Custom Builder Product Report: Entertainment Centers

Built Invisible

The Built-Invisible home entertainment system from audio master Bose provides builders and installers with all the necessary wiring and amplifiers. The larger components can be completely hidden in walls, ceiling or floors. The system can provide music in up to 14 additional rooms, including outdoors.

Versatility Comes Standard

Designed to defeat any A/V design challenge thrown your way comes Sonance’s Sonamp ASAP3D SE power amplifier. It combines stereo power with signal switching and control facilities that allow users to automatically switch a pair of loudspeakers between two different input sources, such as a whole-house audio system or iPod.

On the Flip Side

This is something a bit different. Installers up to the challenge can check out Auton’s Plasma Ceiling Flip Down units. These conceal flat panel TVs in the ceiling — perfect for installations where space is a premium. The flip-downs only need 11 1/2 inches of overhead space and can accommodate up to 200 pounds.

Wise Sound

Wisdom Audio will debut both a high-end architectural and free-standing speaker system. Christened as the Sage Series, the system features four speaker configurations ranging from 20 to 75 inches tall. Multiple center channels, an in-wall subwoofer, integrated room sound corrections software and dedicated electronics round out the debut.

Give the Dream TV a Home

Made with the installer or security professional in mind, Video Mount Products’ new PDM-FT Large Panel Wall Mount is made to hold the largest and heaviest flat panel TVs. The mount has a shallow 2.8-inch profile from the wall. Rails adjust from 4 to 32 inches left to right and can accompany slight tilts. Black and silver powder coat finishes are available.

Right on Cue

New whole-house technologies are great, but they’re not always hip and stylish-looking. Enter On-Q/Legrand’s Studio Collection. These new wall plates come in 17 contemporary colors in a design and form-factor not previously available to installers. The plates have a sculptural feel with titanium edging and a slick screwless finish.

A Structured Life

The new Cat-5 Intercom System and Multi-Room Audio Solution by Eaton carries voice, data, video and computer networking throughout homes. The system can even connect cameras and printers into the home network. Builders and installers can choose from pre-designed packages that work with the company’s structured wiring solutions.

A Pool and Movie Party All in One

Outdoor residential entertainment installations used to be prohibitively high. Not anymore. Pantel’s new 32- and 42-inch LCD HDTVs resist water and the elements, so you can bring the game to your client’s backyard. The TVs ship with a 802.11a wireless package that allows users to broadcast audio and video wirelessly up to 150 feet.