OTHER TECH

The receiver doesn't have digital-to-analog processing on the multizone outputs, so source components must be connected with analog cabling for audio to be available in other zones. Video distribution is done over composite-video cabling, typically RG-6 coax (the stuff used for cable TV). The receiver transcodes video signals to higher-quality outputs, meaning that composite signals will be available on the S-video, component-video, and HDMI outputs. But sources connected via the component-video inputs are available only on the component and HDMI outputs, requiring that most be connected with dual sets of video cabling to get the best picture in the main zone and still have video available to the rest of the home.

The second step in the installation process: connecting all of the house-distribution gear, which includes not just the AVH21 and WPS21 hubs but, of course, the keypads. Each KP21 keypad includes a digital amp that is powered by 4-conductor speaker wiring running to the WPS21 power supply. Keypads also include line-level inputs and outputs for adding a local source and connecting an external amp or powered sub.

As mentioned previously, all programming is done via an onscreen GUI. For installers, using a PC to create, store, and recall files would be much quicker and, I dare say, preferred. The AVR21EN receiver does have a decent library of built-in IR codes and can learn new ones, but they can't be stored for use on different projects. Audioaccess plans on releasing an upload/download module shortly, but it won't store IR codes, only zone names and group assignments.