Snap One, the industry-leading manufacturer and distributor of smart living technology, recently announced the immediate availability of its audiophile-grade Triad SA1 Streaming Amplifier. The powerful, flexible Ryff-enabled streaming amplifier offers a range of premium features including an all-metal chassis, 2x200w power delivery, HDMI ARC/eARC capability, advanced integration support for Control4 and MoIP systems, presets for Triad and Episode speakers, a 6-band parametric EQ and improved connector options and hardware.

‍“With the introduction of the powerful Triad SA1 Streaming Amplifier, Snap One is advancing the state of home audio by enhancing quality and capabilities to elevate user experiences,” Michael Buratto, Director of Product Management said. “Partners can now easily deliver new levels of enjoyment for a variety of audio needs with easy-to-use customization tools, advanced components, compatibility with all the latest audio formats and native integration with the Control4 smart home system.” 

The improvements delivered by the SA1 empower Partners to seamlessly integrate superior-quality wireless audio throughout homes to support multi-zone systems, media room audio and listening room solutions. With the addition of ARC/eARC capability, audio quality for TV and movies can be optimized to the maximum available quality for any audio format, including Dolby Atmos, Dolby DTS:X and a variety of high-definition and lossless formats.

‍Users and installers of the industry-favorite prior Triad One solution will notice the greatly expanded adjustability and controls with the SA1’s new DSP, which include multi-channel downmixing, a 6-band parametric EQ for room tuning, speaker presets for Triad and Episode speakers to simplify setup and optimize quality, a 3-band parametric EQ with crossover for subwoofers, zone controls, a lip sync delay function and high-quality toslink connections. Partners can ensure lasting connections through the use of 4-way binding posts instead of Phoenix connectors, while users benefit from new physical buttons for volume and play/pause control on the front of the unit itself. 

‍“The improved materials, connections and controls of the SA1 deliver superior audio quality compared to streaming amplifiers from some of the most well-known names in audio, giving Snap One Partners a performance advantage and opportunity to simplify deployment and maximize client enjoyment,” Buratto added. 

‍The Triad SA1 is also fully compatible with the OvrC remote systems management solution, allowing Partners real-time insight into the status and performance of the amplifier to aid in troubleshooting. As a Ryff-based device, the SA1 natively integrates with the Control4 system as well, making it simple to add new zones to existing clients’ systems and helping communicate the value of a well-designed and planned home technology ecosystem. Each SA1 supports a single zone of 2-channel audio with up to 400 total watts of power, plus a subwoofer line output and two IR outputs that afford control of local devices such as TVs.

‍The Ryff audio platform offers incredible audio quality with up to 192kHz sample rates at 24-bit depth and includes MQA support. It also includes network-based audio synchronization to prevent echoes and lag across zones, including wireless zones. This allows the SA1 to be easily connected to existing Ryff-based systems and components. Partners can perfect installations with adjustable controls like crossover, tone control and delays, along with end-user controls like parametric EQ, media sharing, and multizonal controls. Additionally, Ryff integrates 12 of the most popular streaming services such as Pandora, Spotify, SiriusXM, TIDAL and more.

‍For More Information: https://www.snapone.com

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Resideo Technologies, Inc. is a leading manufacturer and distributor of technology-driven products and solutions, and Snap One Holdings Corp is a leading provider of smart-living products, services, and software to professional integrators, recently announced a definitive agreement according to which Resideo has agreed to acquire Snap One for $10.75 per share in cash, for a transaction value of approximately $1.4 billion, inclusive of net debt. Upon closing, Snap One will integrate into Resideo’s ADI Global Distribution business.

The transaction will combine ADI’s strong position in security products distribution and Snap One’s complementary capabilities in the smart living market and innovative Control4 technology platforms, which is expected to drive increased value for integrators and financial returns. Together, ADI and Snap One will provide integrators with an increased selection of both third-party products and proprietary offerings through an extensive physical branch footprint augmented by industry-leading digital capabilities.

“The acquisition of Snap One is an exciting step in Resideo’s continued transformation through portfolio optimization, operational enhancements and structural cost savings actions,” commented Jay Geldmacher, Resideo’s President and Chief Executive Officer. “ADI and Snap One are highly complementary businesses and together will meaningfully enhance our strategic and operational capabilities as a significant player in attractive growth categories. We are excited about the enhanced value proposition through increased product breadth, local availability, support services and broad market expertise, as well as the future opportunities this creates for integrators serving residential and commercial markets. In addition, the investment by Clayton, Dubilier & Rice is a testament to the strategic and financial merits of this transaction and provides financial flexibility as we continue to transform and optimize our portfolio. We look forward to the ADI and Snap One teams working together to drive value for all stakeholders through executing on the substantial business and financial synergies we see in combining the two businesses.”

“Snap One has grown from a startup built by entrepreneurial integrators to an industry leader in smart technology, delivering seamless experiences to consumers and high-quality services and support to our integrators,” said John Heyman, Chief Executive Officer of Snap One. “This is the right next step to capture new opportunities to bring our solutions to market. The future of smart living is here. Demand for connected technology products continues to grow, and Resideo is the right owner to drive our expansion. We believe this transaction will deliver compelling value to our stakeholders and will create opportunities for our people and integrator partners.”

“We are excited to support Resideo on this highly strategic acquisition and in their ongoing transformation,” commented Nathan Sleeper, CD&R’s Chief Executive Officer. “I look forward to joining Resideo’s Board of Directors and supporting the business as it executes this transaction and the significant opportunity we see available over the coming years.”

Benefits of the Transaction

A Strong Position Across Multiple Attractive Categories: The acquisition will combine Snap One’s capabilities for smart living integrators with ADI’s complementary position in adjacent security product distribution. This cross-category expansion will allow the combined organization to materially deepen relationships with integrators to better serve their customers and expand their businesses.

Expansion of Proprietary Offering: The combination is expected to meaningfully accelerate ADI’s existing exclusive brands strategy, leveraging Snap One’s award-winning proprietary product portfolio and product development expertise while providing broader availability through ADI’s network of commercial and residential integrators and omni-channel capabilities. The combined company intends to leverage increased opportunities around innovation to drive value for integrators through a pipeline for proprietary products. Snap One generated 66% of sales from proprietary products in 2023 and these offerings typically carry significantly higher gross margin than third-party products.

Enhanced Integrator Value Proposition: ADI’s and Snap One’s professional integrators will benefit from significant synergy on go-to-market with Snap One’s e-commerce expertise and integrator support platforms and ADI’s 195 stocking locations and extensive digital capabilities. The combination is expected to create a true omni-channel experience for integrators, simplifying the buying experience and enhancing product availability. Additional opportunity exists to enhance value within the Control4 integrator base through increasing service levels, rapid product fulfillment and expanding exclusive offerings.

Attractive Financial Profile: The transaction is expected to be accretive to Resideo non-GAAP EPS in the first full year of ownership, with favorable revenue growth and margin profile to ADI and Resideo as a whole. Transaction financing has been structured to allow Resideo to preserve financial flexibility for future strategic initiatives.

The transaction is expected to be completed in the second half of 2024, and is subject to customary closing conditions, including receipt of applicable antitrust and other regulatory approvals. The transaction has been unanimously approved by the Boards of Directors of Resideo and Snap One. Private investment funds managed by Hellman & Friedman LLC, holding approximately 72% of the outstanding common shares of Snap One, have executed a written consent to approve the merger, thereby providing the required stockholder approval for the transaction.

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Snap One, a leading provider of Smart Living solutions, has revealed plans to present its growing array of business opportunities at ISE 2024, centered around Control4 and the revenue-generating potential of OvrC remote monitoring and management. Integrators will have the opportunity to explore a diverse range of Snap One’s control, AV, lighting, security, power management, and networking solutions at Booth #2L130. The showcase will take place from January 30 to February 2 at the Fira de Barcelona Gran Via.

According to Mark Reynolds, Vice President & General Manager EMEA, Snap One, the company is committed to supporting global industry growth and helping accelerate the adoption of integrated systems across Europe by making it easy to deploy cutting-edge solutions that deliver enhanced experiences for customers and support Snap One Partners’ businesses.

‍“Homeowners and businesses are eager to leverage the latest technologies to simplify daily tasks, consolidate controls and deliver better experiences for a wide range of activities and needs,” said Reynolds. “At ISE2024, Partners can learn how Snap One’s investments in product innovation like Control4 KNX integration can help them deliver awe-inspiring installations for customers of all kinds and sizes. Together, we are building stronger businesses.”

‍Snap One’s booth will highlight how its integrated ecosystems empower industry pros to design and deliver easy-to-use control, remote management, media distribution and security systems that make their jobs easier and promote greater productivity as well as end-customer satisfaction, which in turn boosts profitability.

‍Booth visitors will be able to see and sample leading products in multiple 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. Snap One experts will also be on hand to discuss recent enhancements such as support for DANTE audio and DALI lighting, as well as dealer-focused initiatives including a new Authorized Education Centre program.

‍“Every day we are pursuing initiatives that expand access to cutting-edge solutions and offer integrators greater flexibility for designs, proposals and installations,” GPaul Hess, Chief Product Officer at Snap One said. “Snap One is aggressively promoting the growth and success of Europe’s professional integrators by providing access to new product innovations and supporting Partners with ongoing education programs, and recurring revenue opportunities.”

‍A large portion of the booth will be dedicated to the advanced Control4 smart home system, which fully supports KNX integrations and enables Partners to seamlessly take advantage of all KNX-enabled solutions within the Control4 ecosystem. In addition to experiencing the ease-of-use, compatibility, chic design and expandability of the system, booth visitors can learn about the new UI features of the Control4 Halo and Halo Touch remotes, the latest CORE controllers, customer empowerment tools, Vibrant Linear Lighting with color control and OvrC integration for remote system configuration and maintenance.

‍Additional key products on display will include Triad Soundbars & Subwoofers and Episode Landscape speakers as well as new Episode 70V commercial amplifiers and MoIP amplifiers, Araknis’ cutting-edge switches, hubs and WAPs that offer up to10Gbps 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. Every product at the booth can be integrated with the Control4 system.

‍The Snap One booth will also demonstrate the advanced remote system control and management capabilities of 230V WattBox power products with native OvrC integration, which provides a simple, powerful ecosystem to offer subscription monitoring services and grow recurring revenue. Visitors can see the refreshed design of Triad’s pro-level home theater and media room audio products and learn how Partners can install simple, flexible and cost-effective AV networks using Binary’s MoIP 960Series and Araknis multi-gig switches.

‍“Since ISE 2023 we have expanded our ability to deliver our class-leading products to integrators across Europe, offering our valued Control4 Partners an opportunity to deploy the best of the best and enjoy greater flexibility to suit every unique project and client,” Eric Harper, SVP, Product Marketing at Snap One said. “With all the tools and solutions needed to design and install home theaters, integrated home security, hospitality and leisure industry AV systems, high-speed enterprise networking solutions and any other custom project, Snap One is a one-stop shop for Europe’s leading integration pros.”

For more Information visit: https://www.snapav.com/shop/en/snapav/control4

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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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Snap One has introduced Luma Insights, a powerful new AI-based surveillance solution for Control4 customers that leverages the power of Artificial Intelligence (AI) to enhance Luma Cameras as well as the Control4 Chime inside a customer’s Control4 System.

The Luma Bridge device comes bundled with a 3-year subscription to the Luma Insights service, which allows Partners to integrate powerful new AI and machine learning features that far exceed the capabilities of their IP cameras and NVRs alone. The Insights service is compatible at launch with Luma x10 and x20 IP cameras as well as the Control4 Chime Video Doorbell, and is integrator-friendly, requiring very minimal setup.

“Artificial Intelligence software is creating new opportunities and capabilities across a broad range of devices, including security and surveillance where it can enhance detection of security events and provide greater peace of mind for users and Partners alike,” said Derek Webb, Snap One Surveillance Product Manager. “Our focus here is on enhancing the Control4 experience by delivering new highly-anticipated features including surveillance-based playback, and automatic and dynamic notifications all inside of Control4 using the AI of Luma Insights. Our longer-term goal is to continue making it easy for partners to update existing systems without needing to engage in costly and intrusive system overhauls.”

Luma Insights enables 7-days of cloud-storage for snapshots and video clips of surveillance-triggered events which customers can access locally through their Control4 Touchscreens and remotely via Control4 App for iOS or Android. These ‘triggered events’ automatically generate a link and an image of the event, which are both added to a notification and pushed to the owner’s mobile device. Tapping the notification will link the customer deep into the Control4 app, either taking them right to a live feed if the event is ongoing or to immediate playback of the event with options to view more events, go to live view, or immediately share the event. This gives property owners real-time ability to act or dismiss a notification.

Empowered by the Hailo-8 edge AI accelerator, each Luma Bridge device can process up to four camera streams in real-time, and deliver intelligent capabilities beyond the cameras’ native designs using the Luma Insights service. Snap One chose the class-leading Hailo-8 for its performance, efficiency and proven integration record with camera systems. The Hailo-8 features up to 26 tera-operations per second, outperforming all other edge processors and enabling highly accurate insights with low latency, for real-time alerts and notifications.

“Hailo is excited to partner with a leading US-based smart tech company that leverages AI to offer innovative tech products and solutions across both the residential and commercial spaces,” said D.C.

Smalley, General Manager of Hailo North America. “Hailo’s advanced AI technology improves the end user experience and safety by providing more accurate insights with unparalleled speed.”

The Luma Insights service is fully configurable in just 3-4 steps through OvrC, only requiring a simple and low-effort driver installation process through OvrC and no network setup on the Luma Bridge. The Luma Bridge automatically scans the network and Control4 system and displays a list of compatible cameras that are connected to both. As soon as the Bridge devices are connected and the Partner chooses up to four areas of interest within each camera’s frame for extra focus, the solution is immediately functional.

When a notification is sent, end-users also have the ability to quickly share snapshots or videos or mark an event as a false positive. The service is smart enough to know whether users have already been alerted of an event, so event aggregation suppresses subsequent notifications, but not recordings.

“This new solution will provide long-term benefits for users including future firmware updates to offer additional tiers of functionality including the potential for expanded cloud storage, additional AI features, such as perimeter protection, access control, support for third-party cameras and more,” Webb concluded.

“This is the most powerful and most automated surveillance platform ever for Control4 users, and every Snap One security Partner now has an excellent reason to reach out to existing customers and begin delivering enhanced peace of mind to every business and homeowner.”

Requirements for the Luma Insights service include the Luma Bridge hardware and the Luma Insights AI platform are currently only available to Control4 Partners. The AI platform functionality requires a Luma Insights Subscription License (initial purchase includes a 3-Year subscription), and cloud-based features like remote access, push notifications, and cloud storage require an active subscription to 4Sight cloud services.

For More Information: snapone.com

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The SDVoE Alliance, a nonprofit consortium dedicated to standardizing Ethernet for AV signal transport in professional AV environments, is proud to announce that Snap One, a prominent manufacturer and distributor of smart living technology, has become a contributing member of the SDVoE Alliance.

Snap One was founded by technology integrators who saw an opportunity to innovate within the realm of smart technology. Today, it stands as a pro-install channel leader, aiding integrators in expanding their businesses by offering an extensive range of high-quality products. These products are easily accessible through an intuitive website and come with award-winning service and support. Snap One’s offerings span across various areas, from whole-home entertainment to commercial-grade infrastructure, including smart solutions, A/V infrastructure, entertainment, conferencing, distributed audio, networking, security, and power and remote management. With 28 pro stores throughout the US, Snap One blends the advantages of e-commerce with the convenience of local retail.

Justin Kennington, President of the SDVoE Alliance, expressed his enthusiasm, stating, “From whole-home entertainment to commercial-grade infrastructure, Snap One designs some of the most popular brands in the world, trusted by pros and loved by consumers. I’m pleased to welcome Snap One to the SDVoE Alliance. We are thrilled to have SDVoE technology serve as the foundation for their next generations of AV-over-IP products.”

David Moore, Executive Vice President of Technology and Engineering for Snap One, highlighted the significance of their partnership with SDVoE, stating, “Snap One holds a great standard of innovation and reliability within the pro AV technology industry. Partnering with SDVoE to integrate SDVoE enabled technology in our MoIP ecosystem and new products like our coming B-960 series showcases our dedication to that standard.”

In recent years, the demand for remote data collection and real-time content management in the AV industry has seen substantial growth. AV-over-IP technology, known for supporting high-quality audio/video transmission over extended distances without latency, is ideal for content streaming applications. SDVoE technology provides a comprehensive hardware and software platform for AV extension, switching, processing, and control. It leverages advanced chipset technology, common control APIs, and interoperability. SDVoE network architectures are built on off-the-shelf Ethernet switches, offering cost savings, enhanced system flexibility, and scalability compared to traditional approaches.

With Snap One’s involvement in the SDVoE Alliance, the future of Media-over-IP (MoIP) products in both residential and commercial markets looks promising, furthering the synergy between smart living technology and pro AV.

For More Information: https://sdvoe.org/

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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.

Snap One has announced it is accelerating investments in its cloud infrastructure to provide greater value, efficiency and operational reliability for dealers and their clients. The company says that by enhancing the speed and consistency of its remote access solutions, including OvrC servers, its goal is to help partners scale their businesses by streamlining day-to-day operations and simplifying installation, configuration and long-term client care.

“Snap One’s cloud services are better than ever, and we’re not finished,” says Kenny Kim, VP of product management for platforms & services at Snap One. “We’re committed to constant improvement and to OvrC becoming the most useful and operationally valuable tool for integrators. The reliability, scalability and security of our platforms and backend infrastructure are essential to creating premium customer experiences and supporting an integrator’s growth and reputation. Snap One takes that responsibility very seriously and we are investing a lot of time, people power and money to ensure our Partners can count on us.”

Snap One says its infrastructure enhancements focusing on speed and reliability have already improved performance for Control4 partners and users, with recent upgrades delivering 40% faster connections between the Control4 App and OvrC servers and reducing latency for Alexa and Google Voice interactions.

For security, Snap One has invested in leading Web Application Firewalls (WAFs), improved backup and disaster recovery solutions and advanced training on secure coding, and ensured all improvements are scalable into the future. It has also implemented real-time alerts and periodic security assessments by third-party experts and internal white hat hackers while the company’s cybersecurity team expands.

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Snap One announced its new commercial-focused Carbon Series of Strong mounts that are designed to provide superior strength and reliability for overhead digital signage installations of displays up to 100 inches diagonal and up to 500 pounds in weight at InfoComm 2023.

‍According to Logan Rosenstein, Infrastructure Product Manager at Snap One, the Carbon Series’ ceiling and wall mounts empower commercial integrators through superior quality mounts available to fit every project’s needs. Commercial integration firms need fast, reliable access to in-demand products,” said Rosenstein. He further adds, “With Strong Carbon Series display mounts, we’re ensuring our partners can easily bundle mount orders with other Snap One products to simplify the purchasing experience. Plus, the thoughtful design and robust strength of Carbon Series mounts and accessories make them ideal choices for elevated digital signage, from overhead menu boards and bar TVs to airport info displays. Snap One commercial Partners now have a true one-stop-shop for digital signage solutions, from displays to cabling to mounts.”

‍For ceiling-mount installation, Partners can purchase steel I-beam mounts, wood joist mounts, and numerous ceiling plates including an anti-vibration model. They can also opt for a 60-inch fixed drop pole, various lengths of adjustable drop poles, mounting boxes with cable management systems, and mounting struts and arms for displays up to 100 inches. A typical solution consists of a ceiling mount bracket and a separately sold drop pole, mounting box, mounting strut, and TV mounting arms. Landscape and portrait mounting arms can support up to 100-inch displays with various VESA mount sizes.

The arms can support up to 125-pound displays, enabling simple implementation of virtually any modern signage product. The drop poles and ceiling plates are available in black-and-white finishes to suit a variety of projects. Wall-mount installation is also possible using the Carbon Series Menu Board Wall Bracket. Additionally, pre-configured units are available as well for quicker shopping and introduction to the product line.

‍“We want to help installers tackle more jobs with less paperwork, and the new Strong Carbon Series delivers on that promise,” Rosenstein added. “Whether they trust the Strong brand based on residential project experience or are simply looking for an alternative to existing commercial mounting solutions, Snap One Partners can now easily source tough, trusted Strong mounts for all their digital signage projects.” Said Rosenstein.

For More Information: https://www.snapone.com

The post InfoComm 2023: Snap One Launches Carbon Series of Modular Ceiling and Overhead Mounts appeared first on Smart Home World Magazine.

Snap One has launched the next chapter of Triad, beginning with the introduction of a line of soundbars that provide the premium audio performance and customization that Triad is known for, with elevated design and options. With its Triad Passive Soundbars line, Triad is entering a new era of precision engineering and design.

The new soundbar lineup consists of 12 models across four separate series, each offering three different channel configurations, depending on the project’s needs: three-channel, two-channel, or one-channel. Additionally, the width of the soundbars can be ordered in 1/8-inch increments up to 86 inches. Easy Mount allows the soundbars to be mounted straight onto the wall instead of lifting and setting down onto the brackets. As a result, this feature offers ease of leveling, safety, and convenience by allowing mounting without moving the display or other decor.

The new design builds upon the audio quality that customers expect from Triad, with an updated industrial design that delivers a unique and sophisticated look. The new lineup enhances audio performance with the addition of two larger driver-size platforms and extends the support of custom lengths in both directions, offering a much longer maximum length as well as shorter minimum lengths, making the Triad Passive Soundbars suitable for a wider range of display sizes and customization preferences. Six predefined colorways will suit many popular décor palettes, while nearly endless paint and veneer options are available to create a completely custom product for every unique client.

For more information: snapone.com

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