posted on Monday, 20th January 2025 by Steve May
Russound’s exclusive UK distributor, Connected Distribution, has announced the SMZ8, an eight source, eight zone controller amplifier with built-in streaming, HDMI input, Apple Airplay support and Google Cast.
Designed to be the backbone of future-proofed installations,, the SMZ8 sees many of Russound’s latest innovations incorporated. 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 comprises eight analogue inputs, three digital optical audio inputs, two digital coaxial inputs, and a dedicated connection for the BTC-2X external Bluetooth receiver which can be positioned up to 150m away.
RNET connections enable additional Russound audio sources, like the BSK-2 Bluetooth Source Kits to be added, effectively increasing the number of local Bluetooth inputs to eight.
There’s also an HDMI ARC connection, allowing synchronised audio to be distributed to as many of the zones as required.
Output connectivity includes eight RCA analogue zone outputs, for additional amplification in larger zones or outdoor areas; another eight analogue 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.
“This is the most powerful and comprehensively equipped multi-room controller that Russound has ever produced,” says Mike Bonnette, Connected Distribution’s product director. “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.” Audio quality is second-to-none,he adds.
Industrial design is in keeping with Russound’s new house-style, first introduced on the D1290 multi-channel amplifier.
The SMZ8 is available now direct from Connected Distribution; integrators will be able to get an early hands on at ISE 2025.
Inside CI Editor Steve May is a freelance technology specialist who also writes for T3, TechRadar, Home Cinema Choice, Trusted Reviews and The Luxe Review.
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