Control4 just announced two new models to its family of automation controllers: the flagship HC-800 and the versatile HC-250. Designed to maximize the power of Control4's operating system, the HC-800 and the HC-250 provide the ultimate Control4 experience for speed, performance and flexibility.
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At the center of Control4's updated line of controllers is the new HC-800, a multi-zone controller designed to serve as the cornerstone of any Control4 installation. The HC-800's next-generation 1.8GHz high-performance dual-core processor delivers interactive on-screen control and browsing of even the largest media libraries.
While the rack-mountable HC-800 measures in at an ultra-slim 1RU, it doesn't skimp on connectivity with two RS-232 ports, six IR ports, and four contact and relay switches. It also features enough analog and digital outputs to deliver four independent zones of audio without the help of a secondary media player. Certified HDMI audio and video connectivity enables simple integration with the latest displays, A/V receivers, and surround processors, while component video connectivity guarantees compatibility with legacy systems.
The new HC-250 also joins the controller family as an elegant, low-profile form factor, single-room controller with a next-generation 1GHz processor that delivers exceptional speed and power. The HC-250 fits easily behind a TV, on a shelf, or in a rack and features new Power over Ethernet (PoE) capability enabled by a single CAT5 cable providing the electrical power and network connectivity for the HC-250 to control the entire room, greatly simplifying installation for the integrator.
The HC-250 supports both digital audio and video over HDMI, and boasts integrated Wireless-N WiFi and ZigBee for high-performance wireless networking. The HC-250 is perfect for single-room systems including media rooms, home theaters, and conference rooms, as well as for providing fluid on-screen control for each TV in larger residential and light commercial installations.
The HC-250 makes it easier than ever for an integrator to design a one-room AV solution as an upgrade-replacement for less-functional universal remote controls. Consumers can then build upon that system at their own pace -- adding additional automation and control functionality over time.
The new Control4 HC-800 and HC-250 enhance the current controller family, which also includes the HC-200, HC-300 and the HC-1000.
The HC-800 has a US MSRP of $999 and is currently shipping.
The HC-250 has a US MSRP of $599 and is expected to be available in Q2 2012.
Additional Resources
• Read more remotes and system control news from HomeTheaterReview.com.
• Explore reviews in our Remotes and System Control Review section.
• Learn more about AV Receivers, Blu-ray Players, and AV Preamps.
