[CES 07] Russound’s Whole-House Software Equipped with Intel Viiv, Core2 Duo, Vista
January 11th, 2007 — By Barry WillisRussound Goes Whole-House
Whole-house integration is one of the great emerging trends of the 21st century, and it seems Russound is right on top of it with its new “Smart Media Console.� Based on Intel’s “Viiv� technology and Core2 Duo processor, and Windows Vista software, Russound’s whole-house solution is no mere PC add-on, as pointed out by company VP Jeff Kussard, but is designed from the ground up as the hub of multi-room audio-video home entertainment systems.
Demonstrated in two locations here at CES, the Smart Media Console differs significantly from other media center products by including custom desktop or rack-mountable chassis, standard and high-definition video tuners, and audio in both Dolby Digital surround and multiroom stereo. The Smart Media Console supports home automation and systems integration with the inclusion of Life|ware software by Exceptional Innovation. (In the Las Vegas Convention Center parking lot, EI’s mockup “next-gen� home is a big draw, with long lines of people waiting to take the tour.)
Compatible with the company’s RNET systems and source components, Russound’s Smart Media Console can include XM and Sirius satellite and FM radio tuner cards, for multiple media options. The Smart Media Console should be available in June, at prices to be determined.
In addition, Russound has announced the “Complement On-Wall LCR7,� the company’s first on-wall loudspeaker. Intended for use as left-, center-, or right-channel speaker adjacent to a flat-panel video display, or for surround applications, the extruded aluminum LCR7 incorporates patent-pending “Super Bessel Array� (SBA) technology, said to produce smooth sound dispersion patterns by using multiple small drivers (six 3.5� mid-woofers and one 1� tweeter) with minimal electrical and acoustic interaction between them. The result is a “wider soundfield that remains clear and detailed throughout the listening room,� according to Russound manager Brad Sylvester. Product Line Manager for loudspeakers. In black or silver, the On-Wall LCR7 should be available after April 2007, at approximately $625 retail.
