Parasound Launches Three Zonemaster Custom Installation Amplifiers

Parasound has added three models to its ZoneMaster™ range for custom installers. The two channel ZM 2 and four channel ZM 4 pack a lot of power into relatively small packages and the ZM12 provides 12 channels of amplification for up to 24 speakers. The flexibility of the new amps can be used to solve multi-zone design challenges and provide revenue opportunities for installers.

‘These new amplifiers mate the best of Parasound design with the cool, efficient reliability and space savings of Class D’, said Parasound president, Richard Schram. ‘The Danish-made ICEpower modules are the best available, offering amazing sonic performance and reliability. When paired with our premium Class AB stereo input stage and custom designed heat sinking, a powerful, cool-running, and rack-space friendly amplifier results. The performance rivals more costly audiophile amplifiers. Using independent power modules for each zone ensures that we can achieve this with all channels driven’.

The ZM 4's two output zones can operate from a common source bus or independently from two separate sources. Each channel has individually adjustable line-level gain controls and the output for each zone can be mono or stereo. It uses Phoenix-style speaker connectors and can power up to eight speakers using the A+B speaker outputs. Loop outputs are provided to enable daisy chaining additional amplifiers.

The half-width ZM 2 has similar performance for a single zone but includes an 80 Hz low-pass filter for subwoofers. The filter can be applied to the line-level output for use with a powered subwoofer. It can also be applied to the main amplifier outputs for use with passive subwoofers in mono or stereo mode. Using the A&B speaker outputs, up to four speakers can be powered. 

Both amplifiers boast 150 watts per channel into 4-ohm and 2-ohm loads and 120 watts for 8-ohm speakers. They can be turned on using 12V triggers, audio detection, or front panel button. The ZM 4 offers turn-on for all zones or for each zone individually, offering exceptional flexibility, especially with popular, branded streaming sources that have 12V triggers. 

The ZM 12 is a 12-channel, 2-ohm stable power amplifier for commercial and residential audio systems with flexible power options for stereo audio in six zones, and up to 24 individual speakers. The ZM 12 drives two channels at 120 watts each into 8-ohms, with the remaining 10 channels at 60 watts each. With 4-ohm speakers typical of architectural audio, the ratings are 150 and 100 watts respectively. There are also A and B speaker outputs for each channel. 

‘Providing higher power for two of the 12 channels seems obvious now that we've done it’, says Richard Schram. ‘Nearly all installations have a zone which can sing nicely with higher power, either a large room, outdoor speakers, or a room for serious stereo listening’.

Each channel has an individual line-level input jack, level control, and two detachable Phoenix-connector speaker outputs. Each zone can connect to one of two line-level buses or to a speaker-level input bus. Buffered loop outputs facilitate daisy-chaining amplifiers. The ZM 12 has a suite of turn on options: global (all zones) auto turn on with a switch to select either a single 12V trigger or audio sensing and each zone can be independently turned on by 12V or audio sensing. 

The Parasound ZoneMaster ZM 2, ZM 4 and ZM 12 are available now from exclusive UK distributor, Connected Distribution, at retail prices inc. VAT of £599, £1,199 and £2,999 respectively.

Connected Distribution breaks out the audio with the Pulse-Eight neo:X+ and neo:8a audio-video matrixes

Connected Distribution, the original UK distributor for Pulse-Eight, is introducing the neo:X+ and neo:8a matrixes to bring advanced audio functionality, including audio breakout and ARC, alongside the well-established HD video capabilities of the Pulse-Eight products.

Pulse-Eight’s matrix switchers are well regarded among custom installers as one of the most robust solutions available. Now, with the addition of full audio matrix capabilities of the neo:X+ and audio break out on the neo:8a, Connected Distribution’s customers can enjoy far greater flexibility with their installations and offer a wider range of options for their projects.

The neo:X+, the latest addition to the Pulse-Eight range and its flagship matrix, provides the ultimate in audio and video installation. Eight HDMI inputs and eight HDBaseT Class C + DSC outputs permit UHD 4K video transmission at 4K/60, 4:4:4, 8bit or 4K/60 4:2:2, 12bit up to 100 meters. While that in itself makes it a class-leading matrix, where this unit comes into its own is the audio handling capabilities. Three modes: Source, Sink Active and Sink Passive provide varying options for audio distribution via the ten audio zone outputs, with optical, digital coaxial and analogue connections.

In Source Mode, the simplest setting, the audio can be extracted from each source input and sent to an external amplifier or audio matrix in the digital or analogue domain.

With Sink Mode Active enabled, the audio breakout outputs on the neo:X+ match what is being shown on the screen, with the audio from the TV re-directed down the HDMI ARC line, via the HDBaseT link, and into the matrix. From here the installer can extract it and send to the amplifier for that zone. And if the installer uses the analogue audio outputs, the original TV remote control can be used to control the volume via CEC.

For TVs without the benefit of ARC, Sink Mode Passive is selected and for whichever source connected to the matrix is being viewed, the audio will be extracted and sent to the amplifier for that room. Audio from the TV may be routed back to the matrix using the optical out on the TV, which is connected to the optical input on the HDBaseT receiver and sent down the HDBaseT line.

Neo:X+ also features four digial audio input zones. This enables the attachment of separate audio sources, such as streamers, which can then be routed to any zone using the audio matrix capabilities of the product.

Another new product from Connected Distribution is the neo:8a, with eight HDMI inputs, eight HDBaseT and two HDMI outputs, with the added feature of eight HDMI source audio breakouts. These can be routed via optical or digital coaxial connections to external amplification and audio distribution products, such as the renowned Russound range of audio matrix amplifiers. The audio breakout feature has been added to the existing neo:8, to make the neo:8a, at no additional cost to the installer.

As with all Pulse-Eight products, the neo:X+ and neo:8a include the company’s intelligent use of CEC for selection, routing and control of connected sources via the standard TV remote. And for peace of mind and to avoid the need for time consuming site visits to fix simple issues, the installer can check the performance of the system, diagnose problems that may be occurring and fix many issues via the cloud-based remote monitoring service.

In addition to the built-in CEC and web-based source selection options, the Pulse-Eight matrixes are controllable via many third-party systems, including RTI, also distributed by Connected Distribution.

Mike Bonnette, product director for Connected Distribution, comments, “With the hugely powerful neo:X+ and neo:8a matrixes, Pulse-Eight proves once again that it is at the forefront of HD video technology and is now also taking control of the audio side of things. The ability to break out the audio, add additional audio sources and route the multi-channel audio from the TV to the matrix, is going to make the installer’s life so much easier.”

Learn more about Pulse-EIght matrixes HERE

Connected Distribution appointed to distribute Xantech

Connected Distribution is pleased to announce it has been appointed as a distributor for the Xantech range of high-quality video distribution products, including its class-leading Video over IP, to bring these respected and reliable solutions to the commercial and residential installation sectors.

Xantech’s premium Video over IP (VIP) platform distributes 4K UHD HDMI video over a 1GB Network switch with a virtually latency free performance of just 1-frame. Using lossless compression technology, Xantech delivers HDMI, IR and RS-232 to lengths of up to 100m over a single CAT cable. 

As with all Xantech products, ease of installation is a must and the new 4K UHD Video over IP solution can be installed in minutes without the need for any networking qualifications or the creation of complex VLANs. The easy to use wizard-based installation means a basic product configuration takes just seconds, without needing a computer or any special set up software.

The entire system is modular in design, with separate transmitters and receivers that are powered via PoE or locally, meaning installations can grow as more sources and displays are added over time. This is a huge benefit for installers, especially in large commercial situations where the number of displays is very often considerably greater than the number of sources. Using traditional HDMI matrix products in these situations results in the unnecessary purchase of source inputs that remain unused.

Further simplicity in installation comes from the built-in scaling which ensures that every source will work with any display, including 4K Ultra HD (3840 x 2160) and HDR at 24fps available on the latest HDMI 2.0 devices. Every receiver also features a ‘daisy-chain’ capability to permit content to be mirrored across multiple displays.

The Xantech VIP products can be controlled very simply using the Advanced Control Module with a drag and drop routing operation or via any number of third-party control systems, including RTI, also distributed by Connected distribution.

Mike Bonnette, Connected Distribution’s product director says, “Xantech are the undoubted leaders in Video over IP systems and we are delighted to have been appointed as a distributor for these impressive products.” He continues, “For our customers looking for the ultimate in flexibility and ease of set up and who require the highest quality video to be routed over long distances in commercial and semi-commercial environments, VIP is the only choice. And Xantech VIP is the very best product we have seen in this category – we know our customers are going to love it.”

Roy Legget, from Xantech’s parent company, NortekSecurity & Control commented, “We are very pleased to have partnered with Connected Distribution to make the Xantech range of VIP and other HDMI distribution products available to the UK custom and commercial installation markets.” He adds, “Having known and worked with the team at Connected Distribution for many years, I am confident that the product range will be very well represented, and the customers looked after with the professionalism I have come to expect from Mike and his colleagues.”

Read more about Xantech HERE

Connected Distribution Appoints Mark Cheffins as Regional Sales Manager

To support its continued growth strategy, Connected Distribution Ltd. has appointed Mark Cheffins to the position of regional sales manager, to head up business development across the southern region of the UK and to give installers and retailers a dedicated point of contact for the company’s comprehensive product offering.

Mark joins Connected Distribution after 12 years with AV brand Onkyo, where he held the role of technical product manager, responsible for technical assistance across all Onkyo products distributed in the UK and across the EU. Prior to that he held the role of technical sales manager for the south east of the UK. 

His extensive technical and sales experience with Onkyo was preceded by two years as custom installation specialist with BBG Distribution and five years as head custom installer for Sevenoaks Sound & Vision. Mark is extremely well qualified with diplomas from THX as a video professional, home theatre designer and as a certified technician, all of which we graduated in with distinction. 

Connected Distribution holds the UK distribution rights for several high profile custom installation, home cinema and hi-fi brands including: Russound; Parasound; Pulse-Eight; Cabasse, Atlantic Technology; Earthquake Sound; Yamaha; Sanus and the recently introduced control brand, RTI. 

Cheffin’s proven track record in the high-end custom installation industry, working in a business-to-business environment with installers, specifiers and buyers, and across the hi-fi retail sector, equip him with the knowledge and skills to develop Connected Distribution’s business.  

On joining the business, Mark says, “The opportunity to join a successful business with the longevity and portfolio of Connected Distribution was too good a chance to miss. Its range of brands and the exciting new products being introduced, together the close-knit team’s approach to a personal customer experience, have me feeling very excited about getting stuck in.” He continues, “The opportunities open to the business via its carefully selected brands and loyal customer base are many. And the chance to introduce these cutting-edge products such as the Russound MBX streamers and the hugely powerful RTI control system to potential new customers is a sales manager’s dream. I look forward to meeting customers old and new over the coming months.”

Mike Bonnette, product director for Connected Distribution, adds, “Mark displayed the sort of infectious enthusiasm that is rarely seen in interviews. It is obvious he has a real passion for what he does, namely meeting people and providing the right solutions for their needs, and we are fortunate to have him on board to help us with our very significant business development objectives.”

Connected Distribution adds big hitters to Stirling Roadshow on 16th October

Connected Distribution is pleased to announce the addition of two big name speakers for its Scotland Roadshow in Stirling on 16^thOctober. Cyrille Vergely from RTI and Pete Baker, representing Russound, will be presenting on their respective brands and available to talk to the Roadshow attendees throughout the day.

This free, one-day event will introduce Scotland based custom installers to the latest technologies from some of the biggest names in audio, video and control systems. They will have the opportunity to learn from the presentations given in the morning, from the likes of RTI, Russound, Yamaha, Pulse-Eight and others, who will be teaching delegates about the latest products from their brands, the technologies behind them and revenue opportunities that they present. There will be interesting and thought-provoking ideas discussed that will be of direct benefit to installers and their customers.

Cyrille Vergley is RTI’s dealer experience manager. He has 25 years’ experience in the custom installation industry and is responsible for ensuring an exceptional experience for the company’s dealers across Europe through training, technical support and project design assistance. Based in Paris, Cyrille is making the trip over to Stirling to support Scotland based installers and will be introducing the hugely powerful and versatile RTI platform to them.

Pete Baker runs The BIG Corp, a US based global full-service sales rep and consulting agency, providing support to the finest brands in consumer electronics. Pete is the EMEA representative for Russound, the leading distributed audio company. He will be talking about the latest developments in high resolution multi-room audio from the brand and also be sharing some of his 30+ years’ experience in successfully selling big name brands during his time as an integrator.

Joining Cyrille and Pete will be other guest speakers from Connected Distribution’s brands, including Kevan Sproston from cable brand Kordz and Sean Emery from Pulse-Eight.

Commenting on the forthcoming event, Connected Distribution’s Mike Bonnette, says, “We are delighted that Cyrille and Pete are making the effort to join us from France and the USA respectively. It is a great coup for us to get these two experts in their fields together at our Stirling Roadshow. The opportunity to hear from these heavyweights in the CI sector is one that we think will appeal to the wider installation community in Scotland and we would like to extend the invitation to attend, and hear from Cyrille, Pete and our other guest speakers, to all of the region’s installers.”

Following the morning’s presentations and lunch, the event will transform into an expo, with products from the brands in the Connected Distribution portfolio on display and available for the attendees to discuss in detail with the representatives from each company.

The Connected Distribution Roadshow takes place at the Stirling Court Hotel, Stirling University from 10am to 4pm on 16^thOctober. Any installers interested in attending can reserve a place by emailing This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it..

Connected Distribution appointed to supply Kordz cables

Connected Distribution has announced its appointment as a distributor for the Kordz range of high-quality audio-visual cables, bringing robust and reliable cabling solutions to the custom installation sector.

Australia based Kordz is a long-standing innovator and manufacturer of HDMI and other AV cables. The company’s extensive experience in design, engineering and manufacturing is the foundation on which it builds products that are robust, offer high quality sound and picture, high-bandwidth, tight bend radius, shallow mounting depth and reliability. These essential attributes for the demanding custom installation channel set the company apart from its competitors.

Mike Bonnette, Connected Distribution’s director says, “The Kordz range of CAT-6, CAT-6A, HDMI, patch-cables, speaker cables and other essentials are the perfect addition to our range of high-quality audio and video products.” Adding, “The CI industry has known for a long time that the quality of cables, particularly over long runs, is a crucial element in the performance of a system. We have witnessed, on numerous occasions, the use of cheap, low grade cables and the problems these cause, which are then rectified by using better quality cable. For this reason, we will be recommending that our customers specify Kordz, as we’ve tested them with high bandwidth signals, and they have been independently certified by major testing houses.”

James Chen, CEO of Kordz commented, “We are over the moon to have secured a channel partnership in the UK with Connected Distribution. With nearly 20 years of custom installation experience and several key brands in their portfolio, they are recognised as a leading value add distributor in the UK residential sector. Our latest HDMI and CAT 6 integration solutions are genuinely pushing the boundaries of what can be achieved in tough installation environments and we look forward to bringing them to market in partnership with Connected Distribution in the UK.”

Founded in 2003, Kordz manufactures a wide range of cables that cover most applications and situations that the CI professionals come across. These include the R.3 HDMI cables that are 18Gbps tested, THX and DPLD certified for 4K and built to reject electromagnetic interference, making them ideal for use in rack builds, where stray EMI is prevalent and can cause significant problems.  For extremely long cable runs, its PRS3 Active Optical HDMI cables are certified up to 30m for 18.0gbps. 

Also developed for rack building, the slimline PRO CAT6 patch cables are available in 16 different length variants, from 0.15m to 30m, and are the perfect quick fit solution for wiring busy racks. The company’s CAT6-a F/UTP cable is 10GBaseT compatible and has a CPR declared performance specification, that can usefully be downloaded and filed in the installer’s job file for future reference should any insurance claims require proof of fire rating. 

The Kordz range of cables, connectors, tools and accessories are now in stock at Connected Distribution and available for specification by installers.

Guests at the Connected Distribution Roadshow, held in Reading on 19th September, were the first to hear about the new distribution arrangements and an introduction to the products from Kevan Sproston, Kordz’ product manager. Kevan will be present the forthcoming Roadshows in Stirling on 16th October and Leeds on 31st October.

For more information on the Kordz range please click HERE 

Connected Distribution takes the show on the road in Autumn 2019

Connected Distribution has announced a series of Roadshows for the Autumn of 2019, giving custom installers across the UK the opportunity to experience the company’s portfolio of custom installation products and hear from some of its key suppliers.

Following a successful series of events in 2017, the company feels the time is right, with a plethora of new and innovative products, to stage its popular roadshow events once again. Taking place on 19^th September in Reading, 16^th October in Stirling and 31^st October in Leeds, these day long sessions will be used to introduce the UK’s custom installers to the latest technologies from some of the leading names in electronics manufacturing.

The day will commence with a number of guest speakers from the likes of RTI, Russound, Sanus, Parasound and others, who will be presenting the newest products from these brands and explaining the technology behind them. The added value and revenue opportunities that they present to installers will be explored, with some interesting and hopefully thought-provoking ideas discussed that will be of direct benefit to installers and their customers.

Following lunch, the event will transform into an expo, with example products from all of the brands in the Connected Distribution portfolio on display and available for the attendees to discuss in more detail.

Mike Bonnette, Connected Distribution’s product director, announcing the events says, “We have held very successful roadshows over the past few years and are excited to be repeating them in 2019. A lot of technological developments have taken place since the last time we all got together and many of our suppliers have produced ground-breaking products that offer significant benefits to the installers and their customers alike.” He continues, “The chance to present these all under one roof to our customers and other interested members of the CI industry is one we are looking forward to. We feel sure the opportunities for business growth that they present will be of great interest to all who come along and we look forward to seeing them at one of the three events.”

Any installers interested in attending can reserve a place by emailing This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. with their preferred venue.

New Sanus Full Motion Mounts available from Connected Distribution

Connected Distribution is pleased to make the new Sanus Advanced Full Motion (S4) Wall Mounts available for the custom installation market in the UK. These next generation TV wall mounts are designed from the ground up, incorporating class-leading engineering and contemporary aesthetics, to provide a sleek, discrete and strong solution for today’s ultra-thin TVs.

“The Sanus engineers have worked with custom installers to create a range of three brackets which cover all TV sizes from 19” to 90” and fulfil all the requirements for today’s installations,” says Mike Bonnette, Connected Distribution’s product director. “They have re-engineered what a TV wall bracket should be and have designed them with an ultra-strong solid steel frame that provides maximum support for the TV. And with the stylish brushed stainless or black steel decorative covers, which conceal the wall fixing plate, the installation has a beautifully clean appearance to satisfy the most demanding of aesthetics.”

The Sanus VSF716-B2 and VSF716-S2 (in black and stainless respectively) are single arm designs, for TVs 19” - 40” in size. They are designed to carry TVs weighing up to 15.9kg, swivel 90 degrees left and right and sit just 46mm from the wall to accentuate the thin TV panel.

TVs between 32” and 55” and up to 24.9kg are catered for with the VMF720-B2/S2, which provide 60 degrees of left right swivel. And the largest screens, of up to 57.6kg and 90” diagonal can be mounted using the VLF728-B2/S2. With its very generous extension of 71cm, variable VESA mount and 57 degree left/right swivel, it is one of the most versatile large screen TV mounts available. Its twin arm construction, with hidden cable management that is common to all models, provides security and convenience for the installer and home owner alike.

For more information on the Sanus range click HERE

All models come with a Sanus 10 year limited warranty and are available now from Connected Distribution. 

Russound’s new IC Series speakers featuring SwiftLock™ and Easygrip™

From Connected Distribution, Russound’s exclusive UK distributor, comes the new IC Series of in-ceiling speakers. Incorporating the latest advances in material technologies, they’ve been designed, manufactured and tuned for a hugely rewarding listening experience and an installation that is easy as possible for time challenged installers, thanks to the SwiftLock fixing system.

The five strong range of products comprises: the IC-610 165mm with polypropylene cone and 19mm pivoting silk tweeter; IC-610T single point stereo variant; IC-620 enhanced performance speaker with injection moulded PP cone and 25mm pivoting silk tweeter; and its larger sibling, the 200mm IC-820. The flagship IC-630 includes an injection-moulded polypropylene cone with vapour deposited titanium, coupled to a pivoting titanium dome tweeter. The IC-630 also includes a +/- 3dB tweeter adjustment switch to enable adjustment for the room's acoustic characteristics.

Russound has re-engineered its speaker range from the ground up, with all five of the new models using advanced integrated baffle/woofer baskets for unmatched rigidity and dampening, and a new inverted parabolic surround to improve the linearity and efficiency of the drive units. 

The IC-620, IC-820, and IC-630 are enhanced with the inclusion of SwiftLock for effortless installation at the push of a button. By pushing the three blue buttons, the spring loaded dog-legs are instantly rotated to clamp down on the ceiling material, automatically allowing for the thickness of the ceiling or wall and securely locking the speaker in place. Quick release of the speaker is a very simple process of using a screwdriver to turn the SwiftLock dog-leg through half a turn to lock it back into place. Russound’s SwiftLock equipped speakers are the most install-friendly products on the market.

With the installers’ needs very much in mind, each speaker includes Easygrip, a tweeter bridge that is specifically designed with the inherent strength to be used as a grip handle. This ingenious solution overcomes the commonly seen situation of weak tweeter bridges breaking under the strain of being used as a handle.

Mike Bonnette, Connected Distribution’s product director, says of the new speakers, “With the IC Series, Russound has once again proven that it is the installers’ friend, producing speakers that not only sound fantastic and are priced very competitively, but also dramatically cut down on installation time and help prevent accidental damage. We are confident that our customers will be delighted with innovations in the products and will wonder how they ever coped without them.”

For more information on the Russound IC Series click HERE

Connected Distribution to supply RTI control solutions

Connected Distribution has today announced its appointment as a distributor for the RTI range of automation and control systems.

The RTI advanced control products for residential and commercial installations provide a comprehensive solution for the custom installer. Its award-winning wired, wireless and app-based products offer total control over entertainment, distributed audio and video, lighting, climate and security. The company’s Integration Designer programming software enables powerful, customised integration of third-party products.

Mike Bonnette, Connected Distribution’s director says, “We are delighted to add RTI to our portfolio of distributed AV products. This powerful and hugely flexible platform will enable our customers to provide unparalleled personalised system control for their end-user clients.” He continues, “Used in conjunction with the HD video products we supply from Pulse-Eight and our highly regarded audio brands, such as Russound, RTI underlines our offering as the one stop shop for the custom installation sector.”

Used in conjunction with the company’s other brands, including Russound, Yamaha, Pulse-Eight and Parasound, plus loudspeaker solutions from the likes of Cabasse and Atlantic Technology, RTI from Connected Distribution offers a total solution for the market.

The RTI product range will be supported by comprehensive training from Connected Distribution and the UK master distributor, Pulse-Eight.

RTI will be available from 1^stJune.

Connected Distribution at EI Live 2019

Connected Distribution will be using the UK’s only custom installation show to present new products from its key brands, including Russound, Cabasse and Soundcast and introduce the show visitors to other exciting additions to its range.

Among the key new product introductions will be the Russound MBX series of streamer/amplifiers. The compact MBX-AMP amplifier and MBX-PRE pre-amplifier are the first of a new generation of streaming products designed to deliver streamed and networked music, internet radio, streaming via Bluetooth, Chromecast or Airplay and local TV sound, right into the customer’s room or as part of a multi-room installation.The range of connectivity options and ability to reproduce high-resolution audio at competitive prices set them apart from their rivals. 

Also launching at EI Live from Russound are the IC series ceiling speakers, which incorporate the latest advances in material technologies and are designed, manufactured and tuned for a highly rewarding listening experience. The range of speaker solutions provide excellent choices in any application - from the budget-minded to audio-purists. Each speaker includes Easygrip™ and the IC-620, IC-820, and IC-630 models include Swiftlock™ for effortless installation at the push of a button – no more screw drivers required. 

New from French loudspeaker experts Cabasse, The Pearl is an active, high-definition, connected speaker, that concentrates all the expertise and technology from the legendary La Sphère into a compact form. The Pearl has the “je ne sais quoi” that appeals to the most demanding customers looking to acquire a compact and wireless speaker, without compromising on acoustic quality.

The Cabasse Eole 4 is the 4th generation of Europe’s biggest selling home cinema speaker package. It brings all the benefits of Cabasse co-axial drive unit technology to home cinema fans in a stylish new package. Five discreet spherical satellite speakers, featuring new grilles and adaptable mounting bases, plus a new slimline subwoofer make it the installers’ and interior designers’ perfect cinema speaker solution.

Summer is coming and Soundcast outdoor speakers provide the perfect add-on sale for installers. These Bluetooth, weatherproof, portable high-performance wireless audio speakers deliver the ultimate in sound quality and are designed to work seamlessly with any lifestyle, indoors or out. With five loudspeaker products in the VGX series and a Bluetooth transmitter in the range, there is a product for every application, from a pocket sized portable and fully waterproof speaker to the class-leading flagship outdoor portable.

Full scale cinema installations are the domain of Earthquake. A brand known best for its no-compromise subwoofers, the show visitors will also get to see the carbon drive unit centre channels, line array in-walls and of course the famous subwoofers.

Other products on display from Connected Distribution’s portfolio will include Pulse-Eight HDMI solutions, Atlantic Technology home cinema loudspeakers, Yamaha home cinema and multi-room electronics and Sanus mounting solutions.

See Connected Distribution at EI Live, April 30 - May 1, Farnborough Exhibition Centre

https://www.eiliveshow.com

Parasound heads north for the Acoustica Show

Parasound will be presenting a selection of new products at the Acoustica Hi-Fi Show on 6^thand 7^thApril in Chester, including the UK show debut for the P6 pre-amplifier and JC5 power amplifier, bringing all the power and poise so cherished by the professional recording industry to the audiophiles of the north west.

On permanent demonstration at Acoustica, the Parasound products redefine the proposition of value and despite the low prices, compared to comparable performance products, they are the amplifiers of choice for many of the major movie studios, composers, artists, recording engineers and music studios. With Parasound there is no separate "pro" line of products, and nothing is specially modified for the industry insiders. The amplifiers available for use in the home are exactly the same as those that Pixar, Sony and Lucasfilm and many others, for whom money is no object, choose to buy. Visitors to the Acoustica show will find out for themselves why Parasound is so revered.

The P6 pre-amplifier allows audiophiles to seamlessly bridge the analogue and digital divide in these ever-changing multi-format days. On the digital side, new technologies have changed the way audiophiles connect to and enjoy their music, so the P6 features a ESS Sabre32 Reference DAC with USB, optical and coax inputs. The coax and optical accept all sampling rates up to 192 kHz, 24-bit, whilst the USB input is capable of DSD & 384kHz/32-bit PCM. On the analogue stage, with the vinyl resurgence, Parasound has included a genuinely great and adaptable phono stage to accommodate MM & MC cartridges.

Partnering the P6 will be the new A23+ stereo power amplifier, which features 2 x 160 watts into 8 ohms and will be powering the Cabasse Murano Alto loudspeakers. Vinyl duties will be handled by the extremely well reviewed JC3+ phono stage.

Connected Distribution will also be showing off the new Parasound Hint 6 integrated amplifier and the new ZphonoXRM, Parasound’s latest phono preamplifier which combines high performance with unprecedented versatility - and at a price that fills the gap between the popular Zphono and the internationally acclaimed JC 3 Jr. 

Bringing the power to the show will be the colossal JC5 power amplifier, which distils the essence of the top-of-the-line Halo JC 1 monoblock power amplifiers into a single chassis. The design features a high power and ultra-high bias Class A/AB topography capable of delivering 400 watts per channel. The JC5 will be in use in the Bowers & Wilkins room.

“We’re very excited to be taking the Parasound range to the Acoustica Show,” says Mike Bonnette from Connected Distribution. “Acoustica is one of the major Parasound retailers in the UK and is serving the music lovers of the north west very well by combining the amplifiers with top-quality audio streamers, resulting in simply sublime sounds. We are looking forward to sharing this with the show visitors.”

www.acoustica.co.uk

More on the Parasound range HERE

Cabasse launches Eole 4 home cinema speakers

Cabasse UK distributor, Connected Distribution, is excited to announce the availability of the 4th generation of the EOLE 5.1 speaker system, bringing all the benefits of Cabasse co-axial drive unit technology in a stylish new package to home cinema fans so they can get the full experience from their favourite films, TV shows and sporting events.

The 4th generation of Europe’s biggest selling home speaker package comes with five spherical satellite speakers, featuring new grilles and mounting bases plus a new slimline subwoofer.

Spherical speakers are the perfect design, eliminating cabinet induced diffraction and enabling a very wide dispersion of sound that is perfect for home cinema systems. Each 13cm diameter satellite presents the Cabasse properties of efficiency, power, transparency and stable soundstage from its coaxial driver: a 29mm tweeter dome and a 100mm medium-woofer.

The new style grille fitted to the satellites creates a more refined look, with an improved and more open profile than its predecessor, that brings even more transparency and a better high frequency response.

Also new for Eole 4, each satellite comes with a mounting base which allows users to choose between two configurations during set up, adding a pure and elegant shape to the satellites whether they be installed on walls or located on shelves. The magnetic base makes it possible to position the satellites in all directions, making it possible to focus the speakers for an optimal configuration that harmonises the aesthetics and the acoustics of any room, resulting in an impressively realistic soundstage without being intrusive.

The low frequencies are provided by a newly designed subwoofer – Lipari 21 – with its “Super Slim” format. The subwoofer was designed using the same logic as for the satellite speakers, which guarantees realistic and powerful sound reproduction in a discrete presentation. Practical, lighter and thinner (15x39x39cm) than its predecessor, the Lipari 21 can be placed vertically against a wall or horizontally underneath furniture for an even more discrete installation, without altering the sound from the 21cm woofer. Peak power of 400W provides the maximum in realistic and faithful sound for both home cinema and music.

Eole 4, in black or white, is available now with a UK MSRP of £899 inc. VAT.

Ends.

Read more about Eole 4 HERE

Russound’s new MBX-PRE and MBX-AMP professional grade streamers

Russound, distributed by Connected Distribution, is introducing the compact MBX-AMP amplifier and MBX-PRE pre-amplifier, the first of a new generation MBX streaming audio products designed to deliver networked music, internet radio, streaming via Bluetooth, Chromecast or Airplay and local TV sound, right to the customer’s room or multi-room installation.

The 50 watts-per-channel MBX-AMP is the cornerstone of a distributed audio system, whether centralised or decentralised, for installers who need to offer the most up-to-date streaming solutions to their clients. Its range of connectivity options and ability to reproduce high-resolution audio sets it apart. Wi-Fi and wired Ethernet connections allow for quick, reliable streaming of all network stored music, plus Tidal and Deezer at up to 24bit/192kHz high resolution. In addition to TuneIn, vTuner, UPnP, DLNA and Apple AirPlay, the MBX features built-in Chromecast to play any music (e.g. Spotify, YouTube, SoundCloud, etc.). With integrated Chromecast, the MBX is compatible with Google Home and can be voice controlled via Google Assistant. Both products can be controlled using the intuitive MyRussound app for iOS and Android and is compatible with the Russound XTS touchscreen.

External audio sources can be connected via an optical digital or analogue input, plus a USB socket makes provision for locally stored music to be played. Each audio input can be distributed to the other MBX players for a true whole-house, multi-room, audio experience. Analogue line level and optical digital outputs permit connection to external amplifiers and distributed audio systems. The MBX-AMP also features a dedicated subwoofer output.

The 21cm x 18cm x 4.5cm MBX-AMP is slim enough to wall mount behind a TV and attractive enough to have on display in a room, the MBX also features an optical digital input to which the TV’s audio output can be connected. Auto sensing of the TV signal when it is switched on overrides the streaming audio connection to the MBX and feeds the sound directly to the connected loudspeakers. An IR input for control via the TV’s remote makes operation simple.

The companion MBX-PRE is a preamplifier version of MBX-AMP. It features all the same connections, streaming services and high-resolution audio capabilities as its sibling, but is designed solely to feed any external amplifier or distributed audio system. Both models feature a 12v trigger output to control additional equipment.

Charlie Porritt, Russound CEO, describes the impact of these new MBX streamers, “While small in size, these new streamers deliver a lot: bringing really helpful additional features, superb performance and fingertip convenience to every TV installation or entertainment zone of our dealers’ installations. Designed and built with the input of many experienced Russound integrators, these robust MBX streamers are more flexible to install, easier for consumers to operate and they perform beautifully.”

Mike Bonnette, Connected Distribution’s Technical Director adds, “Our close working relationship with Russound, over the past 19 years, has been hugely beneficial for the UK based custom installers, in that we have been able to interact directly with the R&D team to offer advice as to the features and benefits that are needed in our market. The MBX series addresses many of the needs of our installers, offering exceptional performance, simplicity of installation, ease of use and huge amounts of flexibility. We are confident they will provide installers with an unbeatable proposition for their clients’ installations.”

More on the MBX series HERE

Chest Heart & Stroke Charity benefits from Parasound and Fish Auction

A Parasound hi-fi system signed by the rock star and platinum-selling artist, Fish, recently sold at auction in aid of Fish’s chosen charity, Chest Heart & Stroke Scotland, and the lucky winner was able to meet his musical hero during the presentation of the proceeds to the charity.

Connected Distribution, UK distributor for Parasound, organised the charity auction in conjunction with Fish, who is a Parasound endorsee. The signed Parasound Z Series hi-fi system, comprising: Zpre v.2, Zamp v.3, Zdac v.2 and Zphono was listed for sale on ebay and publicised to the huge fan base via the Fish’s website and social media channels.

Barry Capper, a lifelong lover of Fish’s music, was the winner of the system, which had been bid for by his wife as a surprise Christmas present. Barry was invited to join Fish for the soundcheck at the final date of his European tour in Glasgow, before the presentation of a cheque for £1000 to Lauren Mackenzie of Chest Heart & Stroke Scotland. Barry and his family were then able to enjoy the sell-out concert and got a chance to meet up with Fish after the gig.

Mike Bonnette, director of Connected Distribution says, “We were delighted to be able to facilitate this charity auction in conjunction with Fish and the very worthwhile charity, Chest Heart & Stroke Scotland, to support the amazing work it does with people across the country in helping improve their rehabilitation from stroke, heart attack and breathing conditions.” 

Commenting on the afternoon’s event, Barry said, “Just wanted to say a big thank you to Fish and Connected Distribution for making my year with the surprise presentation onstage before the gig in Glasgow. And for a great night.”

“For any loyal fan, owning something signed by your musical hero is a real coup.” adds Mike Bonnette. “For Barry, it’s not only a genuinely unique souvenir of his favourite musician, but a top flight Parasound hi-fi system that will enhance his enjoyment of Fish’s music for years to come.”

Lauren Mackenzie, assistant fundraiser, Chest Heart & Stroke Scotland, said, “We were absolutely delighted to be Fish’s chosen charity. This incredible donation will help people in Scotland to rebuild their lives after diagnosis of a chest or heart condition or following a stroke. A huge thank you to Fish and the Capper’s for supporting us and helping to change lives.”

Derek Dick, otherwise known as Fish, is a successful solo artist and the former Marillion frontman and lyricist who fronted the band from 1981 to 1988, during the period of the critically acclaimed and iconic Misplaced Childhood album. Since that time, he has gone on to explore contemporary pop, traditional folk and rock music, releasing over 12 albums and touring the world to a huge and loyal international fan base. 

Fish has chosen Parasound’s exceptionally well-reviewed Halo Integrated amplifier for the main audio system in his home and studio located close to Edinburgh. The Parasound amplifier will enable Fish and his band members to record the forthcoming album, “Weltschmerz”, in their dedicated studio facility and carefully monitor the results before commercial pressings are made.

More on the Parasound Z Series here

More on Chest Heart & Stroke Scotland here

The Pearl from Cabasse - a new jewel in the acoustic streaming crown

Connected Distribution, exclusive UK distributor of Cabasse, the iconic French loudspeaker brand, announces the launch of The Pearl, an active, high-definition connected speaker, that concentrates all the expertise and technology from the legendary La Sphère into a compact form.

After three years extensive research and development, its refined and powerful design presents ultra-pure acoustics, faithful to brand signature sound, and perfect reproduction of music. The Pearl has the “je ne sais quoi” that appeals to the most demanding music lovers looking to acquire a compact and wireless speaker, without compromising on acoustic quality.

In keeping with the familiar Cabasse aesthetic, The Pearl’s spherical shape is ideal for spatial coherence and also plays the seduction card with its decorative jewel-like casing that evokes both gentleness and power. Manufactured and finished to the highest standards, the materials chosen for its construction help channel the performance. No fewer than six layers of lacquer were necessary to obtain the best possible finish on the reinforced double-shell cabinets, in either metallic black with pure chromium rings, or pearl white with silver rings. 

As the inventor of coaxial technology, which has forged the reputation of the brand for decades, Cabasse has succeeded in a new technological feat with The Pearl: develop and integrate into a much smaller volume (32cm for The Pearl,compared to 130cm in height for La Sphère), the first compact triaxial loudspeaker. Its brand new 25cm bass driver has a linear excursion of more than 30mm, offering an exceptional level of rich bass, and is coupled with the coaxial midrange and tweeter in Cabasse patented carbon. Exceptional power handling and a wide smooth frequency response from 14Hz to 27kHz, without directivity issues, coloration or distortion, makes it possible to free the music from technical constraints, leaving only the essence of the performance. 

With the sound output equivalent to that of a Formula 1 car (118dB) from its 1600W RMS (3200W peak) amplifiers and Cabasse acoustic expertise, The Pearl successfully reproduces all the purity of sound. For the perfect and fully immersive experience the Cabasse engineers have equipped The Pearl with an automatic calibration system (CRCS) that takes full advantage of the integrated microphone and Cabasse patented technology from the flagship La Sphère.                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                            

For an even more exceptional sound, it is possible to link two Pearl speakers through a simple direct Wi-Fi connection, without then need for an additional box or hub, making it possible to listen to digital audio sources in stereo with unrivaled performance. Connectivity options also permit the use of external sources such as a television, CD player, or even a turntable/phono stage combination via the optical and analogue inputs. Easy to add to any interior decor, thanks to the versatile stands or wall brackets, two Pearls present the music and movies with the precision of a high-end stereo audio system.

The Pearl, with its Bluetooth and Wi-Fi connectivity, integrates seamlessly within the Cabasse StreamCONTROL multi-room system and supports MP3, AAC, WMA, AIFF, FLAC and ALAC files including 24bit/192kHz high definition, whether they are stored on USB connected hard disks, networks or computers, internet radio or online music services (Spotify, Qobuz, Napster, Deezer, Tidal). The Pearl is compatible with the Google Assistant and soon Amazon Alexa and permits streaming anywhere in the home of any source connected to the speaker, as well as phones or tablets connected via Bluetooth.

For simplified use, The Pearl is also supplied with a remote control with the same refined finishes and clean, ergonomic design. The Bluetooth connected remote can easily control The Pearl’s volume by rotating the ring, and select the choice of input, operate play and pause and selection of a favourite radio station or music track from the presets.