AudioControl is bowing the Maestro M2e, an advanced version of its theater processor, here in the North Hall at booth 1828.
This latest version of the Maestro uses the Mountlake Terrace, Wash.-based company’s “active balanced technology,” which is said to allow the product to output a high-resolution component video signal that can extend 1,000 feet over standard CAT-5 wiring. The M2e accepts a component signal in 1,080, 720 or 480 format, plus a digital audio signal from a source unit such as a DVD player or satellite receiver, and then outputs these signals via an RJ-45 connector located on the rear panel. The signal can then be transmitted up to 1,000 feet on standard CAT-5 wire to a BVR-25 or BVR-20 receiver, which outputs a standard component video signal.
The Maestro M2r is said to be ideal for use in high-performance home theaters and custom installation applications. AudioControl says the M2e’s processing power supports all of the major audio surround formats, including DTS, Dolby Digital and the Dolby Pro Logic IIx.
An eight-channel direct-analog input is provided for use with DVD-A and SACD sources for high-quality audio performance. There are also balanced and unbalanced audio outputs for maximum sound performance output, and it is equipped with AM and FM tuners supporting Radio Data System broadcasts.
Other features include HDMI and high-bandwidth component video switching.
In addition to the Maestro M2e, AudioControl is also showing four 12-channel amplifiers.
The Architect model 860 and Architect model 660 are said to be intended to meet the needs of custom installers who work on high-end whole-house systems. They feature versatile input management and intelligent channel protection.
The Architect model 861 and Architect model 661 versions offer remote monitoring and control via an Ethernet port for increased system compatibility, function and off-site system performance verification for each channel.
The 860 and 861 models feature five bands of custom-contoured equalization control for each channel.
According to the company, all four models feature cool-running Class H foundations and advanced networking capabilities and offer CI installers “authoritative power” so that they may tailor their whole-home setup to their customer’s tastes.
All of the amplifiers feature input bussing, a 12-volt trigger and stereo-to-mono summing capabilities to simplify installations. Each comes complete with the manufacturer’s exclusive “LightDrive” anti-clipping circuitry to protect individual channels as the speaker receives them.
For pricing information and other details, please visit the AudioControl booth.
