Hitting a Nirv

Known for flamboyant marketing, unique product names, and a slew of useful custom install products, Speakercraft announced plans for an ambitious whole-house audio/video distribution system called Nirv.

The Nirv system is designed to be super-simple to install and relies on a single Cat-5e or Cat-6 cable for distribution of multiple streams of HD video (compressed), stereo audio, surround audio, page/intercom, data, control, and automation signals. The modular system configuration allows installers to design the system using a home-run, centralized, or hybrid combo approach.

Unlike other whole-house systems that use a fixed 4-, 6-, or 8-zone component as the basis for the system, Nirv can start with as few as one zone (although, really, that would be just downright stupid) and expand dramatically from there. The system can be customized by user per zone with all activities using the same menu system. A 10-button remote control operates everything. Touch keypads can also be used. Pricing is yet to be determined with product to be available in 2010.

SpeakerCraft also introduced Ruckus outdoor rock speakers with a rockier styling than the company’s previous rock speakers. New driver elements and crossovers are said to improve the sound but equally important is the fact that the new enclosures are made from a reinforced poly-resin that matches the color of the UV weather-resistant lacquer coating that covers the speaker – a feature that eliminates the possibility of having ugly two-toned rock speakers after a careless whack with a weed trimmer removes the outer coating to reveal a totally different color underneath.

Three standard coaxial models (5-, 6-, and 8-inch versions) will be available along with a dual-tweeter model and a powered rock subwoofer in either granite or sandstone finishes.

Additional introductions included a pair of AVRs (7.1-channel and 2-channel), the SonicAir SA 2.1 wireless audio transmitter/receiver, three subwoofers, and flangeless grille adapters.

PRICE & AVAILABILITY
Nirv TBA
Ruckus 5 $225 ea.
Ruckus 6 $275 ea.
Ruckus 8 $450 ea.
Ruckus DT $350 ea.
Ruckus Sub (including the dedicated amplifier) $999 ea.
The first three models will ship in mid-August with the Sub and Dual Tweeter models following six weeks later.

CONTACT: speakercraft.com