Russound’s exclusive UK distributor, Connected Distribution, is introducing the SMZ8, an eight source, eight zone controller amplifier with built-in streaming, HDMI input, Apple Airplay and Google Cast. Its features are designed to make it the backbone of future-proofed installations, allowing flexibility for installers and end-users alike.
The SMZ8 sees many of Russound’s latest innovations incorporated into this feature-packed product. Its high-res 192kHz/24-bit streamer is from the MBX range and brings access to the most popular streaming services, plus casting via AirPlay 2 and Google Cast, Spotify Connect and Bluetooth, in addition to accessing local USB, hard-drive or network stored music. Extra streams can easily be added to the SMZ8 by attaching additional MBX-PRE streamers.
Input connectivity provides flexibility to satisfy any imaginable installation requirements, claims the manufacturer. In addition to eight analogue inputs, there are three digital optical sockets, two digital coaxials and a dedicated input for the BTC-2X external Bluetooth receiver which can be positioned up to 150m away.
RNET connections enable additional Russound audio sources, such as the BSK-2 Bluetooth Source Kits to be added – potentially increasing the number of local Bluetooth inputs to eight.
In addition to the audio inputs, the inclusion of an ARC HDMI input allows perfectly synchronised audio to be distributed to as many of the zones as required.
Output connectivity is just as well specified. There are eight RCA analogue zone outputs for additional amplification in larger zones or outdoor areas, another eight RCA outputs allow sharing of audio sources with multiple SMZ8 controllers or other devices and a dedicated streaming output for simple sharing with additional SMZ8s.
Six speaker level outputs provide 50W per channel into eight-ohms, with a four-ohm minimum load possible.
Mike Bonnette, Connected Distribution’s product director says, “This is the most powerful and comprehensively equipped multi-room controller that Russound has ever produced. In a world so used to simple multi-room audio, it provides the perfect solution for customers and installers looking for much more flexibility, with multiple input sources and options for output to many zones via additional SMZ8 processors or external multi-channel amplifiers.” He adds, “And with Russound’s hi-fi heritage, the audio quality is second-to-none, meaning even the most discerning of clients will be more than happy with the sonic results.”
The SMZ8 is available now direct from Connected Distribution and will be on display on the Russound stand #2L500 at the ISE show.