Apple TV updates software to version 3.0

Apple TV is now easier to use. Apple just published software version 3.0 which features a new grid menu that makes it much easier to find your favorite music, photos, TV shows, etc.

Additionally, Apple has added Internet radio functionality. It is located under the "Internet" tab along with YouTube. Hopefully the next revision will include Pandora or Last.FM, but the radio is nice to have. Actually, I've been listening all day to a station I grew up with. For those of you familiar with Alternative rock in South Western Ohio, WOXY and WOXY Vintage are available under the "Alternative" genre.

Before....

Pictured is (unfortunately) a typical inwall network wiring enclosure. Often referred to as the structured wiring box or OnQ panel, these boxes do not offer the space required to fit the wiring and electronics required in today's homes.

Storch has been asked to fix this mess. After we complete our work, we will post the "after" photos.

Planning and Coordination

The following photo shows a TV in a kitchen. Usually an afterthought, most kitchen TVs are simply placed on the countertop. Can you ever have enough counter space? Why devote this precious area to a TV?

In this installation, we worked hand in hand with builder Bill Felkel, interior designer Edward Woodill and Busby Cabinets to find the best location for the TV. As it turned out, the cabinet above the microwave proved to be the perfect location. Storch provided a scaled schematic drawing with tolerances required for mounting to Busby who then incorporated the TV into their kitchen design.

Edward specified white to match the cabinets and we mounted the TV on an articulating, pull-out bracket that allowed us to keep a very tight reveal around the TV while also allowing us to pull it forward to be flush with the front of the cabinets.

Storch Begins Phil Kean Designs New Construction

A few blocks from the remodel project posted below is this new construction project we recently began work on. Our responsibility at this phase consists of wiring the house for audio, video and networks (phone, cable, ethernet) as well as any foreseeable future technologies.

Storch Begins Phil Kean Designs Remodel

We recently began work on this remodel, designed by Phil Kean Designs. Once a basic 1950's bungalow, the update will include a mid century design influence with raised ceilings and up-to-date mechanicals, including networks and audio/video.

Sometimes it's what you don't see

Pictured is a 50 inch HDTV plasma mounted on a wall across from the master bed. A fairly standard installation. What you don't see (intentionally) is...

... is the cable box, DVD player or media player that provide a full gamut of entertainment options in this bedroom. These

components are located across the house in an equipment rack that is located inside a custom cabinet in the kitchen.

Orlando Lakefront

Storch recently began this lakefront project with Mark Rash Interiors and Robert Bryan Construction. This is an extensive remodel and addition and will feature a family room home theater with music throughout the entertaining spaces. We will also install music across the expansive lanai overlooking Lake Silver.

Deland project theater almost complete

Pictured is the theater for the Deland project, shown prior at the rough construction stage. This theater features a 90 inch wide acoustically transparent video screen with the left, center and right speakers behind the screen. This is the optimum location for the speakers as they are: 1. positioned at ear level and; 2. allow the sound to match perfectly the onscreen picture and action.

A roll out equipment rack is hidden in the closet left of the screen with the components controlled via a radio frequency remote control. The vent above the door hides a thermostatically controlled fan that draws heat away from the electronics.

The last step will be to install custom fabric wrapped acoustic panels on the walls to absorb the side wall reflections.

In addition to the theater, Storch installed speakers throughout the house, outside and at the boat dock.