Hey now,

Looking for some advice about a few product recommendations. I'm installing a projector in a retail space for computer/blu ray/apple tv/directv playback with local computer wall plate with HDMI/Display Port hookups. I'd also like the ability to allow microphone use through in ceiling speakers for presentations. I was thinking about using an AVR for HDMI switching/speaker level output and a Shure Wireless Mic/Receiver combo but they only have balanced outputs. I've used the combo with a Crown 135MA in the past to a dedicated pair of speakers but need to use a single pair of speakers for source/mic playback and would prefer not to use a balanced to unbalanced converter.

Thoughts?

Thanks in advance

Don't use an AVR,but instead use a commercial audio processor.
Symetrix, TOA, Atlas, etc. You can use a Crestron or Extron and get Audio and Video switching in one.
DMPS3-4K-c will do it and allow for expansion.
[Link: crestron.com]

AVRs don't like mics. Good way to blow speakers. Look into 70v also.

Use commercial equipment.

This information seems to be hard for people to hear if they're familiar with consumer gear. I don't know why, except you run into little things like no mic inputs, no balanced inputs, etc. But people still resist starting fresh and asking "what commercial gear should I use for this system?"

In addition to the brands mentioned, Rane is very good.

I know of a restaurant that's running 16 speakers off of an old surround receiver. Every day they hope the system doesn't go down. They know what they've got is totally unreliable. Instead of spending the money to be able to stop worrying, they just put it off. If you want that kind of worry running around in your head day and night, then don't wire with commercial equipment.

You will be much better off buying used commercial equipment than buying new wrong equipment!

I cannot figure out what you mean by your last sentence.

Easiest cheapest proper solution. Look at something like the Atlona hdmi 4x1 switcher, a Jbl csm 28, I think it used to be a crown something model 28, and an amp of your choice. Just need to show someone how to use it. You could use a Dbx zone pro, easy in wall controller makes it kind of idiot proof.

Crestron/Extron will break the budget. We're talking a single zone. I'm open to any commercial products and want to spec the right gear. Just doing this job for a family member and trying to keep the costs down.

Wouldn't that JBL piece require multiple DAC's for my source inputs?

Atlona piece has digital and analog out, then the mixer for mike ducking.


[Link: atlona.com]

Seems like a reasonable solution. 1K for both may fit the budget.

Thanks!

Any preferences on wireless mics?

Malcolm013,

It's not a question of being snotty or greedy. Family/friends or not, I run from projects such as this when the discussion centers around an AVR. It's like trying to make do with a fold down rear seat when one should be using a van.

The potential of needing to convert the mic from balanced to unbalanced is the least of your worries.

Since these are friends, you could give a quick back of the napkin estimate for doing things right -- citing the advantages of a truly commercial installation. If they go for it, do it right. If not, let the kid down the block or the drywall installer set them up. They'll be happy about all the money that they saved and may not care or notice how they are struggling with "minor issues" -- and their guy can take the heat for the "minor issues".

Shure!

That's a great metaphor. The best I could come up with was it's like trying to make do with a van when you need a tractor. Or the air conditioned passenger compartment of an coupe de ville when what you need is the elevated, air conditioned single-person cab of a harvester.

Shure BLX series would be the lowest on the scale that I would use.

I would go with a four in, one out hdmi switch with audio de embedder, the crown 35 watt amp, appropriate speakers and potentially the blx mic. Avoid consumer equipment. My favorite supplier can outfit you nicely...

I see the value in using commercial amplifiers for their day to day ruggedness and the ability to accept microphones and balanced lines...

I have to confess though that I recently installed a background sound system in a restaurant using a Yamaha RXA2050 Surround amp because it did a few things in one box that I didn't think was possible at the time with some commercial equipment. I found out they wanted to use a microphone for speech so I added a mixer from the stage running through balanced line to a DI box.

From this one amp I could:

1) Power 3 discrete zones with lots of power if it ever needed it. 99% of the time the music will be quiet running all day.

2) Have the ability to set zone 2 and 3 to mono.

3) Very adjustable EQ for the main zone and bass/treble control for all zones.

4) HDMI switching for the one projector in the restaurant.

5) Graphical volume feedback to work with the RTiPanel.

6) Ability to set exact volume levels with macros.

7) Query the amp for input setting and display current zone input selection on the iPad controller.

8) 4 years warranty

9) Provide an iPod input with music data and control on iPad

10) No knobs for anyone to play with and mess up gain settings. I can adjust input gain setting through the receiver options plus I can automatically set volume levels when switching from one source to another.

My initial thought was to use a DBX zone pro but I wasn't sure if I could get some of this functionality for a fully automated system, at the same price point. What do you guys think? Overall the owners, who have seen many restaurant audio systems that nobody could use, are very impressed with the way it works and I'm not at all worried about it blowing up from playing all day.