Can you quantify the "better sound" comment, do you have data to back that up or is it just FUD? I do not understand "FUD" but Sonos has support for several lossless formats as well as other MP3 and itunes formats. The sound quality for lossless is superior to all MP3 formats.

If you may, could you explain to me and all others, the need to integrate video and control with the audio distribution. I still do not understand the need. I see that IP support of streaming video is coming but that is handled by wireless routers and ones computer now. I guess I am missing something with the need for HVAC control and video distribution. Please educate me. I currently live in a 6600 sf house with two zone heating and air that uses inexpensive setback thermostats that work on a weekly schedule. My house also uses Lutron RadioRA lighting that is controlled by a wall plate as well as any one of my Universal Remote Controls. Video distribution uses home-runned RG6 cabling to each room and audio distribution is provided in 11 zones by Sonos Zone players. I might add that for music complete control is provided by these cool controllers that can be wall mounted. They have instant selection of all my music stored via lossless FLAC format on standard NAS and easily accessible to create playlists on the fly as well as see album art for my selection. I have only had 6 different streams of audio in the 11 zones, I haven't tried more. I can also combine individual zones on the fly as the need arises, instantly. Truly a flexible device. My computers (6 desktops and 3 laptops) are wirelessly connected through a Linksys router. I have two separate locations (one for each floor) for printing wirelessly. The only wires run were RG6 for video.

I do not understand "FUD" but Sonos has support for several lossless formats as well as other MP3 and itunes formats. The sound quality for lossless is superior to all MP3 formats.

If you may, could you explain to me and all others, the need to integrate video and control with the audio distribution. I still do not understand the need. I see that IP support of streaming video is coming but that is handled by wireless routers and ones computer now. I guess I am missing something with the need for HVAC control and video distribution. Please educate me. I currently live in a 6600 sf house with two zone heating and air that uses inexpensive setback thermostats that work on a weekly schedule. My house also uses Lutron RadioRA lighting that is controlled by a wall plate as well as any one of my Universal Remote Controls. Video distribution uses home-runned RG6 cabling to each room and audio distribution is provided in 11 zones by Sonos Zone players. I might add that for music complete control is provided by these cool controllers that can be wall mounted. They have instant selection of all my music stored via lossless FLAC format on standard NAS and easily accessible to create playlists on the fly as well as see album art for my selection. I have only had 6 different streams of audio in the 11 zones, I haven't tried more. I can also combine individual zones on the fly as the need arises, instantly. Truly a flexible device. My computers (6 desktops and 3 laptops) are wirelessly connected through a Linksys router. I have two separate locations (one for each floor) for printing wirelessly. The only wires run were RG6 for video.

NetStreams DigiLinX supports fully uncompressed WAV as well as MP3. Which is why I was asking you to clarify your comment about "better audio."

You have what sounds like a very nice solution for your needs. I am not in any way discounting people who choose other products. There is a feature:cost curve that the market will drive and everyone falls on it differently based on their needs and budget. The most successful companies communicate clearly with their customers where they fit and the market generally does a really good job letting the company know if their features have fallen out of line with their cost.

To answer your question, we are integrating HVAC, lighting, security, digital video, IP speakers, IP cameras, and other external devices with our systems based on customer requests and market feedback. To be more specific, the problem that we are trying to solve is that the high-end customers who choose DigiLinX are seeking an "all-in-one" solution to the various control systems that they have around the house. They don't want a separate HVAC and Lighting system controller. Most don't want to think about where or how they store their audio, and will buy a high-end music server like an Escient or ReQuest have even pay a dealer to rip their CD's onto their system for them (we had a dealer who's homeowner paid them to rip 3000+ CD's onto a server for them). They especially don't want 3 or 4 different touchscreens in their wall. So they look for solutions to collapse that functionality into one system. We are driving that integration with Aprilaire, Lutron, Panasonic, and others.

Is this level of integration a need for you (or most on AVS, who skew DIY)? Perhaps not - but we do serve a distinct market with those features who consider them valuable.

NetStreams DigiLinX supports fully uncompressed WAV as well as MP3. Which is why I was asking you to clarify your comment about "better audio."So the "better" audio is truly a wash. ie the same quality and dependant on the quality and location of the speaker reproducing the sound. The digital waveform is essentially identical.

To answer your question, we are integrating HVAC, lighting, security, digital video, IP speakers, IP cameras, and other external devices with our systems based on customer requests and market feedback. To be more specific, the problem that we are trying to solve is that the high-end customers who choose DigiLinX are seeking an "all-in-one" solution to the various control systems that they have around the house. They don't want a separate HVAC and Lighting system controller. Most don't want to think about where or how they store their audio, and will buy a high-end music server like an Escient or ReQuest have even pay a dealer to rip their CD's onto their system for them (we had a dealer who's homeowner paid them to rip 3000+ CD's onto a server for them). They especially don't want 3 or 4 different touchscreens in their wall. So they look for solutions to collapse that functionality into one system. We are driving that integration with Aprilaire, Lutron, Panasonic, and others.

Very Cool! Is this "All-in-one" solutions human interface provided via a PC or some other controller/controlling mechanism?

You say their is no HVAC or lighting system controller. Is this replaced by your controlling mechanism or can one still have the HVAC thermostat and wall switches on the wall as well as your "controller"

For your knowledge, I had looked at Control4 and Fusion Research and the "control" they provide and was not impressed (meaning, I saw little value there especially for their cost in relation with their solutions). Is Digilinx different from these attempted solutions? In what ways? operation, setup, performance, cost?

Very Cool! Is this "All-in-one" solutions human interface provided via a PC or some other controller/controlling mechanism?

You say their is no HVAC or lighting system controller. Is this replaced by your controlling mechanism or can one still have the HVAC thermostat and wall switches on the wall as well as your "controller"

For your knowledge, I had looked at Control4 and Fusion Research and the "control" they provide and was not impressed (meaning, I saw little value there especially for their cost in relation with their solutions). Is Digilinx different from these attempted solutions? In what ways? operation, setup, performance, cost?

The user interface is produced by our TouchLinX product, which is an in-wall touchscreen. It also acts as a web server and can be accessed by a PC, web tablet, or PDA.

On how we interface with 3rd party systems, we have a box called a ControLinX, which is an RS-232 to Ethernet converter. Most of our partners have an RS-232 port on their system that we plug into and then can control their features. Aprilaire for example has a protocol adapter that we plug into and then we can emulate their keypad from our UI. Homeowners can choose to keep the native keypads in the wall for their other systems, and some do for strategic areas, but for the most part they control their system through DigiLinX where they can to cut down on "wall acne."

The biggest difference between DigiLinX and the other systems you mention is that DigiLinX was built over IP from the ground up. That gives us some advantage in integrating new systems that will grow as the market moves to IP. As for setup, operation and performance, based on feedback from our customers, all three are good but there is always room to improve. Setup we mostly get feedback from our dealers, since DigiLinX is not a DIY product. Operation and performance are generally perceived by end-customers as byproducts of the user interface, e.g. does it "look good," does it fit in the decor of a multi-million dollar home. Plus our audio performance is very high, since we locate the amp very close to the speaker. This reduces heat (smaller amps), and the potential for analog signal loss. Sonos is similar, but most of our competitors in the Multi-Room Audio space still use centralized amps with long runs of speaker wire.

For your knowledge, I had looked at Control4 and Fusion Research and the "control" they provide and was not impressed (meaning, I saw little value there especially for their cost in relation with their solutions).

You must have not looked at Control4 very hard...but, if you really feel that way you will see no added value in DigiLinX or AMX, Crestron and Elan either. And that's fine...highly integrated control systems are not for everyone.

Brent Huskins
Media Design

You must have not looked at Control4 very hard...but, if you really feel that way you will see no added value in DigiLinX or AMX, Crestron and Elan either. And that's fine...highly integrated control systems are not for everyone.

Brent Huskins
Media Design
Don't get me wrong, the WOW :eek: factor is there. The can I really do that is there but then after that feeling had gone away. Meaning I spoke to my wife about the toys and she "showed" me the practicality of them and the budget limitations. Yep even with a million dollar house I still had budget limitations. She convinced me against it, Life is so unfair. But the boat is fun

Can anybody elucidate the difference between Audio Authority and Netstream Panarama video distribution systems?

Can anybody elucidate the difference between Audio Authority and Netstream Panarama video distribution systems?

I can give you a basic breakdown:

Audio Authority AVX-661

Supports 6 Sources, 8 Displays (stackable up to 36 displays)
Supports 720p/1080i/1080p
DVI out at the head end
IR routing through separate break-out box
Digital audio distribution (optical or S/PDIF), and analog audio routing (line level)
Double gang wallplates
IR in and out to control displays
Requires 2xCat5 run to each video location
Retail cost: approx $3459


NetStreams Panorama

Supports 4 Sources, 6 Displays (stackable up to 18 displays)
Supports 720p/1080i
Integrated IR routing
Digital audio distribution (S/PDIF), analog audio routing requires a multi-room audio system like NetStreams Musica or DigiLinX
Single gang video port wallplates
IR in and out to control displays
Single Cat5 run to each video location
Tight integration with other NetStreams products
Not sold at retail, available from a NetStreams dealer at a competitive price

Can someone from Netstreams answer these 2 questions for me?

1. Why did you decide to create a dedicated computer for the Streaming Music Manager (SMM100)?
According to these specs, it is a simple computer with a mediocre chipset (VIA) and a value, if not, outdated CPU (1GHz). Most of us could pick up this hardware for a couple hundred dollars and there is nothing special about it except for the Micro/ITX form factor.

Did the thought of licensing Digital Fidelity's Mining/Database software with your customizations cross your mind so that customers did not need another appliance and to cut down costs? Was this not an option through your licensing agreement with them? Your apparent $3000 MSDP (Manufacurer Suggested Dealer Price) is pretty steep compared to a Request Server that does the same job with out the extra storge required.

This is not a flame but more of a question as to why you did it this way, perhaps some light may be shed upon an area I may have misunderstood.

2. Also, there seems to be rumors of a price drop. Can these rumors be confirmed?

Thanks,
styxx

Bump...

I am still waiting for an answer. Where have all the Netstreams guys gone?
Perhaps they were at CEDIA. =)

1. Why did you decide to create a dedicated computer for the Streaming Music Manager (SMM100)?
According to these specs, it is a simple computer with a mediocre chipset (VIA) and a value, if not, outdated CPU (1GHz). Most of us could pick up this hardware for a couple hundred dollars and there is nothing special about it except for the Micro/ITX form factor.

You are correct that the SMM is a PC-based appliance. We chose the specific hardware to match the needs of the embedded software.

Did the thought of licensing Digital Fidelity's Mining/Database software with your customizations cross your mind so that customers did not need another appliance and to cut down costs? Was this not an option through your licensing agreement with them? Your apparent $3000 MSDP (Manufacurer Suggested Dealer Price) is pretty steep compared to a Request Server that does the same job with out the extra storge required.

I can't speak to our agreement with Digital Fidelity, but I can say that the appliance model is better because we can control the quality, in the software model we have to take into account lots of additional variables that drive up the cost of support and design, and lengthen the time to market.

The comparison to ReQuest is inevitable but also inaccurate. The SMM serves a different market (we still work extensively with RQ). RQ is for people who want a central, managed, music store. SMM is for users who don't want or need that capability and want to manage their music collection where it lives - on their PC's. Plus, dealers can build end users a NAS and upgrade the storage over time much cheaper than through other media server options. The economics of the SMM, when you consider the current and future cost of storage vs. being locked into a certain size with a media server, bear out.

Also, there seems to be rumors of a price drop. Can these rumors be confirmed?

Sorry, I cannot speak to pricing online, since we do not have a MSRP (we do not sell at retail).

Paul,
Thanks for the reply.
Anything new coming down the pipe? Such as 3rd party compatibilty integration?

In the last month, we just released a 3rd party API that allows dealers to write drivers for any RS-232 controllable subsystem. So now you should be able to interface your NetStreams system with almost anything.

you have to love this new marketing stragegy by manufacturers. I know some of the scaler forums have manufacturers participating but over the past year we have seen quite a few manufacturers playing here. I must have missed Paul when I toured the Netsteams booth. Or maybe I was paying too much attention to Petra.

Alan

For most of the show I was out walking the floor, so we missed each other. Hope you did get a chance to see some of the new stuff, like IP Video, DoorLinX, and Streaming Music Manager.

Audiblesolutions,
I hear ya, getting the info from the people that know is definitely a luxury. From my experience it seems that getting good customer service or even being connected with the person requires jumping through hoops.

Paul, we appreciate your activity in these forums.
So, Doorlinx? Thats not on your website yet is it? Could you elaborate on what this is and how it works?

DoorLinX is a product we showed for the first time at CEDIA. It is the world's first IP-based Door Station. It has a doorbell and intercom function, integrates with IP cameras, and has a door strike relay to allow users to remotely open the door. You can set your doorbell to your choice of MP3 and have it play throughout the house on the DigiLinX system.

You'll see it on our website soon.

Paul,

what are the differences between Panaorama and the new video distribution system you just announced?

Or maybe I was paying too much attention to Petra.

When I saw her all she wanted to talk about was surfing. Go figure.

Paul,

what are the differences between Panaorama and the new video distribution system you just announced?

In a nutshell, Panorama is analog video distribution and IP-Video is digital. In Panorama, there is a central Video Distribution Center (like a matrix switch with IR routing and intelligence), that all the sources connect to, and from the VDC you hook up video ports over Ethernet that output component (or S-Video, or composite). The VDC can be externally controlled by RS-232 but it is a centralized model and your limit is the amount of sources and displays supported by Panorama (4x6 for one unit, stackable to >4x100)

In IP-Video, there is no limit. Each source gets an encoder box, which takes in component and packages it up on the network. Video is routed via TCP/IP over a gigabit Ethernet switch, to a decoder at each display location, which outputs component (or S-Video, or composite). Your only limit is how many decoders and encoders you need. You can broadcast one source to 20 displays or 10 sources to 10 displays. Each display can watch something different, or all the same, with no quality loss. Video is sent uncompressed over the network. Plus once the signal is on the network there will be some cool stuff we can do like overlays and other FX.

Where can one find information on the new IP-Video?
You mentioned that each source will need an encoder. Does the device that contains the encoder, also contain a decoder for a display? Or are these separate units?
Generally, video sources, and displays usually sit pretty close to each other, unless your sources are centralized in a closet.

We don't have the info up on the web yet (you'll see more from us as we get closer to shipping in Q1). The way we've built the system today, all of the decoders also have an encoder, the thinking being that most people have a source at their display location, so you can encode and retransmit that source back to the network from your living room. Over time as people migrate their sources to a wiring closet or other central location, you can use just the encoder there.

Wow Paul, thanks for the quick reply, in the meantime I answered my question as I was browsing your News page.

http://www.netstreams.com/Documents/NetStreams%20IP%20Video.pdf

This is exciting to see it coming out in Q1. I imagine that if a new installation we being designed, that the new Gigabit switch would/could replace the need for buying a 10/100 model currently used for audio distribution.

Can you give details on how many GB switches will be offered and the # of ports per unit?

also if possble the price RATIO compared to Panarama

I imagine that if a new installation we being designed, that the new Gigabit switch would/could replace the need for buying a 10/100 model currently used for audio distribution.

Can you give details on how many GB switches will be offered and the # of ports per unit?

Yes, the gigabit switch will also handle audio, so when it comes out you can use it in place of the SW324.

Right now we are still finalizing the models and details of the switches that will ship as part of the solution, so I can't say yet on the port density or details. I will say that there will be enough ports to be highly competitive in the market in terms of existing video matrix switches sources x displays.

also if possble the price RATIO compared to Panarama

I can't quote a ratio yet, sorry. We are aiming for <$1500 per display location for the entire system (#'s will vary based on system size, we anticipate IP-Video will go more commercial than residential, and be larger in size than all but the biggest residential installs).

I hope I'm posting in the correct thread. This does appear to be a generic Netstreams thread :)

Question around IP Cam support on TouchLinx:

What must a camera support to be displayed on a TouchLinx? Appears to be MJPEG? Any specific cameras tested outside Panasonic?

Has anyone integrated an Axis camera / video server with TouchLinx?

I hope I'm posting in the correct thread. This does appear to be a generic Netstreams thread :)

Question around IP Cam support on TouchLinx:

What must a camera support to be displayed on a TouchLinx? Appears to be MJPEG? Any specific cameras tested outside Panasonic?

Has anyone integrated an Axis camera / video server with TouchLinx?

Hi Jannie,

There are a couple of ways to integrate a camera with DigiLinX today. First, you can buy a natively supported camera like the Panasonic models. They are the only models specifically tested and supported to be shown on the TouchLinX today (yes, they utilize MJPEG).

Second, with a Panorama system integrated with DigiLinX, you can integrate almost any analog camera (up to 4) and distribute them to multiple displays (up to 6 with one Panorama). DigiLinX can control Panorama from the TouchLinX but you will need a display to watch the output, it is not shown on the TouchLinX.

Third, we are coming out with IP-Video support in Q107. When that is available you will also be able to integrate any analog camera to one of our encoders, and view it at any display location with a decoder.

For other IP-based cameras, your dealer may be able to write a driver to integrate it with our system.

Hi Jannie,

There are a couple of ways to integrate a camera with DigiLinX today. First, you can buy a natively supported camera like the Panasonic models. They are the only models specifically tested and supported to be shown on the TouchLinX today (yes, they utilize MJPEG).

Second, with a Panorama system integrated with DigiLinX, you can integrate almost any analog camera (up to 4) and distribute them to multiple displays (up to 6 with one Panorama). DigiLinX can control Panorama from the TouchLinX but you will need a display to watch the output, it is not shown on the TouchLinX.

Third, we are coming out with IP-Video support in Q107. When that is available you will also be able to integrate any analog camera to one of our encoders, and view it at any display location with a decoder.

For other IP-based cameras, your dealer may be able to write a driver to integrate it with our system.

Paul, thanks for the reply.

The way I understand the system, is to point it to the URL generating the MJPEG stream, where would the drivers come in?

If I point the TouchLinx to the MJPEG stream from an Axis server, whould that work?

Lastly, why did you guys decide on Panasonic? We battle quite a lot with local Panasonic support and they don't have a decent range of IP video servers that can use analog cameras as Axis provide.

Thanks again!

PS. We are a dealer!

Paul, thanks for the reply.

The way I understand the system, is to point it to the URL generating the MJPEG stream, where would the drivers come in?

If I point the TouchLinx to the MJPEG stream from an Axis server, whould that work?

Lastly, why did you guys decide on Panasonic? We battle quite a lot with local Panasonic support and they don't have a decent range of IP video servers that can use analog cameras as Axis provide.

Thanks again!

PS. We are a dealer!

One of my guys saw this note and informed me that there has been some work on the Axis cameras with our system - it depends on the model and what you're trying to do. Email me at pyoung@netstreams.com and I'll get you sorted out.

Paul

Lastly, why did you guys decide on Panasonic? We battle quite a lot with local Panasonic support and they don't have a decent range of IP video servers that can use analog cameras as Axis provide.
A complaint about Panasonic support? What a surprise ;)! I've been on a 10 year search for a support division that has more contempt for their customers, but have yet to find one :).

Changing topic to 3rd party control:

I understand that Aprilaire is compatible with Digilinx. Could you please elaborate on what Aprilaire components are required in order to control HVAC using the Digilinx UI. Is it a thermostat that or some other piece of hardare that is required? (please specify models)

Also, is a Controllinx required to integrate Aprilaire?

What Lutron models are controllable. I understand that Radio RA is compatible but are there others from Lutron that will work too?

Paul,

I thought there was some word on getting a larger Touchlink screen size???

Also if thinking on reworking the screen itself. The front door products now have some class with Brush Aluminum etc but when will this happen with the touch panels???

Take a look at: http://www.coloradovnet.com/audio/vibe_touchscreen.aspx

I am not comparing products but this is one of the nicest touchscreens on the market from any company and rather inexpensive also........

Any chance of something more attactive like that in upcoming products????

Also will there be anything "new" at CES that was not shown at Cedia???

Thanks so much.

Larry

Changing topic to 3rd party control:

I understand that Aprilaire is compatible with Digilinx. Could you please elaborate on what Aprilaire components are required in order to control HVAC using the Digilinx UI. Is it a thermostat that or some other piece of hardare that is required? (please specify models)

Also, is a Controllinx required to integrate Aprilaire?

What Lutron models are controllable. I understand that Radio RA is compatible but are there others from Lutron that will work too?

We can control RadioRA and Homeworks. You'll need the Aprilaire 8811 Protocol Adapter and a NetStreams ControLinX.

Paul,

I thought there was some word on getting a larger Touchlink screen size???

Also if thinking on reworking the screen itself. The front door products now have some class with Brush Aluminum etc but when will this happen with the touch panels???

Take a look at: http://www.coloradovnet.com/audio/vibe_touchscreen.aspx

I am not comparing products but this is one of the nicest touchscreens on the market from any company and rather inexpensive also........

Any chance of something more attactive like that in upcoming products????

Also will there be anything "new" at CES that was not shown at Cedia???

Thanks so much.

Larry

Hi Larry - we won't be exhibiting at CES this year. We will be at EH Expo West in November with one new product (can't say what yet).

RE: larger touchscreens and different finish options; yes that's something we're aware of and are actively working towards. I don' t have any dates I can reveal however.

Paul

Paul,

What is playmates (not that Playmate!!) and could you give an example of two on how to use it???

Thanks,

Larry

Playmates is a feature that we introduced a few months ago. It lets you "link" 2 or more SpeakerLinX so that they "play together" (hence, playmates). This is useful in large rooms where you want more power than one amp. Other people use it in a bedroom/bathroom combination, so that they can manage the rooms as one. In commercial installations, it would be useful if you have a large hall or meeting room that you want to treat as one, but have several SpeakerLinX driving the audio.

Thanks Paul,

Is playmates a software or hardware option???

I thought I could already lock a couple zones together with Digilinks????

Also if the playmate zones play together is it easy to unlock them so they play seperate streams??? If so can this be done from the interface???

Sorry to pry but when you say a new product at EHX...I would assume that this is something that was not shown at Cedia????

Thanks again for your participation in this thread.

Larry

Thanks Paul,

Is playmates a software or hardware option???

I thought I could already lock a couple zones together with Digilinks????

Also if the playmate zones play together is it easy to unlock them so they play seperate streams??? If so can this be done from the interface???

Sorry to pry but when you say a new product at EHX...I would assume that this is something that was not shown at Cedia????

Thanks again for your participation in this thread.

Larry

Playmates is a software/firmware option. It can be loaded onto existing hardware with a software upgrade (free as a dealer). You can lock zones together already, but playmates lets you lock SpeakerLinX together within one zone. They then act as one, including playing whatever stream is going to the zone. Once paired up, they can be unpaired in Dealer Setup.

Yes, we may be showing something @ EHX that wasn't at CEDIA.

Paul,

Thanks so much.

Larry

It is nice that the playmate feature is just a firmware upgrade. It just goes to show that software driven solutions are very scalable and dynamic.
I can't wait to see what else is coming in the future.

Back to the Aprilaire controls, i read that the Aprilaire 8811 protocol adapter does not provide the functionality to program in temperature changes at specific times of the day. Also, the Digilinx system does not contain a clock which means that this type of functionality it not provided by going with the Aprilaire solution.

Does Netstreams plan to integrate other HVAC thermostats / adapters, or perhaps integrate a clock and scheduling functions so that the digilinx actually controls the HVAC and uses devices like the 8811 strictly as a delivery mechanism to communicate the signal?

What has everyone else done as far as finding a solution to controlling HVAC through Digilinx? (writing own drivers?)

Paul,

One more question.

If the media manager takes all the wav and mp3's on the network and makes a file of them per se can this entire file be copied and put on a harddrive for backup. So if I have a computer and just make a file to put all the songs on the network in one file .... I hope this was clear.

Will Netstreams be able to do this with video like show on a hardrive???

Do you use the panarama or new ip video coming out to record in one location and view in another one???

Thanks again,

Larry

Larry,
I think I can answer this and Paul and correct me if I am wrong.
The media server does not make copies of the .mp3 and .wav files on your network shares. It manages a catalogue (database) and creates an entry per file(song) you have on a network share. In each entry there is a pointer to where this song resides and it may even contain the metadata (I am not 100% sure about that). This database is dynamic and will remove entries when shares are disconnected from the network.

To answer you question about backing up your songs, the easiest way to do this is actually to make copies of the songs them selves or install RAID (Random Array of Inexpensive Disks) on your music server and mirror the drive so that if one crashes then you won't be SOL. What this means in laymens is you will have 2 or more hard drives, and they will be mirror images of each other.

Even if backing up the database is possible it would still require some know how on databases and how they work. Backing them up is tricker then just backing up files.

Hope this helps.

Styxx-78,

Thanks for your answers. I understand raids and backing up drives I was just thinking of another application for this....brainstorming per se......

I think your explanation was right on also

Thanks,

Larry

I have yet to play with the SMM but am really looking forward to it. It really suits my needs as I have media in multiple locations on my network. Since that media is already shared, as my Xbox is setup as a media centre, there would be little to no configuration of my current network.

Has anyone out there integrated any Proliphix IP based thermostats with their Digilinx system?
Is this possible? Or must we wait for Netstreams to configure this into the dealer setup for these components to work?

Netstreams did an overhaul on their website.
Check it out at:
www.netstreams.com (http://www.netstreams.com)

Looks great!

It is nice that the playmate feature is just a firmware upgrade. It just goes to show that software driven solutions are very scalable and dynamic.
I can't wait to see what else is coming in the future.

Back to the Aprilaire controls, i read that the Aprilaire 8811 protocol adapter does not provide the functionality to program in temperature changes at specific times of the day. Also, the Digilinx system does not contain a clock which means that this type of functionality it not provided by going with the Aprilaire solution.

Does Netstreams plan to integrate other HVAC thermostats / adapters, or perhaps integrate a clock and scheduling functions so that the digilinx actually controls the HVAC and uses devices like the 8811 strictly as a delivery mechanism to communicate the signal?

What has everyone else done as far as finding a solution to controlling HVAC through Digilinx? (writing own drivers?)

You are correct, the Aprilaire 8811 protocol adapter does not contain Monday-Sunday scheduling, all it does is...adapt...umm...protocols :)

The DigiLinX system can keep time, but does not have a date/time clock. We are going to integrate the clock function in the future. Until the clock is in place, I can't speculate on scheduling functions, but I will say that is a highly requested feature so I am sure we will address it.

As far as other HVAC drivers, today we only support Aprilaire, but any dealer can now write a custom driver with our open (free) API.

Paul,

One more question.

If the media manager takes all the wav and mp3's on the network and makes a file of them per se can this entire file be copied and put on a harddrive for backup. So if I have a computer and just make a file to put all the songs on the network in one file .... I hope this was clear.

Will Netstreams be able to do this with video like show on a hardrive???

Do you use the panarama or new ip video coming out to record in one location and view in another one???

Thanks again,

Larry

styxx_78 is correct in that the SMM does not copy the files it finds, it makes an index of them in its database. So there is nothing to copy from the SMM for backup of media files. A media server or RAID would be the way to go, if you are interested in keeping redundant copies of your media.

RE: video, once the IP video products are out the door, we will come with some new product ideas, but I can't speak about them yet.

With Panorama and IP Video, you can already record in one location and watch in (many) others. It just depends on your setup.

Netstreams did an overhaul on their website.
Check it out at:
www.netstreams.com (http://www.netstreams.com)

Looks great!

Thanks!

Has anyone out there integrated any Proliphix IP based thermostats with their Digilinx system?
Is this possible? Or must we wait for Netstreams to configure this into the dealer setup for these components to work?

We have an API that will allow NetStreams dealers to write the code to integrate any RS-232 or IP device.

I talked to a local rep for Netstreams here in southern california, and he informed me that there was no way to integrate internet radio into the streaming capabilities of the new media manager box. What is the reason for this? Do you plan to add it in the future?

I can buy a $250 SlimDevices that will allow me to access my 300GB NAS MP3 collection [I have 2200 CDs, so all legally ripped! :) ] over my home network, plus stream tons of internet radio stations. Only downside is the gui is not the best. I'd love to be able to have integrated MP3 & internet radio capability, yet still be able to control things and view metadata on a DigiLinx TouchLinx. The only thing that DigiLinx is providing me with the music manager is the software and integration with the LCD display touchpad. But at three grand (or so)!

I talked to a local rep for Netstreams here in southern california, and he informed me that there was no way to integrate internet radio into the streaming capabilities of the new media manager box. What is the reason for this? Do you plan to add it in the future?

I can buy a $250 SlimDevices that will allow me to access my 300GB NAS MP3 collection [I have 2200 CDs, so all legally ripped! :) ] over my home network, plus stream tons of internet radio stations. Only downside is the gui is not the best. I'd love to be able to have integrated MP3 & internet radio capability, yet still be able to control things and view metadata on a DigiLinx TouchLinx. The only thing that DigiLinx is providing me with the music manager is the software and integration with the LCD display touchpad. But at three grand (or so)!

We haven't added internet radio to date. It is something we're looking at.

RE: cost vs. a retail device, we sell DigiLinX components of a custom-installed system, not a one-off device. Customers who buy DigiLinX are getting an installed, working appliance, not a device that they have to setup and configure themselves, so we are playing in a slightly different market.

Paul,
Any news you can share on upcoming hardware?

Paul,
Any news you can share on upcoming hardware?

Nothing I can talk about right now sorry! We will be showing something new at EHX in mid-Nov, however, and I'll update this thread when it comes out.

I was looking at my Digilinx design and had a question.
I have a two story house and plan to put in-ceiling speakers in the master bedroom and ensuite each with their own speakerlinx. The master bed and ensuite are on the upper floor which means that the ceiling will be insulated (probably blown insulation).

Is there a code/suggestion/recommendation as to where I may put my speakerlinx in this case? I know it is recommended to put it as close to the speaker as possible, but in this case would it perhaps be smarter to put it in the wall next to the Touchlinx panel?

We haven't added internet radio to date. It is something we're looking at.

Any timeframe? Next quarter, next year? I'm looking for an install in Feb. 2007, so if I have some assurance that it will be coming within six-months of then, I'm comfortable with pulling the trigger. The Sonos system has the same basic features of the Music Manager box, but adds streaming and a very nice gui.

I'm curious what the customer can do with the on-board 80gb HDD and USB ports in the Music Manager? Are there future features planned? Will I be able to log-into the box and drag drop stuff from my network to the local drive? Just curious to the level of interactivity that I can have with it.

I was looking at my Digilinx design and had a question.
I have a two story house and plan to put in-ceiling speakers in the master bedroom and ensuite each with their own speakerlinx. The master bed and ensuite are on the upper floor which means that the ceiling will be insulated (probably blown insulation).

Is there a code/suggestion/recommendation as to where I may put my speakerlinx in this case? I know it is recommended to put it as close to the speaker as possible, but in this case would it perhaps be smarter to put it in the wall next to the Touchlinx panel?

We recommend 6 inches of airspace around the SpeakerLinX, so don't bury it in insulation please! :) You can use a wall bracket and mount it to a truss in the ceiling if you want it in the attic, or some installers will put mount it to a stud in the room's closet and cover it with a wall plate for each access later. It depends on the layout.

Any timeframe? Next quarter, next year? I'm looking for an install in Feb. 2007, so if I have some assurance that it will be coming within six-months of then, I'm comfortable with pulling the trigger. The Sonos system has the same basic features of the Music Manager box, but adds streaming and a very nice gui.

Wish I could give you more details, but we generally don't talk about products that are more than 90 days out due to competitive reasons. Because of the dynamic nature of our business and long lead times in manufacturing, things change. We don't want to get people excited about a product that may or may not ship so we limit our public speaking to products that are about to hit the market.

I'm curious what the customer can do with the on-board 80gb HDD and USB ports in the Music Manager? Are there future features planned? Will I be able to log-into the box and drag drop stuff from my network to the local drive? Just curious to the level of interactivity that I can have with it.

The USB ports can be used today to plug in USB hard drives, or portable media players like the iPod (SMM can read MP3's from the iPod). RE: using the SMM to drag and drop files across your network, we are staying away from any copying of media for copyright reasons. Microsoft makes file copy tools that we haven't seen fit to replicate or compete with.

I was poking around the new & improved NetStreams web-site, and I was having trouble finding information about how I might be able to tie-in a home-security system into the StreamNet? Would I use one of the ControlLynx via RS232? Does Netstreams have partners, or can it be integrated with just about any home security system?

Wish I could give you more details, but we generally don't talk about products that are more than 90 days out due to competitive reasons. Because of the dynamic nature of our business and long lead times in manufacturing, things change. We don't want to get people excited about a product that may or may not ship so we limit our public speaking to products that are about to hit the market.

This seems like a software update to me, not a hardware change. I just want the confidence that there are indeed plans to add features to the SMM, or will it be obsoleted in less than a year, and thus my investment goes down the trash. I realize that all products are obsoleted. It's just that this hardware is lacking an important feature right now, and without the SMM, I see no reason to even go with DigiLynx!


The USB ports can be used today to plug in USB hard drives, or portable media players like the iPod (SMM can read MP3's from the iPod). RE: using the SMM to drag and drop files across your network, we are staying away from any copying of media for copyright reasons. Microsoft makes file copy tools that we haven't seen fit to replicate or compete with.

So I will have the ability to copy files to/from the internal hard drive? I will be able to log-into this box as though it is any other windows xp box on my network? Or will the drive be shared, so I can at least "see it" from elsewhere on the netowork? If not, then why even bother with an 80gb drive?

And just to confirm, the *only* files this box will find are MP3's and uncompressed WAV? If I have AAC on my iPod, which I plug into the USB port, will the software find the files and make them available for streaming?

Thanks!

bondisdead,
In my opinion, even if I had access to the HDD on the SMM, I wouldn't even touch it.
Considering the price of the unit and what it would take to rebuild it if you screwed somethign up it would not be worth it to gain a bit more storage. And when I say rebuild it, I don't mean you, I mean Netstreams, as you probably don't have Windows XP SP2 Embedded and the special mining database software that makes this unit so enticing.

By todays standards, 80 GB is not a lot of storage space considering you could probably find a 250 GB HDD for under $100.

If you need extra storage spend a couple hundred on a NAS solution or add another HDD to your computer.

styxx_78

The only problem I have is it says somewhere on the Netstreams site of "unlimited" music or when connected ability to connect to all the music on the network. I might not be understanding but 80g is not unlimited or does the mining software just search and hold the music sorta like virtually or virtual server for access???

Having this point to a larger hard drive or nas just makes sense.

Larry

Larry,
Here is an example as I try to explain how it will work.

Let's say you have a computer in your office, with an external hard drive attached to it. And another computer in a common area that the family uses.
Both of these computers have music on them that you would like to play using your Digilinx system.

What the SMM does, is search your home network for folders that are shared and that contain music. So, in this example we have 3 sources.
What the SMM does with these sources is make a catalogue of all the songs from these sources. For each song the following information would be stored with each song in the catalogue: Artist, Song Name, Album, Album art, and which location it resides.

What the SMM does NOT do, is make a copy of your song and copy it to the SMM. Like you said, this is not a lot of storage space for music (especially if it is uncompressed).

When Netstreams says "virtually unlimited" what they are referring to is the size limit of the catalogue(database) that holds all of information about your songs.
When you condier that it is only entries in a database and not actually the songs them selves, 80 GB is A LOT. (I am going to estimate in the millions)

Another way to look at it is that the SMM is esentially a dynamic master list of all of your music on the network with a pointer to know where is physically is.

When you access your Touchlinx and select SMM as your source, all of your songs, from all 3 sources will appear as if they are all in the same location. (On the SMM)

The only things you need to configure in order for the SMM to see your music collections are the following.

1. They are on, or are connected to a computer, that is connected to the Digilinx network.
2. The folder that the music sits in is "Shared".

Hope this helps,

styxx

Disclaimer: Please correct me if I am wrong on any of this information as I have never actually seen, or played with a Digilinx system.

Oh, I don't really intend to store my music on the 80gb drive, I was just trying to figure out if I "could" access it? How open is the SMM? How does it perform backups of the OS, in the event of a crash? Do I have to call my installer for a $200 house-call to fix it, when I imagine I could recover it myself. I guess I'm too much of a DIY kind of guy!!

I'm also curious why they would even bother with putting in a 80gb drive, if nobody uses it. WHy not just 20 or 40gb, and save us some money?!

Styxx-78

That is pretty much the way I see it also but it's nice to bounce this off someone else. Good explanation BTW.

I do see value in this since I can have a Media Center for video and music and take the music off that computer and use it as a nas ...sorta speak....Plus the dreaded Ipod etc that the kids have (I am a Creavtive m zen guy) and having an area (touchlinx, computer,pda) that we can all access the music from .

Larry

I'm also curious why they would even bother with putting in a 80gb drive, if nobody uses it. WHy not just 20 or 40gb, and save us some money?!

The cost difference between the three sizes stated above are rather inconsequential. The spread may be $20-$30. By using an 80GB Netstreams gives the database some breathing room for expansion. You have to remember that this system is not only designed for a small home installation (4-6 zones), it is capable of virtually unlimited zones and unlimited sources. If someone out there has a million songs on their network, will a 20GB drive handle it? I doubt it.


How does it perform backups of the OS

This was also somthing I was wondering as I have never worked with XP Embedded. I would like to know if the OS is actually stored on the hard drive for if it is stored on non-volatile memory somewhere so that you would only have to worry about rebuilding if that memory module actually failed.
Paul, can you elaborate on this a bit?

Plus the dreaded Ipod etc that the kids have (I am a Creavtive m zen guy) and having an area (touchlinx, computer,pda) that we can all access the music from

Larry, for your kids iPod, did you get an iPort? Or are you just going to attach it to a PC so that the SMM picks up the music off of it?
There a bit of an advantage to using an iPort seeing that the SMM does not instantaneously have all of the music available for any device as soon as you plug it in. I have read there is approx. a 15 minute deplay for the SMM to find new media and index it in it's database.
On the other hand, the iPort plugs directly into a Medialinx and the music on it will be available imeediately. Now, I may be wrong in saying this but I believe both solutions still provide Metadata.
Also, I think the iPort has a bit of "Cool factor" too, as you can cradle it right into a wall mounted cavity. :cool:

I am really excited to order my system in the spring (my house's foundation was just poured). I have been doing a lot of reading on this system and I feel like I should b able to hit the ground running. Who knows, I may only be book smart at this point but hopefully I will gain a better understanding of the systems capabilies once I get my hands on it.

The cost difference between the three sizes stated above are rather inconsequential. The spread may be $20-$30. By using an 80GB Netstreams gives the database some breathing room for expansion. You have to remember that this system is not only designed for a small home installation (4-6 zones), it is capable of virtually unlimited zones and unlimited sources. If someone out there has a million songs on their network, will a 20GB drive handle it? I doubt it.

This was also somthing I was wondering as I have never worked with XP Embedded. I would like to know if the OS is actually stored on the hard drive for if it is stored on non-volatile memory somewhere so that you would only have to worry about rebuilding if that memory module actually failed.
Paul, can you elaborate on this a bit?

You bring up a very good point. Future expansion. But I cannot image that much data actually being stored on the drive. The motherboard being used in this system is a standard micro ATX, so I'm sure the OS is installed on the hard-drive. I poked around the web-site of the company that provided the mining software, and they have a reference PC which has similar specs to the SMM. But a disaster recovery would be nice in the event the hard drive (eventually) fails.

I am really excited to order my system in the spring (my house's foundation was just poured). I have been doing a lot of reading on this system and I feel like I should b able to hit the ground running. Who knows, I may only be book smart at this point but hopefully I will gain a better understanding of the systems capabilies once I get my hands on it.

Just curious how extensive your system is going to be? Are you going to tie-in lighting and home security? We have all the walls exposed on a major remodel, so I have only a few weeks to finally decideo on the extent of what we are going to do. It get's so darned expensive when you start adding everything up!

I'm looking at four zones: Media Room, Home Office, Master Bedroom/Bathroom & Living Room. I would love to do video distribution, but the runs are too darn long for analog, so will laydown cat6 and hope that something comes along. So will have local video/surround rcvr in each room for the time being. Also have a security system, but I'm not sure it will directly tie-in with DigiLynx. Hoping it will!

Considering the cost, I've also considered the Sonos sytem, as it is considerably less expensive for a audio only distribution system.

My system will initially be a 4 zone (Kitchen, Dining, Master bed, Ensuite) and when the summer hits I will put in the 5th (patio) zone. I plan on putting in SL250's throughout except the ensuite.
I have looked into integrating HVAC but do not like the integration options at the moment.
I may look into security and lighting down the road but due to cost I will not be putting them in right away.

I have also looked at the Sonos system but decided not to go with it as I really like the technology being used in the Digilinx system. Over the next few years I predict that most household appliances will be IP controllable. Also, my plan is to eventually integrate other control items such as security, HVAC, irrigation, and lighting but that wil come with time.

Digilinx is still a young system and its growth potential is great as it is mostly software driven.
It seems as though Netstreams is very focused on creating new hardware at the moment as that's where they get their bread and butter. What I hope in the future is a better effort in integrating other IP based devices so that there will be a better choice when a 3rd party product is required.

But a disaster recovery would be nice in the event the hard drive (eventually) fails.

Perhaps Netstreams provides a Recovery CD or a recovery partition on the drive?

Larry, for your kids iPod, did you get an iPort? Or are you just going to attach it to a PC so that the SMM picks up the music off of it?

Styxx,

Iport will be there no worries. I just bought a Marantz 8001 av receiver with an ipod dock and will see how I can incorporate that.

bonisdead,

Look at the panarama for video distribution from netstreams with cat 5 etc. Also ip hd video will be released soon as another option.

I will be doing a 6 zone system and going to 8 zones once they come out with their larger panels and decor with 4 camera's and hvac and security to start and might add Lutron radio ra since it's easy to intergrate. Then I might mix this with the Exceptional innovation mce system but will see.

Larry

Larry:

They are coming out with better wall-unit or handheld remotes? If so, perhaps I will scale back my order and wait for those. I have indeed held off on video distribution until I can do it via IP based Cat6. I will be routing cat6 to my video display locations. I was thinking of Lutron lights, but at this point, I'm not sure I would use them that much! A switch costs $150, versus $30 for a standard dimming switch (or so my electrician tells me). So it's easy to upgrade later, eh? They are wireless, I believe.

Wow, there has been a lot of activity on this thread since I checked it last. I won't go thru and quote-answer every post but here are answers to some of the more freq. asked questions:

1) Why an 80G drive? The drive we chose met the best compromise between cost, performance, capacity, and reliability. We may use the same form-factor we used for the SMM for later products, so it makes sense for our POV to leave expansion room. The cost of a 20-40G drive is a negligible in the scope of this product. Plus, we may extend the functionality of the SMM through software later, in which case we may need the extra space.

2) Copying to-from the SMM: The SMM does not ever store the media files, so there is nothing to copy. The SMM is a database and network scanning device that finds and catalogs media playable through DigiLinX. There are lots of reasons we don't copy the music, copyright being one of them.

3) "Open-ness" of the SMM: The SMM is a closed system. We use Windows XP embedded with custom software built on top of it to perform specific functions. There is no way to add your own applications, or even to connect a keyboard or mouse (those ports are disabled and for troubleshooting by NetStreams only). In the event that an SMM fails, we would do a RMA and replace the unit.

An an alternative to the TL380, is anyone aware of a web tablet or touch screen that is dockable in the wall and removable to use wirelessly?

[QUOTE=Paul Young] The initial drivers will support GE security systems and Secant (international). They will be available at CEDIA (not physically obviously, but we will make them part of our software download in that timeframe).


Does anyone know which Alarm systems are supported by NetStreams? I have not seen any further information on which models of GE or Secant NetStreams will be supporting. If you put that information out at CEDIA I did not see it. Please advise. Thanks

2) Copying to-from the SMM: There are lots of reasons we don't copy the music, copyright being one of them.


I hope the others are technical reasons, because the copyright issue you raise is a red herring, get new counsel if this is really your reason.

[QUOTE]


Does anyone know which Alarm systems are supported by NetStreams? I have not seen any further information on which models of GE or Secant NetStreams will be supporting. If you put that information out at CEDIA I did not see it. Please advise. Thanks

For GE, we support the Concord v4 system.

I was poking around the new & improved NetStreams web-site, and I was having trouble finding information about how I might be able to tie-in a home-security system into the StreamNet? Would I use one of the ControlLynx via RS232? Does Netstreams have partners, or can it be integrated with just about any home security system?

Bondisdead,
Little known secret, but Cinemar now has a full 2 way integration with Netstreams Musica. We also have integration with HAI and ELK security systems. Our software bridges between these disparate systems into a common user interface and control system that mixes the best of the hardware (like Netstreams) and the flexibility / expandability of a PC based software lineup.
http://www.cinemaronline.com/mlserver.netstreams.mlmusica.html

We will be at the EHX West expo next week demonstrating this kind of hardware integration. Stop on by!

smoothtlk,

Tell Mario ...way to go....do you have or are you working on the Digilinx system????

Paul, This is something you want to look at and if done correctly will be a win/win for both companies. Mario has some of the best gui's as a reasonble price on the market and he is a first class type of guy. Just call as a customer and see....

Larry

Guys,
I am looking into adding a subwoofer to a zone or 2 in a Digilinx setup. From what I understand I need an Audio Port AP-300, AP-450, or AP-500.

In the install instructions it says that these need to be plugged into the EIM port on the Speakerlinx. Is this the only method of adding a sub to your system?

I did not wire for subs in my system as I thought my speakers would provide enough bass to keep me happy, now after testing them I am wondering if I should have prewired for audio ports aswell.

Is there any way around this? Can an Audio Port plug into my switch instead of the Speakerlinx?

You have to connect the Audio Port to the EIM port on the speakerlinx through cat 5.

You can use any of the 3 Audio Port models you mention. This assumes you are running line level into a sub (generally the best practice). This requires a single CAT5e from the SpeakerLinX EIM connector to the Audio Port.
If you want to go speaker level you take the speaker outputs from the SpeakerLinX via speaker wire.

Darn, looks like I am SOL then as I will not be physically able to run a cable from the speakerlinx to a location where I can put a subwoofer out of the way as this is my kitchen zone.

But, what If I were to add an additional Speakerlinx to the system, connect it to an Audioport through the EIM port (which will connect to a sub), would it be harmful to the speakerlinx if there were no speakers connected to it?

If this is not harmful to the hardware in any way this would give me the option to add a sub woofer and set it up as a playmate to anyzone in the house. This would essentially be a SUB-zone (pardon the pun).

Any thoughts?

No problem with that at all. I have several SpeakerLinX connected to other amplifiers.
It really is a room controller/DAC/preamp more than an amplifier.

You will also have lots of control of the sub level (versus the main speakers) by doing this.
Be aware that when using playmates the EQ on both units will default to the lowest common denominator (IOW, a SL250 will EQ like and SL220 if you pair them together in playmates).

Buzz,
Thats good to hear. How would it work if I wanted 2 inputs into my sub?
Example, I want to use the same sub on my Digilinx network aswell as part of my 5.1 theatre system. Does the AP take care of this?

That's a bit more complex, and there is more then one answer.
And more then one question.
If the sub is connected to a system in the room, why not just connect the SpeakerLinX to that system and use all the existing amplification and speakers?
I have a SpeakerLinX feeding my media room and supporting a stream from whatever I am playing (actually a Zone 2 output from my Lexicon processor) in the media room out into the rest of the house.

Obviously I am not familiar with your system, but there are probably at least a couple of ways to design this.

Buzz, any update on IP video?

IP Video is still on schedule for initial release in first quarter. It is very impressive.

If the sub is connected to a system in the room, why not just connect the SpeakerLinX to that system and use all the existing amplification and speakers?

My setup is very simple in this room, I have a 5.1 amp powering 5 speakers and a sub. Are you saying that I can use a SpeakerLinx as an input to this system? If so, I guess that would work and would eliminate the need for an Audioport.
Did I read you right?

My setup is very simple in this room, I have a 5.1 amp powering 5 speakers and a sub. Are you saying that I can use a SpeakerLinx as an input to this system? If so, I guess that would work and would eliminate the need for an Audioport.
Did I read you right?

Kinda...

Again, think of a SpeakerLinX as a room controller/DAC/preamp/poweramp (it is actually also an analog encoder/streamer and server...).
Having a SpeakerLinX in the media room is very handy. You can (using either and Audio Port or an EIM2RCA adaptor) play anything from the DigiLinX system in your media room as well as play anything from your media room into the rest of your house. I even added a small pair of cheap speakers into the media room so I can use the intercom functionality to get the kids to shut off the xBox and come on up for dinner :cool:

So,,, yes you will need a SpeakerLinX and an Audio Port (or the EIM2RCA adaptor which is an small enlcosed component version of the Audio Port). But you will get a LOT of functionality out of it!

IP Video is still on schedule for initial release in first quarter. It is very impressive.
Can you talk about how you are addressing HDCP/HDMI protected content? Is it going to be possible to stream multiple instances of an HDCP protected source to multiple monitors? For that matter, will it support HDMI?

BTW, can your GUI be customized (not just the oh so exciting skins :) ;)) by the dealer yet? Ever?

Thanks Buzz

From what I have seen and been told. No HDMI yet. Which means no 1080p yet. System will be released with 1080i only with component input. Was told there is issue with HDCP being used in this fashion. My guess is compliance. Other comapnies haver released at CES wireless HDMI with HDCP devices. My guess is that this is a proprietary protocol where Netstreams is an open standard vis TCPIP which could be the issue here. I am told that they are working on HDCP but wouldn't be apart of the initial release.

Buzz, let me know if I am wrong. Also, does the video over Ip have an SPDIF output at the monitor location? This way if you hook the device up to a receiver, like you do with the speakerlynx, you can get all of the surround modes for video sources like 5.1, 7.1 dolby HD, etc? Would be nice if the speakerlynx could have done spdif out as well, with a local source output or the EIM2SPDIF type adapter so the connection could be digital all the way to the receiver as well and no real need for D-A converting.

From what I have seen and been told. No HDMI yet. Which means no 1080p yet. System will be released with 1080i only with component input. Was told there is issue with HDCP being used in this fashion. My guess is compliance. Other comapnies haver released at CES wireless HDMI with HDCP devices. My guess is that this is a proprietary protocol where Netstreams is an open standard vis TCPIP which could be the issue here. I am told that they are working on HDCP but wouldn't be apart of the initial release.

That is more or less correct. Really what HDMI is in essence about is preventing a native signal being put on a network and shared. Right?
So you see the problem. We're working on that too though.

There's a some new not-too-techie IP Video Info (http://www.netstreams.com/OtherTech.aspx?ID=3) on our site.


Also, does the video over Ip have an SPDIF output at the monitor location? This way if you hook the device up to a receiver, like you do with the speakerlynx, you can get all of the surround modes for video sources like 5.1, 7.1 dolby HD, etc? Would be nice if the speakerlynx could have done spdif out as well, with a local source output or the EIM2SPDIF type adapter so the connection could be digital all the way to the receiver as well and no real need for D-A converting.

Yes indeed it can support multi-channel via S/PDIF out.
And yeah, I've wanted a digital output within DigiLinX since day 0.5 :mad:

BTW, can your GUI be customized (not just the oh so exciting skins :) ;)) by the dealer yet? Ever?

Not yet. Ever? YEah, we wil give you the rope :cool:

Not yet. Ever? YEah, we wil give you the rope :cool:
Actually, I'm trying to take the rope out of your hands. :p

I actually really like the interface Netstreams has come up with. Some of the skins are right up my alley.

On the other hand, there is nothing negative about the ability to add custom buttons to an already slick interface.

And yeah, I've wanted a digital output within DigiLinX since day 0.5

Quess you got shot down?

Here's another idea. A device that is basically a speakerlynx without the amp. This would reduce the expense of the unecessary amp, for these applications and could probably be a very small device. Could come integrated with the the spdif as discussed :) as well as the normmal local source hookups for connection to a sub, receiver and/or local source device. This would be great for retrofits where you might not be able to run more wiring from the speakerlynx to the local source input and would be easier to just run a new wire from the switchlynx.

As far as the playmates feature, does that work with the SL220 and well as the SL250? If so, can you run a SL220 in mono, so you have a left channel and another for the right channel in playmate mode? I originally bought the SL220's for our demo system and could have used the bigger power of the SL250. Figured this would be a good way to pump the volume. I will say that a sub makes a huge difference though. I had an SL220 hooked-up to bookshelf speakers and I cranked the volume and it really wasn't that loud. But then I made my own EIM2RCA cable (you didn't make the adapter then) and plugged into my powered sub and wow, what a difference the sub made. Way loud.

Actually, I'm trying to take the rope out of your hands. :p

Yeah but I might leave prints with y bare hands aroujd your neck :eek:

Here's another idea. A device that is basically a speakerlynx without the amp. This would reduce the expense of the unecessary amp, for these applications and could probably be a very small device. Could come integrated with the the spdif as discussed :) as well as the normmal local source hookups for connection to a sub, receiver and/or local source device. This would be great for retrofits where you might not be able to run more wiring from the speakerlynx to the local source input and would be easier to just run a new wire from the switchlinx.

The problem is you save little space or money given the level of integration we have achieved. You're forgetting about all the rest of the stuff in a SpeakerLinX.
Analog to Digital convertor, digital to analog covertor (both Burr Brown by the way), preamp, EQ, web server, and most importantly the StreamNet circuitry that makes it all work. Otherwise we would already ahve done what you are talking about. :D



As far as the playmates feature, does that work with the SL220 and well as the SL250? If so, can you run a SL220 in mono, so you have a left channel and another for the right channel in playmate mode? I originally bought the SL220's for our demo system and could have used the bigger power of the SL250. Figured this would be a good way to pump the volume. I will say that a sub makes a huge difference though. I had an SL220 hooked-up to bookshelf speakers and I cranked the volume and it really wasn't that loud. But then I made my own EIM2RCA cable (you didn't make the adapter then) and plugged into my powered sub and wow, what a difference the sub made. Way loud.

YOu can run them in summed mode, but as you have already observed what you will need is a sub if you want to rock. That is a function not only of the amps buit also the speakers typically used in multi-room.
I have a fairly efficient pair of older 3 way speakers in my workroom that play plenty loud with the Sl250, but getting good bass still requires a sub.
I use the Sl220's as DAC/preamp/room controllers...

The problem is you save little space or money given the level of integration we have achieved. You're forgetting about all the rest of the stuff in a SpeakerLinX.

I knew about all of the other stuff and that it would still have to exist but I figured the amp had to cost something :). Figured there would be some savings.

I use the Sl220's as DAC/preamp/room controllers...

Figures. All of the speakerlynx's I bought after the training, to use for our demo room/house was the Sl220's. I though that they would have fine but should have gotten the Sl250's instead.

Buzz,

Kidding aside, I will give you an example of some of the issues I have with the GUI.

1. The use of icons rather than language (icons + language is fine). Examples include using the square buttons for stop, the arrow for play, the double line for pause, another arrow for return and so forth. Now you can laugh, but I'm a usability fanatic and I have had people, especially women, ask me again and again over the years what those symbols stand for. Many people simply don't know! Go ahead and laugh, but I am right.

2. Lots of extra functions on the screen to confuse the type of customers I'm talking about above.

Now I am NOT saying your GUI choices are wrong, and that there may not be plenty of people who find the system very easy to use. I am only saying that for the types of customers I seem to always work with, which is very wealthy busy people who are anything but "A/V geeks", that it needs to be as SIMPLE as possible to operate because that's what they want. And if it's not, than I need to be able to make it that way for them.

Attached is an image from the demo on your web site.

"HOME", "SOURCES", "BROWSE", "SETTINGS", "MULTI-RM", "AUDIO" "MORE".

My customers would shoot me if I installed something that complicated. Why in the world would someone who just wants to listen to some music always want to see all that stuff on the screen, all using completely unintuitive terms on top of it? I could give people all that power and still make it 10 times easier to use.

I have a challenge for you Buzz. Everyone always thinks their stuff is easy to use and I read the blip on your website about the 65 year old woman who found it easy to use. I challenge you to do some real observing of people with this. Take it out and set it up in a mall and ask a bunch of people who are 40 and over to just operate it without your help. And watch them struggle. Better yet, remove yourself from the equation and set it up somewhere where you can watch and listen to peoples reactions over a camera and hear what they say. I'm not saying they won't be able to get music playing but beyond that I predict they will find it confusing.

Then call me and give me that rope and I'll design a UI for you :).

p.s. I do not know if the web demo is working correctly but at times some buttons disappear altogether which is VERY confusing and I found myself having to click on the middle of the screen to get the home button to reappear so I could navigate away from the screen.

Seriously I very much appreciate the feedback.
True, we get a lot of kudos for the interface, but to me this kind of constructive criticism is much more useful.
It is a huge challenge creating a powerful GUI that can scale from 100" down to the default 3.8" touchscreen on our TouchLinX or a PDA.
The "dissappearing" buttons you noticed on our web Flash demo are quite intentional. After a period of inactivity (that period is shorter in the demo then in an actual installation) the navigation buttons are hidden so that the now playing info and cover art can be displayed larger.

Of course there is no one size fits all GUI, so it wil lbe very interesting to see some of the interfaces people develop when we give them the rope.
Thanks again for the feedback.

Thanks for listening.

Buzz,

QQQ is correct. I just had a meeting in Vegas with Eric King and we discussed this a bit (talked about lots of stuff and what a great guy). I know Cimenar has gui's for the Musica system and I talked to them about doing gui's for Digilinxs and from what I was told not really a big deal. I passed this information to Darrin also and others at Netstreams. Check out their website and I think out sourcing the gui's will give others at Netstreams more time for other fun stuff like "larger touch panels'!!!!

I am impressed with the commitments that Netstreams has with their dealers especially new ones like me getting started. Also it is impressive what has been released in the last 6 months compared to other companies etc etc.

Larry

I have called Netstreams, left a message with the regional head of New York, called local stereo stores and I cannot find a SOUL to help me. I am remodeling my apartment in the city and before all the walls go up, I want to:
A) make sure I have all the right cables and
B) get three touchlinx panels and a pair of speakers in the kitchen.

I have a source for the Touchlinx panels, I just need some wiring/power guidance. I have no problem paying someone to come and get it all going, I just want to get it done before the walls go up. My ultimate goal is to get a Naimnet.com distributed audio system, but all their dealers are only now, getting up to speed, as the product won't hit US shores until summer.

The system I want to install for now.

3x TouchLinX TL380 (Control panel in entry, kitchen, master bedroom)
1 xSpeakerLinX SL220 (for kitchen speakers) (polk)
1x MediaLinX MLA101 ( For sat Radio)
2x ControLinX CL100 (To integrate alarm and HVAC I think, not really important)
1x SwitchLinX SW324 (Control switch)

Do you sell the appropriate power modules for the touchlink and other items?
Also, what security systems integrate into Netstream systems?

Thank You

Any help would me appreciated.

Thank You

Also, what security system integrated with the Touchlink system? Can I use the touchpads as the the keypad for the security system?

Also, does the Digilinx system have systems/hardware to control a Sanyo HVAC system?

thank you

I have called Netstreams, left a message with the regional head of New York, called local stereo stores and I cannot find a SOUL to help me. I am remodeling my apartment in the city and before all the walls go up, I want to:
A) make sure I have all the right cables and
B) get three touchlinx panels and a pair of speakers in the kitchen.

I have a source for the Touchlinx panels, I just need some wiring/power guidance. I have no problem paying someone to come and get it all going, I just want to get it done before the walls go up. My ultimate goal is to get a Naimnet.com distributed audio system, but all their dealers are only now, getting up to speed, as the product won't hit US shores until summer.

The system I want to install for now.

3x TouchLinX TL380 (Control panel in entry, kitchen, master bedroom)
1 xSpeakerLinX SL220 (for kitchen speakers) (polk)
1x MediaLinX MLA101 ( For sat Radio)
2x ControLinX CL100 (To integrate alarm and HVAC I think, not really important)
1x SwitchLinX SW324 (Control switch)

Do you sell the appropriate power modules for the touchlink and other items?
Also, what security systems integrate into Netstream systems?

Thank You

Any help would me appreciated.

Thank You

From equipment location You will need 16/4+cat5 to every Touchlinx location.
you can run 16/4+cat5 from one touchlinx location to speakers in kitchen.
One Rg6 to roof for Xm antenna.
One cat5 to each thermostat. (Aprilaire)
Your Security (ge concord v.4),medialinx,controlinx and sw324 need to go in equipment location (head end)

As for buying eqipment you will need to go through a dealer so he can install it.

The XM antenna uses a special connector. I would buy an xm extender cable to run to the antenna. They notmally come in 50' lenghts. This can be installed during the prewire.


The Netstreams system currently inegrates with the Aprilaire thermostat.

If you are considering 2 control lynx's and one medialinx, I would get one medialynx pro. The medialynx pro has 4 medialynx's and one control lynx in a rack mountable unit. You can also switch any of the 4 medialynx's on the pro to a control lynx for flexibility. It aso has 4 conact colsures to control motorized lifts, blinds, etc.

Netstreams equipment is to be installed by dealers only. You are probably not getting help, from Netstreams, since they don't support installation by end users. I know you say you have a source for 3 touchlynx's but if they are not from a dealer they will not be supported or warranted. In addition, the only way to program the system is through the dealer setup program, which you won't have access to.

We are a dealer in Millburn, NJ and can perform the installation.

We are a dealer in Millburn, NJ and can perform the installation.

FINALLY!
I am PMing you my contact info. Please call me or email me.
Please check you PM, thank You.

Medialinx pro looks like the right choice..., it never ends. I will skip the HVAC integration.

So it looks like this is what I need:
SwitchLinX SW324
MediaLinX Pro MLA4000
PowerLinX PL600
TouchLinX TL380 x3
SpeakerLinX SL220 x1 for kitchen speakers. All other audio is powered via Naim amps.
NetStreams IRLinX (IRL1) x4

is doorlinx available for netstreams yet? if so what is the cost. thanks!

also can cat6 wiring be used in place of situations where cat5 wiring is mentioned? thx

DoorLinX is shipping. We can't quote you a price as our products are not sold at retail; there is always custom design and configuration involved (plus there is no one component that is useful by itself). You will need to contact dealer for pricing.

Certainly there is no problem using CAT6 instead of CAT5e. More is better!

i keep asking netsreams about this scenario .
run a digilinx around a house ,uses 2 panorama since we have 7 video sources
had to split the house into 2 quarters ,top floor and master bedroom on 3 sources
ground and basement on 4 sources .
TROUBLE IS .BASEMENT HAS A CINEMA WITH ITS OWN DVD PLAYER AND SATTELITE BOX CONNECTED TO AN AV AMP
biggest pitfall is that the tablet running the system cannot control amplifier and anything connected to it since there are no hometheatre page and cannot do macros like a pronto does ,and the answer is always you will have to use a separate remote control
i am a crestron dealer looking for a simpler control system when things like event timers and schedulers are not involved ,or when the client wants a nice music system that can display metadata /replicate homeworks scene without the cost
BUT controling a home theatre should be one of the most basic need of a control system
why dont you have an interface for HT ,we kind of need it last year
also why 4 sources on a panorama ,it is way way underspeced for a whole house system .2 digiboxes, a dvd player and a camera on the screens and ...... thats it
common !!!!!

i keep asking netsreams about this scenario .
run a digilinx around a house ,uses 2 panorama since we have 7 video sources
had to split the house into 2 quarters ,top floor and master bedroom on 3 sources
ground and basement on 4 sources .
TROUBLE IS .BASEMENT HAS A CINEMA WITH ITS OWN DVD PLAYER AND SATTELITE BOX CONNECTED TO AN AV AMP
biggest pitfall is that the tablet running the system cannot control amplifier and anything connected to it since there are no home theatre page and cannot do macros like a pronto does ,and the answer is always you will have to use a separate remote control
i am a crestron dealer looking for a simpler control system when things like event timers and schedulers are not involved ,or when the client wants a nice music system that can display metadata /replicate homeworks scene without the cost
BUT controlling a home theater should be one of the most basic need of a control system
why don't you have an interface for HT ,we kind of need it last year
also why 4 sources on a panorama ,it is way way under speced for a whole house system .2 digiboxes, a dvd player and a camera on the screens and ...... thats it
common !!!!!

Have you looked at Netstreams latest creation? MediaLinX MLAV300 for each source and a ViewLinX VL100. Each one comes with the appropriate IR and 232 inputs, to control the source.

biggest pitfall is that the tablet running the system cannot control amplifier and anything connected to it since there are no home theatre page and cannot do macros like a pronto does ,and the answer is always you will have to use a separate remote control


RTI has a tablet style remote called the T4. It has a built in web browser. They are in the final stages on integrating flash to run on it. They are justa awaiting licensing approval. It was supposed to be availiable on JUly 1 but has been pushed back a little so I am hoping any day. This way you can just bring up the Digilynx web server and control the entire system as well as the home theater.

Tablet is not 2 way in terms or remote functionality like a crestron but that may happen later this year with their XP8.

You would then see the metedata on the netstreams web server view, in the internet browser on the tablet, just like you do if you were accessing it over a PC.



Have you looked at Netstreams latest creation? MediaLinX MLAV300 for each source and a ViewLinX VL100. Each one comes with the appropriate IR and 232 inputs, to control the source.

While the Viewlynx / A/V Medialynx / Gigabit Switchlynx does alllow for unlimted sources to unlimited zones of uncompresssed HD video, there is a huge price difference between the panorama and the Digilynx IP video. Currently the IP video is more geared for the large commerical market where it is more cost effective.

this may be a stupid question but i'll let 'er rip anyways... with the netstreams, elan, or any other control systems is there a 'main menu' type of screen to choose sources for video etc that is used on the tv displays? i've not seen/heard about this issue before. thanks in advance!

Where is a list of your dealers? I can't find anything on your website.

I am looking for a dealer and installer for the netstreams digilinx system in my home. I am having the hardest time finding one. Do you know of any in the area? I live in wilton connecticut. Any help would be greatly appreciated.

j33569,

The doorlinx is shipping and a really cool addition to the Netstreams family of products. I am local to you and can answer any questions you might have. My family is away this weekend so I get to play....my other office is in Westmont (not av gear) but I live in Chicago by Wrigely.

Imt,

I hope the T4 will be out soon. It should be an excellent way to get both Netstreams and RF control of products in one nice package. Can anyone say Cedia???

Larry

I have a question in regards to connecting Panasonic IP camera's to a netstream system. Is any type of interface card needed or can I plug the camera's strait into the Switchlinx switch?

You need to configure the camera for guest access so it doesn't need a password or username. But it needs to be on a router. Aside from that... yes.

one thing I just found out is that you can record and use motion detection right from the camera but only one camera without buying additional software but the software is not badly priced to allow you to record to a pc with multiple camera's.

ONce you dedicate a PC and buy the software....

Take a look at quadrox.

I will thanks. I have pc's on most of my installs so really not a big deal.

Larry

Been a while since anyone has posted here,so I thought I would.

I'm having a new house built and am having a Netstreams system installed. It will initially have 4 active zones and 4 "inactive" zones,so to speak,for future use as finances allow. The home is prewired now and hopefully will be done in a month or so. My question is,I'm using my pc's as the "servers",and was wondering if it is possible to get multistreams from them or do we need to go the route of the SMM 100 music manager? Or can I access one stream from each of my pc's without it?

Thanks!

Slapshot,

For that application, you need to use the SMM. The SMM is the device that points to all of the music on all PC's, NAS's, etc on your network and can give you up to 6 independant streams of audio. Also, the SMM provides the metadata and cover art (if done correctly) for the music files as well. The SMM also has the "streamnet" technology built into it keep the music synced. Your Pc doesn't so that is why you can't pull reall any "streams" direct.

That said, you can add a local source to a room and then plug the audio out from the computer to the local source. To do this you will most likely need a Mini plug to RCA stereo male cable. You then can play that source over the netstreams system either locally, within the room or globally if the system is setup with the local source as being shared. The drawback is that there is no "control" or metadata of the audio from the netstreams system. Basically you would need to control what music is being played from the computer itself. I would think if the computer was an imac or maybe a media center, there may be some way to control it via IR codes but obviosly not the best solution.

Out of curiosity, What codec are your audio files compiled in?


On another note: Hey Larry. Nice to see you on the other side. I see you are discussing the same thing regarding the cameras that we were talking about before your trip.

Mike,

Your dealer installing should of answered this for you. You can use Request, escient or smm100.

You can use mp3 or .wav codec.

I burn to a computer server then to smm100 to get 6 streams.

Larry

Slapshot,

For that application, you need to use the SMM. The SMM is the device that points to all of the music on all PC's, NAS's, etc on your network and can give you up to 6 independant streams of audio. Also, the SMM provides the metadata and cover art (if done correctly) for the music files as well. The SMM also has the "streamnet" technology built into it keep the music synced. Your Pc doesn't so that is why you can't pull reall any "streams" direct.

That said, you can add a local source to a room and then plug the audio out from the computer to the local source. To do this you will most likely need a Mini plug to RCA stereo male cable. You then can play that source over the netstreams system either locally, within the room or globally if the system is setup with the local source as being shared. The drawback is that there is no "control" or metadata of the audio from the netstreams system. Basically you would need to control what music is being played from the computer itself. I would think if the computer was an imac or maybe a media center, there may be some way to control it via IR codes but obviosly not the best solution.

Out of curiosity, What codec are your audio files compiled in?

Right now Apple lossless, but I plan to burn everything again (WAV,per Larry's recommendation) to a separate server or something like ReQuest,though it seems the SMM would be a less expensive option, even with the cost of a server?

Mike,

Your dealer installing should of answered this for you. You can use Request, escient or smm100.

You can use mp3 or .wav codec.

I burn to a computer server then to smm100 to get 6 streams.

Larry

He actually did today,but it's good to get all sorts of ideas and thoughts from others as well.
Probably leaning towards the smm100.

You might see things like the Naim server coming out soon and other products.

Apple lossless is an issue.

Try the New Microsoft Home server (HP) it is based on MS2003 server and add the clients to each of your regular pc's.

Larry

IMT,

What's up???


He actually did today,but it's good to get all sorts of ideas and thoughts from others as well.
Probably leaning towards the smm100.

slapshot,

You mentioned request. You may want to investigate the Request with your dealer based on your encododing.

If you have a request you do not need a SMM. You can pull 6 streams direct from the request and view metadata etc. The request also sync's beautifly with Itunes. You can buy netsync for itunes pro and have it convert any itunes music purchases into WAV so that Netstreams can play it. (Note: this occurs in real time so if you have a large library of itues purchases, this could take a long time). You also can dual encode so that you have a higher quality version of the song in WAV and a lower MP3 193kb version for the ipod. You can sync multiple libraries and playlists.

Another cool feature with the request is that you can access your music from any computer anywhere. So if you are at the office or on vacation, you can pull up your library and play songs. Pretty cool.

If you buy one you can forward me over some commission :).

Two questions:

1. Is there any plan for NetStreams to provide a streamnet server software like the music server demo software that can be installed on a dedicated PC that simulates a music server. I know about the SMM but at $3000 and all it does is catalog the music stored elsewhere it seems like a PC could the job just fine. And, the PC does Internet radio as well. I am looking for a solution that can provide Internet radio and mp3/wav streaming from one box digitally.

2. Any word on when the DigiLinx system might include a time clock for better integration with the HVAC. Currently it looks like the integration with Aprilaire is only in manual mode. I understand the use of an MLA400 or some relays could allow it to be used with the Aprilaire 8825 controller which has a time clock but it doesn't seem very good at the moment. Would be nice if the 8825's ethernet/LAN interface would just talk to netstreams directly but I would settle for direct rs-232 access at this point.

No, we will not be attempting to support a piece of software on general purpose PC's. The SMM functinality is in a dedicated purpose-built machine.


Event Management is big in 2008 plans but no specific date has been announced.

Event management is a big discussion amoung dealers.

I was suppose to be testing an Aprilarie solution with their system controller with an Aprilaire expert today. Do to my being at Lutron corporate to become a PSP Lutron dealer, I could not make it work out but in the next month this solution will be tested. Not even Netstreams knows about this.

I have the wiring diagram to make this work with Netstreams. This is bascially the same solution that Elan has for their product.

So yes, once this is beta'd in my actual home and I am happy with what it does, then it will go to Netstreams for testing and the ok to have it released. I have other dealers waiting for this solution and it will be tested before giving to the public.

Buzz, how is that for a 4th level dealer???

All the best,

Larry

So Larry, is this the solution where the contact closures from an MLA400 are used to switch the communication from the Aprilaire system controller to the ControlLinx?

Cool!
I think you'll be hearing from a surprise resource!

You might see things like the Naim server coming out soon and other products.

Apple lossless is an issue.

Try the New Microsoft Home server (HP) it is based on MS2003 server and add the clients to each of your regular pc's.

Larry

IMT,

What's up???

I hope the Naim server comes out soon!!!!

Also, any possible way that we will see HDMI based videolinx?? I heard a rumor!!

The NaimNet servers are starting tho ship this month but I wouldn't expect them in the US for another 90 days or so.

HDMI is a license/control issue we are working on but nothing is emminent. The content owners are kinda paranoid in case you hadn't noticed!:rolleyes:

The NaimNet servers are starting tho ship this month but I wouldn't expect them in the US for another 90 days or so.

HDMI is a license/control issue we are working on but nothing is emminent. The content owners are kinda paranoid in case you hadn't noticed!:rolleyes:


Any hints at what features these might have?
Leaning towards the ReQuest at this point.

Does anyone have experience with the MLA4000 MediaLinx? I have heard that it has some problems. Has anyone experienced problems. I haven't used one yet and was maybe going to add one to an install because it is cheaper and more space efficient than discrete MediaLinx/ControlLinx boxes. But if it has issues or limitations maybe it would best to stay away from it.

Your server choice will probably come down to how you buy music (and how much) and what kind of music you listen to.
Well, and timing too... If you need it in th next month or so here in the U.S. you won't have the NaimNet option so it would be ReQuest, Imerge or Escient.

The MLA4000 is more cost and space efficient. It is not as powerful as the individual units (it cannot proxy streams and does not hold as many total codes) but in most installations this is not a concern.

Buzz, sorry for all the questions again. One other question, an idea if Kalidescape systems will work on a Netstreams in the future or even now? Not a dealer killer, just wondering.

Thanks

Any hints at what features these might have?
Leaning towards the ReQuest at this point.


My problem with them is that they make a big deal about all the balanced output, etc.. If its all networked via Cat5e, then none of that means anything to me. I have a free standing audio stack for "critical listening" (I really don't take it that seriously), so everything else is network. The Naimnet deal seems to really facilitate this network distribution. I would also note that ReQuest servers are not gigabit, so I guess there could be some bandwidth constraint if you really pushed it, especially when you get into higher bandwidth video.

Slapshot,

You could have your dealer put in one or more audio ports (or EIM - RCA cables) and hook up a PC to get some music playing until you decide which music server to get. The PC also provides you with the option of listening to the wide array of free internet streams through Windows media player. There is also a media player called WinAmp that is providing a good subset of the XM satellite radio stations for free.

Of course, you wouldn't have control of the PC through NetStrerams keypads but it is an option especially if one of your zones is a room that has a PC.

And to add to my previous post. If you are thinking about getting a music server here are some pros and cons to the different types as I see it.

Request/Escient/Imerge/SMM Pros:
Very nice integration with NetStreams
Provides multiple streams
Music stays digital until it is sent to the speakers (better music quality)
Playlists can be built and displayed on NetStreams keypads
Current song/cover art is displayed on keypads

Request/Escient/Imerge Cons:
No integrated backup system. However, Request has an additional piece of equipment to aid in backing up your music. The other may have something but these options tend to be expensive and not generally useful.

Additonal SMM pros:
Flexibility in storage location of your music. You may have/want your music on different PCs/iPods etc. The SMM will catalog all of it and make it available to the system.
You could also centralize your music on one PC/server and use a good backup software to backup the music to an additional hard drive in the PC or to another PC. HP makes a real nice home server now that runs Windows Home Server that is designed for automatically keeping backups of not just music but all of your files on all of your computers.

And to add to my previous post. If you are thinking about getting a music server here are some pros and cons to the different types as I see it.

Request/Escient/Imerge/SMM Pros:
Very nice integration with NetStreams
Provides multiple streams
Music stays digital until it is sent to the speakers (better music quality)
Playlists can be built and displayed on NetStreams keypads
Current song/cover art is displayed on keypads

Request/Escient/Imerge Cons:
No integrated backup system. However, Request has an additional piece of equipment to aid in backing up your music. The other may have something but these options tend to be expensive and not generally useful.

Additonal SMM pros:
Flexibility in storage location of your music. You may have/want your music on different PCs/iPods etc. The SMM will catalog all of it and make it available to the system.
You could also centralize your music on one PC/server and use a good backup software to backup the music to an additional hard drive in the PC or to another PC. HP makes a real nice home server now that runs Windows Home Server that is designed for automatically keeping backups of not just music but all of your files on all of your computers.

Thanks for your help!
Definitely all valid points to consider, and I have been reading about that server from HP/MS. It is a very compelling unit,and is priced rather reasonable I think. It still necessitates having the smm 100,and one great advantage about the server is it is good for all types of files,media,pictures,etc.

I do have multiple computers all with their own separate music collections,and it would be really nice to integrate them and backup all on one server.
How well does this play with Itunes though? All of my music is on that,and two of my pc's run Media Center 05,which is seemingly a prerequisite.

Buzz, sorry for all the questions again. One other question, an idea if Kalidescape systems will work on a Netstreams in the future or even now? Not a dealer killer, just wondering.

Thanks


They don't seem to be that interested in tight integration. I think their long legal battle might have something to do with that.:eek:
We do have dealer who use it with DigiLinX and with Panorama, but it is not a native source.

Thanks for your help!
Definitely all valid points to consider, and I have been reading about that server from HP/MS. It is a very compelling unit,and is priced rather reasonable I think. It still necessitates having the smm 100,and one great advantage about the server is it is good for all types of files,media,pictures,etc.

I do have multiple computers all with their own separate music collections,and it would be really nice to integrate them and backup all on one server.
How well does this play with Itunes though? All of my music is on that,and two of my pc's run Media Center 05,which is seemingly a prerequisite.
Isn't iTunes just an application on your PC that organizes and all of your music files? I would think it wouldn't matter to the SMM or to the server. One thing to consider is that you may need to use a different piece of software to create playlists for the SMM. Currently the SMM can read playlists saved in the now standard WinAmp playlist format (.m3u). iTunes should have a way to "export" your playlists to this format. If not, there are several free tools out there that can do it. Just put the exported playlist file in the same folder as the music and the SMM will read it and make it available to NetStreams. This is especially advantagous because you don't have to re-compile all of your playlists manually like you may need to do with a third party music server.

Another thing to consider is that NetStreams supports mp3 and wav file formats for music but the third party music servers only stream mp3 to NetStreams. The SMM can stream wav and mp3 I believe. (someone correct me if I am wrong on this.) You could get around this by encoding your music in mp3 at the highest bit rate though to get the best sound quality.

Not sure about the need for Media Center 05. What do you use this for? I don't think it is required for MS Home Server. Unless you are talking about streaming music from the server to the PCs?

The MLA4000 is more cost and space efficient. It is not as powerful as the individual units (it cannot proxy streams and does not hold as many total codes) but in most installations this is not a concern.
What do you mean doesn't hold as many total codes?

Isn't iTunes just an application on your PC that organizes and all of your music files? I would think it wouldn't matter to the SMM or to the server. One thing to consider is that you may need to use a different piece of software to create playlists for the SMM. Currently the SMM can read playlists saved in the now standard WinAmp playlist format (.m3u). iTunes should have a way to "export" your playlists to this format. If not, there are several free tools out there that can do it. Just put the exported playlist file in the same folder as the music and the SMM will read it and make it available to NetStreams. This is especially advantagous because you don't have to re-compile all of your playlists manually like you may need to do with a third party music server.

Another thing to consider is that NetStreams supports mp3 and wav file formats for music but the third party music servers only stream mp3 to NetStreams. The SMM can stream wav and mp3 I believe. (someone correct me if I am wrong on this.) You could get around this by encoding your music in mp3 at the highest bit rate though to get the best sound quality.

Not sure about the need for Media Center 05. What do you use this for? I don't think it is required for MS Home Server. Unless you are talking about streaming music from the server to the PCs?

From the HP FAQ:


""Does the HP MediaSmart Server allow for file sharing beyond the immediate LAN via FTP or other methods?

You can remotely access files from the server and individual PC’s on your home network. For example, you might want to access a document on the server while traveling on business. Or, you might want to remotely access a contact from Outlook or an invoice amount from QuickBooks running on your PC. (For remote computer access, the network computer must be running Windows® XP Professional, Media Center Edition 2005 or Windows® Vista Ultimate.) You can also easily share photos with selected friends and relatives with HP’s Photo Webshare feature. You can also setup a Guest account for your HP MediaSmart Server and allow selected visitors to access files from your HP MediaSmart Server.""

May not need MC 05 if it's the local network,but definitely need it if you are concerned about remote access.

Also;

""Does the HP MediaSmart Server work with Apple and Linux-based systems?

The HP MediaSmart Server can be used as a file server for Mac and Linux computers. You can backup to the HP MediaSmart Server from these systems with your own backup software that runs on Mac and Linux systems.

The HP MediaSmart Server has a “Server for iTunes” feature whereby you can automatically copy iTunes music from family members’ PCs to the HP MediaSmart Server to be easily shared around your home network. The Server for iTunes feature even preserves playlists from each user’s PC. The Server for iTunes feature will synchronize new music to the server as that music is added to individual PCs. Music on the server can then be accessed from each individual PC’s iTunes library. Note that the MediaSmart Server does not count as one of the five playback devices in iTunes. The Server for iTunes feature is designed for sharing music across the local network only.""

Again,ok for local network,but not for remote access.

Really not a deal breaker for me.

From the HP FAQ:


""Does the HP MediaSmart Server allow for file sharing beyond the immediate LAN via FTP or other methods?

You can remotely access files from the server and individual PC’s on your home network. For example, you might want to access a document on the server while traveling on business. Or, you might want to remotely access a contact from Outlook or an invoice amount from QuickBooks running on your PC. (For remote computer access, the network computer must be running Windows® XP Professional, Media Center Edition 2005 or Windows® Vista Ultimate.) You can also easily share photos with selected friends and relatives with HP’s Photo Webshare feature. You can also setup a Guest account for your HP MediaSmart Server and allow selected visitors to access files from your HP MediaSmart Server.""

May not need MC 05 if it's the local network,but definitely need it if you are concerned about remote access.

Also;

""Does the HP MediaSmart Server work with Apple and Linux-based systems?

The HP MediaSmart Server can be used as a file server for Mac and Linux computers. You can backup to the HP MediaSmart Server from these systems with your own backup software that runs on Mac and Linux systems.

The HP MediaSmart Server has a “Server for iTunes” feature whereby you can automatically copy iTunes music from family members’ PCs to the HP MediaSmart Server to be easily shared around your home network. The Server for iTunes feature even preserves playlists from each user’s PC. The Server for iTunes feature will synchronize new music to the server as that music is added to individual PCs. Music on the server can then be accessed from each individual PC’s iTunes library. Note that the MediaSmart Server does not count as one of the five playback devices in iTunes. The Server for iTunes feature is designed for sharing music across the local network only.""

Again,ok for local network,but not for remote access.

Really not a deal breaker for me.
So you want to access music remotely sounds like. There are ways to do that directly from your PC. Even the Request unit has that feature. If you choose to go the route of the SMM and the HP server could you use iTunes to access music remotely?

No, we will not be attempting to support a piece of software on general purpose PC's. The SMM functinality is in a dedicated purpose-built machine.


Event Management is big in 2008 plans but no specific date has been announced.
Buzz,

Do you think the SMM could be expanded to connect to the Internet to access the vast array of Internet streams available. Seems like if the SMM was able to access the Internet and allowed a way for dealers or even users to set the urls of some of these streams, they could be controlled and digitally integrated in the system.

They don't seem to be that interested in tight integration. I think their long legal battle might have something to do with that.:eek:
We do have dealer who use it with DigiLinX and with Panorama, but it is not a native source.

Buzz, FYI.

-----Original Message-----
From: support-user [mailto:support-user@kaleidescape.com]
Sent: Monday, December 10, 2007 2:34 PM
Subject: RE: Integration with Netstreams Digilinx

Hello xxx, we do not currently have a Digilinx driver. Several dealers have requested one, I added your comments to the existing engineering feature request. I have also forwarded your email to our Control Systems team.

Casey Benjamin
Kaleidescape Support

So you want to access music remotely sounds like. There are ways to do that directly from your PC. Even the Request unit has that feature. If you choose to go the route of the SMM and the HP server could you use iTunes to access music remotely?

Actually,no I am not needing to remotely access. I was just answering your question on why one would need Media Center 05 regarding this HP Home server.

Bottom line,either one will work for me,ReQuest or the MS Home Server.
Cost wise, combination of the HP and the smm100 would be seemingly much cheaper,byte for byte than a ReQuest 2 or 4 zone server with a comparable storage capacity of 500gb or 1 TB. Not to mention not having to get a license fee of $100 for each pc that the ReQuest needs to run Netsync with Itunes.

According to Naim, they will have a working demo of the entry level Naim-Net audio server with the launch software at CES this year! No word on the rest of the product line. However, it sounds like the distribution and roll out to dealers and such is going to take a little while. The latter part not a surprise to me as I have yet to find a Naim dealer that is a Netstream installer or even has anything beyond a cursory knowledge of the NaimNet.

Finally some forward movement on this front. Its only a year or so delayed...

Actually,no I am not needing to remotely access. I was just answering your question on why one would need Media Center 05 regarding this HP Home server.

Bottom line,either one will work for me,ReQuest or the MS Home Server.
Cost wise, combination of the HP and the smm100 would be seemingly much cheaper,byte for byte than a ReQuest 2 or 4 zone server with a comparable storage capacity of 500gb or 1 TB. Not to mention not having to get a license fee of $100 for each pc that the ReQuest needs to run Netsync with Itunes.
The home server/SMM combination also leaves the door open to other uses of the SMM that they can dream up. To me this box (SMM) is the gateway to getting digital content in other forms onto the StreamNet network that NetStreams uses.

When copmparing the Request vs the other equipment, keep in mind that you would only need a single zone Request since you don't use the zone outputs with Netstreams. The music comes out of the Network port of the device. Also, to get backup/disk mirroring capability with the Request you would also need to buy their Echo product, which I think is more expensive than just buying an additional hard drive for the HP server.

This looks kind of promising. Seems like it could really bridge the gap. Its even IP based. Only downside is that it looks like they really want you to use their storage.

http://www.audtek.com/pdf/Sooloos/Sooloos-Onesheets.pdf

There is indeed some untapped processing power in the SMM.
Stay Tuned!

Buzz,

any thoughts about native integration of the Rhapsody music service into Digilinx? I would love to be able to get access to this service with meta data about song and artist displaying on the touch panels. Thanks.

Got my Netstreams up and (almost) running,have a question on how to enable Windows Media Player in Vista to share to the SMM100. I can share my other XP pc's fine, but I can't get this one to open up,any ideas?

It is not certified to work with Vista.

Your dealer can make sure the shares are properly setup and active and online. If he does not enable the sharing to take place then it won't be shared.

Larry

I see. He's coming by today,I'll have him check.

I plan on having a networked attached server,like Windows Home server from HP,would the smm have any issues with that? What you suggested a few months ago is what I'm aiming for. I like the idea of a centralized server that I can leave on 24/7 rather than a bunch of pc's.

I see. He's coming by today,I'll have him check.

I plan on having a networked attached server,like Windows Home server from HP,would the smm have any issues with that? What you suggested a few months ago is what I'm aiming for. I like the idea of a centralized server that I can leave on 24/7 rather than a bunch of pc's.
I would be interested to know how the MS Home server works with the SMM. I am working on getting an MS home server setup.

I recently bought the SMM and have it streaming music from just one Win XP PC for now. It is working but I am seeing all of my songs listed twice. Anybody else have this happen? My dealer doesn't know why either.

Micheal,

This is why I get paid the big bucks!!!!

Do not use NAS since we have window home server. I have one and it works period. Go to www.wegetserved.com to learn more.

As far as double songs I know the issue but you need to give more information on how you burned your songs, to how many computers,using ipods etc etc . Your dealer should be familar with this. This is a reason for a centralized source. I use smm100 with windows media 11 and burn and go.

I burn all my music to .wav. There is a huge difference in sound quality with NS with good speakers using .wav vs mp3. This is the number one reason people go with NS over most other products. My current customer had Crestron with Triad speakers and mp3 and now has NS Digilinx with Triad speakers and .wav and can't believe the difference in sound quality.

NS is working on a Vista solution also but it might take time to get it correct.

Larry

Larry,

All of my songs are mp3. I do have wav files too but they are backed up on CDs at the moment. Since I already have double songs I didn't want to add more to the mix until I figure out the double song issue. My dealer has conceeded that he does not know much about the music manager since he never installed one before mine.

So anyway, a lot of my mp3 music was downloaded from various sites like Napster, audio galaxy and the like. I have updated the ID3 tags on every song to make sure that they are correct with WinAmp. All of the songs play fine in WinAmp.

Currently, I have all of my music files (mp3) on one Win XP PC in one shared folder. I hooked up a monitor to the SMM and it shows that share is available. I know for a fact that I do not have two copies of any one song on this PC.

Do you have any other suggestions before I have my dealer come out again.

Oh. BTW your link does not work. Do you mean the www.wegotserved.com (http://www.wegotserved.com)site.

I think it's
http://www.wegotserved.co.uk/

Micheal,

This is why I get paid the big bucks!!!!

Do not use NAS since we have window home server. I have one and it works period. Go to www.wegetserved.com to learn more.

As far as double songs I know the issue but you need to give more information on how you burned your songs, to how many computers,using ipods etc etc . Your dealer should be familar with this. This is a reason for a centralized source. I use smm100 with windows media 11 and burn and go.

I burn all my music to .wav. There is a huge difference in sound quality with NS with good speakers using .wav vs mp3. This is the number one reason people go with NS over most other products. My current customer had Crestron with Triad speakers and mp3 and now has NS Digilinx with Triad speakers and .wav and can't believe the difference in sound quality.

NS is working on a Vista solution also but it might take time to get it correct.

Larry

I know,that's why I couldn't afford you!;)

As far as double songs,I was able to go back in my WMP library and edit some info,for some reason I had duplicates in WMP. I think when I added folders to that,over time,I added some duplicate folders.
I'm trying to use just WMP on one computer for this,and eliminate the duplicates. I also unshared my Itunes as that was contributing also.
I have 3 folders that are shared on my main pc (XP),one is My Music,the other is the pc mapped to a network drive (which I recall doing a couple of years ago),and the other is another shared music folder of my pc.
I've managed to clean up a lot of this today.

All my ripped songs were ripped Apple lossless,then imported into WMP. Downloads of course are VBR mp3.
Anything new I'm ripping is at wav.

Does WHS play nice with Vista? I'm thinking it does,but....

Pmilin,

Your dealer should not be using products that he does not know. Sorry to sound harsh here. There is no reason that he can not call Tech support and get help with this very basic issue. Netstreams has an outstanding "dealer" tech support staff willing and able to solve this issue for you.

Also you as the consumer (yes, I know you guys are do it yourselfers) should not be hooking anything up to the smm100 or playing around with any portion of Netstreams. This is not meant to be a consumer system. What you are seeing on the Moniter means in reality very little and your dealer would need to know where to go in the setup to view what is going on with the smm100. There is training for this and again very basic.

If he can't solve this very basic issue you might be in store for a not so great experience. You , as a consumer, should not have to ever go on the net and try to solve your own issues with this product.

As an example, when I sell a smm100 with server, I go through the music collection and go through the music folders, Ipod music etc and spend time making sure that the folder, album jpg, etc is set up correctly. This is where the extra value comes in and why should you have to do this anyway??? I do not sell a Digilinx and have anyone listen to mp3's. All music has to be converted to .wav for my clientele. Yes, with this system you CAN hear the difference with good speakers.

Again, without seeing your music folders it is hard to say where your problem lies but your dealer "should" be able to assist you and at the least call tech support for help. This is a pretty basic issue.

http://www.wegotserved.co.uk/ I guess that is correct if it takes you to the site (I don't memorize these sites) you guys are tough.......

All the best,

Larry

Mike,

use something like MediaMonkey and convert to .wav. You will thank me in the end. I know you know my feelings on this issue.

I don't use Vista since there are many issues still outstanding with that version and this is coming from a person that is a Microsoft Partner.

Larry

So with the ViewLinx and SpeakerLinx products I could minimize my pre-wiring by placing switches in the attic and basement and running a single patch cable between, and the do Cat5 drops from the attic to all the locations upstairs correct?

If bandwidth maybe is an issue, I could always run fiber between the switches.

With the Panorma however, the Video ports are static, so they need to be wired to the basement to a patch panel right?

Thanks,
Byron

So with the ViewLinx and SpeakerLinx products I could minimize my pre-wiring by placing switches in the attic and basement and running a single patch cable between, and the do Cat5 drops from the attic to all the locations upstairs correct?

If bandwidth maybe is an issue, I could always run fiber between the switches.

With the Panorma however, the Video ports are static, so they need to be wired to the basement to a patch panel right?

Thanks,
Byron

If you are going to be using multiple switches, particularly for IP video, our field systems engineering team should look over the plans before you commit.
Panorama is not IP based, although it uses CAT5e. So you cannot runs the signal through network switches.

Also the switches need to be switchlynx's not any old switch.

Also, the video would run on a separate gigabit switchlynx while the audio would run on the regular switchlynx. Best practices are not to put the audio on the same gigabit switch as the video. Basically dedicated switches tied together with a single cat5e.

"However NetStreams plans to release future HDMI-capable models in the second half of 2008 that will support HDCP, be fully 1.3 compliant, support 1080p, and pass all next-gen audio formats."

http://www.soundandvisionmag.com/audiovideo/2675/netstreams-digilinx-medialinx-and-viewlinx-ip-video.html

Very nice!

So when you sell an SMM, you assume that the consumer is lazy or brain-dead, and would rather pay you something like $100 an hour to clean his MP3 files? Since I'm ripping and maintaining files for, let's say an Ipod (heaven forbid!), why can't I 'fix' the files so that the SMM will function? BTW, you may be the only dealer who knows how to 'fix' this, as I've worked with 3 that have no clue. So, yes, I've paid for Netstreams approved dealers to learn on the job, and thus, I'm the fool, and Netstreams could not care less that I'm dissatisfied. The number of times my 'authorized' Netstreams dealer has been unable to figure out what's wrong is beyond my ability to count (randomly rebooting Touchlinx, mis-firing Speakerlinx, etc.)and Netstreams won't even list local dealers, only AVAD as a distributor! So now that I know that the installers don't know anything, I get stonewalled by Netstreams themselves. Great customer service/technical support.

Sonso,

I am not sure if you are reffering to me but will take a shot at this. I have helpled others on this thread.

Yes, I am a Netstreams dealer. Yes, there have been issues with the smm 100 but most seem to be fixed now. Also there is an expansive upgrade coming out in the next month or so to add enhancements to the way you use the smm 100 and how it fuctions. This is a very good thing.

I am sorry that you had to go through 3 dealers and I am sure that Buzz and Netstreams is listening. Netstreams really does care about your experience and as a growing company things are getting better and training is very good now.

But each dealer had the opportunity to call and talk with tech support (very good now and for at least the last year) and or talk with enginerring if needed. Most area's have field techs that can come out also.

I just had a meeting with Kevin Renis CEO here in Chicago and yes there are some exciting things/ improvements coming down the pike!!!!

I will tell you what I do for my customers and go from there. When I install it is a package deal. I am not cheap either but most find it worth it in the end.

I personally go through all your music ahead of time and give you the choice to put it in the correct format that I need it in (basic burning format) or if large files I have it sent out to one of the known burining companies and yes they can take your ipod and reformat it.

All goes on to a computer server and run the smm 100 from there including your ipod music. I convert all to wav not mp3 but give you two folders on this server one for backup of your mp3 for future use ( I don't expect you to have wav on your ipod) and one for your house music.

Music folder-album-artist-song-folder.jpg. Only mp3 or .wav not acc.

You would not believe how many times I see the folder.jpg in the middle of this scheme

Following me here??

BTW- you could use your ipod in an Iport and/ or go usb from ipod to smm100 usb in the back of the unit??? This is how I start a house project before I have a sever of some type.

When I go through peoples music there is usually something wrong. Like the format or the .jpg folders. There was one person on this thread, and he can add in if still interested later, that after he sent me some screen shots was very evident that his file structure was messed up. He changed the structure and was good. I don't know why the other dealers he was dealing with did not know this. It is in the training manuals. I also make my clients (usually tech savy and want to do this) add in the jpg folders. Either using a computer or touch panel it is cool seeing the album art, period.

Now I really don't know what your problem is???

If you want to pm me I can attempt at help or get you go the correct person or suggest things to your current installer.

You want to make sure that the dns and gateway have your ip address of your router in the smm setup. Ask your dealer about this. This gets very overlooked and very simple to fix.

Also drm music will not play like from the Apple store. You want drm free music.

Do you have all the latest update on your netstreams system??? Do you know the update number that you have???

Are all the pieces (hardware) in your system updated??? Sometimes a speakerlinx might not be updated and cause havoc.

If you can give an idea of your configuration that might help also. Like is this a 4 zone system 20 zone system.Do you have touchpanels, etc.

Is everything else in your system working???

Let me know I am more then happy to help or get you to the correct person to do that.

Larry

Unpowered subwoofer- on Netstreams

Does it make sense to use a SpeakerLinx to power a subwoofer?

NO.

Not enough power to do so.

Hmm....there is a Netstreams 200 watt 2 channel amp....never thought of using it???

Take your amp to a audio port from your sub is the way I would go.

Larry

One thing I would note is that my SMM does not have a problem with playing MP3 files or displaying the album art on the Touchlinx. I am quite happy with the sound quality (using mostly Triads, but also some Polk in-ceiling speakers). What is strange is that when I have created playlists using MediaMonkey and placed them in Shared_Drive\Music\Playlists in M3U format, only one of them has ever appeared in the interface. On top of that there is a phantom list "Jazz" that was never there to begin with. My installer used a program (I forget the name) that was supposed to force a re-index but did not, and while tech support suggested NOT rebooting the unit, that was the only thing that actually got the first playlist to appear. Tried it again, but that did not work.

I am pleased to hear that there is an upgrade coming for the SMM. All-in-all the modular approach of the Netstreams (Digilinx) I think is good. There may still be some doubt as to mounting the Speakerlinx in individual rooms, as I have stated to them that I think that opening up the walls to service a Speakerlinx is highly undesireable (imagine the extra cost of new drywall, plus finding the original paint afterwards!). My original installer put everything in the basement (cooler and easier for workmen to access). It does require having a walkie-talkie and two people sometimes, but it is much easier from a construction point of view.

Good to hear that things are working out Sonso.

I think you might not understand something. Why would any speakerlinx be put "into" a wall and drywalled over. This is not to any code that I know of. You can put it in the speaker well and have to take out the speaker later to service it????

Yes, if prewired for it putting the speakerlinx in a homerun room or in a closet, lets say all of them go into a hall closet for all the rooms of the second floor, will make it easier to service later.Or the bedroom closets for each room if that is to far away. Originally Netstreams wanted it as close to the speaker as possible but from a service standpoint sometimes that is just not feasible.

Not sure about your smm but there are some tags that are not used right now and the "jazz" could be one of them. I think you will see a vast improvement when the update comes out. I am waiting also........

All the best,

Larry

I'm with Larry on this one. Putting all of the SpeakerLinx's in the basement or home location and running speaker wire everywhere sort of defeats the purpose of the NetStreams solution. You might as well have a multi-channel amp in the basement.

Also, if you are going to mount the speakerLinx's in the wall you would use a NetStreams 2-gang sized wall plate so that you can get access to it later.

Larry is right about the practicality of putting the SpeakerLinx close to the speaker. Although I generally agree, I had to compromise on my install because it was going to be too hard to do that in some rooms due to the existing prewire job.

Pmillin,

Let me know if you have an update to your internet software program- BTW. Glad to hear things are good for you.

Yes, NS does make a wall plate, I forgot to state that but if you can would rather get them close to the room but again this is not practical on all installs. I have a over 8 ,000 install and all are homerunned in the basement except the third floor since to me that was to far of a run.

Larry

Larry,

I might have an update. Not sure what version you got. Probably just some tweaks. Have you even used it yet?

If you could e-mail it to my lkosova@yahoo.com that would be great. I would have to look up what version and have played around with it but others are enjoying it and we could talk offline about it at my e-mail address.

Larry

Any word on an HDMI Viewlinx box?

I am not sure on this one but the Consumer Electronic Show Is around the first week of January and that and Cedia are the two big "announcement" shows for most manufactors.........

Larry

My setup is in a 'vertical' townhouse, so that the longest run from the cellar to the top floor speakers is not more than 80 feet. Since the speakers are in the ceiling, and I am not sitting in the immediate stereo center, I don't really notice and sound quality difference between the speakerlinx that is closest to the cellar (20 feet).

As to the in-wall mounting of the speakerlinx, I had the house pre-wired before there was a decision on the system. Given that there were 2-years between wiring spec and system installation, we did not get equipment until the in-wall mounting was no longer feasible. I note that you mention 'in-closet' mounting (essentially surface mounting); I shy away from this as I know someone will knock it. The 2-gang mounting idea isn't bad, but still complicates the drywall situation when building (though not too much).

When I do my little hotel project (8000 square feet), I may consider the in-wall approach, though I'm not sure that Netstreams would be the way to go. I may start a separate thread on that.

Just so you know for larger projects Netstreams has teams of professionals to help you plan out (really working with your dealer) a system that would work for you. Hotels is the way some are going and again there are products for the commercial market that we are not even touching on here.

I am sure that they could get someone onsite to make your plans work and become a reality.

Larry

Larry,
I sent you an email to the yahoo address listed above.

Why would anyone go and get a Vudu XL, which prides itself as being 1080i capable, only to ****** it with a Netstreams attachment that only allows 480?

Are we ever going to get HDMI support? Its starting to get tough, not having it.

The Vudu XL is capable of 1080i via component output.

Thought I'd resurrect this thread from the dead.

Is anything new going on with Netstreams, and possible replacement for their discontinued and terribly flawed SMM 100?

Certainly by the lack of NS talk on the forums it seems that no one contemplating whole house audio/automation even considers the various systems of this company. Could be due to the economy as well right now since it is a very expensive endeavor, or can it be due to other factors as well, i.e. performance, dependability,etc.

Having the Digilinx system I can attest to the "dependability" or lack thereof factor.

Netstreams was recently sold. Not sure the name of the parent.

As for product, there is an hdmi/dvi output option coming in the new year. I think this option, which is cheaper, will help.
I believe there is also an input coming soon as well. This was a huge hole in the offering.

I will have a naim server in a couple weeks. Looking forward to the unit. The connection with naim should certainly help.

Naimnet.com

NetStreams was acquired by ClearOne. I big player in the commercial A/V market. They are looking to expand into the residential market. Those still involved in NetStreams seem very optimistic about the deal.

My system is working pretty good these days except for that SMM100 that nobody seems to be able to help me with.

Anyway, I look for good things to come from NetStreams in the future.

NetStreams was acquired by ClearOne. I big player in the commercial A/V market. They are looking to expand into the residential market. Those still involved in NetStreams seem very optimistic about the deal.

My system is working pretty good these days except for that SMM100 that nobody seems to be able to help me with.

Anyway, I look for good things to come from NetStreams in the future.

I wonder though if our systems are obsolete.

My system is not, and can't afford to get it fixed. I abhor the smm100 I have, and though my original dealer did a piss poor job of setting it up, I am in no shape to hire the right person to clean it up. So I live with constant reboots having to see my "shares".

Has anyone heard if Netstreams is still coming out with the ViewLinX Micro?