing flaws
within it. A dedicated scaler seeks to redress this – and the Vantage-HD is as powerful as they come.
Featuring 1T-flop DSP with a 30-bit 4:4:4 scaler datapath, 12-bit component video A/Ds and a studio quality
10-bit video decoder with super-adaptive comb filter and 4 x ITU656 over sampling, it brings high-end deinterlacing into the home. Capable of cleaning up and enhancing images of every definition, this will help viewers
to make the most of whatever visual component they choose.
SRP: £1,995
FOR FURTHER INFORMATION ON THESE PRODUCTS:
Visit stand 2507 in hall 18 at The Smart Home Show 2006, NEC,Birmingham or contact
+44 (0) 144 967 7233 www.invisionuk.com mail to info@invisionuk.com
15
> SOUND & VISION
ALL THE AV NEWS FIT TO PRINT
What’s New?
COMPILED BY DARREN HARVEY
WHAT’S NEW ‘S ROUND-UP OF ALL
THE VERY LATEST PRODUCT NEWS
THE GOLDEN TOUCH
Yamaha maintains one of the most
original attitudes to speaker
production around, relying on a
dedicated team of engineers to
test, test and test again during the
manufacturing process. The guys
with the golden ears were cherry
picked for their love of and
commitment to the highest sound
quality. Judging their designs not
by hollow statistics but by the
sounds themselves, this team
leave no stone unturned or option
untried in their quest for sonic
perfection.
The result is a selection of
speaker packages that are fully
equipped to cater for their users’
needs. Specifically tuned for the UK market in many instances and
forged only from the finest materials, it is fitting that a company also
known for its music making equipment is so committed to producing
natural, realistic sounds.
They have certainly succeeded with the 325 and 525 digital home
theatre speaker systems. Both of these come equipped with Yamaha's
exclusive Advanced PMD Cones, which have been specifically designed
for what the firm call Natural Sound Reproduction. Each comes
dressed in a luxurious finish, serves up impacting, accurate and
sonorous sounds, whilst retaining a look of some finesse. For those
seeking a sleeker set up, however, the 225 and 125 systems have a
great deal to offer. The slender dimensions of their satellite speakers
lends each a chic, elegant look, complemented by a fashionable silver
finish. With something for home cinemas of every scale, Yamaha's
speakers are undoubtedly worth a closer look.
www.yamaha-uk.com
16
WHAT’S NEW
PURE CLASS
There seems to be no end to the stream of highquality DAB options flowing from the designers
at PURE Digital, and the EVOKE-3 is billed as
their most advanced model yet. Bringing
together the very best features of the company’s
extensive range, the model offers its owners
ReVu pausing and rewinding of live radio, SDcard support, MP3 playback, tri-band reception,
USB upgradeability and SnoozeHandle and
Electronic Programme Guide (EPG)
technology.
Excellent audio is guaranteed thanks to the
inclusion of a dedicated DSP audio processor,
integrated, full-range Hi-Fi speakers and a bass
reflex port for impacting bass performance,
whilst the large LCD display gives access to an
intuitive menu system that makes operation
simple. As you’d expect from PURE, the
EVOKE-3 also looks the part and sports
radius-edged casework in a Sequoia veneer
finish and, at a very reasonable £199.99, it
looks certain to find its way into countless
homes up and down the country.
+44 (0) 192 327 7488
www.puredigital.com
SURROUNDING SOUNDS
THAT’S A CLASSIC
Audio enthusiasts of the late 80s and early 90s may well remember Acoustic
Energy’s legendary AE1 mini monitor, but the renowned design is set to win new
admirers when it is re-released as the AE1 Classic. Priced at £845 per pair (only
£145 more than they were originally), the new models will be extremely faithful to
the originals, featuring the famous ceramic sandwich aluminium mid/bass driver,
hard-anodised cone, 25mm magnesium dome unit and cabinet lined with a latex
fibre/powder composite. As impressive today as they were back then, you can
catch a glimpse in Room 112 at the Bristol Show.
www.acoustic-energy.co.uk
This year’s Bristol Sound & Vision will see PMC launch the Bryston SP2 CSeries Surrround Preamp/Processor. This supremely natural sounding multichannel audio controller features a bypass control, which provides users with
a totally discrete analogue signal path, including the volume control. Upgrades
from the SP1.7 include the more sophisticated C-Series styling, a new TI
Aureus Audio DSP chip and lower distortion figures. Hand-built in Canada, the
SP2 will retail in the UK for £4,750
17
> SOUND & VISION
TOP STUFF
This month's cover star Top Stands is a trade-only supplier
of some of the smartest TV and audio furniture around. As
these pictures show, they have a number of classy and
glassy solutions that are bound to catch the eye of the
fashion consciousness buyer with voguish sensibilities. Run
by directors with over 30-years of combined experience in
the AV industry, every item comes guaranteed for two years
and is as impressive in build as it is in looks, using
materials like toughened glass and high grade aluminium.
Their stands are carefully selected, plucked from the
catalogues of the finest manufacturers from around the
world, with function, durability and looks the three defining characteristics the team look out for.
Professional in their operations, they assure their stockists of consistent availability, make the
ordering process a breeze and offering very competitive margins to dealers.
With flat-screen TVs growing in popularity, smart looking racks like the ones seen here are
increasingly becoming big business. Meanwhile, the mounts market is also starting to mushroom.
Fortunately, Top Stands have something to meet virtually every need, with a host of tilt and swivel
universal options available for all shapes and sizes of plasmas, LCD-TVs and projectors.
Send off for the brochure – there's sure to be something in it to catch your eye.
www.topstands.co.uk
18
HIGH END
RESOLUTION
UK loudspeaker
manufacturer Resolution
Loudspeakers will be
introducing the world to
their high-performance
S.U.H.T.L. transmission
line models at the Bristol
Show. Standing for Single
drive unit, Ultra-low
resonance, Half-wave,
Transmission-Line, these
innovative designs were
created to reproduce
audio totally unsullied
by the speaker hardware
itself, delivering undistorted
sound that has to be heard to be believed. Already
in full production and available for purchase, we
recommend Bristol attendees make the trip to
Room 217 of the Marriott Hotel to hear them in
action.
+44 (0) 120 248 7464
www.worldsbestloudspeakers.com
7210
WORD ON A WIRE
Boasting a customer-friendly price and superb build quality, tech+link’s
generously proportioned (1.5-metre as standard) WiresCR Scart lead is
fully wired with oxygen-free copper conductors throughout and features
hand-assembled all-metal scart plugs with a mirror chrome finish and
laser-etched engraving, together with gold-plated contact terminals to
eliminate corrosion resistance. Offering improved performance, including
noticeably better colour and definition, over standard cables and designed
to eliminate tight fit problems between DVD-players and larger plasmas, its
retail price of just £19.99 should make it a popular first upgrade accessory.
www.lawtontrade.com
4805
essential solutions from
Tel: 01423 359054 • Fax: 01423 359048
www.csesolutions.co.uk
choose from over five hundred audio, video, lighting, multi-room solutions
> SOUND & VISION
GOOD EGG!
The latest incarnation of Eclipse's much-loved egg-shaped speakers
were unleashed on an industry audience to a rapturous reception last
year at London's Abbey Road Studios. The TD510s are slightly smaller
than their predecessors, the TD512s, and feature a dramatically reduced
price tag. Retailing at £1,200 a pair, they can be deployed to devastating
effect either in a stereo or multi-channel set up. The latter will be
bolstered by the release of a matching, high-speed subwoofer in March.
LOUD AND CLEAR
Canton have incorporated a host of
technological advancements into
their newly redesigned ERGO series
of loudspeakers. Featuring
completely new drivers and
crossover networks developed for
the Vento line and benefiting from
the most significant improvements
in its cabinet design for 20-years,
the new models look certain to
attract the appreciation of audio
enthusiasts. The range includes
three 3-way floor-standers, three
compact 2-way models, a 2-1/2-way
centre channel and a substantially
improved 350W subwoofer.
The inclusion of such
components as the latest ADT-25
dome tweeter and anodised
aluminium bass and midrange
driver cones and the use of the
company’s exclusive displacement
control technology helps deliver
some truly impressive sonic results,
whilst a choice of lacquer and real
wood veneer finishes (such as the
pictured beech) ensure the new
ERGO series looks as good as
it sounds.
+44 (0) 239 250 1888
www.canton.de
20
The imaging and musicality of these speakers is exceptional, with the
strengths of their predecessors (like phase and impulse signal integrity) very
much apparent. The mineral loaded, organically structured resin shells are as
rigid as they come, ensuring the sounds emitted are incredibly clear and free
of colouration. With sonic realism the driving force behind the Eclipse moniker,
the TD510s have the power to deliver.
www.eclipse-td.com
Multi-Award Winners
Unite
A total of 9 Awards in 2005
QED Cables, Goldring Turntable, Grado’s Headphones
and Myryad Stereo Amplifier
Alphason Designs Ltd
Winner of the What Video & Widescreen TV Awards
Awarded to QED Cables
Awarded to Alphason Designs Ltd
SILVER ANNIVERSARY
AD3/105-S
QUNEX OT
Furniture manufacturer of the year
X-TUBE 400
Best TV Support Manufacturer
X-TUBE 300
SILVER ANNIVERSARY
QUNEX HDMI-P
A total of 5 Best Buy’s
Best Furniture Maker
X TUBE 300
QUNEX PCV1
AD3/105-PB
The acquisition of Alphason Designs Ltd by Armour Group plc is one of the most exciting
developments within the industry and creates one of Europe's largest manufacturers and distributors
of home entertainment furniture, hi-fi, home cinema and custom install products.
The awards amassed by both Armour Home Electronics and Alphason Designs Ltd is one of the
largest collections of prestigious awards achieved by any company. Our continuing commitment to
the future development of high quality products is assured.
Our success could not have been achieved without the support of our retail partners.
We thank you and look forward to working together in the future.
Telephone 01279 501111 www.armourhe.co.uk
Telephone 01942 885600 www.alphasondesigns.com
COMPACT SPEAKER SYSTEMS
Hear And Now
In a world where size clearly
matters, TERRY ARNOLD attempts
to prove that, when it comes to
speakers, small is beautiful...
The days of over-sized, hard-edged, boxy and
unsightly loudspeakers are long gone, to the
relief of proud home makers across the
globe. Gone is the day when anything
approaching a realistic or impacting
soundscape had to come from something that
bore more in common with a troop of R2D2's
uglier cousins than attractive ornamentation.
In 2006 the stylist's role is as important to a
product's success as that of the technical
boffin working in R&D.
With interior design an increasingly
prominent consideration, finding both the
space and place for an audio set up worthy of
accompanying the enrapturing flat-screen TVs
and projectors that are now commonplace
could prove quite a challenge for the buyer.
However, it doesn't have to, thanks to the hard
work, invention and ability of AV's finest
manufacturers.
Today there are subtle or smoothly styled
multi-channel packages to suit every need,
both aurally and aesthetically. It's a healthy
marketplace with surround sound more
popular that ever and already regarded as an
essential element not just in a dedicated home
cinema, but in the lounge as well. And, with
the size of the speakers decreasing and the
market awash with affordable options, even
bedrooms are becoming a home of truly
immersing entertainment. With so many
systems available you'll want to ensure you are
stocking the best of the bunch, both in terms
of performance and value... and that's where
we come in. We put our keenest ears to the
task, sifted the sleek from the naff and served
up this grand selection of the most discreet
and compact solutions around. Enjoy...
22
RUARK VITA SYMPHONY
Ruark's Vita Symphony speakers have all the discreetness associated with the on-wall market, yet don't
suffer from the conventional pitfalls. Through vigorous and effective isolation, Ruark's three monitors
are able to churn out open, clear, detailed sounds of an impressive bandwidth, without colouring the
quality with extraneous vibrations. The range comprises a Monitor, Compact and Centre speaker, while
the bass is bolstered by a dedicated sub. With a multitude of finishes available there should be
something to suit every aesthetic need.
Contact: +44 (0) 170 260 1410 www.ruark.co.uk
YAMAHA DIGITAL SOUND PROJECTORS
What could be more compact that a solitary, slender speaker that can provide surrounding sounds
on its own? That is exactly what Yamaha's Digital Sound Projectors can do and, as a result, they are
proving a major hit with both the pundits and the buying public. The multi award-winning YSP800
and YSP1000 offer an affordable, fuss and wire free solution, thanks to their incredibly innovative
construction. Each of these features an expansive array of high power digital amplifiers powering the
discreet sound beam drivers that create the three dimensional soundfield. Prices start at £599.
Contact: +44 (0) 192 323 3166 www.yamaha-uk.com
ARTCOUSTIC DF65-50
Artcoustic have carved out a great niche for themselves manufacturing speakers which don't actually look
like speakers. Thanks to the deployment of state-of-the-art flat panel audio technology Artcoustic's
options hang on the wall like pieces of art. Each speaker can be entirely customised to the buyer’s needs,
coming dressed in one of the Danish firm's hundreds of stock photographs or paintings or, indeed, an
entirely bespoke image. The DF65-50 is the slimmest of the firm's full range studio monitors and can be
deployed in a stereo set-up or as a surrounding satellite.
Contact: +44 (0) 124 560 0529 www.artcoustic.com
KEF KHT3005
The fact that KEF's KHT3005 surround sound
package is a direct descendant of a system that
really shock up this market and boasts a
completely new version of the firm's renowned
Uni-Q driver array certainly creates a lot of
expectation. However, innovations and
improvements prove abundant within these
curvy, compact options... as visitors to CES,
where they were first showcased, will confirm.
The specially shaped, cast-aluminium enclosures
feature radical new drive units, with the cleaner,
smoother response an appreciable
accompaniment to the hot new look. Launching
in March, the package is expected to sell for
around £1,000.
Contact: +44 (0) 162 267 2261 www.kef.com
MORDAUNT SHORT GENIE
The smooth, shapely contours of the Genie have
been meticulously designed and structured for
both aesthetic and sonic ends. Not only do they
reward the buyer with a clean, modern looking
system – they actively serve to minimise the
colouration of sound. The system is made up the
402 satellites, 404 centre speaker (each of which
are magnetically shielded to negate interference)
and the 409 subwoofer. Each of the speakers
boasts a rigid, anodised, aluminium tweeter
offering excellent dynamics and detailed sounds
across the frequency range.
Contact: +44 (0) 175 368 0868
www.mordauntshort.com
TANNOY AUTOGRAPH
In a time when the market is dominated by
futuristic looking kit, it is good to see Tannoy
catering for those with more refined and
traditional tastes. The Autograph Mini shares
the looks of a famous speaker from half a
century ago, but is significantly scaled down.
An accurately detailed replica, its cabinet is
built and finished with all the craft of the
original. Within the enclosure stands the
smallest Dual Concentric driver the firm have
produced, offering the wide bandwidth sounds
that are synonymous with Tannoy today. With a
natural midrange and well defined bass too,
the Autograph offers sumptuous sounds as
standard.
Contact: +44 (0) 123 642 0199
www.tannoy.com
MISSION M-CUBE
How do you guarantee your speakers
look the part? Appoint an internationally
respected design team to help you style
them, of course. This exactly what
Mission did when they teamed up with
Seymourpowell and the resultant MCube Series has certainly pulled in the
praise. Internally innovative too, this 5
or 6.1 system employs NXT technology,
which helps to keep the satellites'
dimensions so compact. However,
despite their scale these punch above
their weight and use Mission's own
Distributed Mode Loudspeaker (DML)
technology to create an absorbing and
realistic soundscape.
Contact: +44 (0) 148 044 7700
www.mission,co.uk
23
COMPACT SPEAKER SYSTEMS
ANTHONY GALLO TI
Anyone familiar with Anthony Gallo's spherical
speakers will know they are amongst the most
unobtrusive designs money can buy, serving up
a level of sound that truly belies their pint-sized
stature. But great designs are there to be
bettered, so when the firm announced some
improvements the industry was all ears. Enter
the Micro Ti and A'Diva Ti, featuring a spanking
new, top quality titanium driver. Strong,
sensitive and robust, yet low in mass, this
ingenious piece of engineering serves to
discernibly improve the sounds. With the
prices starting at £150, there are no
better value options.
Contact: +44 (0) 870 350 1348
www.anthonygallo.co.uk
ACOUSTIC ENERGY AEGO T-SYSTEM
The Aego T-System from Acoustic Energy is a fully
matched 5.1 package that is a triumph both in its
form and function. Its curvaceous, alloy cabinets
have a slick, contemporary look, yet also serve to
promote low resonance and negate internal standing
waves. They produce a rich, detailed, balanced sound
that is bolstered by the sounds of the Twin 200mm
drivers and 200W amplifier of the accompanying
subwoofer. As solid and robust in construction as its
look is elegant, the satellites are reassuringly heavy
to handle and have the power to deliver.
Contact: +44 (0) 128 565 4432
ECLIPSE TD510
Few firms have produced speakers as distinctive as those of Eclipse and the latest incarnation
of their egg-shaped beauties is the finest to date. Launched late last year, the TD510s prove
equally comfortable and adept in a stereo or multi-channel array, serving up incredibly
transparent sounds that appear genuinely immersing, even to the attuned ear. At £1,200 both
their price and size have been slightly reduced, but their performance is smoother than ever.
Extended frequency response, higher sensitivity, a wider dynamic range and fresh mounting
options are just some of the advantages the revitalised models offer.
Contact: +44 (0) 207 328 4499 www.eclipse-td.com
B&W XT SERIES
B&W's XT Series is a fresh addition to the market place, forged from the smoothest aluminium
extrusions. The strengths of these materials have allowed the renowned manufacturers to
draw a lot of performance from these slender, chicly dressed speakers. Exceptionally precise
low frequencies and impressive imaging are evident from the box, whilst B&W fans we be
pleased to learn the firm's renowned Flowport technology and award-winning Natuilus
Tapering Tube make the cut. The Series comprises the three-way XT4, two-way XT2, the XTC
centre speaker and the 500W PV1 subwoofer. Prices range from £549 to £1,699.
Contact: +44 (0) 190 322 1800 www.bwspeakers.com
24
DESIGN E GT3
Design E aim to produce functional art
which enriches and brings beauty
to its users' environment. That
the new GT3 Series does
this is beyond doubt.
Crafted from solid wood,
yet racked with stateof-the-art composite
technologies, these
speakers have a
refined, timeless look
that has to rank
amongst the classiest
ever produced. They'll
serve up between a 25-125W
punch across a healthy
frequency range, with their organic,
curvaceous structure helping to keep
coloration to a minimum. £745 seems a
small price to pay for such impressive
handiwork.
Contact: +44 (0) 124 337 7899
www.designe.co.uk
CANTON CD-200
Canton's CD-200 Series builds upon all
the abilities of its predecessor the CD
100 Series, bringing their renowned
Germanic craftsmanship, build quality
and performance to the elegant end of
the speaker spectrum. The slender
dimensions of the aluminium satellites
and centre speaker would make the
ideal companion of a flat-screen TV. The
range comprises the two and a half-way
CD 250 and 220 speakers and the AS 80
active subwoofer, which come together
to form one of the most graceful
surround sound packages about.
Contact: +44 (0) 239 250 1888
www.canton.de
PMC WAFER
PMC's Wafer Series certainly lives up to its name, with the on-wall loudspeakers seen
here amongst the most slender you will encounter. Their performance is founded upon
the award-winning ATL technology that has served the company so well, making them
an option likely to strike a chord with the discerning consumer and installers alike. This
enables the speakers to produce louder, deeper sounds, with extended bass, which,
thanks to the StealthBaffle, remain remarkably untainted. Prices for the speakers start
at £1,100 for a pair and they can be painted to complement any interior.
Contact: +44 (0) 870 444 1044 www.pmc-speakers.com
MONITOR AUDIO RADIUS
Monitor Audio's Radius
Series has established a fine
reputation for itself thanks to
build quality and engineering
every bit as meticulous as
that associated with the
firm's reference speakers.
The latest additions to this
burgeoning collection are the
Radius 250 and loudspeaker
and 720 subwoofer. The
former is only 95mm deep,
can be wall mounted and,
thanks to an enlarged
enclosure, offers enhanced
bass performance in relation
to the 225, with which it
shares its drivers and gold
dome C-CAM tweeter. The
250 can be deployed
horizontally or vertically and
as a stand alone speaker or
alongside a sub for the
ultimate surround sound
set up.
Contact: +44 (0) 126 874 0580
www.monitoraudio.co.uk
JAMO A 360
Jamo’s successful A 3 Series of surround sound
systems has recently been added to. The latest
addition is the A 360, a one box solution designed to
replace a conventional front left, right and centre
speaker. An ideal accompaniment to a flat-screen
TV, this sleek black speaker boasts six drive units
and come with an original tiltable, wall-mounting
system. Magnetically shielded, with a 100-20,000Hz
frequency response and a 100W power handling
capacity, the A 360 is certainly up to the task and
sells for a paltry £299.99.
Contact: +44 (0)192 320 5605 www.bbg-av.com
INFINITY TSS-4000
The pursuit of performance and universal aesthetic appeal drove the
development of Infinity's TSS-4000 loudspeaker system. This flagship package
joins the firm's Total Solutions range and has all the necessary finesse to make
it a hit with the home cinema fan. Racked with original technologies – such as
Infinity's Metal Matrix Diaphragm (MMD) drivers and Room Adaptive Bass
Optimisation System (RABOS) – the magnetically shielded speakers serve up a
treat. The system comprises the three-way SAT-4000 satellites and CENTER4000, with the 12-inch, 400W, SUB-4000 providing the depth.
Contact: +44 (0) 208 731 4670 www.infinitysystems.com
www.harman.com
25
ISE REVIEW
Integrate To Accumulate
Our much travelled editor, HAMISH McNAIR-WILSON, takes a look at one European
union that definitely isn't being decried...
Hosting the Integrated Systems Europe show in Brussels this year was
thoroughly appropriate. As the epicentre of Europe's most high-profile union, it
seemed the ideal place for industry insiders and installers from across the
continent to congregate, evaluate and educate themselves in the latest
developments in their working world. Assisted by some of America's and Asia's
biggest manufacturers, many visitors from the growing Middle Eastern market
and even the odd Australasian, 2006's ISE show had a truly global flavour.
In its midst were a multitude of visitors from the UK, from all walks of AV and
CI. They took a variety of routes to the show and for those that joined us on the
Eurostar it proved a particularly painless journey. Comfortable, swift and without
the fog related delays that afflicted some of the flights, I arrived in the freezing
climes of Brussels on Tuesday night, relishing the days ahead. The event was
hosted by the cunningly titled Brussels Convention Centre, in Halls 5 and 6. The
venue dated back to the 1930s and as its imposing stature loomed into view it
didn't look like it had been given a lick of paint since. Located a stone's throw
away from the infamous Heysel football stadium, it certainly didn't appear the
most inviting of places as we crunched up its barely tended, ice-clad path.
Fortunately the fact it was well heated was enough to win me over as, rather
naively, I'd packed nothing warmer than the suit jacket I was wearing. However,
the contrast between the cutting-edge technology found within and the rather
rudimentary toiletry facilities and the bare concrete structure certainly gave the
show an unusual feel. Having managed to pick a hotel whose décor wasn't so
much retro chic as a space-time continuum-defying portal back into the 1970s, I
was beginning to think I'd entered the land that time forgot!
My concerns were quickly allayed as I marched through Hall 5 for the first
time, past a plethora of stands decked out with some of the most up-to-theminute kit in CI. Of course, this was the last thing on my mind as I had a stand to
26
decorate, magazines to find and some serious caffeine to absorb before the
ribbon was cut and the crowds descended upon us. Armed with some double
sided sellotape, we soon had stand C58 looking the part and 500 or so magazines
racked up and ready to be emancipated by the passing hordes. Fuelled by the
hearty selection of mini croissants, pain au chocolat and muffins kindly laid on in
the press room, we were eager to make the most of the opening day.
fair's fair
Our stand was located within what I believe was termed the UK Pavilion,
although it was a rather loosely bound and defined area. I wasn't sure
whether the red lights opposite us helped to define it or not, but I noticed the
odd visitor squirm at the sight of them, presumably as they suffered
uncomfortable flashbacks of last year's show in Amsterdam. Just behind us
was the residential pavilion, the boundaries of which were again more easily
defined on the map than they were on the show floor. However, within each of
these was a host of wares worthy of our attention.
Many of the exhibitors were there with the help of our nearest
neighbours, Tradefair. This client-focused organisation lends its experience
and expertise to companies seeking to build their businesses overseas. Their
assistance and support was appreciated at ISE where they had, amongst
other things, played a key role in the construction of a lot of stands and
assisted with transportation costs. With Tradefair also covering events such as
CeBIT and IS China, it could be worth considering what they could do for you.
As the first day wore on the footfall in our particular area wasn't
particularly striking. As a result, I decided to take a hike around the show to see
what I could find. Venturing back towards the entrance, it was no surprise to
see the Crestron stand awash with people... and, as has become custom, a
Belgian beer of choice. This show's particular selection was Stella, which may be
a strong beer to the binge drinking British palate, but – as we soon discovered –
is one of Brussels' weaker brews. Of course, it was the products as well the
hospitality which were pulling in the punters... as I found out when I tried to
attract the attention of one of the blue shirt clad crew running the show.
Everyone of them was deeply immersed in conversation with a visitor, running
through the attributes of the array of solutions presented on the expansive stand.
It was to prove buzzing throughout the event with a healthy interest from
both commercial and residential visitors reported. A 75% leaning in favour of
the former was the estimate of one of the team I spoke to, but with the
impressively affordable Adagio and incredibly convenient iLux CLS-C6
Integrated Zoned Lighting System on show for the first time there was plenty of
fresh kit for the latter to get their mitts on.
a growing concern
Not far from the sizeable Crestron stand, AMX had set up shop, clearly making
quite an investment in their substantial space. With their area cleverly divided up
into areas covering the different applications of their kit – including clearly
defined sections for marine, educational and residential installations – the
versatility of their Modero touch-panels was abundantly obvious. New additions
to this range on show included the affordable, tiltable 10-inch widescreen model
and their smallest, feature-rich option yet - measuring only five-inches across.
The show witnessed a debut for the Mio Modero Series of keypads too, some of
which feature a people sensor enabling them to light up when a hand nears
their buttons. These keypads also enable an infrared device to interact with and
control components integrated into an AMX system, enhancing usability.
The latest developments in AMX's multimedia distribution system, the
MAX were another stimulating feature. The combination of the MAX-HT and
MAX-AVP provide the end user with a dynamic server that can happily be seen
on the shelf and also includes a high-end DVD-player, effectively combining
the functions of a top notch home entertainment solution with those of all
singing, all dancing, all distributing hub.
The big guns like these boys certainly succeeded in drawing in the crowds
as by the end of the show some 10,970 people had made it through the door –
a huge attendance, building significantly on the number that made the trip in
2005. And, with 80% of the space available this year already booked out for
2007, there is every hope that the show will continue to grow. The good news,
for those who shared my reservations about the venue, is that next year ISE
will be returning to the RAI in Amsterdam – a venue that not only offered
better facilities, but also proved a lot easier to find. With a host of top notch
hotels also available, we look forward to returning to the Netherlands... and
no, not just for its degenerate reputation!
That's not to say Brussels didn't have its charms, however, and having
coursed my way around the ISE party, feasting on whatever tasty morsels I could
get my hands on and trying desperately not to spill my beer on some very
expensive stumbling blocks, the folks at CEDIA UK were kind enough to
introduce me to some of its more appealing areas. These included the central
plaza, where the town hall is located. So stunning was the architecture of the
Nearly 11,000 people made the trip to ISE
27
ISE REVIEW
impeccably preserved buildings that I almost forgot about the abundant brass
monkeys attempting to strip me of my masculinity. A meal in what can only be
termed an interesting restaurant followed, but some insightful conversation
from a collection of the UK's top CI bods was sufficient to distract me from the
fact the waiter was suffering from a previously undiscovered male equivalent
of the menopause that forced him to abandon every sense of etiquette and
choose everyone's meals for them. Still, the apple sauce was nice...
sound for sound
Back at the show the next day and as fresh as a daisy from the night before,
it was time to explore my surroundings once more. It didn't take much effort
to slip over to the see KEF, who were making quite an impression on all who
passed them by. Not only did they have one of the most original stands, it
was adorned with great new products. These included a couple of brand new
CI options, designed to bring new abilities to the recessed speaker market.
The fully retractable Ci3-80QT and Ci9000ACE both proved virtually silent in
operation and will slip comfortably into place when ordered to, bringing an
unusually impressive combination of discreetness and dynamic sound to any
environment in which they are deployed. I was also treated to a first
demonstration of the KHT3005 package – a pint-sized 5.1 selection sure to
build on the success of its predecessors.
“80% of the space available this
year already booked out for 2007”
Other speakers that caught our eye included a chic selection from French
firm Waterfall, some cutting-edge and inimitable designs from Jamo and a host
of in-wall options from Sonance... although it was the latter's in-wall, iPod
docking station which really amazed me. Artcoustic were located just around
the corner and their lifestyle orientated stand proved a fantastic vehicle for
showing off their ingenious wares. As anyone familiar with them will know,
there are no more cunning solutions to hiding a speaker on the wall. Artcoustic
by name and arty by nature, this design-led firm proved a popular draw.
Another company in the locality, on the edge of the UK pavilion, were
Smart-e - known for their cutting-edge solutions and love of the colour purple.
Debuting for them at the show was a fresh, managed TV and AV system
allowing every type of display to be remotely monitored and controlled from a
single base, anywhere in the world. This intelligent, customisable system
enables one party to provide support to all its staff or customers globally, from
a single room via a straightforward, standard, IP-based network. Also on
display was Smart-e’s SNX-8x8+; a new, compact multi-format switch for
operating information and expansive AV systems, all from a single Cat5 cable.
Its capacity to operate multiple screens should prove a boon for installers as
this negates the need for multiple cables linking individual pieces of kit.
Suitable for the highest end of the domestic market, it will supply the finest
images. There was certainly a decent crowd around the Smart-e stand for the
duration of the event and there was plenty for them to see. A previously
unseen, versatile multi-format short-range Cat5 AV extender made up the
fresh collection of goods, which certainly seemed to attract a lot of attention.
those irritating black bars on the screen, without compromising performance.
To accompany the host of projectors on display, a huge batch of screen
manufacturers had made the trip, with big names like Projecta and Stewart
bringing a lot to the table. Mounts were also very much on the agenda, with
Vogels, Vantage, B-Tech, Sanus and Chief amongst the major players
registering an impact amongst the installers making their rounds.
Innovative lighting solutions weren't confined to the Crestron base and
with the likes of i-Light and Lutron in the vicinity there were a lot of innovative
products competing for attention. The Helvar stand certainly came riddled
with these and the company, having embraced the residential sector over
three years ago, are truly starting to make an impact. We spent a long time
there evaluating their latest additions and they seemed to have a particularly
innovative approach to dealing with developers. Through working directly with
these during the building process, allowing a base for their systems to be
installed at the minimum of cost, they hope to open up markets previously not
au fait with intelligent lighting. We wish them every success in this.
Other intelligent solutions that we encountered on our ramble around the
show included ProCon Technology's superbly priced control panels. These
handy faceplates allow a user to harness each and every piece of their kit and
command them with the utmost convenience, all for under £200. IKON AVS
were another firm that drew our attention. Distributed here through SSP, their
host of solutions for any RS232, infrared or RS485 need and ability to offer
direct device control, buffered output and programmable switching present
any installer with another difficult decision. After all, they may not be the
biggest name on the show floor, but they certainly have a lot to offer.
As with any event of this magnitude the enlightening conversation and
networking didn't end with the final whistle and there were plenty of social
events for the energetic visitor to lap up. I personally found myself whisked
away to Crestron HQ, along with several coach loads of others. Here I was
treated to a tour of the company's Belgian base, some traditional cuisine and
some exciting entertainment. With all the company's top brass in the house,
this proved to be the social event of the week, as several Crestron clients
braved a magician’s sword, an unrelenting flow of alcohol and one of the
biggest selections of cold meats I have ever come across. It was a fine end to
the day and our thanks to Crestron for their appreciable hospitality.
Apparently it was the first of many Crestfrests to come, so bring on next
year's ISE. Bring on Amsterdam. Yes, as stated, we'll all be back next year at
what promises to be a bigger event than ever. As both the footfall and
enthusiasm amongst exhibitors continues to grow, it is astonishing to think
the show is only in its third year. I predict a riot come its fourth birthday...
www.iseurope.org
over to view
There were many highlights to the show, primarily located in Hall 5. However,
in crossing to the other side I found myself being dragged into a 3LCD
marquee to have the benefits of this projection technology expounded to me.
There were certainly some impressive products to back this up, including
Sony's latest Bravia 3LCD-TVs. An alternative technology to Texas Instruments'
high-profile DLP, supporters claim it boasts more natural colours and images.
There are, of course, many companies likely to dispute this, including SIM2 who had a great new product on show. However, with its official launch on these
shores taking place in Bristol later in the month we don't want to give the game
away. Hitachi were certainly not shy in showing off their projection technologies
and they had a myriad of options on show in Hall 6 for every possible application.
An exponent of the aforementioned 3LCD technology, their CP-x255 was
definitely worth closer inspection. This particularly forward-thinking model
includes built-in network management software, making it an ideal inclusion in
the modern smart home where users will be able to make the most of its
dynamism. Optoma also had a booth near by and were showing what they can
do. However, the place to be for the ultimate home cinema demonstration was
just around the corner from our stand, where Runco had teamed up with a
number of partners in order to demonstrate how impacting home cinema can
be. This enabled the firm to highlight the benefits of its CineWide and AutoScope
technologies which allows its DLP projectors to show movies in a variable aspect
ratio - most notably the thoroughly original 2.35:1 that negates the presence of
28
The presence of the very latest technology
gave visitors much to discuss and enjoy
New venue, bigger event
CEDIA Expo 2006 will be taking place at the high class,
easily accessible venue, ExCeL London situated in the
heart of London’s Docklands.
Over 100 exhibitors
If you are involved in the planning, design, specification,
installation, distribution and manufacturing of automated
electronic systems and technologies for the intelligent
home, then mark your diaries now for the industry event
of the year!
Expanded training programme
What makes CEDIA Expo so unique is CEDIA’s commitment
to training. A 4-day extensive seminar programme is specifically
targeted at custom installers and professionals within this
industry to further knowledge and personal development.
Training | 19–22 June 2006
Exhibition | 20–22 June 2006
CEDIA (the Custom Electronic Design and Installation Association) is the
international trade association, which represents the residential custom
installation industry and has a global membership of over 4,000 companies.
CEDIA UK Ltd, Unit 2, Phoenix Park, St Neots, Cambs PE19 8EP
Tel | +44 (0)1480 213744 Fax | +44 (0)1480 213469
Email | expo@cedia.co.uk Web | www.cedia.co.uk
INSTALLATION FOCUS
Sweet Dreams
The most expansive custom installations aren't
confined to the home, as armband-clad waterbaby
SAM FULLER discovers...
One of the imperative attributes of any
healthy business is its ability to
evolve, embrace a changing
marketplace and thrive regardless of
faltering trends. Through awareness,
pragmatism and the ability to diversify
it is possible to escape a downward
spiral and pursue fresh clients and
economic growth. Many of our most
progressive Hi-Fi dealers' experiences
of the last few years bear testament to
this as they've opened both their minds
and businesses to custom installation.
What were stock rooms have been
transformed into lifestyle focused
demonstration suites, staff have been
trained to new levels of technical
aptitude and some of their more
archaic, two-channel products have
been traded for recessed speakers and
swanky touch-screens. In the last
decade the residential CI industry has blazed a path into the consciousness
of the buying public, emerging from nowhere to become a high-profile,
lucrative game where former commercial entities and conventional retailers
have pitted themselves against each other in an attempt to bring the buyer
the most enrapturing home entertainment around.
As any market grows so too does the number of businesses working
within it, thus it is only natural for the established names to look further
afield for their business. While many are hard at work attempting to grow
their business by offering cheaper solutions aimed at a consumer to whom
such service was previously unaffordable, others have looked beyond the
home and, in some cases, beyond the UK. Many eyes have been turning to
the Middle East, and in particular Dubai, where the presence of (someone
recently told me) 70% of the world's cranes, a whole lot of affluence and the
accompanying development are making this the new land of opportunity. A
hugely significant British presence at the forthcoming PALME show should
confirm that experienced and respected companies from our shores have
been faring well in the region and their role in its 21st century style
embourgeoisment is sure to grow.
With great wealth comes great automation and these days that is not
confined to the land. Never mind those stealthy tax evaders with their
30
The most impressive installations
are often those found afloat...
offshore accounts, Any multi-millionaire worth their salt is investing in the finest
form of offshore living – a superyacht. And fine living, whether for the landlubber
or ocean-bound seafarer, is synonymous with home automation. There have been
rumours on the industry grapevine that Mr. Abramovich himself has around five of
these floating havens and many others have been snapping them up. It's a
growing market and offers installers an excellent opportunity to build on their
business, expand the services they offer and show off their skills by pimping
these expensive, watery rides, kitting them out with the same creature comforts
customers have come to demand within the home. The Candyscape come racked
with exactly that and is a shining example of the kind of high-end vessels roaming
the high seas today. As bright as a button and smarter than many a smart home,
the handiwork of Fusion Automation and Candy & Candy makes the average
holiday boat on the Norfolk broads look like yachting's equivalent to a particularly
decrepit garden shed.
rooms with a view
As such yachts are invariably pound for pound more luxurious than their landbased counterparts, there was a lot to behold on the 45-metre Candyscape. One
of the most noteworthy technological inclusions was that of Kalaidescape's selftitled movie distribution system – something we've given a great deal of press
over the years, thanks to its wonderful usability. The entire vessel benefits from
this system's abilities, with hundreds of movies available at the touch of button
from the bow to the stern and from port to starboard. Unique features of the
Kalaidescape system includes its ability to bypass menus and trailers, some
stunning interfaces which help the user choose their movie and the manner in
which it integrates with and triggers other system functions, drawing the blinds
and dimming the lights as the film kicks in. It can be specifically tailored to suit
its owners, in this instance welcoming viewers to John's Cinema.
The guest's cabins are all home to this appreciable entertainment, with the
multitude of cinematic treats available to view on the slender, 17-inch Philips
LCD-TVs, which AWE successfully distribute to the CI trade. Each of these comes
cleverly concealed behind a mirror, ensuring visitors to the vessel benefit from
entirely unspoilt interiors. Naturally the master bedroom looks every bit as
stunning as the guest suites, but here there is a little more to see, courtesy of the
37-inch Panasonic plasma adorning the wall.
The Kalaidescape system also extends to the media room on the upper deck.
This versatile room boasts a 32-inch Sony LCD-TV for everyday viewing. However,
when it's time to appreciate the optimum in entertainment, a 90-inch retractable
cinema screen can be summoned from seemingly nowhere. This, in combination
with an Action! model one projection unit, provides images capable of teleporting
anyone away from the ocean and into the picture. It is coupled with a high-quality
Fusion Automation's work leaves
the vessel's interior unspoilt
Kalaidescape's movie distribution
technology is a core element of the
Candyscape's facilities
surround sound system from Sonance, powered by a top notch Denon amp.
The DVD-player is also supplied courtesy of Denon, ensuring quality is
omnipresent along the chain.
Crossing the seven seas by boat can take some time, so there are even
more pleasant distractions to be found in the main saloon. Here a Future
Automation plasma lift – the like of which pulled in the crowds at the recent
ISE Show – effectively magics a 42-inch Sony plasma screen into view. Yes,
thanks to a clever system from a firm that every installer with an eye for
preserving an interior has come to appreciate, the sizeable screen emerges
from apparently nowhere at the touch of a button on the all-conquering
Crestron panel.
Fusion Automation:+44 (0) 207 384 1490
Crestron: +44 (0) 208 439 7272
www.crestron.com
walls to the platinum and gold leaf ceilings has been handpicked to make
their wishes a reality. This, in combination with one of London's most
professional high-end integration specialist's endeavours - the
aforementioned Fusion Automation - makes the Candyscape a real treat.
True, the superyacht may never become prefixed with an adjective like
affordable, but for installers with a portfolio of work in the residential sector,
the plushest docks offer another batch of prospective, well-funded
customers to pursue. And, if they all perform with the aplomb of this
particular team in focus, satisfying those customers is guaranteed.
A complement of Crestron touch-panels
allow for instant, user-friendly contro
bespoke on the water
Sonace's speakers, distributed here in the UK by Armour Home Electronics,
have certainly proved a favourite with the team at Future Automation and
these discreet, recessed models are present across the Candyscape. Also
hidden away and fully integrated into its network are 10 Sky Digital receivers,
ensuring the lucky owners access to a huge range of television channels from
around the world, no matter how far from land they find themselves.
To keep him in control the Captain has an up-to-the-minute PC to hand,
as well as his more conventional wheel and rudder. Any image or screen from
this can be shown around the yacht at any time. This allows those on board to
be kept informed of their movements, up to speed with developments and
informed of safety procedures with incredible convenience.
Industry big guns like AMX and Crestron are finding a great call for their
kit offshore these days and it was the latter's finest wares that lie behind
much of the intelligent system adorning the Candyscape. A Crestron AV2 dual
bus control system is a key element, managing all the on-board equipment.
Two Crestron CNX-PAD8A Audio distribution processors also make the cut,
allowing anyone making a trip on the vessel as amenable access to music as
they have to their movies – Total Floating Home Technology, you could say.
This is accessed courtesy of either the TPMC-10 - Crestron’s flagship touchpanel – or one of the smaller MT1000Cs which grace every room. Handy,
intuitive, bright and inviting, these have the power to put anyone in control
and were picked by Fusion Automation for their ability to make such an
extensive installation so simple for the end user to run.
There is, however, a lot more to Candyscape than a wealth of techie
twists. Its aesthetics are not only unspoilt by the technology. They have been
actively embellished by the cunning hands of Candy & Candy – a Londonbased team who leave no stone unturned in the pursuit of their client's dream
interior. As a result, everything from the original artworks to the silk covered
31
> SOUND & VISION
WHAT’S NEW? INSTALLER
Installation Nation
COMPILED BY TOBY WATSON
TECHNOLOGY IKON
A number of manufacturers are making claims
for integrated control and switching systems, but
many rely on installers choosing from a limited
selection of products from the one manufacturer
to work with the control system on offer. Ikon
AVS, a manufacturer based in rural
Worcestershire, has approached the subject from
a different starting point…
“We started the Ikon range of products as an
installer ourselves,” Ikon MD David Tyas began,
“and we were frustrated that all of the control
systems on offer tied you into their add-on
products such as relays, infrared units and
control panels. So because we have a
background in electronic design through
numerous companies including Klark Technic, we
decided to produce the units we required for our
own installations. Initially these were relay,
analogue and control interfaces to add
functionality. Then we decided we needed a
simple-to- use control panel that would connect
simply to the other units – and the Podule series
and the Podnet interface were born.”
Since those early days over six years ago the
Podule series has grown from a few products
through to the wide range that is available today.
32
“We soon realised that we had something special
with the Podule range,” continued Tyas, “and we
decided to concentrate our efforts on
manufacturing and development of the Podule
range rather than installation. But we still
wanted to continue the philosophy of complete
integration of the products into other
manufacturers’ systems. So the Podule range is
ideal for adding low cost interfaces to any level of
system from simple wall panels for local control
to relay infra red and audio switchers with
volume control. That isn’t to say that we can’t
offer a complete control solution, and I obviously
welcome the opportunity to demonstrate how the
Podule range can be used to build a complete
solution, but as we stated earlier, we are happy
for our customers to use the products with other
systems and we will support the interface to
these in the same way as to our own products.”
It seems that there are benefits of using Ikon
products together though: freeing up control
ports for additional control and connecting units
via Cat 5 are just a couple of reasons. Two new
Ikon products - the XVGA Podule and
Euro8Podule - are perfect examples of the
company's philosophy: the XVGA Podule is a four-
input computer switcher that will work as a
standalone unit, interface to display devices and
/or other systems via the control port, or offer
remote control via the Podnet link on Cat5 to any
other Podule unit.
The Euro8 Podule – an eight button control
unit - also offers flexibility with two on board IR
ports as well as a control port for direct device
operation, but combined with the Podnet interface
it becomes an ideal partner to the XVGA Podule for
classroom or boardroom systems. Adding other
Podules such as the Audio Podule, video Podule
and screen Podule, it is easy to see how one unit
can easily become linked to several others.
Ikon AVS have also added a new
demonstration facility to their premises in
Worcestershire and welcome customers for
product training and demonstrations. It could be
well worth you popping along to take a closer
look at their kit – the firm certainly seemed to be
wooing the crowds at the recent ISE show.
+44(0) 160 866 1598
sales@sspdistribution.co.uk
WHAT’S NEW
SIMPLY THE FEST
ISE 2006 certainly appears to have been a success, with Crestron's main
man Robin Van Meeuwen amongst the first to expound its virtues. “We
were all delighted with how ISE went for us. The stand was constantly
busy, and we had visitors from all over Europe and Asia, all very
interested in our products and solutions,” he commented. “ It was clear
for everyone to see how ISE is going from strength to strength, and is
definitely a must for anybody in the industry who is serious about the
European market.”
If the numbers at Crestron's party, Crestfest, were anything to go by,
the turnout must be considered healthy. The 700 attendees consumed
over 3,000 pints of beer, 300 bottles of wine and 350kg of food!
www.crestron.com.
SAFE EUROPEAN HOME
Following a year of impressive growth, Kaleidescape, Inc., a leading provider of
entertainment servers, has announced the expansion of its European presence
with the formation of Kaleidescape Europe Limited - a wholly-owned subsidiary
company - and new relationships with key distributors in the region.
According to the European Information Technology Observatory, the European
consumer electronics market is growing dramatically, topping €4.2 billion in 2005
alone. To capitalise on this strong growth, Kaleidescape created a dedicated
subsidiary headquartered in London. The subsidiary will act as the European
headquarters for the company, providing sales and support resources for the region.
Additionally, Kaleidescape has added new distributors on the continent
including Audio Video Generation in France, Image Vertriebs GmbH in Germany
and Tower Systems in Italy. These companies join Kaleidescape's current
distributor in Switzerland, Genesis Technologies, and further strengthen the
company's European operations.
"The Kaleidescape System is the most exciting and significant development
in the custom installation market," Michael Malcolm, Kaleidescape's founder,
chairman and CEO, enthused. "Our business has grown dramatically in Europe
over the past year. We've built an excellent European distribution network and
have seen an increasing number of installations in both the residential and
marine markets. By increasing our presence in the region, we expect to further
accelerate our growth."
www.kaleidescape.com
33
> SOUND & VISION
ON THE RADIA
Bohlender Graebener’s comprehensive range of award winning in-wall and
on-wall loudspeakers is now available in the UK, courtesy of custom
installation distributor THE MAX Distribution.
Nevada’s BG Corporation, famed for its
patented planar ribbon tweeter technology, is at
the forefront of the audio, home theatre, custom
and commercial installation markets in the US.
Its highly regarded Radia Series in-wall
loudspeakers have proven very popular with
installers due to their high performance, sleek
design, reliability and ease of installation.
At CES, BG launched five new models to
round off the Radia Series boasting a variety of
new driver technologies and design
configurations. Features of the range include innovative ribbon tweeters,
machined aluminum baffles, composite Kevlar cones and active low
frequency units in the larger models.
The Radia design delivers class leading output efficiency for a relatively
compact cut-out size, linear response across the audio spectrum and
extremely low levels of distortion throughout. The range now provides a
complete high performance line-up of custom-fit loudspeaker solutions to
suit every installation.
“BG was a natural choice for THE MAX as the brand epitomises our
core values of innovation, style and performance,” says Chris Metalle, THE
MAX Distribution’s MD. “The planar ribbon tweeters in the BG Radia in-wall
loudspeakers are second to none for sweetness and imaging, making the
Radia Series unrivalled in overall sound quality.”
“The build quality of BG Radia loudspeakers is superb – as demanded
by a highly critical US public. This makes them ideally suited for custom
installations where there’s zero tolerance for error and maximum need for
high fidelity,” Metalle added.
The BG range is available through THE MAX Distribution now with very
attractive margins. The BG Radia Series retails from around £500 per pair up
to £9,000 per pair.
For further information contact: +44 (0) 173 284 0845, www.themax.co.uk, www.bgcorp.com
34
BIG IT UP
InFocus is to introduce a radical evolution of its award-winning projectors with its
new Play Big range. The pioneering manufacturer has launched the three-strong,
digital selection, available in the UK through CSE Solutions. The stylish looking
models boast an attractive curved profile with a high-gloss black finish and satin
chrome accents to complement any décor, whether the lights are on or off.
When it comes to performance, the projectors are said to be brighter than
most plasma TVs and offer consumers the best value per diagonal inch for big
screen viewing. Their makers are promising us “a stunning image ranging
from 60-inches to a wall-filling 144-inches diagonally”.
“InFocus’ innovation is hard at work in the Play Big portfolio,” said
Scott Ballantyne, chief marketing officer at InFocus. “With the combination of
style, a vivid picture and affordability, InFocus is creating a new category of
digital projection that delivers a theatre-size experience in an affordable, easy
to use and sleek package.”
The specific models available are called the IN72, IN74 and IN76 fill. They
range from the affordable 480p resolution IN72 through to the enrapturing, 720p
native HD front projector, the IN76, bringing a superb big theatre experience to
the home of the video enthusiast. Racked with all the right connections and the
latest Texas Instruments' chip-sets, high quality colours come guaranteed. The
InFocus IN72, IN74 and IN76 will sell for £899, £1299 and £1699 respectively.
www.infocus.com.
WHAT’S NEW
4 PLAY
Every projector needs a projection screen and with prices in the multimedia
projector market continuing to fall, the growth in both commercial and home
cinema applications and the forthcoming World Cup competition, demand for
screens is sure to remain high in early to mid 2006.
By far the most popular type of projection screens are those that are wall
or ceiling mounted in a permanent installation. Somewhat surprisingly,
electric screens in particular are proving more and more popular and taking
an increasing proportion of screen sales. Thanks to some astute purchasing,
British supplier TCI is currently running a special promotion on both manual
and electric screens. This includes all of the popular sizes in the standard
square (1:1 ratio), video (4:3 ratio) and widescreen (16:9 ratio) formats.
Although dealers can choose to stock-up, the
promotion is also available on purchases of a single
screen. In this way, dealers can take advantage of
lower net trade cost prices even for an individual
project or installation.
For details of the special net prices to dealers
and a copy of TCI’s complete catalogue for their
range of projection screens, just get in touch. You
could find them boosting your profits this season.
For further information +44 (0) 160 481 1661
www.tcivega.co.uk.
GET IN TOUCH
Specialist home networking and entertainment wholesaler In Touch
Technologies have introduced a unique range of custom modules that fit
directly into either EuroMod or Mosaic faceplates. Each module is designed
with the installer in mind, offering simple, screw down terminals that allow
quick and easy termination. When coupled with their range of high density
TV corner plates these offer an extremely compact and effective
termination centre for surround sound systems,
plasma feeds and network
connections. They are available now
and certainly warrant a closer look.
For further information contact: +44
(0) 845 644 2401
www.intouchtech.co.uk
HEADING NORTH
Following an impressive period of growth across the UK, Crestron has opened a new
office serving the North of England. Located in Yorkshire, the office provides a more
convenient sales support and training HQ for the company’s commercial and
residential dealers in the region.
Situated on the new £80m Robin Hood Airport Business Park in Doncaster providing convenient air access from London, Scotland and Ireland - Crestron North
will deliver technical support and dedicated training facilities to ensuring Northern
customers continue to receive the best possible service from the company.
Announcing the move, Robin Van Meeuwen, UK Managing Director at Crestron,
explained: “We have experienced significant growth in the last few years, and not
just in the South of England. We felt it necessary to support our growing customer
base by creating a permanent site serving the North of England, Ireland and
Scotland. This new facility in Doncaster is a great step forward and is testament to
the fact that we are a truly national concern.”
Crestron North is headed up by Sean Cleary, who has been at the forefront of
developing Crestron’s expanding customer base in the area over the past 24
months. Sean has considerable expertise supporting dealers in the region and is
fully conversant with the company’s full product range.
Cleary, Crestron’s Northern Regional Manager commented: “This locality is a
vibrant area, rich with potential in both commercial AV and residential development.
Our partnership approach to new business is proving a refreshing change in the
region and I am very excited about transforming the control and automation market
here. I am delighted that with the benefit of this new Regional Office, I am now able
to bring the full strength of Crestron’s world-leading presence to Donacaster. ”
The new Northern office will offer the full complement of Crestron training
courses, from system design to programming and
installation. Full technical support will also be
provided from the Doncaster premises by Chris Jay,
who joined the company in June 2005 with a proven
installation background. The move is the latest
evidence that CI is blossoming into a truly nationwide
phenomenon and it should certainly help Crestron to
generate business across the land.
+44 (0) 208 439 7272 , www.crestron.com.
35
> SOUND & VISION
STREAMING INSIDE
A leading force in the manufacturing of networked
entertainment systems, NetStreams is continuing to
advance the capabilities of DigiLinX for the benefit of
installers and their customers. To highlight the latest
developments, dealers and installers are invited to
attend a DigiLinX seminar to be held at CEDIA UK’s
new HQ in St.Neots, Cambridgeshire on Tuesday 7th
March 2006.
CEDIA have recently relocated to larger premises
and Invision UK have the opportunity to present this
course in their new purpose-built training room.
The dedicated room sits
36
25 delegates and is just one advantage of the CI
industry's association's new home.
A free introductory course, the seminar will be
presented by industry specialist Buzz Goddard from
NetStreams and will focus on the applications and
benefits of all the latest new DigiLinX products and
updated firmware. It has been designed for both new
and existing dealers and installers and should
definitely prove worth the trip.
“Our industry is rapidly moving away from the
traditional analogue-based AV system to one that is all
digital and IP-based,” Buzz explained. “This is your
opportunity to learn more about the DigiLinX System
and stay ahead of your competition.”
He added: “DigiLinX offers superb high quality
sound to multiple rooms, integration flexibility and
simple installation. The system's key advantage, of
carrying both system control and content
information along a standard network cable using
open-standard protocols, greatly reduces system
wiring and allows other companies' IP-based
products, such as Lutron's HomeWorks and
Panasonic's surveillance cameras, to operate on
the same network with full control by DigiLinX.”
Attendees will also learn how their business
can successfully combine the advantages of the
DigiLinX system with products from
manufacturers such as AudioReQuest, Imerge
and Polk Audio in order to equip you with the
tools to make a great
multi-room installation.
For further information contact Lyndsey
Sansom at Invision UK: +44 (0) 144 967 7233
Lyndsey@invisionUK.com
EVERYTHING MUST GO!
Award-winning custom installation firm
Deckorum is up for sale. The team, who
recently scooped the inaugural
Technology And Lighting Design of the
Year award at the British Interior
Design Awards, have put their business
on the market to allow them to pursue
other interests. The high profile
installer is said to be in good shape and
its joint directors Justin Orton and
Simon Callis have initiated a bidding
process. They have invited people from
around the industry to make offers, so
if you're interested in assuming control
give them a buzz.
Having been around since 2001
Deckorum has built up an impressive
portfolio of projects, primarily in the
central London area. Specialising in
installs in regency homes and listed
buildings, the firm has a particularly
strong reputation for showing
sensitivity to traditional décor. Its
strong name and foundations should
give any prospective buyer a healthy
chance to build the business.
For further information contact: +44 (0)
845 020 4360, www.deckorum.com
THE BEST OF CES
The Magnificent
Seven
Our man on the scene, SAM FULLER, handpicks the
products which really caught his eye over in Las Vegas...
With over 150,000 people making the trip to Nevada this year, the Consumer Electronics
Show (CES) 2006 proved to be the biggest yet. Punters from across the CE trade were
drawn from around the world, by the promise of one of the grandest servings of
innovative technologies they'll see all year. None were to leave disappointed, with an
incredible selection of goods from across the entertainment, integration, computing and
domestic appliances worlds on show. With that in mind, selecting just a few for you to
drool over, learn about and will into mass production was an exceedingly tough task... but
someone had to do it. And we needed some incentive to stay away from those casinos.
HARMAN KARDON
Harman Kardon have caught the eye of the team here once again, with
their HS 100 Integrated Home Theater System, on show in North Hall 1831
at CES. This stunning package combines a beautiful design with
outstanding performance and ease of use. It includes a receiver/DVDplayer, multi-channel loudspeaker package, remote control and
accessories, all of which combine to provide the kind of quality difficult to
find in a one-box solution.
For further information contact: www.harmankardon.com
SAMSUNG LN-S4662D
Samsung's spanking new LN-S4662D is a cutting edge LCD-TV, designed
by Samsung Electronics America, with a major USP. This 46-inch model
has been produced for those seeking the optimum pixel resolution flatpanel display and, as a result, features the world's highly dynamic contrast
ratio. Capable of supporting key HDTV format, 1080p, when it came to
striking viewing experiences there was no ignoring this baby.
For further information contact: www.samsung.com
CONTROL4 HOME THEATER CONTROLLER
Control4's Home Theater Controller grabbed
the attention in the CES Convention Centre
thanks in part to its diminutive price tag.
Described by the CES judging panel as
“amazingly affordable,” this controller
provides complete home theatre control and
total home control, at a price that will make home automation
affordable to more people than ever.
For further information contact: www.control4.com
PHILIPS HTS9800W HOME THEATRE SYSTEM
Philips were named an Innovation Honoree
in the Home Theatre category at CES,
thanks to the introduction of the
complete entertainment
experience that is the
HTS9800W Home Theatre
System. This package combines
the most chic styling with the very
latest in high-definition technology. The
result is a dazzling look to add to any interior and
performance capable of revolutionising its users
viewing and listening experience.
For further information contact: www.philips.com
POLK AUDIO I-SONIC ENTERTAINMENT SYSTEM
The Polk Audio I-Sonic Entertainment System is an up-to-the-minute, total
entertainment solution designed for any and every room of the modern home. It
is, we were told, the first product of any type to
feature HD Radio, a DVD/CD-player
and XM Ready technology. It looks
the part too and will deliver all
these abilities in the kind of
quality that has
become synonymous with
Polk products.
For further information
contact: www.polkaudio.com
ACE LHD PROFESSIONAL MEDIA SERVER
One of the big hits in the Integrated Home Systems
category over in Las Vegas was ACE LHD's Professional
Media Server. This smart, sleek, full rack-mountable
component boasts a 7-inch LCD touchscreen, DualCore
Processor, 3 Terabytes of storage, a BluRay/Lightscribe/Multi-Layer DVD-burner, 4 TV tuners (2
HDTV)and Bluetooth keyboard/mouse connections to
ease access to all these
capabilities from the
comfort of the sofa. If you
have ever heard of a more
complete component, let us
know... because we want it!
For further information
contact: www.acedigitalhome.com
LG 50PB2DW
LG Electronics' 50-inch Plasma Display Panel, the
50PB2DW certainly caught our attention. This sizable
model has a lot more to it than meets the eye. Indeed,
thanks to the inclusion of cutting edgewireless technology
it eliminates the needs for any unsightly cords
running to the panel. Thanks to the
separate transmitter unit, the
50PB2DW will serve up crisp, clear
pictures from any connected source
making wires an unnecessary and
undesirable thing of the past.
www.lgusa.com
37
> SOUND & VISION
STORIES FROM CEDIA
And The Award Goes To...
Operations Manager at CEDIA, MATT NIMMONS,
announces a new Awards scheme for CEDIA
members and brings us up to speed on all the
latest developments at the Association
NEW AWARDS FOR CEDIA MEMBERS
We are delighted to announce the launch of the annual CEDIA Awards
which are designed to recognise excellence among the membership.
One of CEDIA’s key tasks is to maintain and ensure high standards in
custom installation. We know that CEDIA Zone 1 members are engaged in
a whole range of superb custom installation projects across Europe, the
Middle East and Africa, extending from oneroom home cinemas to
integrated whole house automation systems. So, it’s entirely fitting that
CEDIA rewards the outstanding skills and achievements of its members.
The inaugural CEDIA Awards features six categories. First up is Best
CEDIA Installation under £20,000, followed by Best CEDIA Installation over
£20,000 and below £100,000 and finally Best CEDIA Installation over
£100,000. These three categories are designed to recognise the quality and
innovation in the design and installation skills of CEDIA members at both
the lower and upper end of custom installation market. The Best MultiDwelling Installation category is designed to reward the talents of CEDIA
members working with property developers and house builders. These four
awards will be judged by an expert panel, comprising building industry
professionals and journalists from the interior design, architectural and
AV worlds.
The CEDIA Award for Best Supplier is to be judged by an online vote
via the CEDIA website (www.cedia.co.uk), open to all CEDIA members and
will recognise the top CEDIA manufacturer or distributor. Judging criteria
will include the standards of service, support, product innovations and
training provided to members. A final category, Best Stand at CEDIA Expo
2006, will not require a formal entry, and will be judged at Expo itself by the
AEO (Association of Exhibition Organisers).
Winners will be announced at this year’s CEDIA Expo which takes
place at ExCeL London in June. Closing date for the four categories where
submissions are required is Wednesday 31st May 2006. The on-line vote for
Best Supplier will close on Friday 16th June 2006.
The CEDIA Awards are open only to CEDIA member companies. Entry
is free of charge. More information on judging criteria, timescales and an
entry form, will be available shortly on www.cedia.co.uk.
SHOW SUCCESSES
CEDIA has recently returned from Brussels following a successful
three days at ISE 2006.
We were delighted with the attendance numbers at our stand
for all three days. Traffic was very steady throughout the show. We
caught up with CEDIA members visiting Brussels and received
many membership enquiries from European installers and those
based in areas further afield, including the Middle East and Africa.
Meanwhile, Peter Aylett, CEDIA’s Education Manager headed
up CEDIA’s support for the ISE Conference Programme which
involved a number of presentations covering various residential
custom installation topics.
Overall, it was a very worthwhile event for CEDIA. Board
members David Hyman, Steve Martin and Paul Helliar also
presented CEDIA’s CPD course, Designing Integrated Future-Ready
Homes, as part of the seminar programme at the recent Design
Interiors event for the interior design industry, held at the NEC,
Birmingham towards the end of January.
Looking ahead, CEDIA will also be exhibiting and presenting
seminars at the Smart Home Show (2-5 March 2006, NEC,
Birmingham). A number of CEDIA members are taking stand space
at this event which runs side by side with the National
Homebuilding & Renovating Show. For a full exhibitor list, please
visit www.smarthomeshow.co.uk.
38
BECOME A CEDIA CERTIFIED INSTRUCTOR
CEDIA’s Certified Instructor training and certification course for existing and
future presenters is already proving successful.
The following delegates have already attained CEDIA Certified Instructor
status following the first ever course held at CEDIA’s Head Office Training
Centre in St Neots at the end of January.
Paul Helliar, D&T Electronics
Marcus Jackson-Baker, Martin-Kleiser
Steve Moore, SMC
Jason Aldous, Aldous Systems
Geoff Meads, Arcam
Merlin Milner, iLight
Dave Robinson, Sensible Heat
Peter Aylett, CEDIA
Steve Martin, Martin Kleiser
Paul Hilditch, Armour Home Electronic
The following course, also at CEDIA’s Head Office Training Centre, was on 15th
February. For more details on becoming a CEDIA Certified Instructor, contact
peter@cedia.co.uk.
CEDIA GETS BUSY AT ISE 2006
Places on CEDIA’s ski trip are selling fast. Anyone interested in taking to the
slopes of Flims Laax Falera in Switzerland on March 16-19 2006 should book
their places promptly!
The trip costs from £470 and includes centrally located, four star
accommodation (half board), luxury coach transfer, three day ski pass,
preparation of the full itinerary and ATOL bonding for financial security.
Spaces are available on a strictly first-come, first-served basis. For further
details or to reserve places, please contact Liane Haynes at the CEDIA office
on +44 (0) 148 021 3744 or email liane@cedia.co.uk.
RIBA CPD ACCREDITATION FOR CEDIA EXPO
We are pleased to announce that architects attending CEDIA Expo (19th-22nd
June 2006, ExCeL London) will earn RIBA approved CPD points.
Last year’s CEDIA Expo attracted a large number of
architects, interior designers and house builders keen to find
out more about the technologies in the sector. As the market
continues to expand, this year’s event promises to be bigger
and better than ever before, now with the added attraction
of CPD points for trade professionals who visit the
event, and more points for those who attend our RIBA
CPD approved training course, Designing Integrated
Future-Ready Homes.
PARTY-TIME!
The social and networking highlight of CEDIA Expo has always been the CEDIA
party. This year will be no different, with the added spice of live World Cup
football set to make the occasion all the more memorable.
Taking place on Wednesday 21st June, this year’s Expo party will be held at
The Fox, located to the right of the entrance to ExCeL London. As well as
providing excellent facilities and food, there will be plenty of live TV screens,
allowing all the football fans in the party crowd to enjoy the action from the
Argentina v Holland game.
The Supporting Act
Projection Screens, Mounts &
AV Furniture at Net Trade Prices
EXPO HOTELS
And finally on Expo, we have teamed up with Jigsaw Conferences
accommodation booking service to offer you the hotel of your choice at the
best rates. A number of rooms have been allocated at hotels close to ExCeL
London. To ensure your chosen hotel call Jigsaw on +44 (0) 870 752 0433
quoting event code RCCED as soon as possible or visit
www.jigsawconferences.com/rcced.aspx for more details. The Novotel London
ExCeL is the CEDIA Headquarters hotel for the event.
For a full exhibitor list and to find out more about the event, visit the
CEDIA website www.cedia.co.uk. And remember that all enquiries for stand
sales, advertising or sponsorship packages should be directed to the event’s
Sales Manager Ian Morrish, tel: +44 (0)1372 722001 or email
ian@ad-con.demon.co.uk.
Please call for full literature, net trade price list and further info.
Tel: 01604 811661 www.tcivega.co.uk
39
CONTACT BOOK
•A
Aanvil Audio
T: +44 (0) 135 924 0687
www.aanvilaudio.com
Abbey Road Cable
See THE OPPOSITION GROUP
Absolute Sounds Ltd
T: +44 (0)20 8971 3909
Aca-Apex Ltd
T: +44 (0) 152 522 0782
ACM Installations
Ltd (South)
Holed Stoned Barn
Stisted Cottage Farm
Bradwell, Essex,
CM77 2DZ
+44 (0) 870 242 3285
vince@acminstallations.com
ACM Installations Ltd (North)
T: +44 [0] 14 8237 7530
Acoustic Energy Ltd
T: +44 (0) 128 565 4432
F: +44 (0) 128 565 4430
uksales@acoustic-energy.co.uk
Acoustic Partnership, The
T: +44 (0) 870 047 0047
F: +44 (0) 870 047 0048
info@revolveraudio.com
Acoustic Solutions Ltd
T: +44 (0) 132 734 2255
F: +44 (0) 132 734 2298
sales@acousticsolutions.co.uk
www.acousticsolutions.co.uk
Activ Distribution
T: +44 (0) 163 529 1357
F: +44 (0) 163 529 1356
www:activdistribution.com
email:mark.perfect@activdistribution.com
AKAI
T: +44 (0) 113 251 1500
F: +44 (0) 113 251 1515
sales@akai.eu.com
www.akai.eu.com
AKG
The Dutch Barn,
The Hyde,
Woodcock Hill,
Off Coopers Green Lane,
St Albans, Herts AL4 9HJ
T: +44 (0) 170 727 8100
F: 01707 278129
sales.uk@harman.com
www.harman.com
Aldous Systems
(Europe) Ltd
T: +44 (0) 870 240 1162
F: +44 (0) 20 7691 7844
jason@aldoussystems.co.uk
www.aldoussystems.co.uk
Allison Loudspeakers
T: (859) 236-8298
F: (859) 236 7476
Alphason
Designs Ltd
Alphason House,
Bolton Road, Atherton,
Greater Manchester, M46 9AW
T: +44 (0) 194 288 5600
F: +44 (0) 194 287 6955
sales@alphasondesigns.com
www.alphasondesigns.com
Alltrade Aerial & Satellite ltd.
T: +44 (0) 845 075 0751
F: +44 (0) 870 770 9151
sales@alltrade.co.uk
www.alltrade.co.uk
40
AMX UK Ltd
T: +44 (0) 190 434 3100
F: +44 (0) 190 434 3101
uksales@amxuk.co.uk
www.amx.com
Anatek Audio
T: +44 (0) 781 768 1402
www:anatek-audio.co.uk
Anders+Kern UK Ltd
T: +44 (0) 163 851 0900
F: +44 (0) 163 851 0901
sales@anders-kern.co.uk
www.anders-kern.co.uk
Ansar Audio Capacitors Ltd
T: +44 (0) 169 167 9191
F: +44 (0) 169 167 9191
ansar@dial.pipex.com
Anthony Gallo Acoustics
T: +44 (0) 870 350 1348
F: +44 (0) 870 350 1346
enquiries@anthonygallo.co.uk
www.anthonygallo.co.uk
API (UK) Ltd
T: +44 (0) 144 223 3853
F: +44 (0) 144 223 1860
Apollo Hi Fi Furniture Ltd
T: +44 (0) 121 520 5070
F: +44 (0) 121 522 2055
sales@apollohifi.co.uk
www.apollohifi.co.uk
Arcam
T: +44 (0) 122 320 3200
F: +44 (0) 122 386 3384
support@arcam.co.uk
www.arcam.co.uk
Artcoustic
T: +971 (0)502738220
artcoustic@artcoustic.com
www.artcoustic.com
Art Loudspeakers
T: +44 (0) 129 231 9416
F: +44 (0) 129 231 9416
info@loudspeaker-art.com
www.loudspeaker-art.com
contact@loudspeaker-art.com
Art Systems Limited
T: +44 (0) 115 9380 380
F: +44 (0) 115 9380 381
steve.kilroy@artsystems.ltd.uk
www.artsystems.co.uk
Ash Designs Ltd,
T: +44 (0)116 279 6601
F: +44 (0)116 279 6602
www:gamepod.co.uk
Atacama Audio
Winston Ave.,
Croft, Leicester,
LE9 3GQ
T: +44 (0) 145 528 3251
F: + 44 (0) 145 528 3908
post@atacama-audio.co.uk
www.atacama-audio.co.uk
ATC Loudspeaker
Technology Ltd.
T: +44 (0) 128 576 0561
F: +44 (0) 128 576 0683
info@atc.gb.net
www.atc.gb.net
Audica UK
T: +44 (0) 148 083 9239
F: +44 (0) 148 083 0582
uksales@audica.co.uk
www.audica.co.uk
Audiofreaks
T: +44 (0)20 8948 4153
F: +44 (0)20 8948 4250
AudioControl.co.uk
T: +44 (0)130 285 6330
F: +44(0)130 285 6330
info@audiocontrol.co.uk
Audio Group (UK) Ltd
T: +44 (0) 175 284 8816
sales@audiogroupinternational.co.uk
Audio Note (UK) Ltd
T: +44 (0) 127 322 0511
F: +44 (0) 127 373 498
info@audionote.co.uk
Audiosolutions Sales &
Marketing
T: +44 (0) 197 779 8844
www.a-audiosolutions.co.uk
sales@a audiosolutions.co.uk
Audio Technica Ltd
T: +44 (0) 113 277 1441
F: +44 (0) 113 270 4836
Audio Visual World
T: +44 (0) 208 455 3490
www.audiovisualworld.co.uk
Audion International Limited
T: +33 546 043282
F: +33 546 043693
email: info@audion.co.uk
Audiophile Club, The
T: +44 (0)20 8882 2822
F: +44 (0)20 8372 3772
sales@audiophileclub.co.uk
www.audiophileclub.co.uk
Audiophile Base
T: +44 (0) 189 261 9319
M: +44 (0) 771 576 3777
sales@audiophilebase.com
www.audiophilebase.com
Audio Partnership PLC
T: +44 (0)20 7940 2200
F: +44 (0)20 7940 2233
Audio Reference
T: +44 (0) 125 270 2705
F: +44 (0) 148 330 1412
info@audioreference.co.uk
www.audioreference.co.uk
Audio Synthesis
T: +44 (0) 115 922 4138
F: +44 (0) 115 922 9701
salesinfo@audiosynthesis.co.uk
www.audiosynthesis.co.uk
AUDUSA & Co
T: +44 [0] 2082419826
F: +44 [0] 2082410999
sales@audusa.com
AVF Group Limited
T: +44 [0] 1952 678855
F: +44 [0] 1952 606205
sales@avf.co.uk
www.avf.co.uk
Avid
T: +44 (0) 148 045 7300
F: +44 (0) 148 045 7057
info@avidhifi.co.uk
www.avidhifi.co.uk
AVM Ltd
T: +44 (0) 125 251 0363
www.avmltd.co.uk
sales@avmltd.co.uk
AWE Europe Ltd
T: +44 (0) 137 272 9777
F: +44 (0) 137 272 9757
av-sales@awe-europe.co.uk
www.awe-europe.co.uk
•C
•B
Calculus Software Solutions Ltd
T: +44 (0) 845 125 9192
F: +44 (0) 173 286 5997
www.findesolutions.com
rhw@findesolutions.com
BADA
T: +44 (0) 208 150 6741
info@bada.co.uk
www.bada.co.uk
Canton
T: +44 (0) 239 250 1888
F: +44 (0) 239 250 1999
canton@standesign.co.uk
www.canton.de
Bandridge
see BBG Distribution Ltd
Cartridge Man, The
T /F: +44 (0)20 8688 6565
Barco UK Ltd
T: +44 (0) 118 929 0105
www.barco.com
Castle Acoustics Ltd
T: +44 (0) 175 679 5333
F: +44 (0) 175 679 5335
BBG Distribution
Unit 3 Watford
Interchange
Colonial Way, Watford
Hertfordshire, WD24 4WP
T: +44 (0) 192 320 5600
F: +44 (0) 192 320 5601
info@bbg.eu.com
www.bbg.eu.com
Beamax
Bleekveldstraat 7 B
3900 Overpelt
Belgium
T: 0800-9175 943
F: 0800-9175 945
B.F.A.
T: +44 (0) 142 871 4616
F: +44 (0) 142 871 4616
chrisc@british-audio.org.uk
info@british-audio.org.uk
www.british-audio.org.uk
B & W Group Ltd
Dale Road, Worthing
West Sussex, BN11
2BH, UK
T: +44 (0) 190 322 1800
sales@bwspeakers.com
www.bwspeakers.com
B & W Loudspeakers
Dale Road, Worthing
West Sussex, BN11
2BH, UK
T: +44 (0) 190 322 1800
sales@bwspeakers.com
www.bwspeakers.com
CEDIA UK
Unit 2, Phoenix Park
St Neots, Cambs
PE19 8EP, UK
T: +44 (0) 148 021 3744
F: +44 (0) 148 021 3469
sales@cedia.co.uk
www.cedia.co.uk
Celestion Consumer Division
T: +44 (0) 162 268 7442
F: +44 (0) 162 268 7981
www.celestion.com
Chapter Audio Ltd
T: +44 (0) 139 268 6797
F: +44 (0) 139 267 6795
sales@chapteraudio.com
www.chapteraudio.com
Cherished Record Co
T: +44 (0) 157 936 3603
F: +44 (0) 157 936 3604
info@cherished-recordcompany.co.uk
Choice Hi-Fi
T: +44 (0)20 8392 1959
F: +44 (0)20 8392 1994
info@choice-hifi.com
Chord Company Ltd, The
Tel: +44 1980 625700
Fax: +44 1980 625070
chord@chord.co.uk
www.chordelectronics.co.uk
Chord Electronics Ltd
T: +44 (0) 162 272 1444
F: +44 (0) 162 272 1555
sales@chordelectronics.co.uk
www.chordelectronics.co.uk
B-Tech International Ltd
T: +44 (0) 168 984 8535
F: +44 (0) 168 984 1087
info@b-tech-int.com
CKS Entertainment Systems Ltd
T: +44 (0) 134 430 7788
F: +44 (0) 134 445 6710
cksgroup.co.uk/entertainment
Bang & Olufsen UK Ltd
T: +44 (0) 118 969 2288
F: +44 (0) 118 969 3388
www.bang-olufsen.com
Claritycap Industrial Capacitors
(Wrexham) Ltd
T: +44 (0) 197 885 3805
F: +44 (0) 197 885 3785
sales@icwLtd.co.uk
www.icwLtd.co.uk
www.claritycap.co.uk
Beyerdynamic (GB) Ltd
T: +44 (0) 144 425 8258
F: +44 (0) 144 425 8444
sales@beyerdynamic.co.uk
www.beyerdynamic.co.uk
Black Rhodium
T: +44 (0) 133 275 5766
F: +44 (0) 133 220 0698
enquiries@blackrhodium.co.uk
Bose Ltd
T: +44 (0) 870 741 4500
F: +44 (0) 870 741 4545
Boston Acoustics Distribution
(UK) Limited
T: +44 (0) 128 565 0814
www.boston-acoustics.co.uk
Classe
Dale Road
Worthing, West Sussex
BN11 2BH, UK
T: +44 (0) 190 322 1800
www.classeaudio.com
Clipsal Integrated Systems
T: +44 (0) 162 850 8530
www:clipsal.co.uk
Coles ElectroAcoustics Ltd
T: +44 (0) 199 246 6685
F: +44 (0) 199 244 6583
sales@coleselectroacoustics.com
www.coleselectracoustics.com
Colourgen Ltd
T: 01628 588777
F: 01628 588716
E-mail: avsales@colourgen.com
www.colourgen.com
dCS Ltd
T: +44 (0) 179 953 1999
F: +44 (0) 179 953 1681
dfuller@dcsltd.co.uk
wwwdcsltd.co.uk
Comfort Home Controls
T: +44 (0) 124 468 0675
www:comfort.org.uk
andrew@home-control.co.uk
DBS AUDIO
T: +44 (0) 128 472 3933
F: +44 (0) 128 472 3933
M: +44 (0) 777 618 8547
DBSaudio@AOL.COM
ConnectAV Ltd
T: +44 (0) 797 362 9174
F: +44 (0) 870 432 3443
markm@connectav.co.uk
www.connectav.co.uk
Control 4
T: +44 (0)190 475 9070
F: +44 (0)190 475 9091
sales@control4-uk.com
www.control4-uk.com
Convergent-AV Ltd
T: +44 (0) 1555 890120
F: +44 (0) 1555 890120
info@convergent-av.co.uk
www.convergent-av.co.uk
Decibel Distribution Ltd
T /F: +44 (0) 150 532 1351
M: +44 (0) 797 652 8537
sales.decibel@virgin.net
Deltron Components Ltd
T: +44 (0) 172 428 0120
F: +44 (0) 172 428 0353
Demion Products
T: +44 (0) 118 977 4085
F: +44 (0) 118 978 5507
www.demion.co.uk
Denon
T: +44 (0) 175 368 8499
CR Electronic Design
T: +44 (0) 170 220 0111
credaudio@uk2.net
www.crdevelopments.com
Design e
T: +44 (0) 124 337 7899
info@Designe.freeserve.co.uk
www.Designe.co.uk
Crane Audio
T: +44 (0) 870 444 1056
sales@craneaudio.com
www.craneaudio.com
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
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
Crestron (UK) Ltd
Neptune House,
2 Portsmouth Road,
Kingston Upon Thames,
Surrey,
KT1 2LU
T: +44 (0) 208 439 7272
info@crestron-ltd.co.uk
www.creston.co.uk
Cromwell Business Systems
T: +44 (0) 135 365 0900
F: +44 (0) 135 365 0930
C.S.E.
Unit 9, Centre Park
Holdings,
The Airfield,
Tockwith, York,
YO26 7QF
T: +44 (0) 142 335 9054
F: +44 (0) 142 335 9058
www.csesolutions.co.uk
Custom Design (Newcastle)
T: +44 (0) 191 262 4646
F: +44 (0) 191 262 4646
cdncle@aol.com
Custom Sight & Sound
T: +44 (0) 199 257 3030
F: +44 (0) 199 257 4030
mdc.hifi@virgin.net
www.revox.de
Cyrus Electronics
T: +44 (0) 148 043 5577
F: +44 (0) 148 043 7715
info@cyrusaudio.com
•D
D&T Electronics
T ++44(0)870 444 5929
F +44(0)870 444 5945
mark@dandt.co.uk
www.dandt.co.uk
Dixons
T: +44 (0) 144 235 3000
F: +44 (0) 144 223 3218
Dolby Laboratories
T: +44 (0) 179 384 2100
F: +44 (0) 179 384 2101
info@dolby.co.uk
www.dolby.com
DRDB
T: +44 (0)20 7306 2633
F: +44 (0)20 7470 0062
DTS Europe
5 Tavistock Estate,
Ruscombe Lane,
Twyford, Berks, RG10 9NJ
T: +44 (0) 118 934 9199
F: +44 (0) 118 934 9198
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.
T: +44 (0) 122 320 8877
F: +44 (0) 122 320 8761
earyoshino@aol.com
www.ear-yoshino.com
Eclipse
T: +44 (0) 207 328 4499
F: www.eclipse-td.com
ECT Ltd Projection screen
and accessories
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
T: +44 (0) 132 786 0789
F: +44 (0) 132 786 1058
office.uk@eltax.com
www.eltax.com
Eminence Speaker
Europe Ltd
T: +44 (0) 192 423 9999
Fax: +44 (0) 192 423 9988
email: info@eminencespeaker.com
www.eminence-speaker.com
Emotive Excellence
T: +44 (0) 145 384 3682
F: +44 (0) 145 384 3682
EPOS Acoustics
12 Avebury Court,
Mark Road,
Hemel Hempstead, Herts, HP2 7TA
T: +44 (0) 144 226 0146
F: +44 (0) 144 224 3766
info@epos-acoustics.com
www.epos-acoustics.com
Fujitsu General (UK) Co Ltd
T: +44 (0)20 8731 3450
F: +44 (0)20 8731 3451
sales@fujitsu-general.co.uk
www.fujitsu-general.co.uk
Futronix Ltd.
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
Future
Automation
T: +44 (0)
143 883 1094
F: +44 (0) 143 883 3565
www.futureautomation.co.uk
•G
Games & Lifestyle Technology,
direct line T: +44 (0) 20 7877 3373
switchboard
T: +44 (0) 20 7929 2999
philip@emailyourcv.com
Garden Light & Audio
T: +44 (0) 189 261 9319
sales@glaa.co.uk
www.glaa.co.uk
ESLab Ltd
T: +44 (0) 190 381 4618
martin@controlq.co.uk
www.eslab.co.uk
Gecko Inc Ltd
T: +44 (0)20 8603 0480
F: +44 (0)20 8688 2491
info@gecko.uk.com
ETHOS Acoustics Ltd
T: +44 (0)20 8842 0020
F: +44 (0)20 8842 0020
Genco Systems
T: +44 (0) 148 865 7788
F: +44 (0) 870 051 4190
www.gencosystems.demon.co.uk
European Precision Moulding
Ltd/Red Scorpion Industries
T: +44 (0) 147 483 4345
F: +44 (0) 147 483 4340
Excel Audio Systems Ltd.
T: +44 (0)20 8354 0820
F: +44 (0)20 8354 0834
sales@excelaudio.co.uk
www.excelaudio.co.uk
Expert Stylus & Cartridge Co
T: +44 (0) 137 227 6604
F: +44 (0) 137 227 6147
•F
Falcon Acoustics Ltd
T: +44 (0) 149 375 1100
F: +44 (0) 149 375 1155
sales@falcon-acoustics.co.uk
www.falcon-acoustics.co.uk
Ferguson Hill Studios
T: +44 [0] 207 284 0969
www:fergusonhill.co.uk
info@fergusonhill.co.uk
Finlux UK
T: 01793 870316
F: 01793 870318
Focal-JM Lab UK
T: +44 (0) 845-6602680
j.dahele@focal-jmlab.co.uk
info@focal-jmlab.co.uk
Fryer Sales & Marketing Ltd
T: +44 (0) 239 269 0999
F: +44 (0) 239 269 0666
info@fryersales.com
www.fryersales.com
Glenfield Software
T: +44 (0) 148 040 7700
F: +44 (0) 148 047 3734
sales@glenfieldsoftware.com
www.glenfieldsoftware.com
Graff Electronic Machines Ltd
T: +44 (0) 163 689 3036
F: +44 (0) 163 689 3317
sales@graffelectronics.co.uk
www.graffelectronics.co.uk
G T Audio
T: +44 (0) 189 583 3099
F: +44 (0) 189 583 2594
gt.audio@tesco.net
www.gtaudio.com
Harvard Technology Group
T: +44 (0) 845 450 1480
F: +44 (0) 208 263 6100
www.harvardtechnology.com
Hermstedt Hifidelio Range
Henley Designs Ltd
T: +44 (0) 123 551 1166
F: +44 (0) 123 551 1266
info@henleydesigns.co.uk
www.henleydesigns.co.uk
Hitachi Europe Ltd
Whitebrook Park
Lower Cookham
Road, Maidenhead
Berkshire SL6 8YA
T: +44 (0) 162 864 3000
F: +44 (0) 162 858 5000
www.hitachidigitalmedia.com
Hypex Electroniques
20 Osram Road,
East Lane Business
Park
Wembley, HA9 7NG
T: +44 (0) 208 908 3111
F: +44 (0) 208 908 3110
www.hypexuk.com
neil@hypexuk.com
•I
Icon Distribution UK
T: +44 (0) 845 603 1375
F: +44 (0) 130 271 1196
icon@maud44.freeserve.co.uk
www.icondistribution.net
If designs
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
T: +44 (0) 189 287 0072
F: +44 (0) 189 287 0074
sales@ilight.co.uk
www.ilightgroup.com
Imerge Ltd
T: +44 (0) 195 478 3600
F: +44 (0) 195 478 3601
info@imerge.co.uk
www.imerge.co.uk
•H
Hadcock G.F.C. (Manufacturer)
T: +44 (0) 188 956 9166
F: +44 (0) 188 956 9166
HAMA PVAC Ltd
T: +44 (0) 125 637 4700
F: +44 (0) 125 637 4749
Harbeth Audio Limited
T: +44 (0) 144 448 4371
F: +44 (0) 144 448 7629
sound@harbeth.co.uk
www.harbeth.co.uk
Harman/Kardon
The Dutch Barn,
The Hyde,
Woodcock Hill, Off Coopers Green
Lane, St Albans, Herts AL4 9HJ
T: +44 (0) 170 727 8100
F: 01707 278129
sales.uk@harman.com
www.harman.com
Infinity
The Dutch Barn,
The Hyde,
Woodcock Hill,
Off Coopers Green Lane,
St Albans, Herts, AL4 9HJ
T: +44 (0) 170 727 8100
F: 01707 278129
e sales.uk@harman.com
w www.harman.com
Invision UK Ltd
T:+ 44 [0] 144 967 7233
www:invisionuk.com
info@invisionuk.com
Isoblue Ltd
T: 01332 875700
product@isoblue.com
www:isoblue.com/products
Isol-8 Teknologies
41
CONTACT BOOK
Living Control
T: +44 (0) 168 986 1188
F: +44 (0) 168 985 9915
info@livingcontrol.com
www.livingcontrol.com
MJ Acoustics
T: +44 (0) 870 744 5080
F: +44 (0) 870 746 9380
sales@mjacoustics.co.uk
www.mjacoustics.co.uk
NEMKO Ltd.
T: +44 (0)20 8646 8383
F: +44 (0)20 8646 8099
marketing@nemko.co.uk
www.nemko.co.uk
JBL
The Dutch Barn,
The Hyde,
Woodcock Hill,
Off Coopers Green Lane, St Albans,
Herts AL4 9HJ
T: +44 (0) 170 727 8100
F: 01707 278129
e sales.uk@harman.com
w www.harman.com
Living Voice
T: +44 (0) 115 973 3222
shout@definitiveaudio.co.uk
www.definitiveaudio.co.uk
Mode lighting
The Maltings, 63
High Street, Ware,
Hertfordshire, SG12 9AD
T: +44 (0) 192 046 2121
www.modelighting.com
New Media Image
T: +44 (0) 239 245 1006
F: +44 (0) 870 167 4453
s.j.montgomery@ntlworld.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
Loewe (Linn Products)
T: +44 (0) 129 247 1568
F: +44 (0) 129 247 1554
helplin@loewetv.co.uk
www.loewe.de
•J
Jamo UK
See BBG Distribution
www.jamo.com
•K
KEF Audio
(UK) Ltd
Eccleston Road,
Tovil, Maidstone, Kent, ME15 6QP
T: +44 (0) 162 267 2261
F: +44 (0) 162 275 0653
www.kef.com
Keene Electronics Ltd
+44 (0)870 990 9000
www.keene.co.uk
Klegg Audio UK
T: +44 (0) 870 075 5344
www.klegg.com
KM Acoustics
Unit 8
Torafen Business Centre
Panteg Way, Pontypool
NP4 0LS
Konnectson UK Ltd
T: +44 (0) 148 043 4441
F: +44 (0) 148 043 3312
•L
•L
Lamba Plc
T: +44 (0) 158 269 0600
F: +44 (0) 158 269 0400
sale@lamba.plc.com
Lawton Trade Supplies
T: +44 (0) 121 511 1128
F: +44 (0) 121 544 6877
mail@lawtontrade.co.uk
Lockwood Audio
T: +44 (0)20 8864 8008
F: +44 (0)20 8864 3064
sales@lockwood-audio.co.uk
www.lockwoodaudio.co.uk
Lutron EA Ltd
T: +44 (0) 207 702 0657
F: +44 (0) 207 480 6899
gsimmonds@lutron.com
www.lutron.com
•M
Mango Marketing Limited
T: +44 (0) 193 282 9077
F: +44 (0) 193 282 7576
Web: www.mangomarketing.com
Mana Audio Ltd. (Manufacturer)
T: +44 (0) 140 783 0530
F: +44 (0) 140 783 0535
post@mana.co.uk
http://mana.co.uk
Marantz Hi-Fi UK Ltd
T: +44 (0) 175 368 0868
F: +44 (0) 175 368 0428
Martek (UK) Ltd
T: +44 (0) 135 925 3555
F: +44 (0) 135 925 3559
www.martekuk.co.uk
sales@martekuk.co.uk
Marata Vision
T: +44 (0) 192 349 5595
F: +44 (0) 192 349 5599
info@marata.co.uk
www.marata.co.uk
Max Distribution Co Ltd
T: +44 (0) 173 284 0845
F: +44 (0) 173 284 1845
sales@the-max.co.uk
www.the-max.co.uk
Leax Controls
T: +44 (0) 207 501 0880
F: +44 (0) 207 501 0890
www.leax.co.uk
Maxell Europe Ltd.
T: +44 (0) 192 349 4400
F: +44 (0) 192 349 4410
sales@eu.maxell.com
www.eu.maxell.com
Lektropacks (UK)
T: +44 (0)20 8847 2776
F: +44 (0)20 8560 8050
lektropacks@btinternet.com
www.lektropacks.co.uk
Meiloon UK
T: +44 (0) 190 820 0844
vcuk@btinternet.com
www.meiloon.com.tw
Lenbrook UK Ltd
T: +44 (0) 190 831 9360
F: +44 (0) 190 832 2752
info@lenbrook.co.uk
www.lenbrook.co.uk
Meridian Audio Ltd
T: +44 (0) 148 044 5678
F: +44 (0) 148 044 5687
admin@meridian.audio.com
www.meridian-audio.com
L.G. Electronics UK Ltd
T: +44 (0) 870 607 5544
F: +44 (0) 175 351 7445
Metropolis Music
T: +44 (0) 189 253 9245
jj@metropolis-music.co.uk
Linn Products Ltd
Floors Road, Waterfoot,
Eaglesham, Glasgow,
G76 0EQ
T: +44 (0) 141 307 7777
F: +44 (0) 141 644 4262
www.linn.co.uk
42
Mitsubishi Electric
Europe
Travellers Lane,
Hatfield, Herts, AL10 8XB
T: +44 (0) 170 727 8684
F: +44 (0) 170 727 8541
www.mitsubishielectric.co.uk
Monitor Audio Ltd.
24 Brook Road,
Rayleigh,
Essex, SS6 7XL
T: +44 (0) 126 874 0580
F: +44 (0) 126 874 0589
info@monitoraudio.co.uk
www.monitoraudio.co.uk
Nexus Technologies Pty. Ltd
sales@nexuscomparators.com
www.nexuscomparators.com
NHT
T: +44 (0) 151 236 1832
F: +44 (0) 151 255 1194
www.nhthifi.com
Monster Europe Ltd
T: 01923 431 634
Nottingham Analogue
T: +44 (0) 177 376 2947
F: +44 (0) 177 353 356
Moth Group
T: +44 (0) 123 474 1152
F: +44 (0) 123 474 2028
moth@britishaudio.co.uk
www.britishaudio.co.uk
NXT - New Transducers Ltd
T: +44 (0) 870 777 5555
F: +44 (0) 148 084 6190
info@nxtsound.com
www.nxtsound.com
Moulded Cords & Cables - MCC
T: +44 (0) 134 486 8200
F: +44 (0) 134 486 8208
sales@mcc-cables.com
www.mcc-cables.com
•O
Multi-Room
Company, The
4 Churchill House
Churchill Road, Cheltenham
GL53 7EG
Tel: +44 (0) 124 253 9100
Fax: +44 (0) 12 4253 9300
info@multi-room.com
www.multi-room.com
Multiroom Systems
T: +44 (0) 870 855 0010
F: +44 (0) 121 200 1167
www.installautomation.com
info@installautomation.com
Musical Fidelity Ltd.
T: +44 (0)20 8900 2866
F: +44 (0)20 8900 2983
Musonic UK Ltd.
T: +44 (0) 192 321 3344
F: +44 (0) 192 321 3355
sales@musonic.co.uk
www.musonic.co.uk
Myryad UK
•N
NAD Electronics
See Lenbrook UK
Naim Audio
T: +44 (0) 172 242 6600
Nakamichi UK Ltd
See FSM Audio
National Instruments Corporation
(UK) Ltd
T: +44 (0) 163 552 3545
F: +44 (0) 163 552 4395
info.uk@ni.com
www.ni.com/uk
Neaco Ltd
T: +44 (0) 165 369 5721
F: +44 (0) 165 360 0418
sales@neaco.co.uk
www.neaco.co.uk
NEAT Acoustics Ltd.
T: + 44 (0) 183 363 1021
F: + 44 (0) 183 363 0022
Obelisk Audio Designs
T: +44 (0) 179 450 1235
tim_dainton@hotmail.com
O'heocha Design Ltd
T: +353 9150 6970
T: +44 (0) 156 478 2502
F: +353 9150 6972
oheocha_design@yahoo.co.uk
www.o.d.co.uk
Onkyo
T: +44 (0) 149 468 1515
F: +44 (0) 149 468 0452
onkyo@onkyo.co.uk
www.onkyo.co.uk
Optimum International 2000 Ltd
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.optoma.co.uk
Opus Technologies
T: +44 (0) 845 090 2266
F: +44 (0)20 7940 2233
info@opus-technologies.co.uk
www.opus-technologies.co.uk
Orelle Ltd.
T: +44 (0)20 8991 9200
F: +44 (0)20 8997 4060.
info@orelle.co.uk
www.orelle.co.uk
Origin Live
T: +44 (0) 238 057 8877
F: +44 (0) 238 057 8877
originlive@originlive.com
www.originlive.com
Overkill Audio
T: +44 [0] 148 784 2911
F: +44 [0] 148 784 1341
Owl Video Systems Ltd
T: +44 (0) 182 576 6123
F: +44 (0) 182 576 0246
www.owlvideo.com
•P
P&C Industries
T: +44 (0) 122 387 0712
F: +44 (0) 122 387 2654
company@pcindustries.co.uk
www.hiway.co.uk/pcindustries
Panasonic (UK) Ltd
T: +44 (0) 134 486 2444
F: +44 (0) 134 486 1656
Partington & Co
T: +44 (0) 147 470 9299
F: +44 (0) 147 470 9295
Paradigm Audio Visual Ltd
T: +44 (0) 1234 843388
F: +44 (0) 1234 854477
email:sales@rearpro.com
www.rearpro.com
PATH IXOS
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.
T: +44 (0) 166 583 0862
F: +44 (0) 166 583 0051
john@pearaudio.com
Philex Electronics Ltd
T: +44 (0) 123 426 3737
F: +44 (0) 123 426 7400
sales@philex.com
www.philex.com
Pickering Cartridges
T: +44 (0) 190 464 2463
sales@pickeringuk.com
pickeringuk.com
Picture The Sound
T: +44 (0) 700 044 3426
T: +44 (0) 7000 HIFICO
F: +44 (0) 148 345 4992
Pink Triangle Partnership Ltd
T: +44 (0)20 8694 9609
F: +44 (0)20 8694 7450
info@pink-triangle.com
www.pink-triangle.com
Pioneer GB Ltd
T: +44 (0) 175 378 9789
F: +44 (0) 175 378 9528
www.pioneer.co.uk
Plasmatvinfo.com Limited
Tel: +44 (0)1206 391001
Fax: +44 (0)1206 391096
PMC Ltd
Flying Mole Bryston
T: +44(0) 870 444 1044
F: +44 (0) 870 444 1045
sales@promonitor.co.uk
PM Components Ltd
T: +44 (0) 163 484 8500
F: +44 (0) 163 484 867
Polk Audio
T: +44 (0) 207 702 5277
F: +44 (0) 207 251 2487
Precious Metals
T: +44 (0) 148 382 7722
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
T: +44 (0) 144 446 1611
F: +44 (0) 144 446 1510
Prima International Plc
T: +44 (0) 113 251 1500
F: +44 (0) 113 251 1515
Service@prima-international.com
prima-international.com
Proac
(Celef Audio)
Highpoint House,
Riding Row
Buck Road Industrial Estate
Brackley, NN13 7BH
T: +44 (0) 128 070 0147
Projecta BV
PO Box 191
6000 AD Weert
The Netherlands
T: +31 495 580 858
F: +31 495 580 845
email:philipsen@projectA.nl
www.projecta.nl
Prism Media Products Ltd
T: +44 (0) 122 342 4988
F: +44 (0) 122 342 5023
sales@prismsound.com
www:prismsound.com
Prospero Recruitment Ltd
T: +44 (0) 207 404 6383
F: +44 (0) 207 404 6323
rjgrays@prosperorecruitment .com
www.prosperorecruitment.com
Pulse Marketing
T: +44 (0) 127 965 5955
F: +44 (0) 127 965 6004
info@pulsemarketing.org
www:pulsemarketing.uk.com
Pure Digital
T: +44 (0) 192 327 7488
F: +44 (0) 192 327 0188
sales@pure-digital.com
www.pure-digital.com
P.W.B. Electronics
T: +44 (0) 113 268 2550
pwb@belt.demon.co.uk
www.belt.demon.co.uk
•Q
Quad Electroacoustics Ltd
T: +44 (0) 845 458 0011
F: +44 (0) 148 043 1767
info@quad-hifi.co.uk
www.quad-hifi.co.uk
Quadraspire Ltd
T: +44 (0) 122 533 3360
F: +44 (0) 122 533 8083
qsales@quadraspire.com
www.quadraspire.com
QED Audio Products Ltd
T: +44 (0) 148 374 7474
F: +44 (0) 148 354 5600
panic@qed.co.uk
•R
Recoton
T: +49 223 498 4080
www.recoton.com
Redline
T: +44 (0) 131 555 3922
F: +44 (0) 131 555 3964
info.redline@virgin.net
angie@red-line.co.uk
Reference Point Computers
T: +44 (0) 845 634 2032
F: +44 (0) 845 634 2033
Rega Reseach
T: +44 (0) 170 233 3071
REL Acoustics Ltd
T: +44 (0) 165 676 8777
F: +44 (0) 165 676 6093
contact@rel.net
www.rel.net
Remote Media Ltd
T: +44 (0) 845 458 3705
www.remotemedia.co.uk
jason@remotemedia.co.uk
Revolver Hi-Fi
loudspeakers
The Acoustic Partnership LLP
Unit 8 Saltash Business Park
Saltash, Cornwall PL12 6LX
Tel: 0870 0470047
Fax:0870 0470047
Email: info@revolveraudio.co.uk
www.revolveraudio.co.uk
Revox
See Custom Sight & Sound
RGB Communications Ltd
T: +44 (0) 148 873 366
F: +44 (0) 148 873 377
www.rgbcomms.co.uk
info@rgbcomms.co.uk
Ringmat Developments
T: +44 (0) 127 720 0210
F: +44 (0) 127 720 1225
inifienq@ringmat.com
www.ringmat.com
Roksan Audio Ltd
T: +44 (0)20 8900 6801/6802
F: +44 (0)20 8900 0734
info@roksan.co.uk
www.roksan.co.uk
Rotel
Dale Road
Worthing,
West Sussex, BN11 2BH, UK
T: +44 (0) 190 322 1800
www.rotel.com
Roth Multimedia Audio
Royd Loudspeakers Co. Ltd
T: +44 (0) 195 229 0700
F: +44 (0) 195 229 0190
Ruark Acoustics
Ltd
59 Tailor's Court,
Temple Farm Ind. Est.,
Southend-on-Sea, Essex, SS2 5TH
T: +44 (0) 170 260 1410
F: +44 (0) 170 260 1414
info@ruark.co.uk
www.ruark.co.uk
Russ Andrews Accessories Ltd.
T: +44 (0) 845 345 1550
F: +44 (0) 153 979 7325
info@russandrews.com
www.russandrews.com
•S
Sagem Communications
T: +44 (0) 156 477 2200
F: +44 (0) 156 477 7736
www.sagem.com
Samsung Electronics Ltd
T: +44 (0)20 8391 0168
Samuel Johnson Audio Ltd
T: +44 (0) 141 810 2828
F: +44 (0) 141 810 2829
sales@sjaudio.co.uk
www.SJAudio.co.uk
See Hear Ltd
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
T: +44 (0) 161 205 2333
F: +44 (0) 161 205 7076
www.sharp.co.uk
Silvernote
T /F: +44 (0) 199 262 0905
www.silvernote.co.uk
SIM2 UK Ltd
T: +44 (0) 182 575 0850
F: +44 (0) 182 575 0851
kate.buckle@sim2.co.uk
www.sim2.co.uk
Simplysonos
T: +44 (0) 800 731 7308
www.simplysonos.co.uk
SME Ltd
T: +44 (0) 190 381 4321
F: +44 (0) 190 381 4269
Info@sme-ltd.demon.co.uk
www.sme.ltd.uk
SOLO Manufacturing
T: +44 (0) 115 939 2345
F: +44 (0) 115 939 2111
Songlines
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
T: +44 (0) 115 944 5027
F: +44 (0) 115 944 5126
Soundations
T: +44 (0) 870 350 1349
Spendor Audio Systems Ltd.
T: +44 (0) 132 384 3474
F: +44 (0) 132 344 2254
info@spendoraudio.com
www.spendoraudio.com
Standesign UK
T: +44 (0) 239 250 1888
F: +44 (0) 239 250 1999
sales@standesign.co.uk
www.standesign.co.uk
Stands Unique
T: +44 (0) 193 341 2227
F: +44 (0) 193 341 2215
info@standsunique.com
www.standsunique.com
Stil-Stand
Stilexo Industrial
UK Ltd
Penalita Industrial Estate
Ystrad Mynach, Mid Glam, CF82 7QZ
T: +44 (0) 144 381 6777
roger_ogden@stilexo.co.uk
www.stil-stand.co.uk
SYN Factory U-vola Suspended
Loudspeakers
T: +39 (0432) 972 362
F: +39 (0432) 972 684
info@synfactory.com
www.synfactory.com
•T
T&A
See Transparent Distribution
T&T Communications
T: 08706 093686
F: 01255 863909
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
T: +44 (0) 144 225 9994
M: +44 (0) 973 147 441
TCI Ltd
Projection House,
19 Townley Way,
Earls Barton, Northants,
NN6 0HR
T: +44 (0) 160 481 1661
F: +44 (0) 160 481 1715
tonytci@ntlworld.com
www.tcivega.co.uk
TDI Tremiver Ltd
T: +44 (0) 125 639 7770
F: +44 (0) 125 639 8880
www.tdigroup.co.uk
TEAC UK Ltd
5 Marlin House, The Croxley
Centre, Watford, Herts, WD1 8YA
T: +44 (0) 192 381 9630
F: +44 (0) 192 323 6290
Tech Link
International
Unit 8, Bat & Ball
Enterprise Centre, Bat & Ball
Road, Sevenoaks, Kent, TN14 5LJ
T: +44 (0) 173 277 9400
F: +44 (0) 173 277 9344
salesdesk@techlink.uk.com
www.techlink.uk.com
Technical & General
T: +44 (0) 189 265 4534
Tektronix Ltd
T: +44 (0) 134 439 2400
F: +44 (0) 134 439 2401
The Diamond Stylus
Company Limited
"Diamond Connection"
Council Street West,
Llandudno, Conwy, LL30 1ED.
T: +44 (0) 194 286 0880
F: +44 (0) 194 286 0653
www.diamondstylus.co.uk
sales@diamondstylus.co.uk
Transparent Distribution Ltd
T: +44 (0) 162 351 7000
www.transparentdl.co.uk
info@transparentdl.co.uk
Trichord Research Ltd
T: +44 (0) 168 457 3524
F: +44 (0) 168 457 7380
graham@trichordresearch.com
www.trichordresearch.com
Troy innovations
Victoria Works,
Hillend Lane
Rossendale, Lancs,
BB4 7AG
T: +44 (0) 170 622 1133
F: +44 (0) 170 622 2309
www.troyinnovations.co.uk
True-Colours Industries
T: +44 (0) 771 019 6949
F: +44 (0) 870 120 5923
support@true-colours.com
www.true-colours.com
Tube Technology
T: +44 (0) 126 984 4771
F: +44 (0) 193 224 4455
techtube@lineone.net
www.tubetechnology.com
Turbosound Earphones - as
above
•U
UAS Enterprises
T: +44 (0) 870 066 0406
F: +44 (0) 870 066 0407
gmc@uas.co.uk
www.uasenterprises.com
UKD
T: +44 (0) 175 365 2669
F: +44 (0) 175 365 4531
post@ukd.co.uk
www.ukd.co.uk
Unicol
T: +44 (0) 186 576 7676
Fax: +44 (0) 186 576 7677
www:unicol.com
Usher Audio Technology
T: 886 2 2381 6299
F: 886 2 2371 1053
www:usheraudio.com
•V
Vibe Technologies Ltd
T: +44 (0) 121 311 9090
F: +44 (0) 121 311 9001
info@v-i-b-e.com
www.v-i-b-e.com
Vieta UK
T: +44 (0) 149 472 3444
sales@vieta-uk.com
www.vieta-uk.com
THE OPPOSITION GROUP
T: +44 (0) 118 949 7656
F: +44 (0) 118 949 7657
E: gareth@opposition-group.co.uk
VPI (UK)
T: +44 (0) 157 936 3603
Thear Technology Limited (REVOX)
T: +44 (0) 152 584 1999
F: +44 (0) 152 584 1009
Virtual Reality Audio Systems Ltd
T: +44 (0) 127 722 7355
F: +44 (0) 127 722 4103
info@virtualr.demon.co.uk
Scandyna UK Ltd
T: +44 (0) 147 362 6600
F: +44 (0) 147 362 6700
richard.blackburn@btinternet.com
Stoneaudio UK Ltd
T: +44 (0) 120 220 1735
F: +44 (0) 120 220 1315
info@Stoneaudio.co.uk
www.stoneaudio.co.uk
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
Schneider UK Ltd
T: +44 (0) 161 374 0101
F: +44 (0) 161 374 0102
Symmetry
T: +44 (0) 172 786 5488
sales@symmetry-systems.co.uk
Townshend Audio
T: +44 (0)20 8979 2155
Visonary AV Solutions Ltd
T: +44 (0) 207 722 0067
F: +44 (0) 207 483 1444
www.plamsaS-direct.co.uk
Visual Displays
T: +44 (0) 207 222 9009
F: +44 (0) 207 233 2165
sales@visualdisplaysuk.co.uk
www.visualdisplaysuk.co.uk
43
CONTACT BOOK
Vivadi Plc
T: +44 (0) 179 378 0033
F: +44 (0) 179 378 0044
info@vivadi.com www.vivadi.com
Vivanco UK Ltd.
T: +44 (0) 144 240 3020
F: +44 (0) 144 240 3030
Vivante Productions Ltd.
(Software)
T: +44 (0) 129 382 0509
F: +44 (0) 129 382 1965
sales@vivante.co.uk
www.vivante.co.uk
Vogels
•W
Wavelength Distribution
F: +44 (0) 162 276 1560
sales@wavelength-distribution.com
www.sonicdesign.co.uk
www.bocchino-audio.co.uk
Wharfedale International Ltd
T: (0) 845 458 0011
F: (0) 148 043 1767
info@wharfedale.co.uk
www.wharfedale.co.uk
Waterfall
See Transparent Distribution
•X
Wilmslow Audio Lt
T: +44 (0) 145 528 6603
F: +44 (0) 145 528 6605
sales@wilmslowaudio.com
www.wilmslowaudio.com
Wilson Benesch
T: +44 [0] 114 285 2656
F: +44 [0] 114 285 2657
info@wilson-benesch.com~
Xixin Ltd
T: +44 (0) 158 240 0340
www.xixin.co.uk
•Y
Yamaha Electronics
(UK) Ltd
200 Rickmansworth Road,
Watford, Herts,
WD18 7GQ
T: +44 (0) 192 323 3166
F +44 (0) 192 381 0410
www.yamaha-uk.com
info@yamaha-uk.com
Yello GB Ltd
T: +44 (0) 141 576 1772
F: +44 (0) 141 950 2737
sales@yellogb.com
Get In Training
What’s New may not be an education in itself, but it can certainly point you in the right direction. Read on
to find out where you might want to be in the coming months…
Armour Home Electronics
Control4
Systemline 4.4 from scratch: 14/02/06, 14/03/06, 11/04/06, 9/05/06, 13/06/06,
Product range overview, software and configurations: 7-9/02/06, 28/02-2/03/06,
11/07/06
21-23/03/06
Systemline Modular introduction: 17/01/06, 21/02/06, 21/03/06, 25/04/06, 16/05/06,
27/06/06, 18/07/06
For further information contact: +44 (0) 190 475 9070 or info@control4-uk.com
Systemline Modular Advanced: 18/01/06, 22/02/06, 22/03/06, 29/03/06, 12/04/06,
26/04/06, 3/05/06, 17/05/06, 14/06/06, 28/06/06, 19/07/06L
Introduction to Imerge sound servers: 26/01/06, 16/02/06, 28/03/06, 2/05/06,
Crestron
15/06/06, 20/07/06
Installers Dates: 08/02/06, 05/04/06, 14/06/06, 02/08/06, 04/10/06, 06/12/06
Lighting Dates: 08/03/06, 03/05/06, 05/07/06, 06/09/06, 01/11/06
Essentials Dates: 13-15/12/05, 17-19/01/06, 28-2/02-03/06, 11-13/04/06, 16-
Introduction to RF distribution: 27/04/06, 27/07/06
Introduction to Sonance speakers: 13/03/06, 22/05/06
Introduction to Lighting control systems: 17/01/06, 16/05/06, 11/07/06
Home Computer Networks: 20/03/06, 15/05/06
Sonance Navigator Harbor/K2 keypad: 25/01/06, 23/03/06, 25/05/05, 12/07/05
NEVO Sl remote control systems: 26/01/06, 7/02/06, 23/02/06, 15/03/06, 30/03/06,
18/05/06, 27-29/06/06, 25-27/07/06, 15-17/08/06, 26-28/09/06, 7-9/11/06, 12-14/12/06
Intermediate Dates: 14-16/02/06, 25-27/04/06, 11-13/07/06, 12-14/09/06, 2426/10/06
SIMPL+ Dates: 14-16/03/06, 30/05/06-01/07/06, 29/07/06-31/08/06, 10-12/10/06, 21-
19/04/06, 4/05/06, 24/05/06, 7/06/06, 29/06/06, 6/07/06, 26/07/06
NEVO SL, NEVO Link, UpnP: 27/01/06, 31/03/06, 5/05/06, 7/07/06
Complete CI Lighting systems and design: 7-9/03/06
23/11/06
For further information contact: www.armourhe.co.uk
Media, 21/04/06 – Roomview, 19t/05/06 - Touch panels, 30/06/06 – Processors,
28/07/06 - Quick Media, 25/08/06 – ILUX, 22/09/06 - I Media, 20/10/06- Room view,
17/11/06 – Processors, 15/12/06- Touch panel
Helvar
Helvar Digidim Lighting programming: 22/02/06, 17/05/06, 11/07/06
Helvar Lighting Router Systems: 8-9/02/06, 25-26/04/06, 27-28/06/06
Essential CAD for Custom Installation: 2-3/02/06, 16-17/03/06, 11-12/05/06,
Commercial Design Dates: 07/02/06, 04/04/06, 13/06/06, 01/08/06
Residential Design Dates: 15/11/06, 10/01/06, 07/03/06, 02/05/06, 04/07/06, 05/09/06
Commercial Afternoon Workshop Dates 2006: 24/02/06 – ILUX, 24/03/06 - I
Residential Morning Workshop: 24/02/06- Video Distribution, 10/03/06 - Audio
13-14/07/06
Distribution, 24/03/06 - Crestron HVAC, 04/07/06 – eControl, 21/04/06- Diagnostics,
05/05/06 – Touchpanels, keypads & Interfaces, 19/05/06 – Intercom, 02/06/06 –
Lighting, 16/06/06- Adagio, 30/06/06- Video Distribution
Introduction to Lutron Homeworks: 18/01/06, 12/04/06, 12/07/06
Lighting design for residential projects: 10/03/06, 26/05/06
Introduction to Home cinema systems: 16-17/03/06, 18-19/05/06
Multiroom audio and lighting systems for interior designers: 20/03/06
RGB i-school
Kramer Electronics Training Day: 14-15/02/06, 21-22/03/06, 19-20/04/06, 1617/05/06
AMX Programming: 24/01/06, 28/03/06, 25/04/06, 23/05/06
How to Sell & Specify AMX - Commercial: 8/02/06, 5/04/06, 3/05/06
How to Sell & Configure AMX: 9/02/06, 14/03/06, 6/04/06, 4/05/06
Rack Design and Build: 16/02/06, 23/03/06, 13/04/06, 18/05/06
Networking and WiFi for AV Systems: 28/02/06, 16/03/06, 11/04/06, 31/05/06
ClearOne Technical Specialist: 2/03/06, 12/04/06, 10/05/06
How to Sell & Specify AMX – Residential: 8/03/06
CEDIA
CPD courses
London: 8/9/03/06
Belfast: 28/03/06
Dublin: 30/03/06
For further information contact: www.cedia.co.uk
For further information contact: www.rgbcomms.co.uk/support/training.htm.
Any manufacturers or distributors wishing to have their training details included in this section should email
Hamish@soundandvisionmagazine.co.uk or contact +44 (0) 120 650 5959
44
RECRUITMENT
Advertise your recruitment here free*
or from as little as £100**
elcome to the What's New recruitment section, a brand new tool for employers seeking the right person for their
vacancy and employees looking to move onwards and upwards. Every opportunity that you see on these pages will
also be placed live on our website, www.soundandvisionmagazine.co.uk/recruitment.php the moment the
information becomes available, making it an extremely efficient vehicle for those seeking to expand their staff. To place an
advert on this page, please contact Theresa on +44 (0) 1480 498953 or theresa@soundandvisionmagazine.co.uk
W
POSITION: SALES MANAGER
REGION: NORTHERN AREA
SALARY: NEG
We are looking for a highly energetic and talented individual whose skill and expertise can make a real difference. Arcam is committed to
developing its business with the UK‚s leading hi-fi and av specialists. Due to continuing growth in the UK, we are expanding our sales and
marketing team and are now seeking a Northern Area Sales Manager. The successful candidate will have several years of relevant
retail/trade experience, a positive attitude and a belief in high-performance systems that bring music and movies to life. A successful track
record in sales, a good appreciation of the technology, and a natural enthusiasm for our industry will also be key.
If you are interested, then send your full CV to: HR Administrator, ARCAM, Pembroke Ave, Denny Industrial
Centre, Waterbeach, Cambridge CB5 9QR Tel: (01223) 203200 Fax: (01223) 863384 Email: hr@arcam.co.uk
POSITION: SALES PERSON
REGION: LOUGHTON
SALARY: NEG
Sevenoaks Sound & Vision in Loughton opened its doors for the first time in November 2005 & offers the best in home entertainment.
We are now looking for an additional full time Sales Person to join our small team as we grow the business. With a genuine interest
in hi-fi products and home cinema systems, a willingness to learn about the latest innovations and bags of enthusiasm, you will be
able to work as part of an enthusiastic team offering a great all round service to our customers. This will include giving expert advice
and being able to demonstrate products to our customers in an environment that makes them feel
completely at ease. With relevant experience, you will need to be confident and committed to giving
your best. If you would like to join our team please email with CV and covering letter to hr@ssav.com
For further opportunities with Sevenoaks Sound and Vision please visit our website www.ssav.com
POSITION: SALES MANAGERS REQUIRED
REGION: SURREY
SALARY: NEG
We are currently seeking to fill the following Positions:- AV Retail Sales Manager, Business Sales Manager, External Sales Manager and
Internal Sales. Harvard Technology is one of the premier distributors in Flat screen vision technology, Audio products and exclusive AV
Furniture and mounting solutions. We are currently looking for ambitious and self-motivated Sales people. We offer a very comprehensive
package of a very generous re-numeration, commission and benefits. If you would like to join one of the most spirited, goal driven and
ambitious teams than please send in your details to: FAO: AJ Kara , Harvard Technology Ltd, Regus Croydon,
2 Lansdowne Road, Croydon, Surrey CR9 2ER Tel No. 0845 450 1480
POSITION: SALES EXECUTIVE
REGION: MIDLANDS
SALARY: NEG +CAR
Due to growth and investment we have an excellent opportunity for a hard working, ambitious self starter. Excellent package plus
car. To be considered for the position you should have related field sales experience plus relevant retail background would be
excellent. A good understanding of consumer electronic product will also be required. And of course a full driving licence is
essential. All applications will be handled in the strictest confidence.
To apply, please forward your CV with current package details to Alan Davidson,
Sales Manager, Yamaha Electronics (UK) Ltd, 200 Rickmansworth Road,
Watford, Herts WD18 7GQ email: yeuk_jobs@gmx.yamaha.com
POSITION: SALES
REGION: M25/M40
SALARY: NEG
Leax are the leading UK Lighting Control specialists, selling to Designers, Architects and Contractors within the building industry
This is an excellent opportunity for a self motivated individual who's looking for a new career in sales.
Experience is not essential but lighting or electrical knowledge is preferred. You should be
between 23 & 30 with real determination and the ability to communicate you thoughts clearly.
You should be ideally located close to the M25 and M40. You must be in possession of a clean
driving license and be computer literate. If you think you have what it takes then send your CV
& a covering letter to: deanr@leax.co.uk
POSITION: CUSTOM INSTALLATION TECHNICIAN
REGION: KENT
COST: NEG
Bluestream AV is a Cedia custom installation company that specialise in creating unique living environments integrating the
latest digital technologies that control every aspect of the home. From an audio visual home cinema system to music
distributed through every room of the house. We have an opportunity for an enthusiastic and energetic technician to join our
installation team. The individual must be a dedicated, natural team player who takes a pro-active approach to their work.
Previous installation experience is essential as is a driving licence. If you are interested in applying for this position
please email your CV and cover letter to: chantelle.bourne@bluestreamav.com www.bluestreamav.co.uk
*Recruitment free with year’s commitment of advertising ** £100 per strip
DIARY
We make a point of exploring the most
significant shows, both at home and abroad
IFA makes a welcome return in 2006
ISE returns to Amsterdam in early 2007
Please send all correspondence to: What's New, 21-23 Phoenix Court, Hawkins Road, CO2 8JY
Events 2005/6 It’s Show Time!
FEBRUARY 06
24-26
Sound & Vision 2006
Marriott Hotel, Bristol
www.bristolshow.co.uk
MARCH 06
2-5
Smart Home Show
NEC, Birmingham
www.smarthomeshow.co.uk
APRIL 06
1-2
22-27
23-25
Heathrow High Fidelity Show
Interbuild
Install @ PALME 2006 DIEC,
Park Inn, Heathrow
NEC, Birmingham
Dubai
www.interbuild.com
www.palmeonline.co.uk
JUNE 06
2-4
3-9
19-22
Grand Designs Live
infocomm 2006 Orange County Convention Center,
CEDIA EXPO 2006 ExCel,
ExCel, London
Orlando
London
www.granddesignslive.com
www.infocomm.org
www.cedia.co.uk
JULY 06
27-29
CEDIA Australasia Expo
Gold Coast, Queensland
www.cedia.com.au
SEPTEMBER O6
1-6
13-17
22-24
22-24
22-24
IFA 2006
CEDIA US Expo Colorado Convention Center
Smart Home Show
Hi-Fi & Home Entertainment Show
London Sound & Vision Show
Messe Berlin
Denver
NEC, Birmingham
Renaissance Hotel, Heathrow
Park Inn, Heathrow
www.ifa-berlin.com
www.cedia.org
www.smarthomeshow.co.uk
www.hifishow.co.uk
OCTOBER 06
Scottish Sound & Vision Radisson SAS
Glasgow
LOOK OUT FOR THE NEXT ISSUE OF WHAT'S NEW ON MARCH 20TH FEATURING...
Best Of The West – We show you what was hot at the Bristol Show
Instant Access – A close inspection of MP3-player accessory market
Look East – The latest news on the Middle East's growing install market
On The Job – Check out the freshest opportunities on our recruitment board
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
stuart@soundandvisionmagazine.co.uk
Editorial Assistant: Jacob Stow
Publisher: Steve Duffy steve_oth@aceville.com
Art Direction: Lee Whiteford lwhiteford@btconnect.com
Designers: Scott Jukes, Lewis Webb, David Morgan
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, Terry Arnold
Design & Repro: Ace Pre-Press T: 44 (0)1206 797541
Circulation Manager: Mick Orrin T: 44 (0)1206 505912
46
Subscriptions: To ensure you receive your copy of What’s New every
issue, go to www.soundandvisionmagazine.co.uk and simply fill in the
online form
Accounts Admin: T: 44 (0)1206 505900
Published By: Partridge Publications (2000) Ltd, Avenue Lodge,
60 East Street, Brighton, BN1 1HN. Tel. +44 (0) 1273 719900
Not for correspondence
Printed in England All contributions are submitted and accepted on the basis of a non-exclusive worldwide
licence to publish or licence to do so unless otherwise agreed in advance in writing. What's New in Sound and
Vision recognises all copyrights and trademarks. Where possible, we have acknowledged the copyright holder.
Contact us if we haven t credited your copyright and we will correct any oversight.
All contents © Partridge Publications (2000) Limited While we make every effort to
ensure that everything we print in What's New in Sound and Vision is factually correct,
we cannot be held responsible if factual errors occur. Please check any quoted hardware
specifications with your supplier before purchase. The views expressed in this magazine
are not necessarily those of the publisher. Copyright Partridge Publications (2000) Ltd '
01/07/04 - 30/06/05: 4,309
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SOUND VISION INSTALL

Transcription

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