Jessy Crabb, General Manager of Metra Home Theater Group, discussed HDMI® 2.0, Ethereal products, and handling technologies including HDR and HDCP 2.2.

By CE Pro Editors, September 04, 2015

CE Pro went one–on–one with Jessy Crabb, General Manager, of Metra Home Theater Group.

Q. HDMI is moving into the 2.0 specification. How would you assess this transition?

A. We have found that with all the conflicting information in the industry dealers have been left confused and wary, just like with every other revision. Custom installers not only have to worry about making sure the sources and displays are capable of HDMI 2.0, they have to make sure that with double the bandwidth, their cables and accessories will go the distance to make their components work.

Q. How is Ethereal helping dealers make the transition from 1.4 to 2.0 technologies?

A. We focus on dealer training at trade shows, distributor shows and on a one-to-one basis. We provide ongoing, YouTube videos that are a great way for the dealer to keep up to date on the latest technology. We also have regular meetings with DPL Labs to keep both ourselves and our dealers in the know, and our tech support is available seven days a week…

By RS Staff, October 17, 2015

NewBay Media’s Residential Systems and TWICE have named their 2015 Best of Show Awards for CEDIA 2015, honoring outstanding products exhibited at the show.

NewBay Media’s Residential Systems and TWICE have named their 2015 Best of Show Awards for CEDIA 2015, honoring outstanding products exhibited at the show. Manufacturers submitted products for nomination prior to arriving in Dallas, then a panel of anonymous professional integrator and journalist judges evaluated the entries based on written submissions and visual inspections on CEDIA show floor. A CEDIA exhibiting manufacturer could nominate its product for either Residential Systems or TWICE, or both.

By CE Pro Editors, October 15, 2015

The winners of the 2015 CE Pro Best Awards will be presented during CEDIA Expo 2015. Awards recognize the most noteworthy new products and technologies for 2015.

CE Pro is pleased to announce the winners of the 2015 CE Pro BEST (Best Electronic Systems Technologies) Awards, recognizing the most noteworthy new products and technologies for 2015.

“The BEST Awards offer by far the greatest amount of exposure for every submission ... not just the winners ... more exposure than any other awards program in the custom installation industry,” says Jason Knott, editor-in-chief at CE Pro.

All submissions will appear on CEPro.com and in the December 2015 print edition of CE Pro.

An unbiased judging panel of a dozen credible industry leaders, along with the editors of CE Pro, performed the judging independently. Each of the 182 submissions was judged on its own merits for innovation, functionality, competitive advantages and benefits to the integrator. Since the products were not judged against each other but independently, this year CE Pro is presenting multiple winners for high-scoring products in certain categories.

By CE Pro

Metra has introduced its Ethereal HDM-GA1 Gigabit Accelerator, designed to update existing in-wall passive HDMI® cables to be able to handle true 4K at 60Hz as well as 4:4:4 and HDR.

The small 2-inch by 1-inch device features an aluminum chassis and it is powered by an external USB power supply. The HDM-GA1 rebuilds the video levels to exceed HDMI 2.0A levels of performance and it repairs the data timing clock channel. Designed to perform as a plug-and-play product, the device works with 26-, 28- and 30-AWG cables up to 10 meters in length.

Click here to view original article.

By HomeToys.com.

Metra Home Theater Group, a leading provider of home theater products and accessories, announces the addition of ten new Spyclops Surveillance System camera models, including two HD IP cameras and eight analog HD (AHD) cameras.

The two new Spyclops HD IP bullet cameras, SPY-BLTG2IP24 in grey and SPY-BLTW2IP24 in white, include IP streaming, 2.8 mm to12 mm manual varifocal lens, 42 IR LEDs for up to 40 meters of distance at night and HISILICON DSP, wide dynamic range. These models feature 2.4 MP for 1080p viewing.

Four new Spyclops HD bullet cameras include both the grey SPY-BLTG2AHD24 and white SPY-BLTW2AHD24 with AHD streaming, 2.8 mm to12 mm manual varifocal lenses, 42 IR LED's for up to 40 meters of distance at night and 3D noise reduction featuring 2.4 MP for 1080p viewing. The grey SPY-BLTG2AHD and white SPY-BLTW2AHD1, bullet cameras have the same feature set with 1.0 MP providing 720p resolution.

By Joseph Palenchar, TWICE

Metra Home Theater Group is targeting retrofit installs and upgrades with three new video-distribution products that will be displayed at the CEDIA Expo and shipped Oct. 15.

They include the M3B (Metra Multimedia Broadcast) System, which comes in two versions to let installers add a multisource video-distribution system to a home using either wireless RF or existing coaxial cables and splitters.

The $349 coax-based M3B System consists of receivers and transmitters to send multiple video sources to multiple displays at 1080p resolution. The receivers come with an IR remote to control remote-source selection, and a complete Hex code setup is available for learning remotes. The transmitters provide channel-selection buttons and include an LED channel display and 100-channel output selection.

By CE Pro, Jason Knott, October 2, 2015

Driven by a passion for the industry and for its customers, family-owned Metra Electronics, parent company of well-known Metra Home Theater Group, makers of Ethereal HDMI® cable, might be the most unassuming company in the custom electronics business.

Indeed, the 69-year-old company’s stature is something it should be shouting from the mountaintops.

Metra Electronics was founded in Brooklyn in the 1940s when they designed and fabricated a bracket for taxi cabs to be able to hold radios and meters. Soon, Metra Electronics was making brackets for police vehicles and other cars.

But what does all that have to do with Metra Home Theater Group, the division familiar to integrators that makes Ethereal premium cables, Helios retail cables, TV mounts and accessories, EHD Cables with exclusive long-run cables for integrators, and Spyclops surveillance systems? A lot.

Latest switcher supports HDMI® Rev 2.0 and HDCP 2.2

HOLLY HILL, Fla. – January 4, 2015 – Metra Home Theater Group, a leading provider of home theater products and accessories, announces the CS-HDM5X1SW HDMI® switcher to support integrators with projects varying in size and using a transmission line that can support the new functions supported under HDMI 2.0 and 4K.

Metra Home Theater Group’s CS-HDM5X1SW supports HDMI with five inputs and one output while allowing integrators to install it on a small job with two to three sources and leaving the option to add more sources in the future if, or when, a customer expands their system. The CS-HDM5X1SW HDMI switcher supports HDCP 2.2 along with 1080p, 3D and 4K up to 10.2 Gbps to conform to the new specifications of HDMI 2.0.

"The new CS-HDM5X1SW switcher will make it simple for integrators with new and upgraded installs with multiple 4K or HDCP 2.2 sources,” said Jessy Crabb, general manager of Metra Home Theater Group. “The CS-HDM5X1SW will debut at CES 2016 booth in Las Vegas and we invite dealers to stop by our booth to check out this and the plethora of other solutions we have to offer them.”

M3B Greatly Expands HDMI® Installation Ease and Versatility

HOLLY HILL, Fla. – September 24, 2015 – Metra Home Theater Group, a leading provider of home theater products and accessories, announces the M3B (Metra Multimedia Broadcast) Systems to its lineup of products. The M3B Systems which comes in two flavors, hardwired and wireless, enables integrators to install either a flexible multi-source video distribution system into any home using the existing coax and splitters or a point to point long distance wireless system.

The coax-based M3B System consists of receivers (RF RX), transmitters (RF TX) and a robust wireless system. This M3B System allows integrators to provide multiple sources to multiple displays at 1080p over common coax and splitters with easy setup and a simple source selection via any programmable remote, thus eliminating the need for a control system. Source selections are made by changing the input on the on the display side receiving unit. No networking skills are required for the installation.

The RF TX transmitters make it simple to setup sources via provided channel selection buttons and include an LED channel display and 100-channel output selection. The RF RX receivers include the remote control for source selection as well as a complete Hex code setup for learning remotes, an IR receiver and the same LED channel display and 100-channel output selection seen in the RF TX transmitter.

HDM-GA1 Gigabit Accelerator Makes 4K Upgrades Easy

HOLLY HILL, Fla. – December 1, 2015 – Metra Home Theater Group, a leading provider of home theater products and accessories, announces the Ethereal HDM-GA1 to its lineup of products. The Ethereal HDM-GA1 Gigabit Accelerator allows the installer to utilize existing in-wall passive HDMI® cables up to 15 meters in length to upgrade and support the full 4K/60, 4:4:4, HDR signal now available in many video products.

The compact in-line Gigabit Accelerator has a 2” by 1” aluminum chassis that is powered from an external USB power supply through a USB mini connector - and is simple for anyone to install. The HDM-GA1 rebuilds the video channels to a level that exceeds the HDMI 2.0A standard while repairing the data timing clock channel. The simple ‘plug and play’ device from Metra takes micro-technology and transforms any quality 24-gauge passive cable up to 15 meters to 4K with full signal integrity. This new innovation from Metra gives dealers with a very simple way to upgrade current installations to the latest 4K technology, meeting 4K/60, 4:4:4, HDR standards with existing HDMI cables.

Updated and new products to debut

HOLLY HILL, Fla. – January 04, 2015 – Metra Home Theater Group, a leading provider of home theater products and accessories, announces additional features to the award winning Ethereal HDM-GA1 and Velox Cables along with new Helios mounts.

The Residential Systems CEDIA EXPO Best of Show and CE Pro Best award winning HDM-GA1 Gigabit Accelerator now supports in-wall cables extending up to 17 meters. The Ethereal HDM-GA1 allows the installer to utilize existing in-wall passive HDMI® cables to upgrade and support the full 4K/60, 4:4:4, HDR signal now available in many video products. The compact in-line Gigabit Accelerator has a 2” by 1” aluminum chassis that is powered from an external USB power supply through a USB mini connector - and is simple for anyone to install.

The Velox Cables from Ethereal are now available in various sizes up to 15 meters, compared to the previous 12 meters. The evolutionary designed cables support the latest generation of HD, Ultra-HD and 4K video applications with the new Targa 1 Module developed in In-Visions Technology, Inc. The Velox UHD cables support 18 Gb/s HD signal for higher resolutions, frame rates and colors over HD digital interconnects. Like the Ethereal HDM-GA1, the Velox Cables are proudly assembled in the USA.

New surveillance cameras and accessories featured at CES 2016

HOLLY HILL, Fla. – December 14, 2015 – Metra Home Theater Group, a leading provider of home theater products and accessories, announces new Spyclops cameras, DVRs and power distribution boxes to their growing lineup of security products at CES 2016 in Las Vegas, Nevada.

The new NVR Kit 4 wireless 720p bullet cameras features a four-channel wireless connection with high-definition 720p resolution, VGA and HDMI® outputs and 3.6 mm fixed lens. The IP66 rated camera can be viewed simply on Android and iOS apps and include 1 terabyte of hard-drive space. The NVR Kit requires only a singular Ethernet cable to provide power and data to the entire unit making it an easy install option for any home or office.

The new Hybrid Security DVRs include 4-channel capabilities with embedded LINUX operating system that supports analog 960H, 720p, 1080p and IP (up to 1080p) cameras. The Hybrid Security DVR’s playback in the recorded resolution with a multi-camera view, up to 30 frames per second recording per camera and feature 1080p on all channels.

Metra Home featured their Ethereal™, Helios™, Spyclops™ and EHD™ brands at ISE 2016 last week. Featured products included the new Velox cables up to 15 meters for UHD and 4k, robust Helios TV mounts for displays up to 90”, the award winning M3B system — transmitter and receiver, which enables integrators to install either a flexible multi-source HD video distribution system into any home using the existing coax and splitters, as well as a point to point long distance wireless system, and the HDM-GA1, which allows installers to utilize existing in-wall passive HDMI® cables up to 17 meters in length to upgrade and support the full 4k/60, 4:4:, HDR signal.

Two industry technical sales pros outline key considerations for 4K Ultra HD, including HDBaseT, HDMI® 2.0, HDCP 2.2, high dynamic range (HDR) and some problem–solving tips and tools.

Fred Harding and Brent McCall — March 4, 2016

4K, UHD, HDCP 2.2, HDMI 2.0, HDR, HDBaseT … It’s complicated. Two of the industry’s most popular techies — Fred Harding of Capitol Sales and Brent McCall of Metra Home Theater — lay it all out for integrators, highlighting the benefits of 4K–related technologies and the challenges of creating an end–to–end UHD experience for the consumer.

Fred and Brent wanted to keep this piece free from product ads, but since CE Pro feels it’s important to talk about specific products where warranted, with Fred’s permission we have inserted them into the story. As always, we thank Fred and Brent for their contributions. – CE Pro

THE NEXT BIG THING IN THE WORLD OF VIDEO is Ultra High Definition video, aka 4K. The concept is simple – or at least it should be: essentially delivering four times the resolution as 1080p, a widely accepted standard for high definition television.

To implement a 4K signal, lots of things need to happen. First, the display needs to be capable of producing an image with 3,940 x 2,160 pixels. (For discussion purposes, we’ll refer to the device that the picture is seen on as the display; it could be a projector providing the image, or a flat or curved panel using LED, OLED, or some other technology.)

ISE is now officially the world’s largest AV and systems integration tradeshow. We look back at some trends and highlights for the four days of ISE 2016.

When one considers how crowded some of the aisles and escalators were at the show last year, particularly on the middle day, we can be thankful for the addition of a fourth day at ISE 2016 – particularly bearing in mind the fact that attendance increased by just over 10%. This year’s total attendance was 65,686, making ISE officially the world’s largest AV and systems integration tradeshow.

While the final day – Friday – undoubtedly saw lower visitor levels than the other three days, it was always going to be something of an unknown quantity. The hope is that, as ISE MD Mike Blackman said in his interview in Installation last month, that both exhibitors and attendees become accustomed to treating the final day as a ‘proper’ show day; and initiatives on ISE’s side, such as the Friday Keynote and other events – organised under the FRDY@ISE umbrella – continue to attract visitors to the latter part of the show.

Metra Home Theater Group helps JVC bring 4K to home theater projection technology with its HDM-GA1, transforming hard-wired passive HDMI® cables into full 4K and HDR capable systems.

CE Pro Editors — April 13, 2016

JVC launched its new 4K e-shift4 projectors at CEDIA Expo 2015. The new projectors added support for full spec 18Gbps HDMI 2.0a with HDCP 2.2, which could challenge many of the current HDMI cable options that are available to dealers. And without the right connection, it's impossible to take advantage of the new projectors' impressive performance.

That's why JVC partnered with Metra Home Theater Group. The HDM-GA1 from Metra transforms existing hard-wired passive HDMI cables into full 4K and HDR resolution capable transmission systems.

JVC had worked with Metra in the past, so the company felt comfortable turning to Metra once again for a workable solution. Of course, JVC had stringent needs.

“A 4K signal is much more demanding in terms of the required bandwidth. This is magnified even more with the capabilities of the new JVC projectors and the new UHD 4K Blu-ray players. In the past, 10.2 Gbps was adequate for a High Speed HDMI connection. Now signals are being passed that can require the full 18 Gbps. Our new projectors are the only ones in their price class that meet those standards of a full spec 18 Gbps HDMI connection with HDMI 2.0a and HDCP2.2, assuring our projectors are ready for the future of 4K,” reports Chris Deutsch, product and training manager for JVC.

HOLLY HILL, Fla. – April 22, 2016 — Metra Home Theater Group, a leading provider of home theater products and accessories, earns recognition from industry leading publication, CE Pro, as the Platinum Quest for Quality award winner for Best Technical Support.

With nearly 7,200 reader votes, the sixth annual Quest for Quality award recognizes manufacturers and distributors who provide their customers with superior service in categories such as customer service and communication, technical support, sales and marketing assistance, shipping policies, website portals, dealer incentives, training programs and other beneficial services for dealers. The individuals that nominated Metra Home Theater Group for the award are not only CE Pro readers, but also customers that work with the respective vendors and manufacturers on a daily basis – making the award recognition truly special. Metra Home Theater Group received platinum accreditation for Best Technical Support. Metra Home Theater Group believes that educating customers and providing in-house round-the-clock technical support is the best way to support customers.

"We are honored to be chosen by the thousands of CE Pro readers as the Platinum winner for the Quest for Quality award,” said Stephanie Casimiro, marketing director for Metra Home Theater Group. “To be recognized by our customers for providing them with strong technical support is something that is very important to us at Metra Home Theater. We want to give our dealers the proper tools to excel in their businesses and it’s great that they recognize the support that is available to them.”

About Metra Electronics / Metra Home Theater Group
Metra Home Theater Group is a division of Metra Electronics which has been the world leader and “The Installer’s Choice™” for vehicle installation kits and car audio accessories for over 65 years. Headquartered in Florida, Metra Electronics strives to create innovative, high quality products to satisfy and astonish our customers. Metra's brands include: Axxess™, The InstallBay™, Shuriken™, Raptor™, Ballistic™, Ethereal™, Helios by Audio Solutions™, T-spec™, InstallBay Safety™, Spyclops™ and EHD™. For ordering information and pricing, visit Metra Home Theater Group online at or call 800.221.0932.

Press Contact:
Morgan Roush, Public Relations Manager
Marketing Matters
Tel: (954) 925-1511 ext. 1
Email: morgan@marketingmatters.net
Web: http://www.marketingmatters.net

Integrator Dallas Dingle of Supercalibrations replaces Sony Qualia 004 with new $60,000 VPL VW5000ES 4K laser projector, plus complete 4K ecosystem, and … Wow!

I always get excited when Sony introduces a new flagship projector, the latest being the VPL VW5000ES, a 5,000-lumen 4K laser-based super projector.

I awaited this unit just as eagerly as I did earlier top-of-the-line designs from the venerable electronics giant — the VPH G90U CRT-based model sometimes referred to as "projector of the gods" and more recently the Qualia 004, the first in a long line of 1920 x 1080 SXRD projectors from Sony.

On this occasion, one of our favorite clients called to request a replacement bulb for an 004 we installed in 2005.

Considering Sony had just introduced their new 4K-capable VW5000ES, I suggested updating the projector instead of replacing the $3000 Xenon bulb in his now-elderly 004.

Holly Hill, Fla. - April 1, 2017 - Metra Home Theater Group is proud to receive CE Pro's Gold Quest for Quality Award for Best Training Program in 2017. Jessy Crabb, General Manager, says that “Metra Home Theater Group is dedicated to developing products that not only solve today’s problems, but products that are built to support future technology. By doing so, we also understand the need for providing integrators with training programs that support the products we’re innovating.”

Available in 4, 8, and 16 Channel Options with Versatile 4-in- 1 Technology

Metra Home Theater Group is now shipping their new line of Hybrid Surveillance DVRs, encompassing the four most common video technologies. This new product line includes options for 4, 8 and 16 channel DVRs, each available with or without hard drives.

All-in- One kit Features Network Video Recorder, Cameras and Power Supplies

Metra Home Theater Group is now shipping their new 8-Channel Wireless NVR Kit (SPY-NVR8720W). This highly anticipated security kit from Spyclops Surveillance Systems is an all-in-one solution designed for simple installation.

Easy to Install and Even Easier to Sell

The award-winning TV Tailgate Mount by Helios will be ready to meet consumer demand for football season, and is now being offered as a package deal with the Helios Amplified Antenna. This retail package will turn a trailer hitch into an instant entertainment center, just add a flat screen TV and power supply! Helios is a home theater accessories brand for retailers, manufactured by Metra Home Theater Group and specializing in TV mounts and audio solutions for distributors.

Jeff Boccaccio Returns as Featured Speaker for Lunch N’ Learn Event

Metra Home Theater Group will be launching a variety of innovative solutions for custom integrators at the 2017 CEDIA Show. New HDMI® electronics, updated HDMI cables, security solutions, and HDMI extender products will be showcased at CEDIA booth #2325, from September 5-9, 2017 in San Diego, CA. Most notably, Metra’s premium line of Velox active HDMI cables will be extending their reach for delivering 4K / HDR at 18Gbps - going farther than any other cable manufacturer has ever gone. To see how far they can go, visit Metra Home Theater Group at CEDIA booth #2325 for a live demonstration, as they will be unveiling the new Velox cables on opening day of the show.

Spyclops Surveillance Systems, Metra’s line of security cameras and accessories, is expanding their line of NVRs and All-in-One Kits for residential and commercial security solutions. Additional 4-in-1 hybrid technology products will be released, including new bullet cameras that are compatible with the most popular camera technologies. This versatile solution for integrators allows additional cameras to be added to an existing compatible system, without purchasing all new equipment. For all new system installation projects, the fast and easy NVR kits provide everything needed for installation, including 1080p bullet cameras, a multi-channel NVR, pre-terminated Ethernet cables, a pre-installed 1TB hard drive, 15V power supply, USB mouse and quick installation guide. The integrated POE connections allow the network cable to also run power, so that integrators can install the system without needing to run both a power and network cable to each camera. This results in a significantly faster and easier installation, especially in locations with limited accessibility to power distribution. The NVR kit is a closed system (not compatible with other camera models or systems), and is IP66 rated for indoor/outdoor use with IR LED’s for night vision and a 3.6mm fixed lens. It is available in 4 or 8 channel options, with or without the pre-installed hard drives.

HDMI® and Audio Cables, HDMI Extenders, Surveillance Solutions, TV Mounts, Structured Wiring Panels and HDMI Diagnostic and Repair Tools Announced

Metra Home Theater Group unveiled many exciting new solutions for custom integrators at the 2017 CEDIA Show in San Diego, CA. The manufacturer expanded their product lines and updated technology in existing brands, including all of their Ethereal and Velox HDMI cables. The most exciting announcement was the launch of their latest Velox active HDMI cables, showcasing new technology that enabled the cables to deliver a verified 18Gbps UHD, HDR signal up to 30 meters (98 feet). This is currently the longest distance a copper HDMI cable has ever been verified to deliver content at 18Gbps to support UHD, HDR and 4K video applications. This product won a 2017 CE Pro BEST Award and a live demonstration was held at Metra’s CEDIA booth #2325. Jeff Boccaccio from DPL Labs delivered a training session on Thursday and Friday discussing the technology behind the cables.

Jeff Boccaccio, President of DPL Labs, was the featured speaker at Metra’s 12th Annual Lunch N’ Learn event at CEDIA. Two training sessions titled “Going Long with 18Gigs” had a packed audience with standing room only. Boccaccio discussed how the chemistry, electronics and wire layout of an HDMI cable can extend its distance for 18Gbps. His presentation also covered “the art of taming the equalizer beast”, and delivered facts to help integrators choose between fiber and copper HDMI cable solutions. Boccaccio ended the training session with a discussion about how HDMI Rev 2.1 will affect and impact current HDMI products on the market.

Metra Home Theater Group has expanded their product line to now offer structured wiring panels. Helios, their brand for retail audio and home theater accessories, will introduce new TV mounts that are redesigned with functional new features. New products will debut at the 2017 CEDIA Show in San Diego, CA.

Adapting TV Mounts for Today’s Needs

Metra Home Theater Group has redesigned and expanded their Helios product line of TV mounts to solve the problems of today’s custom integrators. “We listened to integrators who are in the field everyday to see how we could adapt our products to better serve their needs. Their feedback helped us redesign our next generation of Helios TV mounts,” says Stewart Denton, manager of product development for Metra Home Theater Group.

Metra Home Theater Group has expanded their product line to now offer structured wiring panels. Helios, their brand for retail audio and home theater accessories, will introduce new TV mounts that are redesigned with functional new features. New products will debut at the 2017 CEDIA Show in San Diego, CA.

Among the new products were Bullet Uni-Mount Varifocal Cameras, utilizing 4-in-1 hybrid technology. The 4-in-1 hybrid technology supports AHD, TVI, CVI or 960H Analog video formats, which are the most popular camera technologies. This versatile feature for integrators allows the cameras to be added to an existing compatible system, allowing for expansion without purchasing all new equipment. Another popular feature of the camera is the single HEX screw required for adjusting the position, which allows integrators to set up cameras in even less time. Traditional cameras require several HEX screws, making position adjustment more time consuming. The built in IR LEDs allow objects to be seen from up to 60 meters away in the dark. The cameras are rated IP66 for outdoor use and have a 2.8mm to 12mm manual varifocal lens with a Sony 2.1 megapixel CMOS image sensor. Overall, the Spyclops bullet cameras offer a great value for their price point, with 1080P resolution. These cameras are available in gray (SPY-BLTG34N124) or white (SPY-BLTW34N124).

Velox Active HDMI Cable Delivers 4K / HDR at 18Gbps for up to 30 Meters

Metra Home Theater Group is launching exciting new solutions for custom integrators at the 2017 CEDIA Show in San Diego, CA. The most exciting announcement is the launch of their latest Velox Active HDMI cables, showcasing new technology that delivers a verified 18Gbps UHD, HDR signal up to 30 meters (98 feet). This is currently the longest distance a copper HDMI cable has ever been verified to deliver content at 18Gbps to support UHD, HDR and 4K video applications. See a live demonstration at Metra’s CEDIA booth #2325, unveiling this new technology in action.

To discuss the technology behind the cables, Jeff Boccaccio, President of DPL Labs, returns once again as the featured speaker at Metra’s 12th Annual Lunch N’ Learn event at CEDIA. Thursday and Friday’s training sessions titled “Going Long with 18Gigs” will have standing room only. Boccaccio will discuss how the chemistry, electronics and wire layout of an HDMI cable can extend its distance for 18Gbps. His presentation will also cover “the art of taming the equalizer beast” and deliver facts to help integrators choose between fiber and copper HDMI cable solutions. Boccaccio will also give a live demonstration of the new Velox Active cables and end the training session with a discussion about how HDMI Rev 2.1 and the transition to 48Gbps will affect and impact current HDMI products on the market.

New Technology Takes 4K at 18Gbps Even Farther

CEDIA attendees will see new HDMI® cables and electronics from Metra Home Theater Group’s Ethereal brand, as they unveil exciting new solutions for custom integrators. New technology and redesigned features in Ethereal’s popular MHX and MHY HDMI cables will be on display at booth #2325 at the 2017 CEDIA Show in San Diego, CA. Ethereal’s innovative and problem solving line of HDMI® diagnostic and repair tools will also be showcased.

Ethereal’s MHX and MHY series HDMI cables feature high quality construction and offer an incredible value for their price point. Using new technology, these cables lines will now take 4K content even farther. The new MHY high speed HDMI cables with ethernet support 4K at 60Hz HDR, delivering 18Gbps from 0.5 to 10 meters, and 10.2Gbps at 12 to 15 meters. The new MHX high speed ethernet cables have extended their length for delivering 18Gbps content to 7.5 meters. MHX cables between 8 and 12 meters deliver 10.2Gbps and the 15 to 17 meter cables deliver 6.75Gbps. For 4K / HDR content at 18Gbps, the Gigabit Accelerator (HDM-GA1) can be used with the 8 to 17 meter MHX cables.

New technology takes 4K at 18Gbps to longer distances

Metra Home Theater Group®, a leading provider of home theater products and accessories for the integration community, announces new technology and redesigned features in Ethereal’s popular MHX and MHY HDMI cables, debuting at CES 2018 from January 9 – 12, 2018 in Las Vegas, Nevada.

Ethereal’s MHX and MHY HDMI cables feature high-quality construction and offer an incredible value for their price point. Using new technology, the MHX and MHY HDMI cables will take 4K content even farther. The Ethereal MHY high-speed HDMI cables with ethernet support 4K at 60Hz HDR, delivering 18Gbps from 0.5 to 10 meters, and 10.2Gbps at 12 to 15 meters. The Ethereal MHX high-speed ethernet cables have extended their length for delivering 18Gbps content to 7.5 meters. MHX cables between 8 and 12 meters deliver 10.2Gbps and the 15 to 17-meter cables deliver 6.75Gbps. For 4K/HDR content at 18Gbps, the Gigabit Accelerator (HDM-GA1) can be used with the 8 to 17-meter MHX cables.

Reliable wireless and ethernet powered cameras from Metra Home Theater Group to debut at CES 2018

Metra Home Theater Group®, a leading provider of home theater products and accessories for the integration community, announces Spyclops Bullet, Mini Bullet, Dome and Mini Dome IP Cameras, debuting at CES 2018 from January 9 – 12, 2018 in Las Vegas, Nevada.

Metra Home Theater Group’s Spyclops Bullet IP Cameras, SPY-BLTW3IP4 and SPY-BLTG3IP4 boast 4MP at 20fps or 1080 at 30fps. The new line of Bullet Cameras, available in both white or grey, are ONVIF complaint, 2.8 – 12mm manual varifocal lens, a 4MP CMOS sensor, built in Power over Ethernet (POE), and IR LED’s for viewing up to 40 meters at night.

Metra Home to showcase ultra-energy efficient Active Fiber Cables at CES 2018

Metra Home Theater Group®, a leading provider of home theater products and accessories for the integration community, announces Helios Active Fiber Cables, debuting at CES 2018 from January 9 – 12, 2018 in Las Vegas, Nevada.

Metra Home Theater Group’s Helios Active Fiber Cables (AS-HDAOC) raise the bar to create a new level of value and performance with 18 Gbps at HDMI 2.0 specifications. The Helios Active Fiber Cables include an ultra-energy efficient Rx/Tx chipset, removing the need for any additional external power and creating a more clean and simple installation.

Featuring full 18 Gbps support, including 4K/60, 4:4:4, Deep Color and HDR, the Helios Active Fiber Cables are available in sizes ranging from 3 feet to 15 feet. The Helios Active Fiber Cables include ARC (audio return channel support), Ethernet over HDMI support and a durable cloth braided jacket. With a robust head, shell and jacket design, the Helios Active Fiber Cables create a more reliable install by protecting the cable and built-in electronics.

Metra Home Theater Group®, a leading provider of home theater products and accessories for the integration community, announces Install Bay Active Fiber Cables, debuting at ISE 2018 from February 6 – 9, 2018 in Amsterdam, Netherlands.

Metra Home Theater Group’s Install Bay Active Fiber Cables combine high-performance with 18 Gbps, 4K/60, 4:4:4, Deep Color and HDR at HDMI 2.0 specifications. The Install Ball Active Fiber Cables features an ultra-energy efficient Rx/Tx chipset, removing the need for any additional external power and creating a more clean and simple installation.

Available in sizes ranging from 15 feet to 260 feet, the Install Bay Active Fiber Cables include Ethernet over HDMI support and CL3 or CMP Plenum Rating. With a robust head shell and jacket design, the Install Bay Active Fiber Cables create a reliable and reasonably priced solution for integrators.

Award-winning M3B Pro creates flexible and reliable video distribution

Metra Home Theater Group®, a leading provider of home theater products and accessories for the integration community, announces the MultiMedia Broadcast Systems Pro (M3B Pro), showcasing at ISE from February 6 – 9, 2018 in Amsterdam, Netherlands.

Metra Home Theater Group’s M3B Pro, available as hardwired and wireless, enables integrators to install either a flexible multi-source video distribution system into any residential, commercial, hospitality and house of worship space using the existing coax and splitters or to a point to point long distance wireless system— without running cables back to the structured wiring source. The M3B Pro works up to 200 meters line of sight with full 1080p support allowing RF signal transmission through walls while eliminating wire runs to a centrally located matrix, requiring no networking skills for setup and no need for a control system.

Metra Home Theater Group®, a leading provider of home theater products and accessories for the integration community, has launched new accessories to complement their popular Spyclops® IP and HD over coax cameras, in addition to new Helios power accessories showcasing at ISE from February 6 – 9, 2018 in Amsterdam, Netherlands. The new accessories include junction boxes and 6-outlet wall-tap surge protectors with USB.

Metra Home Theater Group’s new large junction boxes are available in both white and grey, SPY-JB320W and SPY-JB320G, and are designed for use with the Spyclops® standard sized cameras. The smaller junction boxes are also available in white and grey, SPY-JB310W and SPY-JB310G, are designed for use with all mini size Dome & Bullet Spyclops® cameras.

Longest HDMI® Cable Delivers 4K / HDR at 18Gbps for up to 30 Meters

Metra Home Theater Group®, a leading provider of home theater products and accessories for the integration community, announces that Metra’s popular new Velox Active HDMI Cables by Ethereal® are back in stock after an enthusiastic reception after their recent launch, selling out quickly and garnering extensive industry interest and media coverage. The popular Velox Active HDMI Cables won CEPro’s 2018 Top New Technology (TNT) Award at Integrated Systems Europe 2018, which recognizes the best in commercial and residential equipment unveiled at ISE.

“We knew we had an outstanding product but were frankly pleasantly surprised by industry reaction,” said Jessy Crabb, general manager of Metra Home Theater. “Product was literally flying off the shelves and we’re pleased to announce that Velox Active HDMI cable are available again.”

Metra Home Theater Group® (MHTG) announced today its Spyclops® fixed position IP Security Cameras are now integrated with Control4 EA controllers, T3 Touchscreens and mobile application for iPhone and Android devices. The camera software drivers are available for free download on the MHTG website under the product files for each camera model.

Award-winning M3B Pro creates flexible and reliable video distribution

Metra Home Theater Group® (MHTG) is hosting a Lunch n’ Learn Session featuring Jeffrey Boccaccio, president of DPL Labs, one of the industry’s leading experts on digital signaling solutions such as HDMI® from noon to 1 p.m. Thursday, September 6th and Friday, September 7th at its Booth # 1715 at the 2018 CEDIA Expo being held at the San Diego Convention Center in San Diego, CA.

2018 CEDIA Pre-Show Rollout

Metra Home Theater Group® (MTHG) is revealing its latest addition to its high performance Ethereal® passive Velox® premium HDMI® cables, the EHV-HDP10-R2, ahead of the 2018 CEDIA Expo in September.

“The combination of new manufacturing techniques and technologies used for the cable completely change what we thought was possible with long distance cable,” said Jessy Crabb MHTG general manager. The Velox cable features a new microwave RF design and supports 18 Gbps, 4K/60, 4:4:4 and HDR. It offers advanced features in metallurgy, topology, dielectric and shielding in the highest bandwidth on the market.

2018 CEDIA Pre-Show Rollout

Metra Home Theater Group® (MHTG) will showcase its 12 new additions and updates to its Spyclops® brand of surveillance security systems and accessories at the 2018 CEDIA Expo to be held in San Diego, CA in September. The 2018 updates are in response to customer requests and include POE cameras, as well as motorized autofocus and adjustable zoom. Many of the innovations make projects easy for the integrator by reducing installation time and adding flexibility for system upgrades. Providing tried and true technologies, MHTG offers installers U.S.-based responsive technical support. All 12 of these cameras will be shipping soon.

2018 CEDIA Pre-Show Rollout

Metra Home Theater Group® (MHTG) is introducing its two newest Helios® surge protection units to support home theater equipment installations at the 2018 CEDIA Expo to be held in San Diego, CA in September. The AS-P-208U and the AS-P-207 are each designed with maximum efficiency and capacity. These surge protectors are a part of the MHTG complete line of products and accessories for the home theater installation community.

The AS-P-208U is designed with today’s tech-filled home in mind. It powers and protects up to eight 110 volt devices and can charge two mobile devices simultaneously via USB. The AS-P-207 is designed with ruggedness in mind and can power and protect up to seven AC devices and outlets housed in a metal-case power strip. These products will be shipping soon.

2018 CEDIA Pre-Show Rollout

Metra Home Theater Group® (MHTG) is pleased to announce it will sponsor an HDMI® roundtable discussion featuring three top industry trainers from 3 p.m. to 4 p.m. on Friday September 7th at its Booth # 1715 at the 2018 CEDIA Expo being held at the San Diego Convention Center in San Diego, CA.

Metra Home Theater Group® (MHTG) announced today its partnership with D-Tools, Inc., a worldwide leader in system integration software. This partnership allows dealers and installers at the design phase of a home installation project to access the entire line of Metra Home Theater products.

“We are pleased to join forces with D-Tools and excited to be a part of the D-Tools Cloud launch at CEDIA. We like the opportunities this provides our customers and know this partnership will realize a ‘next-step’ in making Metra Home Theater Group a top-of-mind choice during the design phase,” said Jessy Crabb, MHTG general manager.

Metra Home Theater Group® (MHTG) debuts its next-generation HDMI® GA2 gigabit accelerator at the 2018 CEDIA Expo in San Diego, CA. The HDM-GA2 technology breakthrough means an existing passive HDMI cable can be used for a 4K upgrade to a home theater system.

MHTG’s Ethereal® second-generation gigabit accelerator, the HDM-GA2, is small enough to fit in the palm of your hand and transforms existing hard-wired passive HDMI cables by expanding their bandwidth capability to 18Gbps for up to 20 meters and an expected capability of 48Gbps for up to 9+ meters. The HDM- GA2 patented technology will support all available functions under HDMI 2.0b, and it will also support the feature sets and performance requirements of the new HDMI 2.1 specification. The product is low-profile and is designed to be used only with passive HDMI cables and installs easily at the display side of the system. It has already received the TWICE VIP Award for 2018, and is a finalist for the “Best New Hardware” award to be given by CEDIA at the expo.

Metra Home Theater Group® Ethereal® MHX Series Ultra Slim Toslink Cables are being rolled out at the 2018 CEDIA Expo in San Diego, CA. The new audio cables can carry pulse code modulation (PCM) and multi-channel digital audio between Toslink enabled devices. These ultra slim cables feature the finest quality optical fiber to provide maximum resolution.

Metra Home Theater Group® Ethereal® is introducing an entirely new line of premium balanced Velox cables at the 2018 CEDIA Expo in San Diego, CA. The EHV-XLR1 and the EHV-XLR2 offer connections to provide the highest fidelity available on both analog and digital SPDIF (AES/EDU) audio devices. The EHV-XLR1 and XLR2 are sold as single cables and offer true two-channel analog featuring a woven flexible jacket, a precision terminal design and a lifetime warranty.

Metra Home Theater Group® Ethereal® (MHTG) is introducing three new Ethereal® brand HDBaseT HDMI® extender products at the 2018 CEDIA Expo in San Diego, CA. The extenders all support HDMI 2.0 and HDCP 2.2 and are U.S. Type IR compatible. With 4K 60Hz, 4:4:4 and HDR, the CS-HDBTP2UK-70, CS-HDBTP2UKA-70 and the CS-HDBTLPOEU-70 offer the highest quality signal extension over category cable on the market today. These new products are simple to set up and will be available in different transmission distances and resolutions.

2018 CEDIA Show Rollout

Metra Home Theater Group® Ethereal® (MHTG) is introducing a series of HDMI® switches with multiple inputs, two splitters and an audio breakout, all supporting HDMI 2.0 and HDCP 2.2 at the 2018 CEDIA Expo in San Diego, CA. MHTG’s Ethereal Home Theater® brand provides installers with the best accessory options on the market.

Easy Ordering, Fast Delivery and Unmatched Support Highlight Member Benefits

Home Technology Specialists Nationwide, the custom integration division of Nationwide Marketing Group announced a group exclusive program with Metra Home Theater Group, available to members of both HTSN and of Nationwide. The partnership brings to bear Metra Home Theater Group’s easy ordering portal, as well as the logistic capabilities of their six US warehouses.

Metra Home Theater Group enters the partnership with a rich history, having designed, engineered and produced the most innovative products in their industry for over 70 years. MHTG built their stellar reputation having been first-to-market with HDMI solutions that deliver higher resolutions and bandwidths at record-setting lengths. The MHTG family of brands include Ethereal Home Theater, Helios and Spyclops Surveillance Systems.

2019 CES New Product Rollout

Metra Home Theater Group® (MHTG) is introducing a new series of hybrid active optical fiber HDMI® cables from The Install Bay® that feature a removable headshell for easy in-wall installation. This installer-friendly solution is designed for pre-wiring with a small connector cover and hook that makes pulling the cable through conduit easy. The hybrid active optical fiber technology supports up to 24Gbps (4x6 Gbps) bandwidth for 4K/60,10bit, 4:4:4 and all known versions of HDR, with no external power required*. These cables were introduced to a small group of integrators at the 2018 CEDIA Show for feedback and testing. After positive feedback and a quick sellout, MHTG is ready to introduce these new cables into full production.

Metra Home Theater Group® (MHTG) is showcasing more than 50 HDMI® cable products with 24Gbps bandwidth at booth 1-Q80 at the 2019 Integrated Systems Europe show in Amsterdam. MHTG’s HDMI cables are manufactured under Ethereal Home Theater®, Helios® and The Install Bay® brands, and available now in a wide range of lengths and options. These HDMI cables are designed to carry up to 6Gbps of video in all four channels for a total bandwidth of 24Gbps. “24Gbps bandwidth is in preparation for higher frames per second or bit rates in the 4K spec, or heading to the next step in 8K,” says Brent McCall from MHTG’s Technical Support and Product Development. “With the release of HDMI 2.1 in many new displays, higher bandwidth cables will be required to take advantage of the new content we expect to see coming in the future,” he added. MHTG’s higher bandwidth cables support 4K/60,10bit, 4:4:4 and are compatible with the new enhanced audio return channels (ARC and eARC) and all of the current HDMI specifications.

Metra Home Theater Group® (MHTG) announces a new infrared repeater system with IR controlled contact closure and code learning features that work with Ethereal® Voltage Control Trigger (HDM-VCT) and All-in-One (HDM-AIO) repair tools. This unique product allows custom integrators the ability to extend infrared signals of their remote control and provide an interface to relay a wide range of controlled devices, including a home theater system that is utilizing an HDMI repair tool for hot plug relay purposes. Previously, systems utilizing the HDM-VCT or HDM-AIO would require a high-end home automation system with available relay to trigger these devices. This kit will now allow integrators to utilize those repair tools without a control system, working with even the most basic system comprised of a cable box and TV. The CS-IRKITCCUS kit also has the ability to learn two IR codes from the most commonly used remotes and provide a dry contact closure interface to relay controlled devices.

Metra Home Theater Group® (MHTG) is heading to the 2019 International Builders Show in Las Vegas from February 19th to 21st to showcase their latest home technology products for builders. “Building smart homes wired to support the latest technology and 4K home theater systems has become a significant revenue source for builders and is forecasted to grow even bigger,” says Jessy Crabb, General Manager of MHTG. “With 4K becoming mainstream, higher bandwidth cables are needed to connect home theaters and we have cost-effective solutions that support 24Gbps,” she added. MHTG will be at booth SU648 in the South Hall Upper Level in the Las Vegas Convention Center.

Metra Home Theater Group® (MHTG) announces a new retail product line from Helios® for speaker stands and mounts in various sizes and options. “Helios already manufactures TV mounts that are trusted by installers and retailers. Growing the product line to include mounts and speaker stands for home audio will allow us to provide additional accessories our customers have been requesting,” says Jessy Crabb, General Manager for MHTG. The new category includes eight different models of floor stands, wall or ceiling mounts and a bookshelf mount for speakers. These new products are sold as a pair and are now shipping.

Metra Home Theater Group® (MHTG) is now shipping two new surveillance cameras and a Network Video Recorder (NVR) capable of supporting 4K resolution from Spyclops Surveillance Systems®. These new products allow for higher resolution surveillance and video recording over closed-circuit television networks for home or business systems.

Metra Home Theater Group® (MHTG) is now shipping its award-winning HDM-GA2 product. This next-generation Gigabit Accelerator features breakthrough and proprietary technology which can upgrade existing hard-wired passive HDMI® cables to 4K or even 8K resolutions by increasing their bandwidth. This product was introduced at CEDIA and won several industry awards, including the CE Pro BEST, TWICE VIP Product award, Residential Systems Best of Show and was a CEDIA Best New Hardware Product finalist in its category.

D-Tools, Inc., the worldwide leader in data-driven system integration software, is offering a free 45-day trial of its new cloud-based platform to Metra Home Theater Group® (MHTG) customers. D-Tools Cloud debuted at the 2018 CEDIA show as an affordable multi-OS, web-accessible platform, winning many awards for its innovative technology. The platform enables home technology professionals and system integration companies to better manage their project sales and design process – from pipeline and opportunity management through system design, quoting, proposal, acceptance, and procurement.

When experts assemble this week to judge the "King of TVs", the products connecting those electronics must deliver the best quality and be completely dependable for an accurate contest. Metra Home Theater Group® (MHTG) is honored to once again connect the displays of the 2019 TV Shootout at CE Week with their products and HDMI® cables. It isn’t easy to put the best Ultra HD TVs on the market in a contest against each other, and not just in front of an audience, but a panel of experts, reviewers and calibrators from around the world. All the eyes of the AV world are watching every detail and judging its outcome.

Metra Home Theater Group® is excited to announce that Phoenix Marketing Group will be their representative firm in the southeast region of the United States. According to Phoenix Marketing Group’s Principal, Chris Gilray, “Our continued success is dependent upon our partnerships with our exceptional manufacturers, and with our loyal customers.” When asked about the new partnership, Gilray continued, "We are very proud to be a part of their team and represent the Metra Home Theater Group brand. The unique products and the array of custom installation products they have to offer complement our other product lines well and will help us in providing complete solutions for our customers."

The technical support and product development team from Metra Home Theater Group® (MHTG) will be live streaming short videos every other week to answer questions custom integrators are asking about home technology products. The topics will range from HDMI® to security surveillance integration, bulk wire, multimedia distribution, home audio and other technical issues seen in the field. The videos will stream live from Facebook and YouTube and be about 10-20 minutes in length, ending with an open question and answer session to discuss questions posted in the comments section. MHTG is planning to host these live videos every other Wednesday at 11:00 A.M. (Eastern time), starting July 3rd, 2019.

Metra Home Theater Group® (MHTG) is excited to host a workshop at this year’s CEDIA Expo featuring Jeff Boccaccio, president of DPL Labs and one of the industry’s leading experts on digital signaling solutions and HDMI®, along with Brent McCall from MHTG’s technical support and product development team. This one-hour long workshop session is hosted at MHTG’s booth #1338 on Thursday 9/12 and Friday 9/13 at 1:00 PM. Both days will have the same session topic and attendees will be entered in a drawing for a chance to win new products.

Ethereal® by Metra Home Theater Group® (MHTG) is introducing its next generation of the HDMI® All-in-One Correction Tool, the HDM-AIO2, at the 2019 CEDIA Expo. This exclusive product instantly fixes most of the common HDMI problems that installers experience in today’s home theater systems and now has a smaller footprint and lower price tag, along with a completely redesigned circuit board to increase efficiency and provide faster input switching. Its predecessor, the HDM-AIO, was a toolbox favorite for custom integrators and home theater professionals, allowing installers to get out a problem job fast. Now, the HDM-AIO2 will be shipping soon and on display at the 2019 CEDIA Expo booth #1338.

Metra Home Theater Group® (MHTG) is excited to launch new bulk fiber cable and fiber termination tools for installers at the 2019 CEDIA Expo. This product line provides reliable fiber installation at a competitive price and is a first for MHTG, who currently sells bulk category cable, speaker wire, security wire and coax cable. Existing fiber products from MHTG so far have been HDMI® cables from their Velox®, Helios® and Install Bay® brands, at lengths ranging from 3 feet to 330 feet. Now, customers will have the ability to terminate their own fiber lengths with 1,000-foot bulk reels of OM3 multi-mode fiber, available in simplex or duplex options in an easy-pull box. It is available in OFNR riser rated, making it suitable for indoor floor to floor applications or OFNP for plenum applications and designed for today’s 10 Gigabit applications in networks and data centers.

Metra Home Theater Group® (MHTG) is excited to launch new HDMI® AV distribution products for installers at the 2019 CEDIA Expo. HDMI® splitters, a multi-viewer, audio de-embedder and extender will join their existing lineup of media distribution products engineered for custom integrators. These products are expected to ship soon and will be on display at booth #1338.