CEDIA, the Association for Smart Home Professionals, is pleased to announce that Henry Clifford (USA) and Manojkumar Soni (India) will join the Global CEDIA Board of Directors for the 2025-2027 term. The slate was approved by 95% of those voting, with a 56% increase in participation, the largest for a CEDIA Board election.

“Henry and Manojkumar bring unparalleled strengths in both business and technical expertise, which will greatly enhance our board’s ability to represent and serve our members around the world,” said Alex Capecelatro, CEDIA Board Chairperson. “I’d like to thank the members of the Governance Committee, chaired by CEDIA Vice Chairperson Amanda Wildman, for their diligent work in overseeing the election process and identifying such exemplary candidates.”

Henry Clifford began his career in IT during the “.com” boom of the 90s, working as a web developer and information architect. He founded Livewire in 2001 after identifying a need for simple home technology in central Virginia. Under Clifford’s leadership, Livewire acquired five competitors and launched a commercial division, Livewire for Business. Today, Livewire stands as the largest home technology integrator in central Virginia. Clifford also co-founded Parasol, a nationwide 24/7 remote support system “for integrators, by integrators” and the CI industry training platform IntegrateU. Clifford previously served on the CEDIA Board of Directors from 2017-2019.

Manojkumar Soni is the owner and principal consultant at AV4U, a leading technology integration firm in India. His expertise includes tender design, consulting, and auditing based on International ANSI standards. He holds several industry certifications, including CEDIA ESC-D, CTS, THX, HAA, and ISF. These credentials ensure AV4U provides top-tier AV, acoustic, automation, and building management system (BMS) solutions that meet international standards. An avid volunteer, Soni plays a vital role in the CEDIA India core team. He is a CEDIA accredited presenter, trainer, and active CEDIA Outreach Instructor (COI). He also dedicates his time to the CEDIA RP23 Working Group, influencing global video standards.

“CEDIA’s Board represents not only our members but also the future of the smart home industry,” added Daryl Friedman, CEDIA Global President and CEO. “Henry and Manojkumar are leaders with a deep commitment to innovation and quality, and their contributions will be instrumental in advancing CEDIA’s ambitious 2025 goals and beyond.”

For more information about CEDIA’s Board of Directors, visit cedia.org/board.

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Savant is now expanding control into home appliances as the company has just recently announced a new partnership with Monogram luxury smart appliances. The news comes off the heels of CEDIA Expo 2024, where the company recently announced a new lighting and shading line from its GE Lighting brand, dubbed Proseo.

The partnership goes beyond being just a set of integrations, however, according to Savant, the two companies have collaborated on creating their own bespoke smart appliance: the Savant Smart Hearth Oven. Additionally, Savant is expanding the capabilities of its smart home automation platform to offer specialized automation services for water heaters connected to the system.

The 30-inch Savant Smart Hearth Oven is a ventless, all-electric oven that fits flush in a standard opening, and, according to Savant, can deliver “brick-over performance” while featuring a variety of cooking modes for different meals.

The oven is handcrafted utilizing premium materials such as a brushed stainless-steel exterior and features intuitive touch controls in addition have full integration into the Savant smart home ecosystem, which also lets users control it natively from within the Savant app.

Users can manage temperature settings, reminders, cooking modes, and power OFF, all remotely.

The design requires no additional ductwork thanks to an integrated ventilation system with active smoke filtering and therefore should provide considerably less hassle when installed into an existing home.

Savant and the team from Monogram Appliances have also designed a luxury appliance referral program, allowing dealers to get their hands on additional smart appliances for their showrooms that they can then demo to clients.

In addition to the Savant Smart Hearth Oven, integrators can also offer clients the Monogram Forge, a unique ice press, the first of its kind available in the USA. The Monogram Forge shapes ice into perfectly round ice spheres, ideally suited to chill the world’s finest spirits without diluting flavor.

Both the Savant Smart Oven and Monogram Forge is now available for Savant Integrators to purchase from the Savant Store.

In addition, Savant is announcing a new Savant water heater service that will make it so users can manage water heater energy consumption through the Savant app. As part of the service, heaters will store thermal energy in the tank when electricity costs are low and consume it when costs are high. Additionally, the service will include a vacation mode, notifications, and temperature management features.

A big reason behind the current focus on smart appliances, Savant notes is that as electrification of the home progresses, control and automation of key energy spenders is going to become that much more valuable as time goes on.

Increasing utility prices as well as an increasing power draw from homes, means that some of the bigger energy consumers, such as water heaters, ovens, and refrigerators, are going to start to get looked at through a more critical lens.

Additionally, as the technology continues to evolve, smart appliances, once looked at as more of a novelty, are going to start to play a key role in the overall smart home, with consumers looking to set different parts of their routine to automation to help save time and energy on certain household activities.

www.savant.com

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CEDIA, the Association for Smart Home Professionals, announces today the finalists for this year’s CEDIA Smart Home Awards EMEA. The awards are judged by a panel of global industry experts, with the programme honouring and celebrating exceptional projects, products, businesses, and individuals from CEDIA member companies.

“The wide range of entries have stood out to us this year,” comments Daryl Friedman, Global President and CEO of CEDIA. “For the integrator categories, we saw submissions from 20 different countries in 2024, with a number of companies entering for the very first time. It’s inspiring to see the type of projects that integrators are working on and how they are using smart home technology to not only elevate the home environment but also support essential services that homeowners require.

“We also received a large number of quality entries into the manufacturer categories, highlighting that brands continue to design and engineer products that move the industry forward. As ever, the awards provide an outstanding showcase for our industry, and I wish all finalists the very best for the awards ceremony.”

The finalists are as follows:

• INTEGRATOR CATEGORIES
• Aloud AB
• Amina Technologies
• Audio Visual Control Systems Limited
• Blackroom
• Bureau of System Integration Ltd
• Clarke Infinity Ltd
• De Opera Domotica BV
• Die Zwei – Heimkino GmbH
• FRESIA MEDIA
• IndigoZest Ltd
• Inspired Dwellings Ltd
• IQ Premium Engineering Ltd
• Knektd Ltd
• M.E.G.A. AV Installations
• MACBEE PVT Ltd
• Majik House
• SMC
• VERBINNEN Smart Home Concepts
• BUSINESS CATEGORIES
• AWE Europe
• GUDE Systems GmbH
• Habitech Limited
• KEF
• PRO FX Tech Private Limited
• Rako Controls Ltd

GLOBAL MANUFACTURER CATEGORIES

• Artura
• Basalte bvba
• Coastal Source
• Crestron Electronics, Inc.
• Dwellwell Analytics, Inc.
• Epson America, Inc.
• Faradite Ltd
• Future Ready Solutions
• Hunter Douglas
• IFP Connect
• Josh.ai
• Kaleidescape, Inc.
• Leon Speakers
• Level Home
• Light & Green
• Lutron Electronics
• MantelMount
• Meridian
• Modern Atomics LLC
• Olibra, LLC
• Orluna
• Paradigm
• Polar Bear Design Ltd
• Quantum Media Systems
• Rithum Ltd
• Savant Systems, LLC
• Schneider Electric
• Seura
• Snap One
• Sonance
• Stealth Acoustics

“We’d like to thank our judges who closely analysed each and every entry,” adds Daryl. “They dedicate a lot of time to ensure they thoroughly review all entries against industry standards and best practices. Without their support, the Awards programme would not have been possible. The full list of judges can be found on the CEDIA website.”

The CEDIA Smart Home Awards ceremony in the EMEA region will be held on Friday 18th October at The Brewery in London. The event is supported by Monitor Audio as headline sponsor, Meridian as the drinks reception sponsor, Sonos as the after party sponsor, and Control4, LG Electronics, Lutron and Sonance as associate sponsors.

Tickets are now available to purchase, with CEDIA offering an early bird discount rate. For those who purchase before Friday 30th August, individual tickets will cost £230+VAT (members) and £260+VAT (non-members) while a table of 10 is £2,200+VAT (members) and £2,400 (non-members).

For more information, visit cedia.org/awards.

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Mumbai witnessed an exceptional gathering of 26 industry professionals at the RP22 Immersive Audio Design Course on 28 and 29 November 2023 with support from headline sponsor, Actis Technologies Pvt. Ltd., and associate sponsor, Mahkam Poorviaum. Hosted by the esteemed Peter Aylett, a renowned industry veteran and Partner at Officina Acustica, the event was further enriched by Aylett’s role as the CTA/CEDIA R10 Standards Committee Chair.

“To sit down with Peter, the man who chaired the entire [RP22 creation] process through the years and put in all this hard work – you just couldn’t ask for a better person,” said Mr. Aditya Gupta, Managing Director at CCI Intertrade Pvt. Ltd.

The RP22 Immersive Audio System Design Recommended Practice emerged as a result of close collaboration between approximately 40 global experts over 30,000 volunteer hours. This collective effort was subjected to rigorous peer review and developed under ANSI guidelines.

The main objective of RP22 revolves around achieving measurable outcomes through design. When RP22 is implemented, it ensures that the user understands their investment, the integrator delivers as expected, and the manufacturer’s product excels in its intended design. Crucially, RP22 remains product and format agnostic, concentrating solely on defining objective performance targets for audio systems and room design across private entertainment spaces.

Like the other RP22 workshops hosted around the world, the Mumbai session centered around the introduction of groundbreaking guidelines outlined in the CEDIA/CTA RP22 Immersive Audio System Design Recommended Practice. Aylett delved into the four newly defined levels of performance that distinctly delineate various immersive experiences.

The audience included integrators, distributors, manufacturers, consultants, and professionals keen on standards-based private entertainment space design. Participants were expected to bring their expertise to the table, ensuring the sessions were advanced and fruitful for all involved.

Adopting a “teach, then do” approach, the workshop provided a truly immersive experience. Participants, all adept cinema designers with a strong foundation in performance engineering, engaged in small group activities. These exercises aimed to apply the RP22 guidelines to real-world scenarios.

“At the RP22 workshop, we learned some of the finest measurement levels to help us create more valuable cinema rooms,” said Mr. Vijay Maurya, CEO at Ultavo Theatres & Tunes Pvt. Ltd. “This document and accompanying workshop will give us a cutting-edge difference from other cinema designers in our region.”

The RP22 Immersive Audio Design Course in Mumbai was a testament to industry collaboration and commitment to defining and implementing objective engineering practices in private entertainment space design. The shared knowledge and experiences promise to elevate the future of immersive audio experiences in the region.

Continuing the momentum generated by the RP22 Immersive Audio Design Course, CEDIA plans to host more workshops in India in 2024. Stay up to date at cedia.org/events.

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Adam Merlino, Vice President & General Manager at Snap One APAC, provides insights into the brand’s evolution and growth. He discusses the latest advancements in audio, video, control, and networking solutions, along with a focus on AI-based surveillance integration with Control4 and other notable developments.

How has Snap One evolved and grown as a brand since its inception? What key strategies have contributed to the brand’s growth, and how do you plan to build on them in the future?

Snap One as a business was built for professional integrators by integrators! As a company, Snap One set out to simplify the access and availability of products required to implement Smart Living experiences in the home and business. Today, we have taken our business to the next level as we design, manufacture, and distribute smart living solutions for homes and businesses to make life better–all installed and supported by trusted professionals worldwide. Our mission is simple: We bring together the best people, partners, and products to make lives more enjoyable, connected, and secure in a connected ecosystem that can be trusted, monitored, and updated as needed over time.

As a company, we are committed to providing Partners with leading products across all major categories, including Control4 and OvrC remote management solutions, Araknis enterprise-grade networking gear, Luma and ClareVision security and surveillance systems, Binary MoIP media distribution products, 230V WattBox power control devices, Strong racks, Wirepath wiring, and theater-quality speakers and audio components from Episode and Triad — as well as support for DANTE audio and DALI lighting. 

During the CEDIA Expo, Snap One unveiled cutting-edge developments in audio, video, control, and networking solutions. Could you provide more details on these advancements?

Our Product team is simply the best! CEDIA is one of many launch platforms for us, we continuously introduce new products and platform enhancements to ensure deployment efficiencies for our Partners. Additionally, we release software updates to improve end-customer experiences throughout the year. CEDIA 2023 saw the introduction of no less than two dozen new products! 

On the Control4 side, we introduced the CORE Lite bundle designed for single room installations; Smart Home OS 3.4, primarily released for end customer refinement and empowerment. For our Partners we introduced a new feature called “customer handoff” which ensures privacy for the end user and protection for our partners. We first introduced this feature with our exclusive line of Luma NDAA-certified surveillance platforms deployed via OvrC.

Triad had a massive refresh with all new designs which improve performance and aesthetics, we released the all-new Triad 4 & 8 zone amplifiers with 25% more power and a five-year warranty, all-new Triad subwoofer amplifiers with the ability to maintain full power for 1 full minute – this is UNHEARD OF! And the long-awaited update of the Triad streaming amplifier with 200w x 2 full-bandwidth, HDMI ARC/eARC support and extensive DSP controls.

Araknis Networks had a massive release with multi-gig networking products. From routers with 2.5Gb LAN to WAN, to 2.5Gb-10Gb network switches and our Wi-Fi 6 access point family. This release was key for our next evolution of our Media over IP (MoIP) solution from Binary. The Binary MoIP family delivers 4K60 4:4:4 and HDR video distribution plus advanced audio downmixing capabilities. When joined in a system with a MoIP 960 Transceiver or Receiver and one MoIP Controller, you get a highly scalable, flexible IP media distribution system delivering visually lossless 4K60 HDR (HDCP 2.2 compatible) video. OvrC remote management allows for quick system setup, easy troubleshooting with access to live screenshots of source streams, and simple firmware updates.

Can you offer additional insights into product lines such as Access Networks, Episode, Luma, and Araknis within the Snap One portfolio?

In general, all Snap One brands are designed and engineered to work together in a connected ecosystem that is anchored by Control4 and that includes Access Networks, Episode speakers (including our new Landscape speakers and  Episode 70V commercial amplifiers and MoIP amplifiers), Araknis’ cutting-edge switches and WAPs that offer up to 10Gbps speeds, Luma’s expansive X20 family of NDAA-compliant surveillance cameras and NVRs, as well as the new Luma Insights platform integrated with AI, and the value-centric surveillance and security solutions offered by ClareVision. Each of these brands can be integrated with the Control4 system.

The acquisitions of Access Networks, Staub Electronics, and Clare Controls have significantly impacted the company. How has Snap One benefited from these acquisitions, and what advantages do the buyers gain as a result?

Currently, Access Networks is available only in North America, as we look ahead we would like to offer this product family in Asia Pacific. 

The Clare Controls platform is a logical expansion of our product platform to include security-centric Smart Living options.  It is currently available in North America only. Our product team is reviewing what is required to make Clare One internationally compatible.

The acquisition of Staub in Canada was an ongoing strategy to build our “local stores” in North America. A local store is a place where a Snap One partner can shop a wide range of our products and distributed products. 

In general, the addition of new brands to our portfolio expands the range of solutions that can be connected to the Snap One Smart Living ecosystem.  This in turn creates exciting new options for the end user customers we serve to create more robust and reliable experiences in their home or business and major new business growth opportunities for our Partners.

Can you provide information about Luma Insights, particularly its AI-based surveillance integration with Control4? How does this integration enhance the overall capabilities and functionalities of users?

Luma Insights was engineered to enhance a Control4 Customer’s surveillance experience by delivering highly anticipated features, including cloud-based video playback from Control4 user interfaces such as touchscreens and apps, and dynamic surveillance-based notifications that are more intelligent, personalized, and rich with contextual information. Luma Bridge is the hardware device, empowered by the Hailo-8 Al processor, that enables our new Al surveillance platform: Luma Insights. Luma Insights leverages that platform to add Al capabilities, like image recognition and automated surveillance notifications, to Luma X10 and X20 IP cameras and the Control4® Chime Video Doorbell. Insights also provides 7 days of cloud storage for event-triggered snapshots and video clips and enable cloud-based video playback through the Control4 Touchscreens and Apps. And as we continue to develop our new AI platform, keep watch for new capabilities and innovative surveillance features made available through Insights. Insights is easy to install, using only OvrC® to configure and deploy directly into a Control4 OS 3.4+ system in about 3 or 4 steps and with no additional programming necessary. Luma Insights is the perfect solution for professional installers who want to offer their customers a cutting-edge security solution for new or existing systems.
Control4 recently released OS 3.4, touted as a much-needed update to the user experience. Could you elaborate on the key enhancements and improvements that users can expect from this update?

What possibilities exist for KNX and Control4 integration? How can users benefit from the combination of these technologies, and what features does this integration offer?

KNX is a longtime partner with Control4. The KNX offering is fully integrated via our ETS importing tool with the Control4 platform and user experience.

At the upcoming ISE Show, we will be placing a major emphasis on demonstrating how our support of and integration with KNX, through the Control4 platform, creates major new opportunities for Partners throughout the world.  The continued integration of KNX with our solutions is a major focus point for our company.

In India, how many dealers are actively working with Snap One, and what are the company’s plans to engage with the design and build community in the Indian market?

Snap One is represented by our distribution partners in India. The go-to-market strategy by both companies considers the design and build communities. Where possible, myself and my team also participate in these events. 

Have any specialized product lines been introduced specifically for the Indian market?

At Snap One we take a global approach to our product releases, I am pleased to say that one of our manufacturers in the lighting category is an Indian-based company.

Looking ahead, is there a specific area within home automation or technology that Snap One aims to explore in the future?

Looking ahead is part of our DNA at Snap One, technology advances at an alarming rate. Fortunately, our products and platforms are constantly evolving through software enhancements and hardware activation. Naturally, AI and voice are high on the agenda.

What recent innovative products has Snap One introduced to the market, and how do these offerings distinguish themselves from competitors?

As mentioned, we release many products… our big differentiator is our platforms Control4 Smart Home OS and OvrC. Smart Home OS provides the end customer experience, OvrC is a deployment, management, and maintenance tool for the professional integrator. OvrC enables no less than four subsystem configurations, therefore maximising efficiency! As for innovation, the Luma Surveillance Bridge with AI was recently announced. This AI platform is owned and managed by Snap One, therefore ensuring customer privacy, the functionally announced on day 1 is the start of our AI journey. Araknis Wi-Fi can be deployed via a few clicks of a mouse, Luma is deployed and configured through OvrC, you no longer need to log into every camera or the NVR to set up! Wattbox intelligent power setup and configuration and our MoIP solution is a breeze when utilised with our Araknis 10Gb switch. One-click of a mouse followed by the ports being used is all you need for an initial setup.

In adapting to evolving technology trends and consumer preferences, how does Snap One incorporate these changes into its strategic planning?

Snap One and our product team are constantly aware of evolving technology trends. We have a strategy, and we incorporate technology when it’s for the benefit of our partners and, ultimately, the end customer.

Anticipating future challenges, how does Snap One plan to address them, and are there specific market trends or emerging technologies that present growth opportunities for the company?

Every business faces challenges, but also opportunities and threats that can align with our strategy. When that happens, we act quickly and decisively!

Our product development and management team are constantly looking at cutting-edge technology and working closely with our partners globally to improve end-customer experiences and refine deployment and management processes for greater results. 

Click here to read full December issue – https://www.smarthomeworld.in/magazine-december2023/

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At the recent CEDIA Smart Home Awards ceremony in America, Meridian was delighted to discover that it has been inducted into the Hall of Fame with its DSP8000 Digital Active Loudspeaker. First introduced in 2000, this remarkable loudspeaker has continued to provide the clarity, dynamics, imaging and realism required for the most-demanding smart home applications.

The CEDIA Product Hall of Fame recognises products that have made a substantial and positive impact on the industry and entered the market a minimum of seven years ago. The judging criteria include assessing the product’s intended purpose, functionality, uniqueness, and its broader influence on the industry.

The Meridian DSP8000 Digital Active Loudspeaker System is a high performance digital active loudspeaker system which combines a modern, elegant and purposeful appearance with astonishing sound quality. It was first introduced in 2000 and was designed to be a modular, upgradeable engineering platform, allowing Meridian to continue to research and develop improvements that could be offered to owners for many years ahead. Since launch, several free-of-charge software upgrades and chargeable hardware improvements have been introduced and today the recently launched DSP8000 (XE version) is the flagship in Meridian’s award-winning range of loudspeakers.

Upon launch, the DSP8000’s digital active system design enabled Meridian to offer installers various audio adjustments designed to solve real-world problems related to speaker placement and room conditions in their projects. User controls further extended the loudspeaker’s flexibility to provide reliable and repeatable results in a wide range of applications – far beyond that available from any passive loudspeaker. Moreover, the DSP8000 introduced a loudspeaker which was equally capable whether used in a two-channel audio system or within a multichannel home theatre room.

For More Information:  www.meridian-audio.com

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CEDIA announced the winners of the 2023 CEDIA Smart Home Awards EMEA on Friday 6^th October at The Brewery, London. Industry leaders, professionals, and enthusiasts gathered in their finest black-tie attire to celebrate excellence in smart home technology and integration.

“The CEDIA Awards is a fantastic member programme,” comments Daryl Friedman, Global President and CEO of CEDIA. “It’s our chance to see the work our members are doing in the real world and reward them for the exceptional standard they are setting for the industry. The awards event was a night for excitement, making connections, and celebration.”

Attendees were invited to begin the evening with a pre-dinner drinks reception in the King George III room, which was sponsored by DbM. After enjoying a three-course dinner in The Porter Tun, Daryl Friedman addressed the room and provided an update on recent CEDIA developments. This included the launch of the RP22 Immersive Audio Recommended Practice at the recent CEDIA Expo and how the workforce development efforts of both CEDIA and its members have moved forward since first discussed at the awards this time last year.

Matt Nimmons, Managing Director of CEDIA EMEA took to the stage, alongside the event sponsors, to announce the winners of the night. Highlights include India-based integrator, MacBee walking away with six awards, including Global Integrated Home and UK-based member, The Big Picture scooping Global Media Room, which was presented to them by headline sponsor, Monitor Audio.

Several individuals were also recognized during the evening, including Steve Moore from SMC with the Lifetime Achievement award and Ben Goff, and Damien Smith recognised for their volunteering efforts.

The evening we

concluded with an after-dinner drinks reception, which was sponsored by Sonos. Alongside Monitor Audio, DbM, and Sonos, the event was also supported by associate sponsors, Crestron, KNX, LG Electronics and NETGEAR as associate sponsors.

“This year’s awards have once again demonstrated the incredible talent, innovation, and dedication within our industry,” comments Matt Nimmons, Managing Director of CEDIA EMEA. “The awards continue to be a testament to the strength and growth of the industry and the commitment of our members to deliver home technology solutions that enrich their client’s lives. Congratulations to all the winners; you truly deserve this recognition.”

The full list of CEDIA EMEA award winners is as follows:

Home Cinema Level I

Winner: BNC Technology – Houghton

Home Cinema Level II

Winner: Blackroom – Stingray

Highly Commended: Cyberhomes

Media Room

Winner: M.E.G.A. AV Installations Ltd – Notting Hill

Media Room Level II

Winner: The Big Picture – Ivy Cottage Media Lounge

Integrated Home Luxury

Winner: Inspired Dwellings – Luxury Kent Home

Integrated Home – Ultra Luxury

Winner: MACBEE – Tech Oasis

Highly Commended: SMC – IO House

Showroom

Winner: ARLED Cinema – MovieCore

Excellence in Documentation

Winner: Blackroom – Stingray

Winner: SMC – IO House

Highly Commended: MACBEE – Tech Oasis

Excellence in Innovation

Winner: ARLED Cinemas – MovieCore

Excellence in Lighting

Winner: MACBEE – Tech Oasis

Highly Commended: Tera Generation Solutions Pvt Ltd. (TGS) – The Loft Residence

Highly Commended: SMC (UK) – IO House

Excellence in Rack Buiding and Design

Winner: MACBEE – Tech Oasis

Excellence in User Interface

Winner: MACBEE – Tech Oasis

Technology Meets Design

Winner: MACBEE – Tech Oasis

Highly Commended: SMC – Finch House

Life Lived Best at Home

Winner: Cyberhomes – The Ruby Cinema

Global Media Room

Winner: The Big Picture – Ivy Cottage Media Lounge

Global Integrated Home

Winner: MACBEE – Tech Oasis

Hall of Fame

Winner: 2N- Verso IP Intercom

Winner: Autonomic – Mirage Media Server

Winner: Just Add Power – 3G 718 AVP Transmitter

Winner: Lutron – Triathlon Smart Roller Shades

Winner: Meridian – DSP8000 Loudspeaker

Winner: Snap One – Control4 OS2

Winner: Snap One – OvrC

Winner: Trinnov Audio – Altitude32

Winner: Wisdom Audio – Sage Cinema Line Source Modules

Best Manufacturer

Winner: 2N® IP Verso 2.0

Winner: Barco Nerthus

Winner: Coastal Source Razor

Winner: DMF Luxury Exclusive Portfolio Line of Lighting Products

Winner: Lutron Lightbar Slim Uniform Lens

Winner: madVR Envy Extreme MK2

Winner: Meridian DSP9 Loudspeaker

Winner: RoseWater Energy Hub40 Energy Management and Storage System

Winner: Samsung The Terrace Full Sun 85” Outdoor QLED 4K Smart TV

Winner: Savant Power Storage

Winner: SnapOne Luma X20 Family

Winner: StormAudio ISR Fusion

Best Software

Winner:  Blackwire Designs Blacklight 

Winner: Janus Technology BMS Monitor 

Winner: Sonance Design Gallery 

Winner: Trinnov Audio WaveForming

Best Trade Supplier

Winner: PROFX Tech, India

Lifetime Achievement                                 

Winner: Steve Moore – SMC

Fellow

Winner: James Chen – Kordz

Education Volunteer of the Year              

Winner: Alan Matthews – Automated Spaces

Volunteer of the Year

Winner: Damien Smith – New Wave

Standards Volunteer of the Year

Winner: Ben Goff – Cinema Lusso

Learn more about CEDIA at http://www.cedia.net

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CEDIA, the association for smart home professionals, has finalized a new recommended practice for immersive audio system design in collaboration with the Consumer Technology Association (CTA). CEDIA/CTA – RP22 Immersive Audio Design Recommended Practice is the first recommended practice to define an objective set of performance criteria for home audio systems.

“RP22 is nothing less than game-changing for our industry,” said Daryl Friedman, Global President and CEO of CEDIA.  “It will benefit integrators, manufacturers, and of course, homeowners who can be assured of the same high audio standards no matter the room.  My sincere thanks go out to CEDIA’s volunteers and staff who worked tirelessly for years to make this dream a reality.”

Experts representing film studios, audio manufacturers, immersive audio standards and residential technology integrators collaborated for over three years to produce this set of guidelines. By combining input from content creators, device makers and system designers, RP22 presents a consensus that honors artistic vision while acknowledging physical and budgetary constraints. The new Recommended Practice has already been endorsed by manufacturers including Officina Acustica, PerListen Audio, Snap One, StormAudio, Triad Speakers and Trinnov Audio.

New Audio System Performance Targets

RP22 identifies 21 different performance parameters that can be predicted during system design, then tested and verified before system sign-off. Using these metrics, it sets criteria for four different levels of system performance:

Level 1 – conveys basic artistic intent.

Level 2 – a higher level of performance that more accurately conveys artistic intent.

Level 3 – meets or exceeds reference commercial cinema standards.

Level 4 – achieves the maximum level of performance across every parameter.

Consumers can use the performance levels defined in RP22 to define what they want from an audio system. Meanwhile, home technology professionals have a new tool to define the difference between off-the-shelf speakers and a state-of-the-art immersive home audio system.

“Any professionally integrated system should preserve the original creative intent of the audio. That’s the minimum,” says Walt Zerbe, senior director of technology and standards for CEDIA. “From there, RP22 sets criteria for systems that can equal or even exceed the experience of a commercial cinema.”

Deep Technical Guidance for Immersive Audio

CEDIA/CTA – RP22 Immersive Audio Design Recommended Practice is the result of a joint effort by CEDIA and CTA to update their existing recommended practices for home theater audio design. RP22 expands on CTA/CEDIA-CEB22-B Home Theater Recommended Practice: Audio Design with design recommendations for an expanded array of applications and technological innovations, including:

Speaker layout recommendations for immersive audio formats, including Dolby Atmos, DTS-X, Auto 3D, and more.

“No matter how good your gear is, it takes engineering to produce the performance levels defined by this recommended practice. Audio interacts with its physical surroundings: The same speaker will sound completely different in a different room or position,” says Zerbe. “RP22 goes well beyond setting benchmarks to include rich technical guidance for audio system design professionals.”

Industry Support for RP22 Immersive Audio Design (in alphabetical order by company)

“The RP22 workgroup included A-list movie content creators, representatives for the various surround sound formats, music and movie industry standards developers, award-winning CEDIA members, theater designers and manufacturers. To have so many individuals come to a consensus on very difficult topics is immensely satisfying and gives me complete confidence in our final document.” Adam Pelz, Owner and President, Bespoke Cinemas

“The Recommended Practice offers consensus on home cinema design from some of the industry’s most knowledgeable individuals.  It’s a design document and tool for home entertainment spaces of all sizes, accessible to both industry newcomers and experienced engineers. These recommendations allow designers to aim for levels of performance with verifiable benchmarks.” Ben Hobbs, Managing Director, Cinema@Home

“RP22 was created using a rigorous ANSI-accredited development framework and thoroughly peer-reviewed. Rather than the perspective of any individual, studio, format or manufacturer, this Recommended Practice represents a collective industry consensus that is beyond reproach.” Ben Goff, Technical Director, Cinema Lusso

“Being part of the working group was a real eye-opener. We had input from some of the best minds in the residential technology industry as well as film studios and professional audio. The end result is a thoroughly comprehensive design document all integrators can use to deliver a more emotionally impactful end result, and thereby better serve clients at almost every price level.” Owen Maddock, Owner, Cinemaworks

“This document provides objective parameters and recommendations for designing immersive audio systems within the broader context of entertainment spaces such as home/private cinemas, theaters, screening rooms and mastering environments. Notably, it remains neutral with respect to products and formats and is adaptable to a wide range of room sizes and budgets. My hope is that RP22 will lead to a shift away from a product-centric mindset, towards engineering design credibility.”  Peter Aylett, Partner, Officina Acustica and RP22 Workgroup Chair

“Having these clearly laid out performance levels and metrics pushes designers and engineers to come up with solutions to achieve these standards and educates end users on what is achievable in a home entertainment. We’ve already started putting RP22 into practice and have clients who are curious about the different performance levels.” Keshav Nelavai, Lead Engineer, Paradise Theater

“Thanks to this new set of guidelines, private cinema connoisseurs who are navigating their way to their own dream cinema can rest assured that they will receive superb performance from their audio systems – not as a matter of opinion, but as a matter of fact. Bravo CEDIA!” Sam Cavitt, Founder & CVO, Paradise Theater; Publisher, The Cinema Connoisseur

“RP22 sets new and clear guidelines for the levels of experience a consumer should expect in their next home theater project and how the integrator will help them achieve those goals.  As a manufacturer helping develop these standards, it was enlightening to better understand the challenges integrators face and how our products can help.” Erik Wiederholtz, CTO, PerListen Audio

“RP22 is a valuable document for anyone involved in immersive audio.  RP22 brings cohesion to design guidelines and performance objectives when adopting today’s modern day audio formats to entertainment spaces.  As a manufacturer, knowing the parameters outlined for each of the performance levels in RP22 will help us provide products to our dealers and integrators that can better serve these purposes.” Shawn Nageli, Staff Engineer, Audio, Snap One

“[RP22] gives integrators the tools to predict and present different levels of performance to their customers, bringing into light in tangible ways all that is involved to design a listening space. As a manufacturer, StormAudio assures that our products comply with the requirements, thus guaranteeing integrators can meet the top performance expectations and offer satisfaction to the end customer.” Sébastien Gailleton, Head of Product and Support, StormAudio

“RP22 represents the first time that so many key concepts are assembled in a coherent and practical way, and it introduces breakthrough concepts such as performance grades and unified speaker layouts for immersive sound. This is THE audio design reference document for our industry.”  Arnaud Laborie, CEO, Trinnov Audio

“The residential technology, audio, and film industries all stand to benefit immensely from the knowledge and guidelines within RP22. It has the power to elevate hardware performance, improve system designs and elevate knowledge and professionalism among custom electronics integration.” Craig Eggers, Independent Consultant and Former Senior Director, Home Theater Business Unit, Dolby Laboratories

The post CEDIA and CTA Establish Pioneering Performance Standards for Immersive Audio Systems appeared first on Smart Home World Magazine.

Premium audio brand Theory Audio Design has announced several new products at this year’s CEDIA Expo. The iws12-6 and iws12-9 are the company’s first architectural subwoofer models, delivering deep bass from an ultra-compact enclosure. Also introduced is the sb25aw, a 4-ohm or 70V/100V version of the company’s sb25 surface mount loudspeaker, which incorporates a durable perforated stainless-steel grille, water-tight loudspeaker wire entry point, and selectable hi-z or low-z operating modes.

The iws12-6 includes an enclosure that can be installed flush into 2×6 stud walls, or surface mounted with only 5.5 inches of total depth. The option allow-profile paintable, perforated grille allows the subwoofer to completely disappear within any environment. At 34 inches wide, 14 inches high, and only 9 inches in depth, and with an optional smart yoke bracket, the iws12-9 can be wall-mounted, ceiling-mounted, or flown. It can also simply be placed on the floor with the included feet and used as an in-room subwoofer where a compact, high-performance subwoofer is desired.

The sb25aw ships with z-clips for flat-to-wall mounting and the back panel has integral mount hole patterns for several high-quality third-party speaker mounts. An optional robust surface and pole-mountable yoke mounting bracket are also available. A tabletop stand accessory allows the sb25aw to stand up on flat surfaces such as speaker stands, mixing desks, consoles, tabletops, and bookshelves both horizontally and vertically. With the available optional Universal Mount Adapter, the sb25aw can go anywhere: pole from ceiling, pole from ground, onto any 75mm or 100mm VESA mount, and a number of pan-and-tilt wall and ceiling mounts from Adaptive Technologies

CEDIA Expo and Commercial Integrator Expo attendees can see and hear the new architectural subwoofers in Theory’s booth 1543 and High-Performance Audio Room 204, while the sb25aw can be seen in Theory’s booth and heard in High-Performance Audio Room 204. Both architectural subwoofer models are available now for pre-order and will begin shipping this Fall. The sb25aw is available for pre-order now and will begin shipping in Q4 2023.

www.theoryaudiodesign.com

The post Theory Audio Design Introduces Architectural Subwoofers And Multi-Use Loudspeakers at CEDIA 2023 appeared first on Smart Home World Magazine.

CEDIA, the association for smart home professionals, today announces the finalists for the 2023 CEDIA Smart Home Awards projects. Judged by an esteemed panel of global industry experts, the CEDIA Awards program represents the finest residential projects of the year. CEDIA received significant interest in the 2023 program with submissions reaching their highest since 2018.

“The CEDIA Smart Home Awards are an important part of how we elevate the CEDIA message and preserve our members’ legacy,” said CEDIA Global President and CEO Daryl Friedman. “I know our members feel proud to be listed among some of the greatest professionals in the field and find value in displaying their CEDIA Smart Home Award to clients and partners.”

The 2023 CEDIA Smart Home Awards finalists in the Americas region are:

• Atlanta Home Theatre
• Audio Images
• Audiovisions
• Cantara Design
• ETC Florida
• La Scala
• Maxicon LLC
• Pacific Audio & Communications
• SAV Digital Environments
• TSP Smart Space
• Wenner

The CEDIA Smart Home Awards ceremony in the Americas region will be held at CEDIA Expo in Denver on Sept. 8 at 17:30 in the Mile High Ballroom. CEDIA members are invited to an exclusive drinks reception outside of the ballroom beginning at 16:30. Tickets to the Americas ceremony can be purchased through CEDIA Expo registration at cediaexpo.com.

The 2023 CEDIA Smart Home Awards finalists in the EMEA region are:

• Adair Acoustic Design
• ARLED Solutions GmbH
• Blackroom
• BNC Technology
• Butler Harwell
• Cinemaworks
• Clarke Infinity
• Cyberhomes UK
• Dawsons Radio ltd
• Habi UI
• HENRI
• Inspired Dwellings
• Knektd Ltd
• M.E.G.A. AV Installations Ltd
• MacBee PVT Ltd
• Mosaic AV
• New Wave AV
• NV Integration
• SMC
• Tera Generation Solutions Pvt. Ltd.
• The Big PIcture
• The Majik House Co Ltd

The CEDIA Smart Home Awards ceremony in the EMEA region will be a black-tie event held at The Brewery, London on 6 October at 19:00. The headline sponsor is Monitor Audio, the drinks sponsors are Meridian and Sonos, and the associate sponsors include Crestron, KNX, LG, and Netgear. Tickets to the EMEA ceremony can be purchased at cedia.net/connection/awards/awards-emea. Early bird rates will be offered through 21 August.

The 2023 CEDIA Smart Home Awards finalists in the APAC region are:

• Argus Technologies
• Denote PTY (Ltd)
• Experience One Smart Home
• Gold Class AV
• Kayder
• Liquid Automation
• McCormack Concepts
• Nisi Group
• Ryelec Automation & Energy
• Sentiment Electronic Trading Company
• Wavetrain Cinemas
• West Coast HiFi East Perth
• Zene Private Theater

The CEDIA Smart Home Awards ceremony in the APAC region will be held at the CEDIA Tech Summit & Conference: Gold Coast on 11 October with a pre-event drinks reception starting at 18:30. Those interested in attending the event can submit their information at cedia.swoogo.com/goldcoastinterest.

For more information about the CEDIA Smart Home Awards, visit cedia.net/awards.

About CEDIA

CEDIA® is the global membership association that serves the home technology industry through advocacy, connection, and education. Founded in 1989, CEDIA fights for the rights and interests of its members in governmental bodies around the world, gathers industry professionals worldwide, and creates the trainings, standards, and certifications that ensure the industry excels and attracts new workers. CEDIA co-owns Integrated Systems Europe, the world’s largest AV and systems integration exhibition, and founded CEDIA Expo, the world’s largest annual residential technology show. Today, over 30,000 CEDIA members deliver home technology solutions that enrich our lives. Learn more about CEDIA at www.cedia.net.

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