Parasound Adds Dedicated HDMI Switcher to its Zcustom Line

Allows high definition video display owners to add five-source HDMI switching capabilities to audio/video processors from Parasound and others.

Parasound Zhd HDMI switcher. Click any photo for high resolution JPEG image files.

SAN FRANCISCO (2/21/06) -- Parasound has introduced a five in/one out high-definition digital-video and -audio switching device that will add integrated HDMI source selection capabilities to the company's current audio-video processors, as well as many other processors and AV receivers using the included remote control. The Parasound Zcustom Zhd is used as a source selector for up to five HDMI video sources, connecting any of the inputs to an HDMI video projector or other display device. It is the latest of the company's many half-width rack-mountable custom installation problem solvers.

"This is a wonderful niche product for our Zcustom line," said Parasound's president and founder, Richard Schram. "We have many thousands of our audio video processors in use by consumers, and now they can enjoy state-of-the-art HDMI video quality that integrates seamlessly with their current system. We've included a remote control for use with processors and receivers that lack compatible RS-232 interface connections."

Parasound Zhd HDMI switcher connected via RS-232 to the Model 7100 surround controller.

The Zhd adds HDMI switching capabilities to Parasound's Halo C 1, C  2 and NewClassic Model  7100 7.1 channel surround controllers, and operates seamlessly in the background taking command signals via the two-way RS-232C communications port with the supplied RS-232 cable. Any brand of house control system can also control the Zhd through the RS-232 port, and the included IR remote handset can be used with systems that do not employ RS-232.

The Zhd also includes an HDMI signal booster for the extra-long cable runs needed in large theaters, where the screen is far from the electronics rack. The Parasound Zhd is fully HDMI 1.2 certified and HDCP compliant. The Zhd is also completely compatible with DVI when used in conjunction with a readily-available DVI-HDMI adapter.

Other features include an external IR repeater input and loop output jacks, and HDMI input temporary muting. There are front-panel indicators for source and signal boost status.

The Parasound Zcustom Zhd is now available with a suggested retail price of $600.

Founded in 1981, Parasound Products, Inc., is a privately owned U.S. company that specializes in providing affordable audio and home theater components to the critical listener. Parasound's products are available from quality audio/video retailers, and select custom installation specialists. For more information, visit www.parasound.com or call 415-397-7100.

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• HDMI 1.1, 1.2, 1.3 certified
• Fully HDCP compliant
• Five inputs, one output HDMI video and audio switcher
• Supports video resolutions up to 1080p and high resolution multi-channel digital audio
• Switchable HDMI booster for extra-long HDMI cable runs
• Links to Parasound 7.1 channel surround sound controllers (Halo C 1, C 2, NewClassic 7100) for seamless, automatic input switching
• IR remote control handset included; discrete IR codes
• HDMI output temporary 'mute' function
• Illuminated front panel indictors for input and boost
• RS-232C two-way communication with DB9 connector
• Unsolicited automatic RS-232 feedback for easy system integration
• External IR repeater input and loop out jacks
• Detachable IEC AC power cord
• Switchable 115v / 230v operation
• 1u half-rack space chassis
• (W x D x H): 9 1⁄2" x 9" x 2 1⁄4" / 1 3⁄4" without feet
• (W x D x H): 242mm x 229mm x 57.5mm / 44.5mm without feet
• Parasound 10 year parts, 5 years labor warranty
  (For US & Canada purchases only)

 

Parasound Zhd IR remote control