INSTALLATION OF THE MONTH - August 2009
Contemporary Home Cinema at Its Finest By Maven and Artcoustic
The magic of make believe is the essence of great movie-making. Which is why creating an environment that enhances the movie-goers experience is at the heart of this elaborate dedicated home cinema system. The client wanted the biggest screen and best audio system possible. Maven is known for integrating and installing the finest in AV technology. When collaborating on the home, the client and Maven had a meeting of minds and a shared vision: to create an inviting and extraordinary family-oriented home cinema room.
The client was referred to Maven by an acquaintance, had seen their work and had complete faith that they could deliver the “something different” wanted for the room’s interior. The homeowners were specific about certain requirements – amazing audio, a sense of spaciousness and light and ease of use for the whole family. Maven was confident they could deliver. The room would not only be a continuation of the contemporary feel of the rest of the family home but would possess that wow factor to become the focal point of the property. “When you listen to the client, you get the best possible results”, states Rob Simmonds of Maven. “We listened from the start and all of the client’s desires and concerns were addressed in turn.” Careful planning of all aspects of the project was undertaken and drawings and plans were provided to the client to ensure complete accuracy and approval in the design layout and installation.
Maven approached the project with respect for the existing architecture and as the client and his family were resident in the property they would minimize the impact of the works throughout the project. With the installation being 200 miles away, all liaising with the client, architects, and other contractors had to be done via telephone and email.
With sound being an essential part of the cinema equation, Maven selected no other than the Artcoustic Spitfire Monitor loudspeakers. A 9ft Screen Research woven projection screen permitted the flagship Artcoustic Spitfire Monitor loudspeakers and subwoofers to be mounted directly behind the image to recreate true cinematic audio through the acoustically transparent ClearPix2 material.
High definition Blu-ray content is projected via a ceiling mounted Cineversum Blackwing2 at the rear of the room, flanked by four Artcoustic Diablo Monitor X2 loudspeakers with custom artworks to complement the modern decor and provide side and rear audio effects.
The family's entire collection of movies & music is accessed via the Kaleidescape media server, upscaling standard DVD content to high definition whilst Crestron's new TPS-6X wireless touchpanel provides full 2-way control and the ability to view any of the 16 security cameras patrolling the property.
The ambience and lighting carries on the cinematic feel. The room’s relaxing and sophistacted style is a blend of crème, beige and grey. A precise lighting design highlights specific areas of the cinema including a visual path of LED lighting to aid your choice of seat, be it in the front or raised back row - comfort is provided by luxury motorised recliners that have heat and massaging modes, there is even room in the in-built fridges for an intermission beverage!
Throughout the process, Maven held strong to the vision of a comfortable family home cinema room with a definite sense of sophisticated style. An email from this very happy client read, “You have done a top class job. The cinema is everything I imagined it to be and more. Thank you so much and I look forward to working with you in the New Year!” Upgrades and expansion to the system have already started which will allow the client to roll out the system throughout the main house. Watch this space!
Contact
Maven
0845 49 62836
av@maven.uk.com www.maven.uk.com
Artcoustic's Latest News:
-New Flagship Cinema Speaker System Released - The Powerful Spitfire 4-2-1 System
12 February 2010 - Spitfire 4-2-1 Cinema System – Spitfire 4-2-1 speaker system redefines reference cinema performance
The new flagship Spitfire 4-2-1 speaker system is available now from Artcoustic Loudspeakers. Featuring a high performance horn loaded tweeter together with 6 x 10” bass units, this model is capable of stunning performance, easily exceeding reference pressure levels with a maximum output of 122dB. Each loudspeaker is tri-amped with the PA1800 power amp to deliver 1800W per speaker. Partnered with the Spitfire Subwoofers, Spitfire Venues and PA1800 amplifier, this forms a speaker system designed for the very finest home cinema systems.
The Spitfire 4-2-1 system is the most installation friendly high performance system available. Reference performance is delivered in just 186mm of depth - including subwoofers. Installation is quick, easy and aesthetically clean and unobtrusive.
Spitfire 4-2-1 measures 800mm x 840mm x 186mm
Contact an exclusive Artcoustic distributor in your area for more information.
23 October 2009 - Artcoustic Crystal – Luxurious Aesthetics with Superb Sound
Artcoustic has designed their most exclusive line to date: Below is an example of the Artcoustic Crystal range which incorporates Swarovski crystals and is available for all speaker models. This line sees the Artcoustic product range embellished using beautiful Swarovski crystals which give sparkling and luxurious effect.
Artcoustic Diablo Monitor Speaker with Artcoustic Crystal Screen
The Artcoustic Crystal Line will also include the Artcoustic product range including the Artcoustic sleek and elegant furnishings.
Contact an exclusive Artcoustic distributor in your area for more information.
2 July 2009 - Artcoustic To Host Live Jazz Sessions during Copenhagen Jazz Festival 2009
Come and experience the Art of Jazz at the Artcoustic showroom on Holmens Kanal 7, 1060 Copenhagen K
Artcoustic, the world renowned manufacturer of high-end wall mounted loudspeakers will host a number of Live Jazz Sessions during this year’s Copenhagen Jazz Festival at their showroom. This event will give audiences a chance to indulge their passion and ears to some of the best jazz music in the world and listen to the music they enjoy in a luxurious setting over Artcoustic’s superior audio systems. The concept behind these sessions is to give audiences a chance to listen to music that has influenced and inspired the festival’s artists over a dynamic sound system as well as allow them to here a true representation of the artists’ music.
Throughout Friday, the 3rd of July to Sunday 12th of July, Artcoustic’s Live Listening Sessions will take place in their elegant showroom located on Holmens Kanal 7, 1060 Copenhagen K, right in the centre of town. Take a peek inside the artist's mind as they play the music they love and give us their insight. Using Artcoustic’s superior sound performance, live jazz never sounded so good!
Sessions and performances will be held:
Friday, July 3rd - Conexxxion performs at 16:00
Saturday, July 4th - Mais Uma performs at 15:00
Sunday, July 5th - Magnus Hjort Trio performs at 15:00
Friday, July 10th - Mais Uma performs at 18:00
Saturday, July 11th - Magnus Hjort Trio performs at 15:00
Sunday, July 12th - Conexxxion performs at 15:00
Mais Uma is a unique jazz quintet playing fresh upbeat bossa nova and samba.
The Magnus Hjort Trio belongs to the young generation of jazz musicians playing traditional jazz. By way of Sweden and Norway, the trio was nominated for the Danish Music Awards 2009.
Conexxxion is a hip jazz group that offer a wealth of music from various genres including funky fusion style numbers, straight ahead swing and Latin grooves.
If you have any questions, please send an email to marketing@artcoustic.com or contact Sharon Holm, Artcoustic Marketing Manager at +45 30 89 88 02.
2 July 2009 - Artcoustic A Big Success at CEDIA 2009
All was a success at this year’s CEDIA exhibition. Artcoustic showcased speakers from their award-winning line, new groundbreaking products and presented a new artistic collaboration. Artcoustic introduced the new and dynamic Superstar Passive elegantly swathed in the new Swarovski Crystal screen option and the DFS180-43 subwoofer, probably the world's most elegant high performance subwoofer.
Exhibitors were treated to a superb demonstration of the Superstar Active, recently awarded “2009 Best Home Speaker System For iPod” by SVI Magazine. Artcoustic also highlighted a number of custom friendly install options including the C1 Diablo C-1 X2 Multi Purpose Monitor and PA-260 Amplifier. The dynamic and hugely popular Spitfire range provided visitors with an awesome and true acoustic experience fitting for dedicated home cinema and professional studios.
Artcoustic also proudly introduced their new collaboration with Meystyle, who are the latest contemporary and exclusive artists to join the innovative Artcoustic Screen Portfolio. Artcoustic and Meystyle displayed how well their products interacted and demonstrated, when combined they create a truly unique and expressive interior.
31 March 2009 - Artcoustic Wins Two SVI Awards
Artcoustic has won two awards this year from the prestigious trade magazine, SVI (Sound, Vision, Install). The Best Speakers for iPod® was won for the new and innovative Artcoustic Superstar Stereo Music Centre and Best Flat Panel Speaker was awarded to the Artcoustic DF75-55 X2 Loudspeaker. These products were voted for by the people in the AV trade as being the best, most innovative and unique products in the industry.
25 March 2009 - Artcoustic Collaborates with E&R Photography Bringing Together Celebrated Contemporary Art and Superior Sound
E&R Photography are the latest contemporary and exclusive artists to join the innovative Artcoustic Screen Portfolio. Artcoustic and E&R Photography are proud to display how well their products interact and demonstrate, when combined and they create a truly unique and expressive interior that will leave a lasting impression. Over the past decade state of the art audio and art have played a significant role in enhancing the décor and atmosphere of a room and these two products have become important interior-design elements. Often a difficult part of any interior design, audio technology can be in opposition with design! Artcoustic, however, fully embraces art, interiors and technology to ensure harmony in design.
E&R Photography was formed in 2003 by Ellen Wetterwald and Rebekah Taylor. Using high-quality fine art materials, the company combines digital photography, printing technology and colour expertise to create bespoke images, with each photograph individually printed for the client. They bring energy and vibrancy to the interior with their vivid colours and clean, powerful contemporary images.
See the exclusive interview conducted by Artcoustic’s Media Team with E&R Photography below:
1. When did you first decide to become artists?
We have been into the arts for as long as we both can remember, and we have been surrounded by creative and talented artists for most of our lives. Ellen always had a strong enthusiasm for fashion and costume making and Rebekah followed a passion for sculpting and model making. This brought us together when we were working at one of London's biggest Special Effects companies. We both loved the art of photography and it was a natural step for us to move into that field both of us had equal experience of working with highly-talented photographers in fashion, media and advertising.
2. How do you describe your work?
E&R's artwork firstly reflects our love of striking colours and our images are mainly focused on dramatic shots whether they are architecture and urban environments, flowers, landscapes or still life. We believe our graphic style, eye for detail and unique perspectives bring qualities of optimism and happiness to the viewer.
3. Where did you see your art going?
We think our art is very versatile, even though it is very contemporary we like to believe we have something for everyone. Our images appeal to both young and old and are suitable in a home, as much as an office or commercial space (e.g. hotel or restaurant). We would love to see our images in publications, and more galleries.
4. Will you be developing and/or selecting artworks for Artcoustic Loudspeaker range?
We are really proud to present our first collection in the Artcoustic portfolio and look forward to developing and working on future projects. It's an exciting prospect, marrying our images with Artcoustic loudspeakers and, in doing so, bringing colour and vibrancy into more interior spaces.
5. What is your opinion or views on combining art with audio technology?
We think it's a great thing that you can combine art prints with audio technology - the fact that you can have your favourite piece of art on display and that it's actually disguising something “useful” is fantastic. The new “Superstar” is a very desirable system and we think represents a fantastic opportunity for audiophiles to retain the aesthetic appeal of their homes.
6. What is the next for E&R Photography ?
You'll be seeing E&R at more exhibitions, with more collaboration with Artcoustic and we aim to experiment with different materials and to continue what we are doing to make an impact to the interiors’ walls. To have more coverage, so people can see E&R's work.
Contact
E&R Photography
+44 (0) 7989 569 666
rebekah@eandrdesign.com www.eandrdesign.com
28 March 2009 - Artcoustic Exclusive Distributor Launches New Showroom and Design Centre in Exclusive District of Taiwan Bringing Together Celebrated Contemporary Art and Superior Sound
LW-International, the Artcoustic Exclusive Distributor in Taiwan has opened their new showroom which showcases Artcoustic’s exclusive range of wall mounted speakers, known for their superb sound and beautiful integration in contemporary and elegantly designed interiors. The new showroom and design centre is located in one of the most exclusive district in Taipei.
Artcoustic’s exclusive range of high end audio products are displayed amongst top of the line luxury furnishings in an open display concept, offering basic audio and home entertainment options and the latest innovations in multimedia living. The new showroom is revolutionary because it represents the first retail space for the exclusive brand and will be the first of its kind to represent an integrated living space fully fitted with elegant furnishings and Artcoustic top performing audio products giving clients, customers, interior designers and architects the opportunity to experience the systems in a truly stylish home and commercial setting.
This new showroom represents an exciting new venture”, stated, Howard Lee of LW-International, Artcoustic’s exclusive distributor in Taiwan, “Our affluent customers will now be able to have access to the Artcoustic exclusive high end audio technology that are world renowned for state-of-the-art style and award winning sound; the best of class quality and performance.”
Different Artcoustic entertainment options have been made available allowing the customer the option to choose from a system ranging from a basic audio system to a complete multi-room solution. The new showroom will set a new benchmark for quality and aesthetics by offering Artcoustic’s high-end loudspeakers that not only complement the furnishings and interior but satisfy both partners, appealing to the female as well as male clientele thus making it a “happy couple” showroom.
Contact
LW-International Co., Ltd.
+ 886 2 2722-7818
howard@lw-international.com.tw www.lw-international.com.tw
09 November 2008 - Introduction of the SUPERSTAR Stereo Music Centre that is sleek in design, powerful in sound – The Artcoustic Stereo Speaker System Sensation
Artcoustic, the world leader in modern and contemporary wall mounted high-end speaker systems, presents the SUPERSTAR iPod® Music Centre. This all in one high-end stereo amplified speaker system creates flawless sound reproduction and features endless design options.
Expanding the Artcoustic award winning speaker range, the SUPERSTAR incorporates state-of-the-art technology while maintaining Artcoustic’s signature clean, elegant lines. The SUPERSTAR is the embodiment of Artcoustic’s wealth of experience and know-how in speaker design and is beautifully implemented in this all in one unit. Artcoustic uses the same technologies developed for their high end speaker range applying them exclusively to an iPod® compatible system delivering detail and atmosphere that standard docking stations miss. With the sleek and elegant SUPERSTAR your music will sound amazing every time you play it, hearing every detail as the recording artist intended, combined with the ease of use of your iPod®, this system performs like no other iPod® dock. This new system establishes a new benchmark in design, technology integration and performance.
Design – Form flows with Function
Artcoustic understand that speakers should be as good looking as the interior design and furniture in a project. Speakers are often unattractive and functional but the SUPERSTAR, with its unique interchangeable screen system ensures that it will complement any interior. This gives you the freedom to choose the look of the front of the speaker, to personalise your SUPERSTAR then change it whenever you like! The SUPERSTAR is extremely powerful and dynamic, whilst maintaining clarity and accuracy, integrating beautifully both in terms of performance and the interior design of the room.
Technology – Sound Acoustic Principles
Artcoustic’s Unique 160 degree ultra-wide-axis Target Lens Design and X2 Subwoofer Technology
With the Artcoustic ultra-wide-axis Target lens technology, the Artcoustic SUPERSTAR provides the listener with near perfect acoustics even in the most demanding listening environment. Coupled with the advanced Artcoustic X2 subwoofer technology and a 2x150watt amplifier, the listener will experience powerful and detailed sound, normally only achieved by a much bigger and complex system.
Simplicity and Compatibility
The SUPERSTAR is simple to set up and use. Simply plug in the system, connect your iPod® and play. It can be used as a stand alone system or combined with a multi room system. This superb unit is compatible with any digital source including:
iPod®, iPhone®, Airport Express®, Sonos®, Squeeze Box®, Bose®, B & O®
Artcoustic has produced some of the best loudspeakers in the world. The company is at the forefront of technological innovations to bring you the best audio solutions possible. The SUPERSTAR is the first of its kind and is an icon of Artcoustic’s innovative product development.
SUPERSTAR Stereo Music Centre
18 October 2008 - Artcoustic Gives Exclusive Interview to Cinenow TV at UK Headquarters and Showroom
Artcoustic was selected by the widely successful Cinenow television program, the Home Theatre TV Channel to give an exclusive guided tour of the new UK Headquarters and showroom. This two part program gives a complete overview of Artcoustic products that are available to suit your lifestyle and high end audio solutions as well as a first rate viewing of their state of the art cinema system. To see this two part interview please click on the following links:
View Part One of Artcoustic UK Cinenow TV Interview View Part Two of Artcoustic UK Cinenow TV Interview
29 July 2008 - Artcoustic Open New UK Headquarters
Artcoustic UK are proud to announce the opening of their new UK Headquarters: a beautiful training and demonstration facility destined to lead the industry in audio education and design.
This brand new facility will showcase the company’s state-of-the-art high-end audio solutions to their exclusive dealers, consultants, architects, interior designers and end users. The headquarters features Artcoustic’s full range of products amongst top of the line furnishings ensuring a total Artcoustic experience in both residential and commercial room sets. The full range of Artcoustic products on demonstration with 9 full systems includes:
- A state-of-the-art dedicated reference Spitfire Cinema Room
- Commercial Spitfire Venue bar demonstration area
- Various sized plasma based systems with Artcoustic Packages
- Domestic systems ranging from the small 2 channel Diablo Target system to flagship DFF180-43 systems.
Facility will provide Authorised Dealers, Interior Designers, Architects and End Users with a Venue to Learn About and Experience Artcoustic’s Audio Solutions
This interactive demonstration facility will provide a convenient place to learn how high-end audio systems can be successfully integrated into a lifestyle environment without sacrificing one to the other. It will allow visitors to immerse themselves in the audio / lifestyle environment and also demonstrate the convenience and functionality of having the Artcoustic sound system in their private residence, home cinema, restaurant, hotel or corporate boardroom.
The facility caters for both commercial and domestic projects and can truly show the full range of possibilities that can be achieved with Artcoustic Loudspeakers.
As ever interior design and high end audio have come together via the Artcoustic team to produce a stunning new facility. “We always aim to present everything we do in the most desirable way possible” explained Paul Cummin, Artcoustic UK Sales Director, who has spearheaded this project, “We know that just having fantastic products is not enough, you have to show them in the best environments. Artcoustic as a company are leading the way in this area, we understand interior design and that selling our product is only made easier by presenting it in the right way. Our authorised dealer network already benefit from our ability to show their clients the end result via our extensive image library and marketing material. This new facility will ensure that we can keep them up to date with our full range of products and philosophy. Our aim is not only to show beautiful installations, but also to demonstrate that high performance loudspeakers are what Artcoustic is all about.”
All modern residential and commercial settings need an audio system solution, but there are so many products on the market that it is difficult to know what to select.
Artcoustic has the expertise to provide the specialist knowledge that is required, when it comes to selecting the ideal residential and commercial high end loudspeaker solution from a basic audio system to a complete multi-room solution. Artcoustic can work closely with their dealers, architects, interior designers and consultants to create a fully integrated home or commercial environment.
The new UK Headquarters marks another first for the industry, pushing the envelope of state-of-the-art audio technology and showcasing the perfect marriage between high-end loudspeakers and interior design. It will be the first of its kind to represent an integrated living space fully fitted with elegant furnishings and Artcoustic’s top performing audio systems.
If you think you already know Artcoustic, be prepared to open your eyes and ears! This facility is designed to prove that high performance systems and beautiful installations can and should go together. The range of possibilities is endless. A visit to this new headquarters is just the starting point.
The showroom is based in Chelmsford, Essex.
20 minutes by car from the M25
30 minutes by train from London Liverpool Street, (nearest train station Chelmsford)
30 minutes by car from Stansted Airport
The showroom is by appointment only – to arrange a visit please call 01245 400904 or e-mail salesuk@artcoustic.com. Artcoustic UK Showroom Unit 15 Eckersley Road, Chelmsford, Essex CM1 1SL England.
