Cutting Through: Recent Episodes
Aurora
Welcome to Cutting Through, the no B.S Pro AV podcast hosted by CEO and thought leader, Paul "the honey badger" Harris. Tune in as we unpack and discover the truths and lies surrounding Pro AV.
Aurora SmartSpeak uses proprietary AI to transform government meeting spaces, ensuring cameras and audio systems only respond to real human speech—not background noise.
Precision AI: The "Wordgate AI" feature analyzes speech intelligibility in over 100 languages, effectively ignoring incidental sounds and background chatter.
Smart Tracking: By isolating the active speaker's location, it automatically triggers PTZ camera presets to follow the person talking, eliminating jarring, false camera movements.
Tech Integration: Built with Dante AES 67 beam-forming microphones and fully customizable via "Core Studio AI" software.
Ideal Use Cases: Designed specifically for high-stakes environments like courthouses and council chambers where accuracy and reliable automation are critical.
Aurora at InfoComm: See the Future of AV! 🚀
Coming off a "Best of Show" win at ISE, Aurora is bringing major momentum to InfoComm in Las Vegas!
What to check out at Booth C7529:
🔊 SmartSpeak: Discover the new 4" and 6" models, featuring advanced built-in control and beamforming audio.
🌐 AV-over-IP: See live demonstrations of their latest 1G and 10G solutions.
Don’t miss out—make booth C7529 a must-stop on your itinerary. Start planning your show floor experience now!
Barcelona once again became the center of the AV industry as ISE 2026 brought together manufacturers, integrators, and consultants from around the world. For Aurora Multimedia, the week marked both recognition and renewed momentum.
Throughout the show, Aurora’s booth drew steady traffic from partners and industry professionals interested in intelligent, streamlined AV solutions. Conversations focused on integration, interoperability, and the growing demand for systems that reduce complexity without sacrificing performance.
A highlight of the week was Aurora’s RXT-6DV-10G earning a Best of Show award. The recognition underscored the industry’s appetite for solutions that combine control, audio, and AV over IP within a single device. Attendees experienced live demonstrations of SmartSpeak™ beamforming audio and Aurora’s ReAX™ control platform, sparking discussions about scalability and real-world deployment.
Beyond the booth, Aurora’s presence extended into industry media coverage, with multiple outlets spotlighting the company’s latest innovations. The attention reflected broader trends shaping the AV landscape: integrated ecosystems, simplified configuration, and intelligent automation designed for everyday environments.
ISE has long served as a barometer for where the industry is headed. This year’s conversations made one thing clear — collaboration spaces continue to evolve, and manufacturers are being challenged to deliver smarter, more cohesive solutions.
For Aurora Multimedia, ISE 2026 was less about spectacle and more about validation — an opportunity to connect, demonstrate, and listen to what integrators need next.
As the industry looks ahead to the next major gathering, the momentum from Barcelona continues to build.
When Logic Integration set out to deliver a next-level sportsbook experience, they needed a solution that could handle scale, reliability, and real-world demands.
That’s where Aurora Multimedia came in.
From mass-configurable VPX deployments to SmartSpeak™-enabled intelligence, Aurora became a core part of the system design — not just for performance, but for long-term serviceability.
After deploying 70–80 endpoints across the venue, Logic saw firsthand how Aurora’s engineering simplifies complex installs. And when real-world conditions put the system to the test, the durability spoke for itself.
But beyond the hardware, it was the partnership that stood out.
From design through deployment, Aurora’s team remained accessible, knowledgeable, and invested in the outcome.
For Logic Integration, Aurora isn’t just a product choice — it’s a trusted platform.
Watch how Aurora helped power one of their most ambitious projects yet.
Barcelona is a city where history, creativity, and innovation collide. While thousands gather each year for ISE, the city itself offers just as much inspiration as what’s happening on the show floor. Here are three things you truly can’t miss while you’re in Barcelona.
First, La Sagrada Família. Gaudí’s unfinished masterpiece is more than an iconic landmark—it’s a reminder of what happens when vision, craft, and ambition come together over time. From its soaring towers to its intricate details, it sets the tone for a city built on bold ideas.
Next, Park Güell, another Gaudí gem that blends architecture, color, and nature into an unforgettable experience. The mosaics, textures, and organic shapes make it clear why Barcelona is a global center of design and creativity.
Finally, the future of AV lives at ISE, and this year it’s on display at Aurora Multimedia’s Booth 5E700. From the ReAX Room to SmartSpeak™ solutions, Aurora is showcasing touchless control, intelligent automation, and technology built for real-world spaces—not demos, but deployments.
Whether you’re exploring the city or the show floor, Barcelona delivers inspiration at every turn. Ready to see it in action? Visit Aurora Multimedia at Booth 5E700.
At Integrate 2025, Aurora Multimedia showcased its AV solutions in a live environment at the AP Tech booth — and AV professionals took notice. The video highlights three standout features that had booth visitors buzzing.
First, Aurora demonstrated seamless system integration. A single Aurora control panel operated multiple devices — including the EchoPen Pearl streamer, background visuals, cameras, lights, and DSP — all from one interface. This highlighted the strength of Aurora’s end-to-end ecosystem and easy programmability.
Second, the team showcased powerful audio control with custom DSP presets and Dante-enabled outputs. Viewers saw how media could be routed through the Aurora DSP and adjusted on the fly via an intuitive control interface.
Finally, the video demonstrated streamlined presentation workflows, featuring speaker timers, live video previews, and one-button recording via EchoPen. Users could start recording, plug in a USB stick, and automatically copy the session with no additional configuration.
Closing with the tagline, “Aurora. Innovation in action. Built for integrators. Loved by pros,” the video emphasizes Aurora’s core value: total system control made easy.
Aurora Multimedia brought innovation to the forefront at the UIAV event in Utah, showcasing our latest AV solutions, including the powerful VPX AV over IP platform and the game-changing SmartSpeak system. Held at the University of Utah Stadium, UIAV brought together AV professionals, integrators, and technology leaders for a day of networking, product demos, and hands-on learning. Aurora’s booth gave attendees the chance to see our products in action — from the VPX’s zero-latency performance and built-in sourcing tools to SmartSpeak’s patented Word-Gating technology. Chuck Espinoza was on site to share insights, answer questions, and demonstrate how Aurora’s solutions stand apart in performance, innovation, and Made-in-USA quality. If you couldn’t make it to Utah, there’s still time to experience these technologies in person — check out our upcoming events and see for yourself why Aurora continues to lead the way in AV over IP.
When global supply chains falter and tariffs drive prices up, Aurora Multimedia stands out by staying local. In this video, we highlight how our commitment to U.S.-based design, engineering, and manufacturing gives us — and our customers — a serious edge. From our AV over IP systems to SmartSpeak units, every product is built in-house at our Morganville, New Jersey facility. The result? Faster lead times, better customization, and consistent pricing — all without relying on unpredictable overseas logistics. While others scramble to respond to international delays and cost surges, Aurora is shipping on time and on budget. This isn’t just a talking point — it’s a competitive advantage grounded in quality, reliability, and control. Made in America isn’t just a slogan. It’s how we work.
On the recent Webinar Wednesday, Chuck Espinoza of Aurora Multimedia, joined by Netgear’s Alex Pendleton, challenged attendees to rethink how AV over IP systems really begin—not with hardware, but with content.
Chuck walked viewers through the foundational components of AV over IP design and explained that most people mistakenly believe the encoder is the starting point. “You’ve got to go back even further, homie,” he said. The true beginning? The content itself—the audio, video, or multimedia data being transmitted.
Why does it matter? Because the type of content being transported impacts everything downstream: the type of compression needed, latency tolerance, bandwidth requirements, and even the quality of experience for the end user. Chuck emphasized scenarios like iMAG, which requires ultra-low latency, or 4K broadcast, which demands high compression and bandwidth integrity.
By reframing the design process to start with content, AV pros can make smarter decisions about everything else—encoders, switches, network configuration, and more. Both Chuck and Alex stressed that understanding what you’re moving is just as important as how you’re moving it.
On the recent Webinar Wednesday, Chuck Espinoza of Aurora Multimedia was joined by Alex Pendleton from Netgear to break down one of the most critical—and commonly misunderstood—components of AV over IP system design: the endpoints. Together, they explored how encoders and decoders vary dramatically in capability, and why selecting the right one isn’t just a matter of price, but purpose.
Chuck emphasized that “not all encoders and decoders are created equal.” While budget units might move video from point A to point B, higher-end models offer advanced features like fiber support, monitoring, and easier integration. He advised viewers to look beyond price tags and evaluate based on feature set, deployment needs, and total network goals—comparing it to choosing between a basic pickup truck and a Ferrari.
Alex echoed the importance of smart endpoint selection, highlighting Netgear’s experience deploying hundreds of Aurora-powered networks. “Once the network is solid,” he shared, “you plug in Aurora devices and you’re off and going.” Their joint message: endpoint choice is where network performance either succeeds—or suffers.
On the recent Webinar Wednesday, Chuck Espinoza emphasized one of the most overlooked yet critical components in AV over IP systems: cabling. Drawing from years of service experience at Aurora Multimedia, Chuck explained that nearly 75–80% of service issues ultimately trace back to cabling—not the hardware or software, but what he calls “meatware”: the human element.
Whether it’s poorly terminated Ethernet, HDMI cables bent at harsh angles, or fiber links improperly installed, cabling mistakes wreak havoc on network reliability. Chuck shared his three rules—hardware, software, and meatware—stressing that while hardware and software issues account for only a small portion of problems, user error and mishandling dominate the landscape.
He drove the point home with real-world examples, including a VPX device damaged by an upside-down HDMI jammed repeatedly into a port. For fiber, he warned that cheap cables or bad termination can cause spanning tree protocol failures, destabilizing an otherwise solid network.
The takeaway? Always certify your cables, use proper tools, and test from the physical layer up. It’s not glamorous, but it’s mission-critical.
On our recent webinar, Chuck invited on Alex Pendleton from Netgear to demystify AV over IP in a hands-on, no-fluff session.
Chuck Espinoza, Global Director of Education at Aurora Multimedia, walked attendees through how to design AV over IP systems that span multiple switches and integrate seamlessly with a Dante audio setup.
The session delivered practical insights on:
- Configuring network switches
- Setting up AV over IP gear
- Making it all work together — smoothly
This webinar set the stage for a deeper-dive class with Chuck and Netgear, offering a valuable sneak peek into what's next.
Whether you’re an AV pro, IT lead, or just looking to level up your knowledge, this session was packed with actionable takeaways. Same bat time. Same bat channel.
Stay tuned for what’s coming next.
Join Chuck Espinoza, Global Director of Education at Aurora Multimedia, on July 16th for a hands-on, no-fluff session designed to demystify AV over IP.
Register here.
In this live webinar, Chuck will walk through how to design AV over IP systems that span multiple switches and integrate seamlessly with a Dante audio setup. You’ll get practical insights on:
- Configuring your network switches
- Setting up AV over IP gear
- Making it all work together — smoothly
This session sets the stage for an upcoming deeper-dive class with Chuck and Netgear, so consider this your sneak peek.
Whether you're an AV pro, IT lead, or just hungry to level up, this is one you won't want to miss.
Register here to save your spot.
Same bat time. Same bat channel. See you there.
Are you missing out on InfoComm 2025? Get a rapid-fire tour of Aurora Multimedia’s latest innovations with Global Education Director Chuck Espinoza. From powerful AV over IP solutions like the VPX and IPX series to audio standouts like the DTX-AMP25 and modular DSPs, Chuck highlights how Aurora is redefining performance and simplicity across control, audio, and video. Discover new launches like Core Studio for Mac and Windows, Dash AV as the successor to IPBaseT, and the RXT-4DV SmartSpeak unit combining mic, speaker, encoder, and control into one sleek package. Whether you're into SDVoE, Dante, or HTML-based control, Aurora has something that just works — smarter.
The Aurora Multimedia team is set and ready to go at InfoComm 2025! From getting the booth prepped to powering up the latest tech, we’re bringing innovation, energy, and real-world solutions straight to the show floor. Come meet the team, see the products in action, and discover why Aurora is the name behind AV systems that just work. Visit us at Booth 2342 — we’re ready for you!
Join us on April 16th at 1 PM ET for an exclusive educational webinar with Chuck Espinoza! Learn how to install the Dante software option license on your Aurora VPX units and explore real-world solutions for seamless audio networking.
Whether you're an AV professional, IT specialist, or just looking to enhance your skills, this session will give you the tools to take your AV systems to the next level.
Don’t miss out—register now to secure your spot!
In a game-changing move, Aurora Multimedia has unveiled a staggering $6.6 million donation in IP control system products to HETMA, revolutionizing the landscape of education technology. But what does this colossal donation mean for the students and the future of learning? Let's delve into the exclusive insights shared by Paul Harris, CEO of Aurora Multimedia, and Joe Way, a key figure in HETMA, to uncover the transformative power of this initiative.
Aurora Multimedia's unprecedented donation addresses a pressing issue in education: bridging the technology gap. This monumental gift encompasses a diverse range of IP control systems and products, offering a lifeline to schools previously hindered by financial constraints.
The pivotal question emerges: How does this extraordinary donation empower students and reshape education? To grasp the depth of this transformation, we turn to Paul Harris, CEO of Aurora Multimedia, who shares his perspective on the motivation and profound impact of this philanthropic endeavor.
Paul Harris (CEO, Aurora Multimedia): "We saw this as an opportunity to distribute our control inventory in a manner that would help schools that do not have the funding to normally do control automation, to be able to have it and to use it in conjunction with their students if they choose to do so, to learn real-world applications."
Aurora's web-based control technology empowers students by imparting valuable programming skills and interface design experience. Through industry-standard web protocols like HTML and JavaScript, students gain hands-on experience, aligning their education with practical applications. This empowers them to use everyday tools for programming, offering limitless creative possibilities.
What sets Aurora's approach apart is its emphasis on non-proprietary control systems. Students are not limited to a single brand or technology. Instead, they gain freedom and creativity to explore and innovate with web-based control systems.
But the collaboration doesn't end with the donation. Joe Way, a prominent member of HETMA, highlights the scholarship program's significance in ensuring a lasting impact. This program aims to select schools that genuinely need the technology and can demonstrate its positive impact on the learning experience.
Joe Way (Board of Directors, HETMA): "The fact that we can take around 1200 rooms and outfit so many schools at scale and really be able to bless them and say, here, I know you couldn't do this yourself, let's get you the technology, let's get you the training, let's get you the mentorship."
Furthermore, this initiative is just the beginning. Aurora and HETMA envision case studies, contests, and ongoing contributions, fostering a continuous journey of growth and innovation in education technology.
As we navigate the evolving landscape of education, Aurora Multimedia's donation stands as a beacon of hope, symbolizing progress, empowerment, and limitless possibilities. This remarkable collaboration is not just about giving; it's about catalyzing change in higher education—a change driven by empowerment, education, and innovation.
In this episode of "Cutting Through," host Bobby Brill engages in a dynamic conversation with Charles Duncan, National Consultant Resource Manager at Aurora Multimedia. Together, they delve into the transformative trends of 2023 and unveil Aurora Multimedia's strategies for harnessing innovation in 2024.
Key Points of Discussion:
- The Evolution of AV Control Systems: Charles highlights the industry's pressing need for one-gig and ten-gig solutions, emphasizing the improvements in Aurora Multimedia's product lines.
- The Power of Open Platforms: Explore how Aurora Multimedia's adoption of open-source programming, including JavaScript, is empowering users, integrators, and consultants to customize their AV solutions.
- Expanding Product Line: Discover Aurora Multimedia's plans to expand its AV over IP solutions, turning touch panels into multifunctional components and integrating Dante technology.
Guest Bio:
Charles Duncan, with a career spanning since 1997, serves as Aurora Multimedia's National Consultant Resource Manager. His extensive experience and relationships within the AV industry uniquely position him to bridge the gap between consultants and innovative solutions.
In a recent episode of "Cutting Through," host Ben Thomas dove deep into the evolving world of AV over IP with industry leaders Paul Harris, President & CEO of Aurora Multimedia, and Stephane Tremblay, CEO of the SDVoE Alliance. As Infocomm looms and the industry buzzes with anticipation, they explored what’s new and what’s next.
The State of AV over IP
Paul Harris shared his insights into the paradox of AV over IP technology: as it evolves, it also stays rooted. He highlighted that while the industry craves a unified standard, the current focus remains on one gig and ten gig solutions. According to Harris, this provides a "comfortable place" for now, with no significant demand for going beyond these capacities.
The Demand for Higher Quality
Tremblay pointed out the necessity of ten gig solutions in high-stakes environments like medical or eSports where latency and image compression can't be tolerated. He emphasized the transition from traditional matrix switch sports to AV over IP—a shift that, once made, is irreversible, heralding a new era of quality and flexibility.
The Challenges of Interoperability
Discussing the importance of interoperability, Harris mentioned that aligning with customer needs is crucial, but it often means navigating a maze of different brands and technologies. He emphasized the need for education, especially regarding network switches, and commended Netgear for their initiative to assist customers in this area.
Educating the Integrators
Tremblay underscored the SDVoE Alliance’s commitment to education, particularly with their Certified Design House program, which ensures that at least 25% of an integrator’s technical team is SDVoE trained. This emphasis on education is paramount for integrators to properly specify and install SDVoE technology.
The Future of AV over IP
Looking to the future, Harris candidly discussed the concept of "future proofing," calling it a "joke." Instead, he focused on the foundation that technologies like SDVoE provide, allowing for growth and progression. He teased upcoming surprises from Aurora Multimedia at Infocomm, suggesting an emphasis on ten gig solutions and innovative products like the ultra, a ten gig device with an integrated Intel PC and multi-view capabilities.
Embracing Change and Education
Tremblay highlighted a shift in focus for SDVoE at trade shows, moving from technology demonstrations to application-based showcases. This approach aims to connect more effectively with a broader audience, from system integrators to end-users. With a new Interoperability Committee, SDVoE is furthering its commitment to ensuring seamless product compatibility within its ecosystem.
Concluding Thoughts
As the episode concluded, both Harris and Tremblay shared their excitement for the upcoming Infocomm, where education, innovation, and networking will take center stage. Harris teased that Aurora Multimedia would unveil new surprises, building on their robust ten gig offerings. In contrast, Tremblay looked forward to showcasing SDVoE’s application-level innovations.
"Cutting Through" reaffirmed that in the rapidly evolving domain of AV over IP, education, interoperability, and strategic innovation are keys to moving the industry forward. Stay tuned for the next episode, where these conversations continue to cut through the complexity of AV technology.
The SKR-22T-XFR is the latest speaker innovation from Aurora. This lightweight speaker delivers clear sound with fidelity not normally found on typical ceiling speakers. Its ability to reproduce 180-degree sound field allows the use of only one speaker in a room for mono operation. Installation is quick, less costly, and less messy as there is no cutting of ceiling tiles or back boxes to mount. Just drop the tile into a 2x2 ceiling grid, connect the speaker wire and you are done. For 4x2 ceiling grids, all that is required is to cut the tile in half and add a standard ceiling divider.
With full range of audio, not only do presenters sound clear and crisp, but the presentation material is produced without missing the lows or the highs compared to the typical 5” to 6” round ceiling speakers. Add a 25-watt PoE+ Dante amplifier using the Aurora DTX-AMP25-M to further complete the room audio solution. The DTX-AMP25-M can also take Line in for analog systems as well.
Prepare for a tantalizing preview at ISE 2024, where Aurora Multimedia is set to unveil a true marvel in room automation: the RXT-4D-NDV. Breaking away from the ordinary, this innovation stands as a testament to Aurora's unique vision. The new RXT-4D is poised to revolutionize not just control automation, but the entire auditory and communication experience within any space. Expect an environment of complete integration and advanced technological synergy, previously only imagined. Aurora Multimedia extends an exclusive invitation to visit their booth at ISE 2024 for a firsthand experience of this transformative technology. Anticipation is building for what promises to be a spectacular showcase at Aurora's booth - a peek into the future of room automation. Join us at ISE 2024 and be part of this groundbreaking moment!
Introducing the Aurora TeamStream TS-100, the ultimate AV solution that's set to revolutionize your audiovisual experience. This game-changing device simplifies connectivity with multiple options, including Wi-Fi, LAN, Mirror Cast, Air Play, and the Wireless Media App. Seamlessly integrate it into your company LAN for easy access. What sets it apart are its standout features: a built-in Whiteboard and Annotation tool for interactive collaboration, real-time precision, high-resolution output, dual view functionality, and more. The TS-100 effortlessly accommodates up to 14 users, ensuring a hassle-free setup with a user-friendly interface. Elevate your AV setup with the Aurora TeamStream TS-100 today and experience the difference.
In this episode of "Cutting Through," host Bobby Brill engages in a dynamic conversation with Charles Duncan, National Consultant Resource Manager at Aurora Multimedia. Together, they delve into the transformative trends of 2023 and unveil Aurora Multimedia's strategies for harnessing innovation in 2024.
Key Points of Discussion:
- The Evolution of AV Control Systems: Charles highlights the industry's pressing need for one-gig and ten-gig solutions, emphasizing the improvements in Aurora Multimedia's product lines.
- The Power of Open Platforms: Explore how Aurora Multimedia's adoption of open-source programming, including JavaScript, is empowering users, integrators, and consultants to customize their AV solutions.
- Expanding Product Line: Discover Aurora Multimedia's plans to expand its AV over IP solutions, turning touch panels into multifunctional components and integrating Dante technology.
Guest Bio:
Charles Duncan, with a career spanning since 1997, serves as Aurora Multimedia's National Consultant Resource Manager. His extensive experience and relationships within the AV industry uniquely position him to bridge the gap between consultants and innovative solutions.
In a game-changing move, Aurora Multimedia has unveiled a staggering $6.6 million donation in IP control system products to HETMA, revolutionizing the landscape of education technology. But what does this colossal donation mean for the students and the future of learning? Let's delve into the exclusive insights shared by Paul Harris, CEO of Aurora Multimedia, and Joe Way, a key figure in HETMA, to uncover the transformative power of this initiative.
Aurora Multimedia's unprecedented donation addresses a pressing issue in education: bridging the technology gap. This monumental gift encompasses a diverse range of IP control systems and products, offering a lifeline to schools previously hindered by financial constraints.
The pivotal question emerges: How does this extraordinary donation empower students and reshape education? To grasp the depth of this transformation, we turn to Paul Harris, CEO of Aurora Multimedia, who shares his perspective on the motivation and profound impact of this philanthropic endeavor.
Paul Harris (CEO, Aurora Multimedia): "We saw this as an opportunity to distribute our control inventory in a manner that would help schools that do not have the funding to normally do control automation, to be able to have it and to use it in conjunction with their students if they choose to do so, to learn real-world applications."
Aurora's web-based control technology empowers students by imparting valuable programming skills and interface design experience. Through industry-standard web protocols like HTML and JavaScript, students gain hands-on experience, aligning their education with practical applications. This empowers them to use everyday tools for programming, offering limitless creative possibilities.
What sets Aurora's approach apart is its emphasis on non-proprietary control systems. Students are not limited to a single brand or technology. Instead, they gain freedom and creativity to explore and innovate with web-based control systems.
But the collaboration doesn't end with the donation. Joe Way, a prominent member of HETMA, highlights the scholarship program's significance in ensuring a lasting impact. This program aims to select schools that genuinely need the technology and can demonstrate its positive impact on the learning experience.
Joe Way (Board of Directors, HETMA): "The fact that we can take around 1200 rooms and outfit so many schools at scale and really be able to bless them and say, here, I know you couldn't do this yourself, let's get you the technology, let's get you the training, let's get you the mentorship."
Furthermore, this initiative is just the beginning. Aurora and HETMA envision case studies, contests, and ongoing contributions, fostering a continuous journey of growth and innovation in education technology.
As we navigate the evolving landscape of education, Aurora Multimedia's donation stands as a beacon of hope, symbolizing progress, empowerment, and limitless possibilities. This remarkable collaboration is not just about giving; it's about catalyzing change in higher education—a change driven by empowerment, education, and innovation.
In the dynamic landscape of technology and innovation, reaching a silver anniversary is a remarkable achievement. Aurora Multimedia, a leading player in the industry, has recently celebrated its 25th year in business. But what has been the secret to their enduring success? Paul Harris, the CEO of Aurora Multimedia, joins us on this episode of Cutting Through to share insights into their remarkable journey.
Over the years, Aurora Multimedia has not only embraced innovation but has also prioritized the needs and aspirations of their customers. Recognizing that it's not always about Aurora, they have fostered a two-way partnership with integrators, consultants, and end-users. This collaborative approach ensures that the company and its clients move forward together.
One crucial aspect of this success story is the unwavering commitment to providing exceptional service and education. Understanding that true growth requires more than just great products, Aurora Multimedia recently made significant investments in education. They brought in industry veterans Chuck Espinoza and Marcus Yarborough, who now lead the company's educational initiatives. Through comprehensive training videos and certifications, Aurora Multimedia equips their customers with the knowledge and support necessary to excel.
In the pursuit of excellence, Aurora Multimedia continuously strives for improvement. While acknowledging their imperfections, they maintain an honorable intent and an unwavering dedication to self-improvement. Each year, they push themselves to be better, knowing that their commitment to progress drives their reputation and success.
Join us as we dive deep into the remarkable journey of Aurora Multimedia with CEO Paul Harris. Discover the driving forces behind their 25 years of success, their customer-centric approach, and their relentless pursuit of growth through education and support.
Listen to Paul's full interview here!
Charles Duncan has joined Aurora as National Consultant Liaison. He’s been in the AV Industry since 1997 when he started in tech support for AMX. He quickly moved into teaching system design, installation and programming. In 2001 Charles stepped into the AV Consultant world as a manufacturer liaison, aka “Consultant Liaison.”
Charles and his wife Shannon live in the Dallas area with two sons Jason and Tyler (Both eager to join the industry) and a new Granddaughter that brings a whole new level of joy!
Paul Harris, CEO told us “Charles will be a great addition to the Aurora team with his years of experience. I look forward to him helping consultants across the world with their project designs“.
If you are a consultant looking to learn more about Aurora and their products, you can reach Charles at cduncan@auroramm.com.
This week on Lessons From an Audio Guy, host Chuck Espinoza walks through how audio engineers need to start thinking like system admins to consider network challenges.
The audio industry has undergone tremendous change in recent years, and this shift has presented challenges to audio engineers. One of the biggest challenges faced by audio guys today is how to make their work efficient on the network, especially since there is less analog work being done.
With fewer analog setups needed, audio guys need to start thinking like system admins and get creative with their work.
The rise of digital technology has changed the face of the industry, adding more complexity to the technical aspects of audio engineering. Networking infrastructure is now a crucial aspect that needs to be considered as part of any event or production setup. Audio engineers must now coordinate with IT admins at various houses or venues they intend to work in, well ahead of time, making sure their equipment will be compatible with existing network infrastructure.
It's important for audio engineers to start thinking beyond live sound and explore new possibilities in broadcast engineering. Audio engineers have unique skills that make them excellent candidates for broadcast engineering jobs that involve multiple streams of information and making quick changes. The ability to pay attention to multiple streams of information at once makes them invaluable assets in this field.
As the audio industry continues to evolve, it is essential that companies remain adaptive and creative, particularly in light of the current supply chain issues that many producers face. Aurora Multimedia’s response to this challenge with their new VPX series and Dante software-based solution is highly encouraging. Dante is a widely-used audio networking technology that allows users to transmit high-quality, low-latency audio signals over standard IP networks. Yet, due to the supply chain issues surrounding particular chipsets, some manufacturers have been unable to include Dante in their products. This is where Aurora’s software-based solution is especially advantageous - it enables VPX products to be Dante-compatible without the use of specialized hardware. Aurora Multimedia is currently the only producer of AV over IP devices with Dante-enabled software, a testament to their adaptability and enthusiasm for new trends and technologies.
The benefits to users are evident - with Dante as a software solution on the VPX series, users can effortlessly incorporate two to eight channels of audio networking capabilities without extra components. For instance, by pairing Aurora's DTX matrix switcher with other Dante-enabled devices and adding a VPX encoder/decoder with Dante-enabled software, users can smoothly route audio signals without needing to spend time and effort on setup. Aurora has made sure to provide customers with plenty of support, from video tutorials on how to install Dante on VPX devices (coming soon!) to customer service assistance. In conclusion, Aurora Multimedia's software-based solution for Dante integration is an impressive development and a sign of their commitment to staying ahead of the competition. In a time where supply chain issues are commonplace, this kind of ingenuity and flexibility is essential for companies to survive and thrive.
Just a decade ago, the first customizable eight-button controller was introduced to the market with interactive technology. Flash-forward to today, controllers are becoming more accessible within corporate and educational settings, and more.
“You either see either of the two extremes. You’ll either see your standard button panel or a seven-inch touch screen on the wall from one of the many companies that are in the market,” said Matt Materniak, R&D Engineer & Systems Programmer for Aurora Multimedia.
The catch is that the market is slim in offerings. Consumers demanding a full-control processor would have to deal with either the inconvenience of installing multiple accessories to get to one desired function or rely on a seven-to-ten-inch touch panel that sits displeasingly on a wall.
That is why Aurora’s vision is to expand the offering pool with the RXT-4, a revolutionary 4” All-in-one touch panel control system with enhanced user experiences comparable to the “same way you control your smart home on your phone,” said Materniak.
Touching base with the RXT-4 most interesting features, the RXT-4 incorporates integrated microphone, sensors, and light ring for shared office-work spaces to fully operate a conference room scheduling system. Access is as easy as scanning a phone.
“So you don't have to be some JavaScript web programmer to be able to create a simple interface, be able to turn a projector on and off. You could just drag in your actions… and not have to write a giant block of JavaScript,” said Materniak.
The RXT is built entirely on web-standard, a highly customizable platform. In addition, the RXT-4 is a single cable solution that just requires plugging into a power source over ethernet.
From simple to full-blown room control solutions, the RXT-4 offers just that in a very small package at a very cost-effective price.
With the return to in-person trade shows comes the excitement of witnessing technological advances firsthand. Aurora Multimedia, a company dedicated to changing the topology of AV, participates in many of these events, like the Integrated Systems Europe show in Spain on May 10–13. In this episode of Cutting Through, host Tyler Kern spoke with Aurora’s CEO, Paul Harris, about their new products rolling out this year.
One such product is a new AV over 1G IP solution — a true industry first — that employs a soft version of the technology inside the core engine with no moving parts and no fan. Harris explained, “The most exciting is the VPX. For those that know our products… they know of the IPX, which has our 1G and our 10G, but now VPX puts it right in the middle, but it’s a high-performing product. It is a 4K60 4:4:4 over AV over IP product that uses only eight watts of power.”
Harris also spoke briefly about the DTX and RXT series before disclosing a few teasers of what’s still to come in 2022, like the Ditto series they’re bringing back. Developed almost 20 years ago as the first real-time image rotation engine on the market, Ditto lived for about 12 years before dying because the tech became too difficult to support. To not spoil the fun with all the details, Harris promised “it will be even more amazing than the original generation.”
Another exciting rollout is the ASP 42, but he only divulged two features for that one, including capture capabilities and the ability to plug the devices directly into the computer.
Visit Aurora to learn more and keep apprised of the company’s future trade show events.
Tyler Kern interviewed Paul Harris, CEO at Aurora Multimedia, ahead of the 2022 ISE and InfoComm tradeshows to explore current AV industry trends and upcoming product announcements. Aurora Multimedia is an AV industry leader providing products for all industries, “our main focus market is commercial AV… we do a lot of digital signage, hospitality, medical, we address any market,” explains Harris.
Harris prides Aurora Multimedia on its ability to redesign and shift, whereas larger competitors can be slow with operational processes severely delaying product changes and updates. Aurora Multimedia products are made in the US and assembled worldwide. Pieces like chips, caps, and other elements are outsourced. Aurora also makes it a point to rely on what products are currently available. Harris can adapt products based on availability in the global market. This gives them the opportunity to meet customer demand with a mere 6 to 8-week turnaround time.
Aurora’s nimbleness proved to be extremely advantageous during covid. The AV leader launched a temperature reading feature that Harris believes will continue to remain relevant moving forward. With the importance of prevention measures established, this feature gives businesses the opportunity to resume temperature readings at the tap of a button. Businesses can protect patrons and employees as needed while continuing regular business practices without significant disruptions.
Harris is excited to return to in-person tradeshows and spoke to the difficulty of truly understanding new screen and sound technology from a remote location. Harris continued, “the latest TV Screen Technology is not translated through an older model. It has to be seen and experienced in person.” Handling products at these tradeshows allows users to experience the perspective, proportions, weight, clarity of sound, and other features that do not translate remotely. Harris says he’s also excited to return to tradeshows in person for the buzz, the energy, and the conversations. He feels it's an opportunity for end-users to learn about Aurora as much as he learns from Aurora’s end-users during needs-based conversations.
Find the Aurora Multimedia booth at ISE and InfoComm or visit their website https://www.auroramultimedia.com/.
The TS-100 allows over 20 users at 1080p to have access and integrates cleanly into the room. Sometimes wireless is not enough as wired devices must be connected too which is why we added three HDMI® ports capable of 4K60 4:4:4 and one VGA for legacy. Control automation has been considered with the available RS-232, relays, and I/O for integration with control solutions. Aurora’s TeamStream™ redefines wireless huddle room solutions with advanced features and capabilities at a very budget-friendly price.
Since the beginning of the pandemic, every industry has had conversations about how to use technology to mitigate risk and return to full capacity. Those discussions remain imperative, as it appears that COVID-19 is likely to become an endemic. Should that track to be accurate, the virus will be something that stays around indefinitely.
In public places with high capacity, such as universities and K-12, the debate on keeping students and teachers safe continues. The challenges of the current situation of COVID-19 and its future could find help in the form of entryway devices.
How Entryway Devices Can Minimize Risk Exposure
Entryway devices deliver a variety of technology functions to support education. They bring to the settings scalable solutions that can take temperatures, detect masks and provide touchless questionnaires. All these components can help minimize risk exposure. Further, they can record interactions, scan IDs, provide visitor badges and convey messages. Each solution is customizable to the institution’s needs.
Industry Expert Offers Insights
The trend for schools to implement these could be gaining traction. Kevin Hogan, EdTech expert and host of EdTech Today, shared his thoughts on the possibilities. “Technology will be hugely important to higher ed and K-12 should the virus become an endemic.”
Hogan referenced that school boards face a lot of questions about how to keep everyone safe. “Devices like these could mitigate spikes,” he added.
Aurora Products Support Safer Schools
The right technology at the right time is often the best answer to problems. Aurora once again saw a gap that needed a bridge. The company once again reimagined what technology can do for certain spaces and industries. With the Entryway Experience solution, all the necessary technology to mitigate risk is in one turkey tablet platform. Learn more about this innovative technology and how education can leverage it.
On this episode of Cutting Through - An Aurora Multimedia Podcast, host Shelby Skrhak talked with Paul Harris, CEO of Aurora Multimedia, John Henkel, Product Marketing Manager, NETGEAR, Laurent Masia, Director of Product Line Management, NETGEAR.
Temperature tablets are a critical tool in ensuring businesses and venues operate during the pandemic and beyond in a safe way. But not all temperature tablets are alike. Quality matters, and the solutions a tablet offers do too. Paul Harris, CEO of Aurora Multimedia, knows the difference between a reliable temperature tablet and one that thinks a Woody doll from Toy Story is the same thing as a human. On this episode of Cutting Through, Harris helped host Daniel Litwin understand the differences and why Aurora’s TAVIS system is more than just a reliable temperature tablet.