Dynaudio launches a custom installation in-wall and in-ceiling speaker line-- the Studio Series, featuring two round in-ceiling (the S4-C65 and C4-C80) and two rectangular in-wall (the S4-W65 and S4-W80) models.

Both in-ceiling and in-wall models can either be pre-installed or retrofitted into existing cavities for remodels. Low-profile slim bezels and paintable grilles allow for easy matching to room decor, and attach magnetically for 100% product coverage. A round grille comes as standard with the in-ceiling models, but customers can also order a square option.

A patent-pending two-piece tool-less mounting system makes for simpler installation. The pre-installation frame mounts quickly and firmly into the speaker cut-out via auto-locking clamps, and the speaker unit housing the baffle, drivers and crossover mounts securely within the frame via locking drop-stop latch system.

Origin Acoustics announces the next generation of the popular Director and LCR speaker collections, with Director 3-way models featuring a smaller form factor.

The speakers have a depth reduced to 5cm, allowing them to fit in more ceiling spaces. Output sensitivity is also improved by an average of 3dB, reducing power requirements in large multi-room systems. New Ultra-Pivot mids and tweeters reside in a smoother and more secure mechanism, with a precise directional focus of critical mid and high frequencies.

All models continue to feature the X-Wave Surround in the woofers, allowing them to absorb frequencies between 700-1400Hz running up and down the woofer cone. This reduces unwanted distortion and improves driver stability, and the reduced width of the surround increases usable cone area.

Blue Horizon announces the Professional Rack System (PRS)-- a modular rack system using a bespoke triple layer bamboo laminate and solid machined stainless steel uprights to control resonance.

Installers can configure the PRS to accommodate any shape or size sound system. One can also augment it with additional component shelves and spike isolation between tiers, as well as Sanctum, an isolating platform built out of high-density fibreboard (HDF). Users can place Sanctum isolation shelves beneath individual electronics.

Klipsch announces an architectural speaker series aimed at professional custom installers-- the Professional Series Reference Premiere architectural speakers.

The lineup offers 5 speakers, with three in-wall (PRO-160RPW, PRO-180RPW, and PRO-250RPW LCR) and two in-ceiling models (PRO-16RPC, PRO-180RPC). It combines the aesthetics of an architectural speaker with the acoustics of the Klipsch Reference Premiere home theatre component speakers.

As the company puts it, Tractrix horns provide controlled directivity of high frequencies for more dynamic, detailed sound with higher efficiency, while a silicon composite coating reduces high frequency resonance for smoother, flatter frequency response. Titanium dome tweeters minimise distortion and deliver enhanced performance, and Cerametallic woofers allow for exceptional efficiency and powerful low frequencies.

Yamaha claims the YAS-207 is the first soundbar to feature DTS Virtual:X, the technology designed to provide an immersive sound experience without need for rear surround and height speakers.

DTS Virtual:X supports any input source from stereo to 7.1.4 (11 channels) and is optimised to work with all DTS codecs, including DTS:X.

A successor to the YAS-203 soundbar, the YAS-207 features a new design with a thinner profile, making it ideal for placing in front of TVs without blocking the screen image. It can also be wall-mounted through built-in keyholes, while the companion wireless subwoofer is a compact number with a vertical rectangular shape allowing for flexible placement options.

ATC Loudspeakers debuts the Home Theatre Series (HTS)-- essentially a reworking of the passive SCM7, 11 and 40 loudspeakers into a high performance on-wall range aimed at the custom installation market.

Available in 3 sizes and in vertical and horizontal configurations, the HTS systems can generate low-distortion, wideband audio dyanmics in virtually any space, from cabines less than 14cm deep. HTS loudspeakers integrate a class-leading drive unit and crossover technologies with a sealed-cabinet design for mounting on or into walls. They are ideal for both movie and music systems.

Key-hole plates on the rear allow on-wall installation, in turn mating with supplied wall fixings. An included card template assists in the marking of fixing positions.