Since I had recently moved and want to place my sound and video racks in the closet (fiance's rules!) I need to get an IR repeater. A while back I used to install home-audio for a local "high-end" (yah right) company and we used to install niles repeaters. Lately I am seeing all the rf repeaters and I think the "pyramid" is cheesy. I have 9 components that require the ir signal from my multi remote, but Some have "remote sensor" plugs (either 1/8" or those ultra-mini plugs like cellphones have for ear pieces). I would think that I may be able to plug a sensor or sensor system right into these? The components that have these plugs are my Carver C-5 preamp and my Shure HTS-5300 analog surround processor. My JVC HR-S5000U has a "remote pause" button on the back, but I dont think that will do anything for me. I was looking into the Xantech system and re-looking at the niles (it's been a while!) and trying to decide what is best for me. I guess my questions are: Are there drawbacks to one vs the other? Are the two systems compatible with each other (niles receiver with xantech transmitters or vice versa) and can I plug the wires that would go to the transmitters directly into my components (listed above) which have plugs on them? Also, is a transmitter strong enough to cover multiple pieces of equipment (in a "usually dark" room) maybe if it is set back on the opposite wall to radiate light towards all the equipment? Or is there anything I am missing that can be helpful or useful to me? Thanks in Advance! -- Adam

Theres a couple things here:

1) Yes, you can sometimes plug the 'IR' directly into a device, othertimes, you will need to strip the carrier frequency from the 'IR' code before you will have any luck with control. Xantech's part called the 794 OR 797 interface module (the modules are brand specific),is what you will need. Check out www.xantech.com under products then modules.

2) I would stick with a one brand of gear, lots of these are interchangable, but try to get service when the find out that you've intermixed their 'stuff'. I recommend Xantech, I've never had their gear let me down.

If your not zoning any of your devices, you can get away with a 'blaster' type emmiter...alhtough if you have it in the budget, I'd stick with using the Xantech 791-44 connecting block, it will give you 10 amplified emitter outputs.

If you want to chat more, please feel free to email me.

Matt
(from MN)