Custon Installation Equipment Reviews

Connections
Inputs:
Video: N/A
Audio: Optical digital (1), stereo analog (3)
Outputs:
Video: Component video (1), VGA (1), S-video (1), composite video (1) (for onscreen interface)
Audio: Optical digital (1), stereo analog (1)
Additional: Video sense loop (4 inputs, 4 outputs), serial RS-232 DB9 (2), Serial RS-232 three-wire, RS-422, or RS-485 pluggable terminal blocks (2), contact inputs (6), relay outputs (6), wireless IEEE 802.11b, Ethernet 0/100baseT RJ45 jack (1), V.22is internal modem (1) (not yet enabled), USB (1 front, 1 rear), infrared jacks (4 inputs, 8 outputs)

These listings are based on the manufacturer's stated specs.

Features
No. of Sources / No. of Zones: One / Three
Processing Modes: MP3 audio encode/decode
Number of Amp Channels: N/A
Power Rating (per channel): N/A
Frequency Response: N/A
Hard Drive: 80 GB
Audio Recording Formats: Uncompressed WAV and PCM (44.1 kHz, 16-bit stereo to be supported in a future software release, MP3 (32 kbps to 320 kbps, VBR)
Dimensions (H x W x D, inches): 5.2 x 17 x 15.9
Weight (pounds): 17.5
Price $1,495

Ratings: Control4 Media Controller System

Build Quality: 89
• Media Controller's front panel is a little flimsy
• Wireless Touch Screen feels sturdy

Value: 96
• A music server and movie organizer plus wholehouse controller for less than the price of most music servers
• The Wireless Touch Screen isn't cheap, but it is a bargain

Features: 94
• Wide variety of control-type inputs and outputs
• 80-GB hard drive with USB connections for external hard drive expansion
• Syncs with MP3 players

Performance: 96
• Reliable system communication
• Acceptable brightness and contrast

Ergonomics: 96
• Give me a color touchscreen, and I'll follow you anywhere
• Consistent menus on all screens make usage almost brainless

Overall Rating: 95
Either way you look at it, this system is a winner. It's a great home theater controller with exceptional home-automation expansion possibilities, and it's a fine music server with multizone capabilities.

General Information
Media Controller A/V Controller, $1,495
Wireless Touch Screen (10.5-inch), $1,995
Ethernet Mini Touch Screen (4-inch), $699
Wireless Outlet Dimmer, $129
Control4
(888) 400-4070
www.control4.com
Dealer Locator Code CON