News

Russound's New Avenue System Takes Distributed Audio to Places Wires Needn't Go (3/10/2007)

CEDIA US Expo 2007

Avenue System Simplifies Retrofit Installations

Russound, the #1 brand in multiroom audio, today announced the upcoming availability of the Avenue(tm) System, which frees consumers and installers from the tyranny of new long wire runs. Avenue, in conjunction with Russound's RNET(r) CAV6.6 Multizone Controller Amplifier, transmits audio signals to up to six zones over existing AC wiring, using RNET PLC(tm) (Power Line Carrier) technology.

"Avenue is a unique product in the custom installation business," said Walt Zerbe, Russound's Product Manager, Emerging Technologies. "For the first time, a single installer can retro-fit a six zone audio system in a fraction of the time a traditional retro-fit installation requires. This creates new opportunities where retro-fit installations would have been prohibitive due to labor costs or disruptions to the home owner."

The Avenue System consists of two elements-a Hub and multiple Points-that partner with a CAV6.6, which controls up to six wired zones. The Hub is a single rack enclosure unit (2.0" tall x 17.5" wide x 12.0" deep) designed to mate with the CAV, receiving the audio and control information from it, converting and transmitting signals via RNET PLC to the Points which are compact enough to be hidden under furniture or on top of shelves. The Hub receives six stereo audio inputs from the CAV, but also features an additional two stereo outputs so that up to two Points can serve as Remote Global Sources for the system. The Hub also has two Russound RNET ports and a full array of configuration selection switches.

Each Hub can control up to six Points (2.5" tall x 10.6" wide x 9.6" deep). Each Point is connected to a 100-120VAC outlet and not only receives and transmits RNET PLC commands to and from the Hub, but also functions as a 20W per channel stereo amplifier. In addition, each Point has a pair of stereo audio inputs and an RNET port, allowing it to be connected to the CAV6.6.

All six Points can accommodate a local audio source, such as a television, whose signals will take precedence over the streamed signal within that zone. Two of the six Points can be configured as Remote Global Sources, digitizing their inputs and distributing the data back to the Hub via RNET PLC. Then the signal can be distributed to the rest of the zones through the Hub's stereo outputs.

Added Zerbe: "Avenue integrates seamlessly with existing Russound RNET components because it utilizes technology that we have been perfecting for years. This means that Russound customers-and the installers who serve them-are already familiar with the interface elements. What's new and unique is the convenient installation."

For consumers with existing homes, the convenience is obvious. No more plaster dust and holes in the walls or extended installations. Avenue is also convenient for installers and dealers, too. Existing RNET systems can be easily up-fitted with new zones, and the installations require less effort and move quickly. No more interior finish work. Plus, it's unique-only Russound installers and dealers have the power of RNET PLC at their disposal.

Avenue Hubs and Points will be available Q1, 2008 and will carry Russound's standard two-year warranty.

www.russound.com