Whether it’s music, television, movies, or whatever else, how you consume your home media may be one of the most important pieces of your home. It could be how you relax or how you spend time with friends and family. Regardless, you want to make sure you have the best speakers, smart apps, and interfaces available.
James Loudspeaker
An increasing number of 75-inch TV models available from Sony and Samsung in the sub-$3,000 price range is driving demand for a cost-effective sound bar to match them. Napa, CA-based manufacturer James Loudspeaker has responded by introducing the SPL3LCR-75, which is engineered to provide an off-the-shelf, cost-effective premium solution for technology integrators. James Loudspeaker will now keep this fixed-width model in stock to accommodate increased demand. Integrators will still have access to the company’s custom sound bar solutions as well. This new model is available in satin black, with a width of 65 7/8-inches and a depth of 1.5 inches. It delivers bass down to 80Hz, and comes with a Z-bracket for wall mounting. $1,700 MSRP
Kaleidescape
Kaleidescape, long known for its intuitive home media server user interface, has a new mobile app and remote that eliminates the need for a third-party controller. The app also provides customers with timely information from Kaleidescape, such as movie recommendations. The mobile app’s design was also influenced by the lack of a practical way to visit Kaleidescape’s movie store and buy movies with a smartphone. The Kaleidescape Mobile App is available for download from the Apple Store. Kaleidescape plans to release the mobile app for Android phones in the future. Free for Kaleidescape customers
KanexPro
KanexPro has introduced an HDMI 2.0 to HDBaseT 8×8 Matrix Switcher, the MX-HDBT8X818G, featuring the latest innovations of 4K HDR10 and Dolby Vision. The 8×8 HDMI 2.0 to HDBaseT Matrix Switcher shifts inputs to outputs over Cat5e/6 utilizing an HDBaseT switcher to deliver 4K/60Hz with HDR10 and Dolby Vision. The HDMI 2.0 Switcher is HDCP 2.2 compliant and supports video resolutions up to 4K2K@60Hz, 4:4:4, and multi-channel digital audio. Designed for mid-scale applications, such as multi-zone home theaters, houses of worship, and medical imaging, the HDMI 2.0 matrix can be controlled through front-panel buttons, IR, RS-232, Telnet and Web GUI, or custom drivers to control with any third-party integration system, such as Savant, Control4, and Crestron. Price TBD
Klipsch Subwoofers
Klipsch’s new IP-controlled, ultra-compact C-Series subwoofers optimize output and low-frequency extension with a smaller footprint. The free Klipsch LowControl app for iOS and Android allows for full control, customization, and tuning in the palm of the user’s hand – including fast, easy automatic room correction utilizing the microphone built into the user’s device. The Klipsch C-310ASWi subwoofer is powered by an 800W BASH digital hybrid amplifier, has three 10-inch drivers (one active, two passive), and measures just 13-inch cubed. The C-308ASWi subwoofer is powered by a 600W BASH digital hybrid amplifier, has three 8-inch drivers, at just 11-inch cubed. The ultra-compact cabinets and elegant, premium piano gloss finish ensure the subwoofers blend seamlessly into any environment. $1,299-$1,599 MSRP
