Through the decades, components have become more complex, while AVD systems have become increasingly intuitive and simpler to use. Whether engineering dedicated home theaters in partnership with the region’s most prestigious architects and interior designers, installing whole-house music and video systems, or programming automated lighting, heating and air conditioning — AVD understands the elegance of electronics that complement a lifestyle, without complicating it.
What are some of our favorite gadgets, gears and products for making that all possible? Here are a few.
IntelliControl A Whole-House Music Revolution
The Niles IntelliControl ICS whole-house music system accommodates every imaginable source, from traditional DVD or HD AM/FM radio, to satellite radio and iPod — and the six-source modular receiver means new sources can easily be integrated as new music technologies become available.
After more than three decades in the business, the system designers at AVD know the importance of a plan that accommodates developing technology. ICS really works for that. But our clients think the Niles IntelliControl is cool because it offers:
- Zone-by-zone and whole house operation; listen to a favorite CD in the kitchen, iPod in the kids’ rooms, and XM radio everywhere else
- Capacity for up to 30 zones
- Intuitive navigation and operation
- User interfaces that include wall-mount keypad, color touchscreen, or hand-held RF remote control
- The wireless iRemote, with a 2” LCD screen with two-way artist, track and source feedback
Put the wireless remote in your pocket, and stroll through the house, operating any zone, always knowing what’s going on. That mean’s you can turn down the volume in the kids’ rooms from anywhere.
The IntelliControl has been recognized with a long list of industry and media honors and awards, such as the “Electronic House” Product of the Year. Like many of our products, it is available only from specifically designated custom design and installation companies like AVD.
Home Theater Media Server
The Audio Video Design team is excited about Inteset’s Home Theater Media Server, an entertainment storage system that provides access to an entire DVD and CD collection from every screen and speaker in the house. You’ll never find yourself searching through stacks of jewel boxes and DVD cases, looking for a movie to match your mood. Different movies or music for different rooms? No problem. And just as you would expect from Audio Video Design, the controls are straightforward and simple. Scroll music and movie options on the same simple touchscreen that operates the projector, TV and speakers. A big bonus: download digital photos straight into the system, and show gorgeous photos from your vacation right on the living room plasma. Other features include live TV pause, record one show while watching another, and extreme 3D gaming.
Lutron Shade Control
Here comes the sun — but only when you want it. Lutron’s automated window treatments bring control to all the light that surrounds you, including sunlight. Custom shades and drapes can operate automatically, according to the time or day or light level, or with the press of a single button. Set bedroom shades to open at precisely the moment you wish to rise — next best thing to a personal valet. We intuitively understand that sunlight brings a refreshing quality to any room, but achieving the greatest beauty and efficiency means being able to control the light for privacy, and to protect furnishings from harsh UV rays.
Hidden Televisions
State-of-the-Art television can fit into every interior design, even without cabinetry. Disguised as an elegantly framed original painting on canvas, plasma television now blends into the most sophisticated décor. Conceal the wall mounted display screen behind an elegantly framed fine art print. The motorized, retracting canvas silently silently rolls up when the TV turns on; the function is easily programmed into your universal remote, touchscreen, or home automation system. The family room vignette at the Audio Video Design showroom includes a Vision Art.
Waterproof Remotes
Crestron’s waterproof handheld remote is ideal for the pool and cabana. The lanyard-style remote-on-a-rope has a rugged, immersible case that is easy to grip, even with slippery hands, and it is completely safe for use in the pool or hot tub. No need to leave the water when you’re ready to turn down the lights or turn up the tunes. The lithium ion battery is good for several weeks of wireless use, and re-charges in the docking station.