OTHER TECH

Speakers connect to the IMA via standard speaker cabling, with the mega-sized IMA able to drive as many as eight pairs of speakers. This amplifier makes no apologies: It's the kind of amp that other components call "Sir." Unboxing and lifting it onto my rack, it had me questioning my masculinity in a way that no other distributed-audio amp has. In fact, ReQuest recommends putting it on its own 20-amp circuit. The IMA provides inputs for as many as eight analog sources (a ninth input can be used for doorbell/paging features), with loop-outs for each source to connect to a second IMA and a USB and serial jack for connection to the IMS.

Configuring the iQ system is a simple process completed entirely over the Web interface. From setting up an ARQLink account (for remote access) to assigning sources, adding and labeling rooms and control interfaces, and setting bass and treble for each zone, all adjustments are made in "real time," with changes taking effect immediately.

Audio distribution systems that integrate with iPods have a common shortcoming: When the Pod is gone, so is the music. ReQuest's NetSync software has taken a unique approach to iPod integration by going upstream to the source: iTunes. Since iTunes always remains behind, the music is always there, even if you don't own an iPod.

Installing the NetSync software is the final step for setting up the iQ. The basic version is available as a free download, with a Pro version available for $100. (Additionally, the Pro version requires decrypting software; ReQuest recommends Tunebite, which sells for $25.) The Pro version automates the process of incorporating DRM-protected songs purchased from iTunes.

Performance Music servers are just big, black boxes until they're filled with music, and the IMS offers several options for accomplishing this. A front-panel CD drive rips discs in selectable qualities, from various MP3 bit rates to lossless FLAC or uncompressed WAV. You can also drag music into the server over a network.