Electronic House Names SoundScape 360 'Product of the Year' for 2006

Electronic House Names SoundScape 360 'Product of the Year' for 2006

POMPANO BEACH, Fla., Sept. 11 /PRNewswire/ -- Vutec's ArtScreen SoundScape 360 has been named a 2006 Product of the Year by the editors of Electronic House.

(Photo: http://www.newscom.com/cgi-bin/prnh/20060911/CLM071 )

In accepting the award, Howard Sinkoff, president of Vutec, commented that, "We are proud to have designed a product that fuses AV technology with art because it enables consumers to enhance their total audio-video experience by integrating high-performance technology with the aesthetics of their living environment."

Vutec introduced SoundScape 360, a flat screen masking system, in response to the new surround sound technology developed by major audio manufacturers such as Boston Acoustics, Mirage, Polk Audio, and Yamaha. The new surround sound technology delivers a five-channel sound field from a single horizontal speaker instead of the current system of hard-wired, multiple speakers.

The ArtScreen masking system incorporates a hardwood frame and retractable screen with a digital art-on-canvas print to create a technologically advanced masking system for Plasma and LCD televisions and video projection screens. When the artwork is retracted, the screen is visible for projection or television viewing within the frame. When the television is not in use, a reproduction of art or photography is displayed within the frame.

Integrated into the ArtScreen housing, SoundScape 360 features a fully dimensional sound compartment that can be positioned above or below the video display, which meets all existing manufacturer's specifications. The new framed art dimension also expands image flexibility to accommodate a greater variety of portraits and other vertically proportioned artwork.

Vutec also offers an option for recessing the video display into the wall, keeping only the framed SoundScape 360 at the wall surface.

SoundScape 360 is available in standard display sizes for Plasma and LCD televisions from 32 inches and up. For front projection screens, SoundScape is available up to 110 inches in size. Custom sizes can also be accommodated.

Available frame styles, liners, and images for reproduction can be viewed at www.vutec.com/artscreen/. Custom artwork, such as family photography or corporate logos, can also be reproduced. SoundScape 360 comes with an IR remote, while RF, RS-232 and IP-enabled controls are optional.

"With total ownership of LCD and Plasma televisions in the US forecast to top 10 million units this year," said Mr. Sinkoff, "many owners will want to integrate their video displays with their home's interior design, especially since the average HDTV now measures 42 inches. ArtScreen and its sister product, SoundScape 360, provide consumers with a multi-room solution by turning a video display into a work art with the touch of a remote."

MSRP is $4,750 and up, depending on size, frame style (four categories available), and mounting configuration (two options available).

About Vutec Corporation

Founded in 1977 and headquartered in Florida, Vutec Corporation designs and manufactures video projection screens, masking systems and AV presentation tools. The company's products are designed for commercial, home, and institutional applications and sold through a network of authorized dealers and distributors in 67 countries.

Photo: NewsCom: http://www.newscom.com/cgi-bin/prnh/20060911/CLM071
AP Archive: http://photoarchive.ap.org/
PRN Photo Desk, photodesk@prnewswire.com
Source: Vutec Corporation

CONTACT: Gary Goldstein of Vutec Corporation, +1-561-504-3220, or
ggoldstein@vutec.com

Web site: http://www.vutec.com/
http://www.vutec.com/artscreen

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