Barix to Introduce Ethernet Powered IP Speaker Device at InfoComm Asia

Exstreamer P5 connects traditional speakers to IP Audio and SIP phone systems; design enables operation in high-temperature environments

ZURICH, SWITZERLAND, November 11, 2010 — Barix AG is preparing to unveil its latest Audio over IP innovation at the InfoComm Asia show this month (November 17-19, Hong Kong Convention and Exhibition Centre, Booth 4B09).  The show marks the world debut of the Exstreamer P5, the company’s solution for IP Speaker applications.   It extends the popular Barix Exstreamer product range into new environments for end users and systems integrators.

The Exstreamer P5 is an all-in-one solution for SIP and hi-fidelity Audio over IP distribution, supporting universal IP standards including TCP/IP, RTP, SIP, Multicast and Ethersound.  The amplified device directly connects any 8-ohm speaker to an IP or Ethersound network.  It enables zoning applications for multi-speaker systems, and allows individual local/remote channel selection and volume control.  The Exstreamer P5 also operates reliably in high-temperature environments.

These features, along with exceptional, hi-fidelity audio quality and Power-over-Ethernet (PoE) support, make the Exstreamer P5 the perfect choice for overhead/ceiling speaker systems.  Applications include:
Hospitality, including general and in-room systems for hotels, venues and cruise ships
In-store audio systems for retail stores, restaurants and other businesses
Background music and paging systems for office buildings and corporate facilities
Security applications, including PA playback points and SIP-based notification

The Exstreamer P5 connects to any 8-ohm speaker, in contrast to “IP Speaker” solutions where the system integrator is limited to certain speakers.  This gives integrators and end users the freedom and versatility to permanently install the Exstreamer P5 in diverse situations, including legacy upgrades.

“The first OEM project will incorporate Exstreamer P5 electronics into hundreds of ‘listening boxes’ throughout a performing arts center in northern Europe, giving the cast, crew and personnel the ability to monitor performances, adjust local volume levels and mute the audio by zone,” said Johannes G. Rietschel, CEO and Founder of Barix AG.  “This is an ideal example of using the Exstreamer P5 for low-latency, high-audio-quality streaming to IP speakers.  The built-in 5W RMS amplifier exceeds the typical 1-to-3W requirements of IP speakers, providing plenty of signal power.  And the local interface for an infrared (IR) receiver or volume/source control provides more benefits for the user.

“For general applications, the biggest benefits are low-cost and flexibility, as the Exstreamer P5 does not lock integrators and users into a limited range of speaker choices,” continued Rietschel.  “You can IP-enable almost any speaker with this device, and take advantage of its PoE capability to simplify deployments.”

The Exstreamer P5 borrows design innovations, including PoE support and high-efficiency class D audio amplification from the Barix Annuncicom range of two-way IP audio devices.  Its reliable operation in warm installation points, ruggedized case and simplified mounting options draw inspiration from the recently-introduced Annuncicom 155 for the transportation industry.  The device can operate in temperature ranges of 32 to 131 degrees Fahrenheit (0 to 55 Celsius) and withstand storage conditions to 158 degrees Fahrenheit (70 Celsius).

The Exstreamer P5 begins shipping worldwide at the end of January 2011. A limited amount of samples are available now.

All Barix products are inexpensive, low-power devices that are scalable to the growth of the operation offer high reliability through a PC-FREE design with no moving parts; and serve as a flexible platform for integration into virtually and operation requiring audio transport and delivery over IP networks.  Barix also offers its programmable BCL standard open to all customers to easily customize applications for specific needs.  Local control, audio relay and low-latency streaming are a few examples of custom programs using Barix’ BCL software environment.

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