John Sciacca

Kaleidescape, the leader in the movie server category, “teased” an advanced, pre-beta look at a new version of its kOs software which will allow users to navigate the company’s movie store and purchase movies directly from the on-screen user interface. Previously users needed to log in to the store using a Web browser, and then select and purchase a title and initiate a download. Now owners will be able to jump right from the onscreen interface into the store to browse and make purchases without getting off the couch or lifting a finger off the remote.

Basalte brings Belgian-style, flare and automation smarts to its Auro motion sensor which has a completely flat design and 2-inch visible diameter that can be flush mounted in-wall, creating a virtually invisible look. Beyond a sleek look, the sensor offers Crestron and Lutron HomeWorks integration that sets it apart from other sensors.

How to enjoy a large TV without having it dominate your room.

PRICE $3,499 ($4,477 as reviewed)

AT A GLANCE
Plus
Fast setup/programming
Supports modern and legacy sources
Integrates with many third-party systems
AirPlay gives virtually unlimited access
Minus
NAS streaming has quirks
Native app support is fairly limited

THE VERDICT
Russound delivers whole-home audio entertainment in a single, massively expandable chassis, allowing you to enjoy legacy analog/digital sources or modern streaming.

Streaming and app-based control may be all the rage for music listening, but they ignore the fact that many people still have older, legacy gear they want to enjoy around their homes. Sometimes, whether it’s a CD player, turntable, or cable/satellite set-top box, “stream it from the cloud” isn’t a workable solution. Also, most modern wireless streaming music systems, such as Sonos and Play-Fi, eschew any type of wall-based control, relying solely on a smartphone or tablet interface.