Sanyo Adds Integrated Audio To Projector Mount

By John Laposky -- TWICE, 2/9/2010

Chatsworth, Calif. - Sanyo introduced today two new ultra-short-throw projector mounts that integrate a high-output audio playback system.

Sanyo's MT-EDU 101 projector mount incorporates an amplifier and two two-way speakers into its chassis.

Designed for the educational market, the MT-EDU101 and MT-EDU102 eliminate the need to use the projector's internal speakers or a separate audio system by incorporating a 50-watt two-channel amplifier and two 25-watt rated two-way speakers into the chassis of the mount.

The ported speakers use 5-inch woofers and directional tweeters and are tuned to provide optimal sound coverage in large rooms, including a standard 32-foot by 32-foot classroom, so as not to overwhelm listeners seated closer to the projector with excessive sound levels.

A line-level microphone jack, two sets of stereo RCA inputs and a mini stereo jack are located on the side of the mount chassis, and each input has an individual gain preset control to accommodate multiple external audio sources, including wired and wireless microphones, without complicated wiring arrangements, the company said.

The mounts work with single- or dual-stud constructions with 16-inch, 18-inch or 24-inch spacing, and can also be mounted to concrete.

A universal mounting mechanism allows the mounts to be used with any brand short-throw projector.

The mounts provide a pitch adjustment of ±16.5 degrees, a 7.5-degree roll adjustment and a 41-degree yaw trim. Total weight capacity is 50 pounds.

An integral cable routing system allows concealed management of signal and power cables, which pass from the projector through the arm and into the wall mount. Security for mounting of additional A/V equipment such as PCs or control modules is available by using additional security hardware, available separately, that fastens to the wall mount.

For short throws, the MT-EDU101 extends 7 to 27 inches from the wall. It retails for $949. For longer throw distances, the otherwise identical MT-EDU102 adds an extension pole to place the projector from 37 to 67 inches from the wall. It retails for $999.

Both models will be available in April.

"Our new audio package is a great solution for educational and other environments where the tiny speakers typically found in projectors are inadequate and installation of separate audio systems is impractical or too expensive," said Sam Malik, marketing director for Sanyo's presentation technologies group. "Integrating the audio into the mount makes for a clean and simple installation that puts the speakers in the ideal room location. Years after installation, users will find the inputs and controls simple to use and the audio quality robust."