AVNation TV

Tag: Russound

  • Russound Introduces New Addition to SMZ-Series With SMZ16-PRE Pre-Amplifier

    Russound Introduces New Addition to SMZ-Series With SMZ16-PRE Pre-Amplifier

    Russound has launched the SMZ16-PRE, a powerful 16×16 matrix pre-amplifier with a built-in high-resolution audio streamer, expanding its SMZ-Series lineup. Designed for seamless multiroom audio integration, it supports up to 16 stereo inputs, including analog, optical, and coax connections, with expansion capabilities up to 96 stereo channels. The SMZ16-PRE also features an HDMI ARC input for TV connectivity, a seven-band graphical EQ with speaker presets, and easy control via Russound’s XTS7 touchscreen, IPK-1 keypad, or mobile app.

    With a focus on flexibility and premium audio performance, Russound’s latest pre-amplifier offers built-in streaming via AirPlay, Google Cast, and other platforms, making it a versatile solution for IT and AV professionals handling smart home or commercial installations. The enhanced Russound app provides more customization options, ensuring users get the best possible sound experience. Russound CEO Charlie Porritt highlights that the SMZ16-PRE builds on the success of the SMZ8, delivering an even more refined and adaptable audio solution.

    Russound, an internationally renowned leader in premium, multiroom audio, is now shipping the SMZ16-PRE 16×16 matrix pre-amplifier with a built-in streamer. As the latest addition to the SMZ-Series, the SMZ16-PRE represents the culmination of extensive research and development efforts, ensuring superior control, reliability, and audio quality for both end users and installers.

    “The SMZ-Series was designed to meet the evolving needs of our customers and installers, and we’re thrilled to say the series has been met with an overwhelmingly positive response,” said Charlie Porritt, CEO of Russound. “Building on the success of the SMZ8 Controller Amplifier, the SMZ16-PRE offers unparalleled audio customization and clarity while providing the user with elevated flexibility and ease of installation. With its advanced features and user-friendly interface, the SMZ16-PRE is setting a new standard in multiroom audio and reinforcing Russound’s commitment to producing premium solutions for the luxury audio market.”

    The SMZ16-PRE features 16 stereo inputs, which can be used in any combination of up to 16 analog, six digital optical, or four digital coax inputs. Though 16×16, it is expandable up to a 16×96 stereo-channel audio matrix with superior audio quality for any installation. The pre-amplifier boasts an HDMI input (ARC) for connecting to a TV or video source with low-latency synchronization to avoid lip sync issues and an integrated DSP with a seven-band graphical EQ with built-in presets for Russound speakers. It is controllable with Russound’s XTS7 wall-mounted color touchscreen, the IPK-1 single-gang IP keypad, or the Russound app.

    As with the SMZ8, the SMZ16-PRE features a built-in high-res audio streamer with support for streaming platforms like AirPlay and Google Cast, as well as many other popular sources, facilitating seamless integration with modern digital ecosystems. It features an updated app with multiple enhancements, including graphic equalization, speaker presets, and a host of other features designed to offer enhanced control and customization.

  • Russound Now Shipping D890 Amplifier

    Russound Now Shipping D890 Amplifier

    Russound has launched the D890 Eight-Channel Digital Amplifier, expanding its popular D-Series lineup. Designed for flexible multiroom audio setups, the D890 delivers powerful sound performance with up to 90 watts per channel. Its compact design makes installation easier while offering three input options per channel, allowing IT integrators to customize audio systems for any residential or commercial environment. The D890 is ideal for powering multiple speakers throughout a property or boosting output in larger spaces and outdoor areas.

    With advanced digital design and versatile turn-on modes, including Always On, Signal Sensing, and 12V Trigger, the D890 maximizes energy efficiency and user control. It simplifies multiroom audio expansion without needing separate amplifiers, making it a smart choice for IT professionals looking to enhance audio experiences.

    Russound, an internationally renowned leader in premium, multiroom audio, is now shipping the much-anticipated D890 Eight-Channel Digital Amplifier. Part of the company’s D-Series amplifiers, the D890 is designed to expand an audio system into multiple rooms or zones, or to add increased audio output for larger rooms or outdoor areas where a higher output volume is required. The D890 offers integrators powerful audio performance, source and control flexibility, and streamlined installation — making it an ideal solution for versatile audio setups.

    “Our D-Series has been met with an overwhelmingly positive reaction from our customers, and we expect the D890 to continue this line of success,” said Charlie Porritt, CEO, Russound. “It provides an unmatched audio performance and advanced features, along with the flexibility for installers to craft personalized audio experiences in any residential environment. This exciting addition to our D-Series lineup simplifies setup and integration, making it a standout option.”

    In creating the D-Series, Russound achieved its primary design objective: making the amplifiers more compact while enhancing their features. Like other models in the D-Series, the D890 incorporates an advanced digital design, enabling a smaller chassis size compared to any previous generation of Russound amplifiers — while delivering up to 90 watts per channel.

    The D-Series amplifiers offer up to three input options for each channel. Installers can choose between two shared bus inputs or a dedicated input, enabling precise customization for any system. By integrating multiple audio amplification zones into a single chassis, the system allows for seamless expansion to additional areas inside or outside the home without requiring separate amplifiers or individual audio connections for each zone. A single amplifier can power multiple speakers throughout the home, configured to suit the homeowner’s needs, or it can be bridged to provide extra power for high-demand applications.

    To provide simplified audio configuration, the D-Series amplifiers also offer three turn-on modes. This includes Always On, ensuring the amplifier is always ready; Signal Sensing, which reduces the amp’s energy consumption to less than 0.5 watts of power when not being used; and finally, 12V Trigger, which provides the user with customizable on/off control.

  • Russound Sets New Standards in Whole-Home Audio With SMZ8 Controller Amplifier

    Russound Sets New Standards in Whole-Home Audio With SMZ8 Controller Amplifier

    Russound is a provider of high-quality audio solutions, with a presence in over 80 countries. The company offers a wide product portfolio, including multiroom audio systems, source equipment, and loudspeakers, ensuring customer satisfaction through innovative technologies and commitment to custom installation.

    Russound has launched the SMZ8 Controller Amplifier with Built-in Streamer, part of its new SMZ-Series, featuring advanced whole-home audio technology with 50W-per-channel amplification, HDMI ARC, built-in Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, and streaming capabilities.

    The SMZ8 addresses the needs of homeowners and installers for powerful, flexible, and easy-to-use multiroom audio systems, supporting up to 48 zones and offering high-quality sound, intuitive controls, and seamless integration with modern streaming services.

    Russound, an internationally renowned leader in premium, multiroom audio, today announced the launch of its most powerful and feature-rich controller to date: the SMZ8 Controller Amplifier with Built-in Streamer. Part of the new SMZ-Series, the SMZ8 represents a significant leap forward in whole-home audio technology, offering unparalleled flexibility, power, and ease of use for both installers and homeowners.

    “Our new SMZ-Series is the culmination of extensive research and development, designed to meet the evolving needs of our customers and installers,” said Charlie Porritt, CEO of Russound. “With its advanced features, powerful amplification, and user-friendly interface, the SMZ8 sets a new benchmark in residential audio. We’ve listened carefully to feedback from homeowners and professionals in the field and have incorporated cutting-edge technology to create a product that delivers exceptional audio quality and offers unprecedented flexibility and ease of installation. We believe the SMZ8 will not only meet but exceed the expectations of our dealers and end-users, reinforcing Russound’s position as a leader in multiroom audio innovation.”

    Thanks to its HDMI input with ARC, the SMZ8 offers stunning audio and video synchronization, allowing users to enjoy perfectly timed audio throughout their home while watching their favorite content. Its built-in DSP capabilities, including Russound speaker presets and a seven-band graphic EQ, ensure optimal sound in any environment. The SMZ8 also boasts advanced amplification and power supply technology, leveraging the latest advancements to deliver superior sound quality and efficiency. With 50W-per-channel amplification (100W total), this powerful controller provides ample power to fill any space.

    The addition of the Built-in Streamer makes the SMZ8 an all-in-one solution. Drawing on continuous feedback and requests from installers, the much-requested streamer makes the amplifier ready for any listening needs, delivering 50W per channel. It features support for popular services — including AirPlay and Google Cast — providing access to today’s diverse audio content.

    The SMZ8’s ability to expand to 48 zones, combined with its networked design, allows for multiple units to be placed wherever wiring allows, providing extensive coverage across the home network. This flexibility, combined with built-in Wi-Fi and Bluetooth connectivity, provides installers with freedom in system design and placement. Users can easily control the SMZ8 through multiple interfaces, including the XTS7 touchscreen, the IPK-1 keypad, and the Russound App, ensuring intuitive operation for all household members.

    The SMZ8 is part of Russound’s commitment to supporting its dealer network. It is included in the Russound Certified Installer (RCI) program, which prevents unauthorized internet reselling and ensures that only qualified professionals install these advanced systems.

  • Russound Amplifies the Home Theater Experience With the New Cinema Bar 3.0

    Russound Amplifies the Home Theater Experience With the New Cinema Bar 3.0

    Russound, founded in 1967, is a provider of high-quality audio solutions, with a presence in over 80 countries. The company offers a wide product portfolio, including multiroom audio systems, source equipment, and loudspeakers, ensuring customer satisfaction through innovative technologies and commitment to custom installation.

    Russound is unveiling the Cinema Bar 3.0 at CEDIA Expo, a passive soundbar designed for large wall-mounted TVs. It features 100W RMS power handling per channel, with three 4-inch drivers, three 1-inch tweeters, and three 4-inch passive radiators for rich audio.

    The Cinema Bar 3.0 represents Russound’s entry into a new product category, enhancing home theater systems with high-quality audio components and a stylish, low-profile design. It complements their AVA3.1 Mini-AVR, providing dealers with a versatile option for home theater and media room projects.

    Russound, an internationally renowned leader in premium, multiroom audio, is excited to announce the Cinema Bar 3.0, being shown for the first time in booth 2524 at CEDIA Expo, Sept. 5-7, in Denver. Introducing a new category for the company, the Cinema Bar 3.0 leverages Russound’s years of premium audio expertise and engineering. The passive soundbar is designed for use with wall-mounted flat panels 65 inches and larger, boasting 100W RMS power handling per channel. Three full-range 4-inch drivers, three 1-inch tweeters, and three 4-inch passive radiators provide rich and room-filling audio.

    “The Russound Cinema Series is designed to enhance the enjoyment of any audio system through the use of the highest quality audio components in a custom-optimized enclosure that looks good in any home environment,” said Charlie Porritt, CEO, Russound. “The premium woofers, combined with their passive radiators, enhance the bass response to levels you would never expect in such a low-profile soundbar.”

    The Russound Cinema Bar 3.0 features a reinforced MDF body with isolated audio chambers for each channel while the stylish satin black soundbar adds elegance and appeal beneath the television. To complement the aesthetics, the soundbar’s oversized area around the speaker connectors covers any wall openings for the wiring and allows plenty of room to hide any excess when the soundbar is mounted. It mounts to any available soundbar mounting kit or TV mount, and with the included MicroSlide™ brackets or built-in threaded inserts, it’s easy to install. Dealers will find the Cinema Bar 3.0 is a perfect complement to Russound’s award-winning AVA3.1 Mini-AVR released earlier this year, giving them additional opportunities for expanding any home theater or media room project.

  • Russound Announces New Generation of Multi-Channel Amplifiers

    Russound Announces New Generation of Multi-Channel Amplifiers

    Russound, an audio solutions provider since 1967, offers quality, reliability, and service in over 80 countries, focusing on custom installation and enhancing the value of installers.

    Russound has launched the D-Series Multichannel Digital Amplifiers, comprising three models: the D890, D1290, and D1675. These amplifiers are designed to expand audio systems into more rooms or zones, with features like source and control flexibility, multichannel power, and easy-to-configure audio filter options.

    The D-Series amplifiers aim to meet high standards in performance and quality while streamlining the installation experience for installers. They offer smaller chassis sizes, advanced digital design, and up to 90 watts per channel output. The inclusion of easily configurable audio filter options and multiple input choices for each channel adds versatility to audio installations, catering to various needs and preferences. Additionally, the three turn-on modes enhance energy efficiency and customization for different usage scenarios.

    Russound, an internationally renowned leader in premium, multiroom audio, continues its aggressive product launches set for 2024 with the new D-Series Multichannel Digital Amplifiers. Building upon Russound’s legacy in this audio category, the D-Series includes three models: the eight-channel D890, the 12-channel D1290, and the 16-channel D1675. Designed to expand an audio system into more rooms or zones, or to add increased audio output for larger rooms or outdoor areas where a higher output volume is required, the amps are distinguished by their source and control flexibility, multichannel power, and easy-to-configure audio filter options. The D1290 is the first in the series available and now shipping.

    “When engineering the D-Series, we wanted to deliver an amp that not only met our high standards in performance and quality but also rethought the installation experience,” said Charlie Porritt, CEO, Russound. “Each of the amp zones can be configured without any equipment — just set the switches on the back, and it’s ready. This feature helps save installers an incredible amount of time in any multichannel amplification project. The D-Series demonstrates what amplification innovation looks like — it’s sleek, feature-rich, and powerful, giving installers the flexibility and reliability they need to satisfy the needs of their clientele, all while keeping an acceptable project budget.”

    In creating the Russound D-Series amps, the company succeeded in its key design goal: reducing the size of the amplifiers while boosting their feature set. These models utilize an advanced digital design that results in smaller chassis sizes than in any previous generation of Russound amplifiers while delivering up to 90 watts per channel on the D890 and D1290 models and 75 watts per channel in up to 16 channels in the D1675. The D890 eight-channel and D1290 12-channel models are 1RU in height, while the D1675 is only 2RUs.

    Proof of the company’s commitment to adding more features, the D-Series amps include new, easily configurable audio filter options to customize the audio output for the desired application. Any stereo pair, zone, or bridged speaker connection on the D-Series models can be set to output three different options. Full Range Sound allows for a typical full range of sound between 20Hz and 20kHz to the connected loudspeaker(s). Low Pass Filter allows the connected speakers to only receive low-frequency audio signals, from about 20Hz to 160Hz, perfect for supporting passive subwoofers that are adding extra bass to the room. By filtering the output, the D-Series amplifiers can more efficiently support only the frequencies that the subwoofer can support, allowing for much more efficient, robust, and dynamic sound. Finally, there is the High Pass Filter, which allows the zone or channel to focus on only the higher frequencies — from 80Hz and up — without wasting energy on lower-frequency sounds that the speaker can’t provide and that can clutter the room’s audio with unwanted bass or standing waves. What’s more, this filter protects the amplifier by avoiding unneeded impedance swings from the speakers attempting to drive lower frequencies that they are not capable of producing.

    The D-Series amplifiers allow for up to three different input choices for every channel. Installers can use two available bus inputs as the input for any channel, or they can use a dedicated input, allowing for precise tailoring of any system to its needs. By combining multiple zones of audio amplification into a single chassis, any audio installation can easily grow and expand to other areas in and around the home without the need for separate amplifiers and separate audio connections for every area. One amplifier can power multiple loudspeakers, organized around the home in the way that best fits the needs of the homeowner, or they can be bridged for applications that demand even more power.

    The D-Series amplifiers also offer three turn-on modes, allowing for easy configuration of any audio system. This includes Always On, ensuring the amplifier is ready 24/7; Signal Sensing, which allows the amplifier to reduce its energy consumption to less than 0.5 watts of power when not being used but still turn on quickly; and finally, 12V Trigger, which allows an installer to customize when the amplifier turns on and off.

  • Russound introduces all-in-one MIXAMP-60 for light commercial audio installations

    Russound introduces all-in-one MIXAMP-60 for light commercial audio installations

    NEWMARKET, N.H. – Russound, the trusted audio source for integrators and their clients, today announces the MIXAMP-60, an all-in-one mixer amplifier ideal for light commercial and resi-mercial applications. Designed to meet the diverse multi-room audio needs of restaurants, retail stores, medical offices, and schools, the versatile MIXAMP-60 features a wide range of distribution inputs, as well as built-in Bluetooth connectivity, an FM tuner, a USB/SD MP3 player, and the ability to connect up to four external sources.

    Many light commercial businesses require a comprehensive multi-room audio solution that offers a way to broadcast ambient background music (BGM), address the public, and page staff. With the launch of the MIXAMP-60, Russound addresses those needs with a single, all-in-one solution that can quickly adapt to and accommodate changing audio input requirements. This versatility and ease-of-use is instrumental to the product’s value because it will likely be employed by multiple users throughout the day, each with a different level of comfort with AV hardware.

    “Integrators challenged us to create a mixer amplifier that delivered maximum value and versatility to their light commercial clients while also being easy to install and service,’” said Russound CEO Charlie Porritt. “To meet the dynamic audio needs of these environments, MIXAMP-60’s generous offering of inputs, and particularly Bluetooth compatibility, can easily accommodate a wide range of future uses.”

    Top dealers know that future-proofing for clients’ needs is the best way ensure long-term customer satisfaction. To meet those needs and be robust enough to adapt to future needs, the MIXAMP-60 prioritizes flexibility in functionality and in design. In addition to its wide range of audio inputs, the MIXAMP-60 features a 2U rack-mountable form factor with front-facing controls that will allow integrators to install it in just about any environment. These controls include individual and master volume to make installation and use as simple as possible, while the front-panel screen streamlines audio switching.

    The MIXAMP-60 is available through Russound’s network of distributors and dealers at an introductory launch MSRP of $299.99 starting May 18, 2021.