Strategy in TECH...
AudioControl, part of the AVPro Global stable of brands, announced this week a new series of high-performance integrated amplifiers embodying all of the latest technologies under the expanded Bijou Series name. This new series of three models features a super-compact design for install-anywhere flexibility while at the same time employing all of the latest technology, such as Gallium Nitride (GaN) circuitry, Dante networking, eARC connectivity, and more.
Time (formerly Time Magazine) has published its list of the 200 best inventions of 2024 and it is an interesting and occasionally puzzling list at times. As a general interest news media outlet, Time covers a wide spectrum of suggested “bests” in a wide range of product types, but AV was definitely included. Check it out and see if you agree with its picks.
Are you facing a painfully long HDMI cable run and don’t know how you can reliably accomplish that? AVPro Edge has your answer – the AC-EX150-BKT. This new HDMI extension kit breaches new barriers to deliver integrators a mind-blowing range of up to 150 meters. Problem solved…
While Sonos (Nasdaq: SONO) claims to have most of its app problems behind it, multiple reports are emerging that suggest it may have an even bigger problem – the introduction of its Ace premium headphone has flopped. If these reports are true, then Sonos may indeed be staring into the jaws of the one monster that can truly terrify it – growing consumer resistance to its new products.
SVS, an independent manufacturer of subwoofers, speakers, wireless audio, cables, and accessories announced this week that it has outdone itself – launching a beast of a subwoofer design that raises the bar in low-frequency performance. The company tells me that the launch of this new design is “a momentous day for SVS.”
Savant released several announcements at CEDIA Expo 2024, each of which was interesting on its own. Seeing these announcements reminded me of some of its past announcements – such as the acquisition of GE Lighting and J Geiger Shading – that were also interesting in their own right.
But only when you start putting these and other company developments together, like individual pieces of a mosaic, does a picture emerge of just where Savant is headed. And that picture…is truly compelling one of a smarter Smart Home.
Portal executives Kirk Chisholm and Josh Willits recently gave me a sneak preview at a dramatic new feature they have developed for Portal users that is a potential game changer for those seeking to increase companywide efficiency by streamlining an essential but time-consuming process all integrators face – building compelling, complete, and accurate proposals. With Portal’s new AI Proposals, your proposals practically build themselves – literally in seconds on simple installations or in a minute or two on more sophisticated projects.
AI Proposals is a new use for artificial intelligence (AI) with real-world consequences that benefit integrators and their clients.
In a torrent of multiple releases from Sonance, it has unleashed a veritable tsunami of innovation covering several product categories and market segments. Scheduled to be shown at this week’s CEDIA Expo 2024 show in Denver will be a wide array of new products from Sonance and its entire family of brands, including James, IPORT, and TRUFIG. The company will also launch new modules for its Sonance Design Gallery – winner of the “Best New Software” award at last year’s CEDIA Expo 2023.
Also to be unveiled is a redesigned Sonance.com website and a fully functional my.Sonance.com platform with added configuration enhancements. Finally, the company will be demonstrating a new immersive music experience for attendees every 15 minutes. Like I said, it’s a Sonance tsunami of innovation.
Hunter Douglas, one of the leading manufacturers of custom window treatments like motorized shades, will show an interesting new Solar Charger Kit at the upcoming CEDIA Expo 2024 in Denver this week. Now, not only does Hunter Douglas keep the sun out of your home, but it now uses it to recharge your battery-powered motorized shades. Clever!
Crestron Electronics, one of the industry’s leading providers of control solutions and more for the smart home and home automation channels announced this week a significant update of its popular Crestron Home OS4 system. This impressive update includes more than 20 new features, as well as new important integrations that offer integrators a mind-expanding opportunity to better design solutions for clients…not to mention drive greater scalability for both residential and commercial installations.
