ELECTROSONIC REVIEWS CRESTRON’S ADAGIO MEDIA SYSTEM
The Adagio Media System delvers a high-performance surround sound and multi-room audio distribution solution in one elegant yet cost-effective package. Right out of the box, the AMS provides sophisticated surround processing and amplification for a complete home theatre, plus audio signal routing for 4 or more pairs of remote room speakers. Its built-in Crestron control system enables enhanced control and integration capability for AV and home automation.
Electrosonic KZN recently had the opportunity to test the AMS’s capabilities. “We really did not know what to expect because although it is a 7.1 home theatre with an integrated scaler to HD, it is also a 4 zone multi-room that can handle multiple tuner cards, and it has a built-in Crestron control processor” said Rohan Clark.
Taking the unit out the box required some effort due to the weight of its enormous toroidial transformer.
“Plugged in, the power delivered by the AMS was astounding, with little if any alteration to the sound track quality. We couldn’t take the unit much beyond 75% of its maximum volume as the overloading of the room became a problem. Once the dust had - literally - settled, the verdict was that the unit compares favourably with higher end integrated 120W-150W home theatre amplifiers”, said Rohan.
The AMS’s other features are also very impressive. The 4 x 65W stereo multi-room is similar to the conventional Adagio system. The Crestron control system enables integrated control of various head-end sources via a touchscreen and/or other user interfaces. AV is just the beginning of what the AMS can offer; other application possibilities include lighting integration, HVAC, security, irrigation and much more.
“Considering the Adagio Media System in the context of a complete entertainment solution rather than a collection of AV equipment with the obligatory clutter of remotes on the table, the AMS with its Crestron control makes good sense and offers a good return on investment”, concluded Rohan.