Biamp Systems adds the new TEC-1 Remote Ethernet device, the new remote controls for the Tesira system.

The new control device, available in two configurations – TEC-1i and the TEC-1s – offers a simple, intuitive interface for end users and can be installed and configured to fit the unique needs of a particular application. Leveraging standard CAT5/6/7 cabling, the TEC-1 devices are powered over Ethernet, eliminating the need for custom cabling and local power sources.

"The TEC-1 device provide end users with control of system settings quickly and easily through an intuitive and attractive wall panel," says Graeme Harrison, Executive VP at Biamp Systems. "Installations can be designed with multiple control panels in a room, or to control many rooms from one panel if this is desired. This gives an unmatched level of flexibility in design and use."

RTI boosts the the latest version of the XP-8s-- the remote control processor now carries a faster processor, more internal memory and an SD card slot.

The new i.MX processor has clock speeds of 532MHz, allowing for expanded two-way driver support and faster system file downloads. An internal astronomical clock handles automatic events or commands.

Flash memory totals 128MB (up from 32MP in the XP-8) and each unit ships with an additional 4GB SD card.

The XP-8s is ideal for both residential and commercial installations, combining a real-time/multi-tasking OS with expandability options. Control options include x8 two-way RS-232 ports, IR ports, built-in relays and sense inputs, as well as an ethernet port for RTI-Panel support and IP control.

Go RTI XP-8s

Following a recent sale Olive announces an updated music server lineup  for launch during 2013-- the 4HD and 5HD Music Systems and the next-gen 6HD Music Server.

The 4HD and 5HD carry 32-bit/384kHz TI Burr-Brown Digital-to-Analog converters and dual HD amplifiers. The 6HD has a fully balanced differential DAC design with x2 Burr-Brown PCM1792A and a linear high-precision power supply with custom toroidal transformers.

Connectivity comes through the wireless HD docking station, integrating music streaming services (Spotify, Pandora) and content from iOS/Android devices, PCs, Macs or NAS.

Powering the three systems the new Music OS-- a touchscreen-based interface promising better animation and complete UI customisation options.

The HD Music Systems are available in 2TB capacity. The 4D ships in high-gloss white, while the 5HD and 6HD come in an anodised finish as well as a built-in CDRW system.

Go Olive Unveils Line of Amplified HD Music Systems and Music OS

Your iPhone or iPad could make seriously good recordings except for the limitations of its built-in microphone. And that’s where you need the Mikey Digital from Blue Microphones.

The Mikey digital microphone attaches to an iPhone or iPad to add much higher recording quality.

The cardioid microphone includes two pressure gradient condensers in a design that captures sound in a heart-shaped pattern to pick up most of the sound from the front, and some from the sides.

The microphone has three gain settings — automatic, low and high. Automatic for recording lectures or anything with quiet passages where the microphone has to adjust; low for distant sounds like bird calls; and the high to keep the sound from overloading at concerts or thunder storms. Three indicator lights will flash red if the microphone is overloading.

The Mikey, lists in USA for $100, also has a 3.5-millimeter input so a midi instrument or guitar can be plugged in. An instrument and voice cannot be recorded at the same time so you’ll need a multitrack recording app, like Garage Band or the free appJammit, to mix instruments and vocals.

Go The Mikey for iPhone, iPad

CEDIA releases the 3rd white paper in the Mobile Devices in Residential Systems Integration series-- "Using Mobile Devices as a Control Platform."

The white paper tackles the use of mobile devices within control applications, and provides guidance on design considerations in integration and automation with mobile devices.

Both high-end and budget-conscious customers increasingly demand the integration of mobile devices into integrated systems-- making it a must for installers to learn how to do exactly that.

“Many consumers want to use a device they are familiar with, such as a smartphone or tablet to control their home,” CEDIA says. “This can sometimes be challenging to integrate, but the considerations outlined in this white paper can help dealers create a seamless control experience.”

The white paper is now available free of charge for Region 1 CEDIA members.

Go Using Mobile Devices as a Control Platform

HAI by Leviton announces the Hi-Fi 2 4-zone, 4-source (4x4) distributed audio system-- a more compact and less expensive extension on the original 8-zone Hi-Fi 2.

The system offers 20W per channel and fits directly into Leviton Structured Media Centre wiring enclosures at half-width.

As with the entire Hi-Fi 2 line, the new 4x4 model allows users to listen to and share music sources with any room with speakers connected to the device. Local and remote source inputs are standard features, with optional Bluetooth connectivity.

The Remote Input Module (RIM) features a routed IR emitter jack for the remote control of existing source equipment from any room with a volume source control.

The Hi-Fi 2 4x4 unit uses the same volume source control, RIM and Bluetooth RIM as the larger Hi-Fi 2 8x8, and is complete with amplifier, x4 volume source controls, x2 remote input modules, remote control and power supply, all in a package HAI says is 100% made of recycled materials.

HAI also offers separate colour change kits for the wall-mounted volume source control and remote input modules.

Go HAI by Leviton Hi-Fi 2 4x4 Audio System Now Available