Sonos is delivering a new choice for integrators with Era 100 Pro, the company’s first solution specifically engineered for professional installation. The speaker utilises Power over Ethernet (optimised for PoE+) and produces premium sound, with Era 100 Pro Surface Mount offering versatile, scalable installation options. Sonos is also introducing zones, a new software feature that will make bonding and controlling multiple speakers easier and more customisable for larger spaces. 

Era 100 Pro and Era 100 Pro Surface Mount will be exclusively sold through select Sonos partners specialising in professional installation, and will be available in pairs starting in early 2025. Zones will be available via a software update on iOS and Android on the Sonos app at the same time.

Era 100 Pro, Built for Professional Installation

With the rich sound, elegant design, and versatile control that Sonos is known for, Era 100 Pro has been specifically designed to provide a complete, end to end solution for professional installation.

Power over Ethernet: With one single cable that delivers both power and data, Era 100 Pro simplifies the installation process by eliminating the cost and complexities of having to install AC mains at each speaker location, allowing more unique configurations in various locations. Era 100 Pro is optimised for PoE+ but can also be used with standard PoE. With Power over Ethernet, business owners can utilise wired-first networking for enhanced reliability, speed and performance, while also seamlessly integrating into an existing network setup.

Customisable with zones: Introduced alongside Era 100 Pro, zones offers an easier and more customisable way to orchestrate and control larger scale installations. Users can bond speakers together into a predictable, unified entity, providing a more permanent bonding experience that stays consistent throughout use.

Versatile Surface Mount (sold separately in pairs): Era 100 Pro Surface Mount boasts 30° pan and tilt ranges and 360° rotation, enabling installation in any orientation. Its indexed ball joint allows installers to achieve repeatable angles with precision, enabling fast deployment when mounting multiple speakers, while also ensuring the speakers won’t sag over time. Able to affix to virtually any surface, the mount can also accommodate hidden or exposed cabling, and has a locking base plate for theft deterrence.

Safety enhancements: Era 100 Pro has a built-in threaded insert and optional eyebolt that provides a secondary safety attachment point should building codes require it, helping the speaker withstand seismic events and avoid accidental damage. The hook receptacle increases stability when paired with the Surface Mount in non-portrait orientations.

Premium sound: Leveraging the same acoustic architecture as Era 100, Era 100 Pro provides high-quality sound and impressive low-frequency performance, unique within the PoE speaker category. With two 0.63 in / 16 mm silk angled high-frequency drivers and a 3.5 x 4.4 in / 90.8 x 111.9 mm carbon filled-polypropylene low-frequency driver, the speaker delivers rich sound across a wide 240° horizontal dispersion, giving broad coverage from a compact profile.

 New Search API for Compatibility with Third-Party Control Systems

Extended functionality and control: This upgrade simplifies navigation and accelerates access to preferred content from compatible music service partners across partner touch screens, with support for search, favourites, playlists, and recently played.

Soundtrack every scene: Via the existing control API, Sonos music can be synchronised with lights, shading and more to deliver a more cohesive, immersive experience that complements end-users lifestyles. These scenes can be applied across all interfaces of a supporting control system, extending the ability to stream Sonos music throughout the entire home.

https://www.sonos.com

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As Amina Technologies commemorates its 25th anniversary, the company is excited to unveil its groundbreaking new range of invisible speakers, the Sapphire Series. This innovative product line will make its official debut at the CEDIA Expo 2024, ahead of its global shipping launch in November 2024.

Since its founding in 1999, Amina Technologies has been at the forefront of immersive invisible speaker technology. Richard Newlove, the visionary founder of Amina, began his journey focusing on the commercialization of Distributed Mode Loudspeaker (DML) technology. Over the past 25 years, the company has continually refined and advanced this technology, creating products that blend seamlessly into their surroundings while delivering outstanding sound quality.

Reflecting on the company’s journey, Richard Newlove states, “Our dedication to expanding the possibilities of invisible audio technology has remained steadfast. Throughout the past quarter-century, we have focused on crafting products that not only perform exceptionally but also integrate harmoniously with any design aesthetic. The Sapphire Series embodies this commitment, representing a significant advancement in performance and versatility within a framework of integrity.”

The Sapphire Series showcases Amina’s latest innovation: the Symphony Cell composite panel. This newly developed in-house material features a unique resin-impregnated cellulose pulp core that reproduces warm, natural tones while maintaining the clarity Amina’s products are known for. Additionally, Amina’s new anti-warp composite skin ensures the panel surface remains stable during installation, plastering, and operation, even in extreme conditions of heat and moisture.

The new Sapphire series features redesigned, more powerful exciters and upgraded electromagnetic components, enhancing overall performance. Both the panels and exciters benefit from advanced high-temperature-rated bonding techniques, significantly expanding their application to challenging environments such as saunas, steam rooms, and outdoor settings.

Newlove adds, “With the Sapphire Series, we’ve not only enhanced the performance and durability of invisible speakers but also broadened their potential applications. Whether in a luxury home, a commercial spa, or a high-end hospitality venue, these speakers provide pristine audio quality with high reliability while remaining completely out of sight.”

The launch of the Sapphire Series marks Amina’s most significant product introduction since the Mobiusi Series in 2019. Building upon previous successes, the Sapphire Series further solidifies Amina’s reputation as a leader of innovation and excellence in the invisible speaker market. The combination of the Symphony Cell composite panel and newly updated drive components truly sets a new benchmark for invisible audio.

As Amina Technologies celebrates its 25th anniversary, the Sapphire Series launch is a testament to the company’s enduring commitment to excellence in the realm of invisible sound. The series includes three speakers at different performance levels, tailored to fit various environments. The first two products will be available for global shipment beginning in November 2024, with the third product following in January 2025.

Amina products are designed exclusively for the Custom Install, commercial, and architectural installation markets, and trade customers are encouraged to contact their local representatives or Amina directly for further details. Architects, designers, and consultants interested in experiencing invisible sound firsthand are invited to reach out to Amina for information on their nearest experience center.

For More Information: https://www.aminasound.com/sapphire-series/

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Bose Professional, the developer of world-class audio experiences designed to transform any space, recently announced the appointment of Adam Castillo as Vice President of Global Marketing. Castillo brings over 20 years of experience leading marketing teams at companies ranging from startups to large, global technology companies. He joins a diverse and growing list of senior tech professionals recruited to the newly independent Bose Professional team in the last year. Castillo will report to CEO John Maier.

“We are thrilled to welcome Adam to the Bose Professional team,” said Maier. “His deep experience in global marketing and extensive expertise in the pro-audio industry will be invaluable as we continue to grow our business and expand our reach. We consider ourselves fortunate to be able to benefit from his experience and are excited to have him as part of Bose Professional.”

Castillo has held senior marketing positions at companies including Logitech, Avid, and Blue Microphones, where he has led global marketing strategy and execution, brand strategy and development, and product marketing among other functions. He is the creative architect behind multiple global brand launches and brings with him extensive experience in new market development. At Bose Professional he will lend his skills to help position the company for explosive growth in its new era as a standalone organisation.

“I am excited to join Bose Professional at such a pivotal moment,” said Castillo. “I’m grateful to be part of such an impressive leadership team that was brought on to build the next chapter for the company. The company’s overall talent, the technology, and its 50-plus year legacy are all ready to be harnessed – it’s rare to see so much potential in one place.”

www.boseprofessional.com

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Artcoustic launches the latest addition to their Evolve Series – the Evolve 1 for indoor and outdoor use. The Evolve 1 shares many characteristics with the other models in the Artcoustic range. Maintaining Artcoustic’s clean contemporary design, the Evolve 1 has been designed and engineered for a wide range of applications, suited for indoor and outdoor spaces, where premium sound quality and flexibility are required.

The Evolve 1 speaker can be expanded as a dual array speaker for higher sound pressure levels and further controlled horizontal and vertical dispersion, typically needed for more commercial applications. The Evolve 1 is an impressive-sounding semi-full-range speaker solution, packed with high-end finesse and an impressive dynamic range, all from a very small and aesthetic form factor.

The Evolve 1 has been designed to match the same tonality as the rest of the Artcoustic range and will especially excel in conjunction with the Artcoustic CPH-Trio amplifier, but can also be used with any other high-quality power source.

This range has been predominantly designed as a multi-room indoor high-fidelity audio solution but is also available for outdoor applications. As a unique feature, the Evolve 1 is available in our special outdoor high gloss IP66 (weatherproof) surface material, making it not only one of the most aesthetic outdoor audio solutions around, but it will also extend the legendary high standard of Artcoustic audio quality into any of your outdoor areas.

For More Details: artcoustic.com

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Klipsch a leading premium global audio company, is pleased to announce the addition of the larger, more powerful, and dynamic The Nines and The Sevens powered speakers to its award-winning lineup of Heritage Wireless series of speakers, which includes The Fives (2020). Designed with luxury materials such as real wood veneer and tactile switches and knobs, Klipsch Heritage Wireless speakers blend the acoustics and classic design legacy of Paul W. Klipsch with the latest technologies available today.

Klipsch Nines and The Sevens powered speakers deliver room-filling sound with minimum space required, thanks to a built-in amplifier that is custom-engineered to maximize output and sound quality. The speakers are extremely versatile, easy to set up and use and connect to virtually everything — including a TV via HDMI-ARC. They include an integrated phono pre-amp, Bluetooth^® wireless technology, digital optical, analog RCA, USB inputs, and a subwoofer output. Klipsch The Nines and The Sevens are bi-amplified for improved clarity and output. The powered monitors feature a 192kHz / 24-bit decoding for flawless reproduction of high-resolution audio tracks.

Klipsch Heritage Wireless powered speakers incorporate award-winning, proprietary Klipsch Reference acoustic horn-loaded technology and tuning to deliver loud and precise audio with enhanced bass and low distortion. The built-in dynamic bass equalization matches the ear’s ability to hear lower frequencies, delivering powerful bass at any volume. Klipsch The Nines and The Sevens feature 1” titanium tweeters on Tractrix® horns. Larger in size and output, The Nines feature 240W total system power and an all-new 8” long-throw high excursion composite cone woofer. Mid-sized The Sevens, with 200W total system power, use a 6.5” long-throw woofer for room-filling sound and enhanced bass. The speakers are available in Walnut and Black veneer finishes.

Klipsch The Nines and The Sevens powered monitors are compatible with the Klipsch Connect App, giving users access to customize EQ and subwoofer volume settings, dynamic bass, night listening mode, over-the-air firmware upgrades, a digital quick-start guide, and much more.

For more information: www.klipsch.com

The post Klipsch Expands High-Resolution Powered Speaker Series appeared first on Smart Home World Magazine.

DEFUNC, a global audio brand based in Stockholm, has entered the fast-growing Indian audio products segment. The Swedish firm has introduced a range of products that include multi-room, smart Wi-Fi home speaker solutions and a range of truly wireless stereo (TWS) Earbuds and EarPods. The company has made a strategic alliance with Delhi headquartered Salora International Limited, a leading consumer electronics company in India for brand’s sales and Marketing distribution in India.

Mr. Johan Wahlbäck, CEO and Founder, Defunc said “For Defunc products, India is a strategically important market and a natural step on our expansive journey for the brand into new markets. We see great potential here and have offered competitive products for Indian consumers. With these launches, Defunc continues to keep up with its vision of introducing exceptional home speaker technology offerings to consumers.”

To begin with, Defunc has launched two versions of WI-FI HOME SPEAKERS & 5 models of EARBUDS in India. The Wi Fi Home Speakers comprises small (40 w) and large (100 w) sizes with two colour options in grey and black, which are compatible with all music genres and audio types. These include Coloured Speaker Fronts, Custom Printed Fronts, Adjustable Floor Stands, and Wall and Corner Mounts. The users can select from a range of accessories, including floor stands, mounts and coloured fronts. The Defunc earbuds are namely Defunc True Basic, Defunc True Talk, Defunc True Sport, Defunc True Audio, and Defunc True Music. These variants are meant for basic conversation, sports activity, music and entertainment and gaming respectively.

The company has developed these products along with top Swedish audio engineer and acoustics expert Henrik Isaksson.

The Defunc Home Speakers, launched in black and white colours, are sleek in design and come with features like Wi-Fi, Bluetooth and Aux-In connectivity, Application control and Bass reflex.

THE KEY SPECIFICATIONS:

Defunc Home multi-room speaker system is a network of speakers connected via Wi-Fi (2.4 and 5 GHz), as opposed to one speaker connected via Bluetooth. These come with in-built Alexa and AirPlay 2 and support Spotify Connect and Tidal Connect for streaming. Additionally, it supports Amazon Music, Apple Music (iOS), Deezer, iHeartRadio, Napster, Qobuz, and TuneIn. These can receive commands via Alexa Voice Service (AVS). The possibility of connecting multiple speakers to create a network of home speakers makes the Defunc multi-room home speakers are more stable and delivers higher quality audio connection and sound. Being independent of the location of the sound source, these can stream music either from a smartphone or a computer. Users can group and ungroup speakers to play the same track everywhere or choose different tunes in different rooms. And the speakers can connect directly with the user’s preferred streaming service and can be controlled with an App.

In terms of connectivity, these speakers support Wi-Fi (2.4 & 5 GHz), Bluetooth 5.0 and AUX IN. The speakers support a variety of file formats, including AAC/HE-AAC, AC3, AIFF, ALAC, APE OPUS, FLAC, MP3, MP4, OGG, Stereo PCM and WAV.

While the small speakers have a frequency range of 30 to 20,000 Hz, the large speakers have a range starting at 50 Hz. Small and large home speakers are 200 mm and 300 mm in height and width, respectively. While the small speakers weigh 1.6 kg (speaker and stand only), the large speakers weigh 3.9 kg (speaker and stand only). Targeting users with an aesthetic sense, the company offers coloured fronts to match the colour of the walls and cabinets.

PRICE DETAILS:

The small Defunc smart home speakers are priced at Rs.21,999

Th large Defunc smart homes speakers are priced at Rs.36,999.

TWS DEFUNC EARBUDS:

Ergonomically-designed TWS earbuds come in different formats and six different colours in each of these variants, namely:

• Defunc True Basic & True Music as entry level earbuds with excellent Sound Quality.
• Defunc True Talk is Fortified with the Pure Voice Bone Conductor Sensor Technology.
• Defunc True Sport has been designed for people involved in sports activity and it has high water resistance.
• Defunc True Audio is designed for gaming and streaming. It can be connected via app and provides best audio Quality. Through the mobile application, the user can adjust the equalizer to their own preference or use our pre-set settings for different kinds of music; R&B, Rock, Classical, Pop, or Dance Music. Defunc Earbuds come with IPX 4 and 5 waterproof rating, are sweat-resistant and offer a truly immersive music experience. The technology creates an advanced version environmental Noise Cancellation (ENC), providing users the best possible conditions for conversations in noisy or windy surroundings.

Each earbud variant offers slightly different talk time (5-6 hours) and total play time (20-30 hrs). All other variants offer a talk time that fall within this range. The Defunc earbuds support fast charging and can be play-ready within a short time. These come with a charging case and USB-C cable and Silicon ear tips. Only Defunc True Sport comes with additional Silicon sport wings. For connectivity, these come with Bluetooth 5.2 and can be voice-controlled.

“Being connected and having access to great sound is a large part of our lives. Our products deliver on both design and function. In this light, the home environment and personal entertainment matter. Through the launches, we are enabling the consumer to seriously expand the sound experience in the home environment by adding multiple units for a more powerful sound experience and making it match the home interior. Our TWS earbuds will offer the opportunity for entertainment while one is mobile.” added Mr. Johan Wahlbäck, CEO and Founder, Defunc.

PRICE DETAILS:

The price of TWS earbuds start with Rs 2,499 (True Basic and True Music) and goes up to Rs 5,499 (True Audio, True Sport and True Talk).

Users can accessories the speakers by buying customised fronts, mounts and floor stands as per the requirement for small & large speakers. A Defunc floor stand comes in two colours — white and black.

Commenting on the tie-up with Salora, Mr. Johan Wahlbäck added, “It is a delight to enter the huge Indian market with such a strong and experienced partner. It will be exciting to follow the brand’s journey in the Indian market going forward.”

Mr. Gopal Jiwarajka, CMD, Salora International, commented on this partnership, saying, “We are delighted to partner with Defunc in India. We have a good idea of what Indian consumers are looking for, we have a very strong distribution at the place. Our ability to market it, build awareness and distribution. We’d like to think of ourselves as the brands proxy in India”

The newly launched products will be available across premium offline retail stores across all major cities in India by the end of the year 2022. Will be available in around 100 premium retailers in India and will add another 500 retailers by the end of March 2022. The products can also be found across all major online channels including Amazon and Flipkart soon.

The post DEFUNC Enters India in Partnership with Salora International appeared first on Smart Home World Magazine.

Recently, the leading audio brand Focal unveiled the LITTORA line: speaker drivers for yachts and spaces located in coastal and wet environments. Fitting discreetly into walls and ceilings, both indoors and outdoors, these products from Focal’s deliver exceptionally high sound quality outdoors while blending seamlessly into their surroundings.

THE SOUND OF THE FRENCH RIVIERA

In addition to its complete offering for indoor sound (loudspeakers, Home Cinema, in-wall/in-ceiling, etc.), Focal is now adding a solution that brings sound to yachts and any premises located in a coastal environment (home, restaurant, etc.) or wet spaces (spa, steam room, etc.): in other words, any spaces subject to specific outdoor conditions (humidity, sea spray, salt, wind, etc.). The arrival of this offer follows on from the July 2021 opening of the Focal Powered by Naim showroom in Cannes, the first floor of which is designed to replicate a boat interior. In addition to its products, Focal offers real expertise – advice on the configuration and placement of speaker drivers, acoustic testing measurements, on-site sound design, sound tuning, and more.

The Littora range includes two series of in-wall and in-ceiling speaker drivers: Littora 1000 and Littora 200. The first is the flagship series. Made in France and inspired by the Utopia line of in-wall / in-ceiling products Focal excellence, its two speaker drivers 1000 ICW8 and ICW10 offer outstanding outdoor sound. Lending themselves as well to party use as to ultra high-quality listening sessions, they are complemented by the 1000 ICW SUB10 subwoofer for a powerful and captivating sound. Littora 200 is the second series – its 200 ICW6 and ICW8 speaker drivers combine compactness and performance, delivering wide sound coverage. Three outdoor loudspeakers are the final additions to the Littora 200 series: OD Sat 5, OD Stone 8 and OD Sub 12 for enjoying Focal sound in outdoor settings such as gardens, terraces, poolsides and more.

FOCAL KNOW-HOW AND IP CERTIFICATIONS

Since its creation in 1979, Focal has been excelling in research and development, particularly in the design of cones, the centrepiece of a speaker driver for ultimate sound reproduction. To meet the needs and respond to the constraints of marine and coastal environments, Focal engineers have developed the Fiber IP cone for the Littora 1000 series and the Iris IP cone for Littora 200, combining very high sound quality with impressive resistance. These brand new products blend performance, discretion, ease of integration but also perfect resistance to all weathers: in particular, they benefit from IP65 certification, an international standard designating the levels of protection offered by a material against the ingress of solids and liquids. The range therefore boasts perfect waterproofing and resistance to outdoor elements.

INDOOR / OUTDOOR MODE AND ACCESSORIES

For a custom system and listening experience, an angled bracket is provided as an accessory, with three sizes available (6″/15cm, 8″/20cm and 10″/25cm), enabling you to determine the tilt of the speaker driver and play the sound in the direction of your choice. It is also possible to adapt the sound of the speaker drivers by simply clicking on the button on the back, depending on whether they are to be used indoors or outdoors.

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Lawrence Chu, General Manager, AP & ME Distribution, shares his views on KEF’s journey, technical innovation, and their latest revolutionary speakers.

Congratulations on completing 60 years. What are your future plans for the KEF?

Founded in 1961 by BBC engineer Raymond Cooke, KEF is named after its original site, Kent Engineering and Foundry, and continues to manufacture and develop its signature pieces in Maidstone, Kent, UK.

Over the years, KEF has firmly established itself at the forefront of audio excellence. From the early adoption of synthetic materials to the pioneering Reference Series that now determines industry standards. In short KEF’s technological innovation, design, and craftsmanship have led the brand to produce bar-setting products in speaker design.

What are the latest products in the pipeline?

KEF has recently launched LS50 Wireless II. These wireless hi-fi speakers use streaming services to deliver exceptional sound within a minimal set-up. The brilliant performance of the LS50 Wireless II comes from the combination of the exquisitely formed cabinet with advanced Digital Signal Processing – KEF’s Music Integrity Engine and impactful 380W of amplification – a new 100W class A/B amplifier powers the tweeter and a 280W class D amplifier powers the mid/bass driver. 

The KEF Connect app offers the option to tailor the sound to the environment in which you are listening. The left and right speakers are connected wirelessly, with 24bit/96kHz resolution; alternatively, users may connect with the supplied interspeaker cable for 24bit/192kHz resolution. AirPlay 2 and Google Chromecast seamlessly connect your compatible Apple or Android device, whilst Bluetooth expands the options even further. There are also wired connections for your TV, turntable, CD player and games console, via the HDMI, analog, optical and coaxial sockets.

The LS50 Wireless II is an active speaker and with a compact size. Starting with the latest generation of KEF’s patented Uni-Q technology. This range includes Metamaterial Absorption Technology (MAT) and a reworked motor system to reduce distortion. 

Tell us about the use of MAT in KEF speakers? 

KEF has announced its ground-breaking use of Metamaterial Absorption Technology (MAT). This innovation will allow KEF to design a new range of revolutionary products that deliver an unrivalled purity of sound that is so natural that the listeners will feel mesmerised. Harnessing MAT, KEF has created a synthetic material that has the super capacity to absorb all unwanted sound radiating from the rear of the driver, reducing distortion and enabling the prevention of audio distraction.

MAT is a highly complex maze-like structure, where each of the intricate channels efficiently absorbs a range of specific frequencies. When combined, the channels act as an acoustic black hole, absorbing 99% of the unwanted sound. Other traditional approaches have only allowed around 60% absorption, so the resulting acoustic quality is incomparable. 

Our readers would like to know about Blade and Reference models. Please elaborate. 

KEF’s BLADE Flagship floor standing speakers and pioneering THE REFERENCE Models, the two high-end KEF speaker series have been updated with KEF’s latest acoustic innovations including Metamaterial Absorption Technology (MAT).

Thanks to decades of accumulated in-house knowledge and the application of cutting-edge simulation and analysis tools Uni-Q is paired with MAT for Blade and Reference. The bespoke driver delivers a pristine performance from KEF’s flagship loudspeaker. The state-of-the-art Uni-Q driver array can deliver consistently sweet, lucid and lyrical treble, irrespective of the volume. A new ultra-low distortion midrange motor design lowers the total harmonic distortion (THD) in the midrange and reduces thermal compression and improves efficiency.

What are your offerings for the Indian market? People of which segment are the primary buyers of high-end smart home audio systems?

KEF offers its entire range of hi-fi, home theatre and architectural speakers (in-wall and in-ceiling) in India. While demand is primarily for home theatre in India, we find the market for stereo speakers on the rise too. Since KEF products are mid to luxury priced, it is targeted toward premium buyers.

In terms of Home Theatre products, KEF’s Custom Install Ci THX range is a super hit among the elite HNI consumer. In fact, India is the biggest market for this range in Asia.

KEF is known for its research legacy. Would you like to elaborate on the same? 

KEF has been an innovator in sound for 60 years. While it has developed many firsts, some of the groundbreaking technology includes Uni-Q tweeter design where the tweeter is housed in the middle of the midrange speaker to give a more cohesive and natural sound as compared with traditional speakers. Another first is the use of Carbon particles to absorb nitrogen out of air and thereby soften airflow within a speaker cabinet. This allows for greater sound for extremely compact speakers. The latest technology is called Meta, which uses a space-age Metamaterial Absorption Technology to remove unwanted internal cabinet resonance.

Would you like to speak on the designing, and manufacturing of your high-end speakers, technology, and software used in the process? How does that make KEF’s products stand apart? 

KEF is always at the cutting-edge of audio tech, KEF pioneered the early use of synthetic materials and was the first company to use computer simulation to measure and develop speaker performance, followed by the creation of its disruptive Uni-Q, Uni-Core and revolutionary Metamaterial Absorption technologies. The original collection of high-fidelity speakers, architectural speakers and subwoofers has evolved to include breakthrough wireless speakers, portable Bluetooth speakers and headphones.

With a team of talented engineers and in-house designers who work together to maintain the brand’s audio integrity, KEF has also partnered with the likes of Ross Lovegrove, Michael Young, Sir Terence Conran, Eric Chan and Marcel Wanders to bring their unique perspectives to KEF’s product design.

To which countries KEF has successfully gained a foothold, till now? How do you reach the end consumers? Would you like to elaborate on the distribution channel you follow? 

KEF is present in over 90 countries and is among the leading brands globally. Products are manufactured at plants around the world and sold through a network of experienced audio distributors who in turn sell through selective high-end AV dealers. Only dealers with the ability to showcase and demonstrate the speakers are permitted to promote them. 

In India, KEF is distributed through PRO FX, which has been KEF’s long-standing and committed partner for 20 years!

The post KEF’s Incredible Range of Speakers appeared first on Smart Home World Magazine.

The CIT Group were looking to create a stunning cinema and enhance the suite of amenities for residents of their luxurious Regents Crescent Development, they chose Smartcomm. The cinema room was given to Smartcomm as a ‘white box’ for a turn-key solution. Working closely with Interior Designers Millier, they delivered their vision with the technology to match. 

Every detail was harmonized, down to the brass anodized aluminum feature trim of the fixtures. Behind the 2.5m wide acoustically transparent DT Frontier Projection Screen is a powerful array of Artcoustic speakers. Together with hidden wall and ceiling Artcoustic speakers, they assist in delivering a resounding 9.2.4 Dolby Atmos surround sound system. A Barco Balder CinemaScope projector vividly delivers 4K resolution images for a truly immersive experience.

This exquisitely luxurious cinema was entirely installed by Smartcomm, working closely with CIT and Millier, from the seating, wall paneling, and flooring to the lighting, automation, and technology. The cinema needed to be elegant and technically advanced, yet easy to use and future-proof. From the artcoustic range, the following speakers added to the character of the home cinema. 

• EVOLVE 3-1

This flexible loudspeaker is designed for use in small to medium size rooms for home cinema or Hi-Fi, as well as multi-room applications such as kitchens, bedrooms, and studies. The SL Evolve 3-1 is a high SPL speaker. For optimal performance, it should be partnered with an Artcoustic subwoofer.

The SL Series has been subjected to several years of intensive testing and fine-tuning to deliver a truly unique and groundbreaking loudspeaker range.

Specifications & Customization

Operating Range: 60 Hz (-3dB) to 40 Hz

Sensitivity: 94 dB

SPL: 105 dB

Weight: 3.5 kg 

Dimensions: H: 370 W: 270 D: 67 mm

Cabinet: Any color/finish

Standard cabinet colors are black/white

NB: Please download the user manual for the full specification.

• SPITFIRE A6

The A6 is a true high SPL all-rounder and can be used as a single sound reinforcement speaker, or mounted as multiples with adjustable angles.

It also functions well when wall-mounted or ceiling-mounted as surround and overhead speakers in larger sound pressure level demanding cinema applications. The Spitfire Series is designed for the finest dedicated home cinemas, with different configurations to suit almost any room size. Its slimline profile, and adjustable vertical and horizontal array, are combined with an articulated performance, making it the ideal choice for high-end cinema rooms.

The Spitfire Series has been engineered to produce exceptional sound pressure levels, normally only associated with typical professional audio products. For the most impressive performance, partner the Spitfire speakers with one of the powerful Artcoustic subwoofers – an ideal setup for small, medium, and large size rooms.

Specifications & Customization

Operating Range 70 Hz (-6dB) to 20 kHz

Sensitivity: 98 dB

Max SPL: 119 dB

Weight 5.5 kg

Dimensions: H: 280 W: 280 D: 99 mm

Cabinet: Black SL Finish

The post Turnkey Home Cinema Project Powered By Artcoustics Speakers appeared first on Smart Home World Magazine.

– On the importance of subwoofers and the science behind 

Watching movies, tucked in a plush, comfy couch while munching on some homemade snacks, after a long office day or on weekends, indeed refreshes and reset our fatigued minds. Visuals accompanied with sound engrosses the audience by offering an immersive visual and auditory gratification. The music and sound effects of a movie are quite crucial for a riveting experience and are often convoluted. Therefore, a sound system is always preferred to keep up with each soundwave. Every sound comprises both high and low frequencies. But, loudspeakers alone are not enough to reproduce the lowest frequencies from the sound effects of movies like an explosion, gunshot or something similar. As a result, the audience can hear the sounds but is not able to feel and get absorbed into them.

Subwoofers, one of the important components of a comprehensive audio system, are capable of delivering frequencies as low as 20-200 Hz. Also, subwoofers can release all the low-frequency effects and are liable to the .1 in a 7.1 sound system. Working placidly with the remaining sound system as a single unit, these use large drivers called woofers, enclosed in a wood or plastic structure, to produce deeper sounds. A clearer bass is produced when a subwoofer uses the woofer and a built-in amplifier that powers the signal. There was a time when subwoofers were more of specialist devices relevant to the hi-fi enthusiasts, especially those who had an interest in large pipe organ generated music. Today, subwoofers are being considered for home entertainment/music systems or an entire home cinema setup. People, these days, are opting for smaller ‘satellite’ left and right speakers along with one or more subwoofers. This format is known as 2.1, where the two refers to the primary pair of stereo speakers and .1 refers to the subwoofer with limited bandwidth. Similarly, 5.1 denotes a surround sound system with five main channels and a subwoofer, that will take care of the low-frequency effects channel (LFE).

Subwoofers for Home Cinema:

Most speakers in an audio or home theatre system are unable to reproduce all the frequencies sent by the audio source. The low frequencies, emulated by subwoofers, offer a rich, captivating, three-dimensional effect. When it comes to enhancing a home cinema setup, interior designers and system integrators often prefer subwoofers that are not much bulky and can be easily concealed in a room. 

“It is extremely essential to have a good quality transducer (speaker) which can reproduce sound in its most natural way without any distortion. But, a speaker can only perform to its optimum with the appropriate enclosure design. It should represent 20-200 hertz. It must be accurate in producing both lower and higher frequencies while blending seamlessly with other experiences and surroundings. E.g. the speaker should match the size of the room”, says Ravi Lakkundi, Senior Director, Product Management-Lifestyle, Harman India. “To attain the optimum acoustic experience, the subwoofers must be placed in an appropriate room keeping the size in mind, and one without any standing waves. Remember, a big subwoofer in a small room will not do justice or vice versa. Even the world’s best subwoofer might not perform well in a bad room”, adds Lakkundi.

The primary thing that needs to be kept in mind while integrating subwoofers, is to make sure the subwoofer’s amplifier is able to power the driver and the subwoofer range blends seamlessly with the main speakers. Therefore, one must always reach out to experts like subwoofer installers or sound system integrators for a flawless setup. In-wall speakers, due to their exceptional performance, are widely integrated into most multiroom audio and even home theatre installations. Multiple subwoofers, when placed accurately, can initiate even bass distribution by filling in all the dips in the room. “It is important to understand that low frequency is very vital for a holistic audio experience. Imagine a movie being played in your home theatre, where a lion is growling or an elephant rumbling, and you don’t hear the animal sounds. That would definitely not be a complete acoustic experience. Now, if you play the same movie connecting to a full-range speaker, only then you can do justice to the entire entertainment experience”, explains Lakkundi. 

“Coming to the classification of subwoofers, there are two types – active and passive, based on whether they are actively powered or passively powered. In an active subwoofer, the amplifier is built inside the subwoofer and these days it is wireless. In a passive subwoofer, the amplifier is a part of the soundbar, but the woofer is outside. Other types are ported subwoofer and non-ported, down-firing and front-firing. In the case of front-firing, the speakers are in front, and in down-firing, it faces the ground. It is just a design preference and depends on various factors like the dimension of the room, the placement of the subwoofer, different kinds of floorings whether wooden, marble, etc. and the overall aesthetics. Subwoofers are always large to reproduce lower frequency which means higher wavelength. No matter where a subwoofer is kept, experience of low frequency is omnidirectional”, adds Lakkundi.

Subwoofers & Woofers 

Both subwoofers and woofers generate low-frequency sound waves and add depth to the sound by emphasizing bass. But, the way they do it, their sound output, drivers, amplifiers and power consumption are different. 

Differences: 

• Where subwoofers are typically used alone in a sealed enclosure, devised especially for low-frequency audio, woofers are mostly part of a 2 or 3-way speaker system. The frequency range offered by subwoofers is usually 20 to 200 Hz (approximately), whereas, woofers produce a frequency range, which comprises both bass and midrange up to the tweeter’s cut-off frequency. Woofers have a broader frequency range of 40 Hz to 2500 Hz. 

• A subwoofer can tolerate a higher range of cone motion than a traditional woofer. 

• Dual voice coil (DVC) subwoofers are quite commonly available. But woofers, mostly, are not dual voice coils. 

• Subwoofers can produce extreme output levels due to their thicker and stiffer cones. 

• Subwoofers are ideal for surround sound systems and woofers are perfect for stereo systems. Woofers can work on their own, unlike subwoofers, which can only improve the existing sound setup.

Latest Innovations 

Subwoofers are usually quite bulky. With constant technological advancements, subwoofers, today, also come in compact sizes with more efficient amplifiers and dual-driver designs. “Technologies like thin line subwoofers in cars or home, lowest distortions like the design of enclosure or magnet to build material are some of the upcoming technologies in this segment which keep evolving with more and more R&D. And, we need to understand that consumer audio has been seeing innovations each day. Hence, the bottom line is to realize that a high-quality subwoofer must have a linear performance, unlike non- linearity creating distortion. For example, sound systems like JBL BAR 9.1 True Wireless Surround can give a cinematic 9.1 surround experience of a movie theatre into homes with two detachable surround speakers and the added punch of Dolby Atmos® and DTS:X 3D sound”, states Lakkundi. 

In A Nutshell

A well-designed subwoofer will always emit quality sound effortlessly by the virtue or expertise of reproducing good music. “A subwoofer needs to move the cone efficiently to represent the sound. And if that engineering is done to its best, one will surely enjoy distortion-free music”, concludes Lakkundi.

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