Case Study 3: Multiroom Audio & Video part 2

System Components

Multiroom Audio system
The client already owned a 6 zone 6 source amplifier from Xantech for which we expanded the zones (only 4 were used) by installing ceiling speakers in some of the newly constructed areas. In addition we added more sources and the whole system was reprogrammed so it could work from the centrally located touchscreen or from one of the new touchscreen remotes.

Flatscreens
We installed white bezelled Samsung LCD screens from the series four range. These screens were chosen not only for their excellent picture and sound quality, but because of their neutral colour which fitted the client’s decor for the house. Column mounts were used in 4 of the 6 locations of video distribution as they take up less space and can be angled to wherever one is in the room.

Video distribution
The client already used a Sky digital box with full subscription in the lounge, and a second box in the bedroom for the free to air channels. By centrally locating both boxes and re-cabling the coaxial network, every screen in the house could then view either of the Sky services and was fully controlled from the WiFi enabled touchscreens.
A DVD player was installed in the ´Head End´, which was to be used primarily in the lounge. We also modulated the signal to enable the DVD to be seen on all of the screens around the house. With new technology we now can distribute HD signals over Cat5 cables, so that you can have a centrally located DVD or media player and still enjoy the best video quality all over the house. 
As part of the multi-room audio system we installed two iPod docks, one on each floor. As the client’s existing multiroom audio system did not allow for 2 way communication between the iPod dock, we enabled viewing of the album and artist information on all the TV screens around the house instead. That way you can choose a song or a playlist without returning to the iPod each time.

Control
Thanks to the Philips Prontos, the client was able to rid their coffee table of all other remote controls. As these remotes work on WiFi technology it also means that all equipment can be hidden out of site in a cupboards or even in another part of the house.
With a few simple presses of a button on the ´home´ page of the remote, they can control every area of the house and the icon driven interface makes it easy to use for them or even their guests.