Xantech Introduces A/V Distribution Items

By Staff On Jan 5 2006 - 8:00am

Xantech is introducing a variety of audio and video distribution products during International CES.

Zakit is a product that integrates MP3 players and iPods into a distributed audio system. It consists of two single-gang J-box components (one in the listening area, one near the audio distribution system) that can be inconspicuously mounted, the company said. Standard RCA input jacks used in Zakit allow the use of virtually any source component, said the Sylmar, Calif.-based company.

The Zakit has connections for composite video, IR and stereo audio. Audio and IR signal can be transmitted up to 300 feet over CAT-5 wire; video is transmitted via standard coax cable.

The Zakit consists of two items, the Zatran (transmitter, mounted at the source component), and Zarec (receiver, mounted at the distributed audio system). These two items are sold together as the Zakit, with a suggested $199 retail.

The Zatran will be sold separately as well, at a $130 suggested retail. A complementary piece, the Za8rec is basically eight of the Zarec units in a single, rack-mountable component, eliminating the need to mount eight separate Zarec units near the audio distribution system. The Za8rec will be available to ship in the first quarter of 2006 at a $400 suggested retail.