Here at Sound Designs we often get new technology to try out and today is no different. Chris couldn’t wait to open this one when it arrived through the door. The Soundcast VG7 is a high-end outdoor Bluetooth speaker that is rechargeable as well as portable. It boasts 360 degree sound using four 3″ speakers, one on each face of the unit that provide the mids and highs. There is also one 7″ long-throw sub-woofer at the bottom of the unit that provides the lows. All of this is well presented in an excellent looking bit of kit, I think you’ll agree!
Our first impressions of the Soundcast VG7 are very good. We are still currently undergoing more thorough testing, but initial thoughts from all of us in the office are that it’s a fantastic bit of kit. For it’s size it’s surprisingly loud but not only that it sounds very good as well. No matter what position it is placed in it fills the room very well thanks to its 360 degree sound. Bluetooth pairing was incredibly easy and works pretty flawlessly. We still haven’t had to charge it since it came out of the box even after multiple hours of testing. We will write a more detailed update once we have finished testing but for now check out our unboxing video below.
For any enquiries please don’t hesitate to contact us either through the contact page or call us on 01604 211200
In this blog post we look at the very latest in speech recognition technology and how it can improve smart home systems such as Control 4.
Siri
Speech recognition and voice control is nothing new. In fact here at Sound Designs, we have experimented with various forms of it for years!
The earlier version of this was using Siri on an Apple iPhone. We have had success in controlling our office systems by simply speaking commands. Turning on the office lights being one example.
A computer running specialist software sat in between the phone and the control system interprets commands on Siri. This command is then forwarded onto the control system so that it can carryout the programmed function. This system worked and worked pretty well! However we didn’t feel it was a solution that could be rolled out to any customer systems.
It felt just a little too ‘clunky’ and basic to install on a customers Control4 system. Also with it being a little too cutting edge and DIY it would no doubt have reliability issues. So until recently the ideas of voice controlling a smart home installation were that ‘it’s possible’ but it’s not a solution to roll out to clients homes.
With the introduction of Google Home and Amazon Echo, voice control has suddenly sprung back to the forefront with real promise.
Amazon Echo
We have drivers available for both products to work with Control 4. We even have it fully operational in our office. The speech recognition of both of these devices is light years ahead of previous voice control technology and they are beginning to introduce real intelligence and interactivity.
So far in our office we only have some basic commands operating but it has proven to be very reliable and the scope of what’s possible is huge. So much so, that we will be trialing voice control on a customer’s system very soon.
This trial installation is quite large with a cinema room, lighting and heating control, automated curtains and blinds etc.
Google Home
The future of this technology is very exciting! Having such big players leading the way will mean that advancements in the technology will come thick and fast.
Sound Designs Ltd have been installing smart home systems and audio visual technology for residential and commercial clients since 2005. We are based in Northamptonshire but work all over the UK. Providing practical and high performing installations all specifically designed for each application.
For any enquiries please don’t hesitate to contact us either through the contact page or call us on 01604 211200
