Your situation closely matches mine. I too prewired all potential TV locations during construction with multiple Ethernet cables in each location expecting to someday implement Control 4. I've since abandoned that idea thanks to current streaming technology, and Home Assistant. I don't use Wi-fi unless I absolutely have too. I started using Google Home devices for whole-home audio and soon decided I didn't like Google being involved, so I removed them in favor of traditional ceiling-mount speakers and discrete amps located in my rack. I stream audio through Chromecast devices using SiriusXM, Spotify and Plex running on my NAS. I also ran multiple "tubes" between my lower level (where the rack is) and the attic above my main level. I've used those many times as I've added speakers, PoE security cameras, etc. on multiple occasions. The HTD system piques my interest. I definitely will investigate it further. Thank you for the informative video.
Very nice! Sounds like you've planned ahead for the future about as much as you can. It's hard with the ever-changing advances in technology. I really like my Lync system though. It works great - the Alexa in the ceiling is always a hit and makes it so easy to stream music from the in-ceiling speakers in that zone. I only wish I would've added that capability in more zones throughout the home. Maybe next time.
Great video. Looking into this system to replace an older brand. Curious, how you connected TV to the source input? Is there a wireless method or do I need to run separate wiring?
Thanks! You can use the SIP (Standard Input Panel) or the FLIP (Flexible Input Panel) to use a digital output from your TV. From either of these panels, cat 5 cable runs back to the source reveiver of the Lync system. They do have a hybrid wireless system though, maybe that would work for your case. Check out their website for more details at www.htd.com 👍
Nice job, very professional and clean installation. I found this helpful to see all your phases, you have me a ton of ideas for a new home install I'm about to do. Question: what is the source of you don't have Chromecast or echo devices... If I connect only with my phone or a table running Spotify or something?
Thank you! You can honestly use anything as a source. Just depends on how you want to be able to control it - especially if it's remotely and you don't want to be physically tied to a specific spot something has to be plugged into. I like the Chromecast because I can stream to it using my phone whenever I want in the house. Same with an echo dot - which I also have as a source. Then you can use other echo devices to stream stuff to it using only your voice. Get creative - if it has a 3.5mm output jack it can be a source!
@@TyEicheleSay in Zone 1 you are using a native streaming app from a tv for example the Spectrum app, can you play that audio in a different zone? Not sure if I am making any sense. Thank you.
@@rickd0amesThat is correct. No matter what you are using as the source or input - tv, music player, etc. - it can be used in any of your zones, or several zones at once, or all zones. It's totally whatever you select and is completely customizable.
Thanks for the great video. May I please ask what height your DOT kit is in your kitchen? I'm installing one over our kitchen also, and its got a high vaulted ceiling. I'm a little worried its too high. Thanks again.
Without actually measuring, I'm guessing it's up there a good 12-15 feet or so. It hasn't been an issue at all unless it's really noisy in the kitchen with other background noise or if the music is playing at a decent volume. It helps to point your voice in 'her' direction so she can hear you say the wake word to get her attention. Otherwise, it works flawlessly and I wouldn't be afraid of the ceiling height because those things I just mentioned happen with other echo devices in my home as well.
I know this video shows a year old, but I was curious how you connected your TV's as an input. I'm getting ready to do this in my house with the Monoprice 6-zone system. I want to be able to hear whatever is playing on the Apple TV in multiple zones, if that's possible. Thanks!
HTD makes Input panels that are hardwired via an ethernet cable back to the main processor. They make several options for input panels from standard, Bluetooth, optical, etc. I installed these panels behind my tv locations, and that's what creates an option to select the tv as an input so I can listen to the tv output in any zone that I choose. Here is the link to the Lync options, if you scroll down towards the bottom you will find the various options for input panels. Hope this helps! www.htd.com/Whole-House-Audio/Lync
Great video - I am thinking of doing HTD and I am building a house currently in framing stage- but I am wanting to have a full surround sound (atmos) in the great room which is vaulted a bit like yours and whole home audio as well. So I am hoping to use the same speakers in the great room space (or some of them, plus the others that support the Atmos design). Do you know how to accomplish this? I am thinking of a Denon AVR as the source with the TV in the same room and a central point in an office for cabling/rack Thanks in advance!
If I'm understanding you correctly, you would not be able to run Dolby Atmos through the whole home audio system. That output needs to come directly from the Denon AVR itself straight to the speakers. You could use the Denon as a source for music or movie sound coming into the whole home unit, but it would only be in stereo pairs coming out of the whole home audio for other zones throughout your home, and you would always have to utilize the Denon if you want the sound to come out of the great room area that those speakers are hooked up too. I hope this makes sense, and hopefully I interpreted your question properly as well. Good luck with your build!
I believe it does - if running to a powered subwoofer anyways. There are 4 RCA outputs that are unused on mine for example. You could use them to provide the signal to several subwoofers. For the best answer though, I'd email Home Theater Direct and get their answer to be on the safe side. They are generally very responsive whenever I've emailed them, or called them. Thanks for watching!
Ive been looking at the HTD System for awhile... My biggest hold back right now is how good is the sound quality. Ive looked at using JBL speakers but not sure if the HTD system could push good quality. What is your thought so far with the setup you have?
I really like them and have used them previously as well. I don't have anything to really compare them too since I haven't listened to other systems in person. I can tell you that the source quality makes a difference in music quality. For example, if listening to music from an echo dot device the music quality is not as good as when compared to streaming the same music from the Google Chromecast device. The Chromecast sounds much better.
I have installed home theater systems using various brands in the past and personally use HTD in my house. I think they have great sound at a good price. Obviously sound is very subjective, but I preferred them to the Micca, Polk, and Monoprice speakers I've used in the past.
Just curious, with the Alexas, when the music is at a higher volume, does Alexa have a hard time listing to your "Alexa!" command? Or is it able to pick up your voice without having to yell over the music or turn it down?
It really isn't that much different to be honest. What I've noticed works best is to look at the spot the device is located so your voice is projecting towards it. If you are looking away when music is playing, it's easier for her to miss a wake up command. I've never had to yell. If music is on maybe a slightly louder than normal voice but that's it.
Great video! Ive considered using HTD among other companies for my whole home audio but haven't pulled the trigger yet. How is the reliability from the app? Have you had issues with losing connectivity? or issues with app or receiver not responding as they should? You can see my setup on SPX Labs channel.
Thank you! I have not had any issues at all with my system to date. It works as it should, every time. I have had some issues casting music to the Google Chromecast for example, but eventually it connects and streams as it should. But the HTD products have been rock solid - the app works, the wireless connectivety, all the speakers, etc. I don't have any other brand to really compare it too, but I am completely satisfied with it and would do it all again in a heartbeat. Thanks for watching!
@@TyEichele Curious how much of the issues with the Chromecast are related to Google's lack of support. I believe they have or will stop supporting the Chromecast Audio devices (which were my favorite since they offered a 3.5mm optic output and the sound is fantastic). Thanks for providing the list of components. I'm putting together my system now.
@@DCCarGeek I'm not sure. I haven't had any issues with the Chromecast recently however. It's been rock solid now. Hopefully it keeps working for a while because it sounds way better than music streaming from an echo dot for example.
Nothing to report at all - we still love the system and it has been working perfectly for over 3 years now. They just released a new mobile app too with some better functionality.
@@TyEichele wow that is great to hear! Going to finalize my layout this week and make the order! Super excited. I did have 1 question about setting up my basic entry level home network. Modem/Router combo>POE switch>Cameras/Access Points. Would I be able to run my question/thought by you? I have been able to gain base knowledge from your videos but just want to make sure I am on the right track before everything gets sealed up
I Can't say I am a fan of how the app and sources work with HTD's solution. Maybe I am too spoiled with how Sonos works. My approach for my reno is going to use hacked Ikea Symfonisk boxes pumping out to in ceiling speakers. Way cheaper than getting into Sonos amps and the same UI and operations as we are used to.
Sonos is nice for sure! I have had a single Sonos 1 for several years and really love it. It was just too expensive for me to use for whole home solution. The HTD app really is easy to use once it's initially set up - select your source and where you want it to play and you're done! I also don't have other systems to compare it too firsthand so it's all I know currently.
That would be a good question to reach out to Home Theater Direct for, because I honestly don't know. Their customer service is good and should be able to answer that question for you.
Your situation closely matches mine. I too prewired all potential TV locations during construction with multiple Ethernet cables in each location expecting to someday implement Control 4. I've since abandoned that idea thanks to current streaming technology, and Home Assistant. I don't use Wi-fi unless I absolutely have too. I started using Google Home devices for whole-home audio and soon decided I didn't like Google being involved, so I removed them in favor of traditional ceiling-mount speakers and discrete amps located in my rack. I stream audio through Chromecast devices using SiriusXM, Spotify and Plex running on my NAS. I also ran multiple "tubes" between my lower level (where the rack is) and the attic above my main level. I've used those many times as I've added speakers, PoE security cameras, etc. on multiple occasions. The HTD system piques my interest. I definitely will investigate it further. Thank you for the informative video.
Very nice! Sounds like you've planned ahead for the future about as much as you can. It's hard with the ever-changing advances in technology. I really like my Lync system though. It works great - the Alexa in the ceiling is always a hit and makes it so easy to stream music from the in-ceiling speakers in that zone. I only wish I would've added that capability in more zones throughout the home. Maybe next time.
Great video. Looking into this system to replace an older brand. Curious, how you connected TV to the source input? Is there a wireless method or do I need to run separate wiring?
Thanks! You can use the SIP (Standard Input Panel) or the FLIP (Flexible Input Panel) to use a digital output from your TV. From either of these panels, cat 5 cable runs back to the source reveiver of the Lync system. They do have a hybrid wireless system though, maybe that would work for your case. Check out their website for more details at www.htd.com 👍
Nice job, very professional and clean installation. I found this helpful to see all your phases, you have me a ton of ideas for a new home install I'm about to do. Question: what is the source of you don't have Chromecast or echo devices... If I connect only with my phone or a table running Spotify or something?
Thank you! You can honestly use anything as a source. Just depends on how you want to be able to control it - especially if it's remotely and you don't want to be physically tied to a specific spot something has to be plugged into. I like the Chromecast because I can stream to it using my phone whenever I want in the house. Same with an echo dot - which I also have as a source. Then you can use other echo devices to stream stuff to it using only your voice. Get creative - if it has a 3.5mm output jack it can be a source!
@@TyEicheleSay in Zone 1 you are using a native streaming app from a tv for example the Spectrum app, can you play that audio in a different zone? Not sure if I am making any sense. Thank you.
@@rickd0amesThat is correct. No matter what you are using as the source or input - tv, music player, etc. - it can be used in any of your zones, or several zones at once, or all zones. It's totally whatever you select and is completely customizable.
Thanks for the great video. May I please ask what height your DOT kit is in your kitchen? I'm installing one over our kitchen also, and its got a high vaulted ceiling. I'm a little worried its too high. Thanks again.
Without actually measuring, I'm guessing it's up there a good 12-15 feet or so. It hasn't been an issue at all unless it's really noisy in the kitchen with other background noise or if the music is playing at a decent volume. It helps to point your voice in 'her' direction so she can hear you say the wake word to get her attention. Otherwise, it works flawlessly and I wouldn't be afraid of the ceiling height because those things I just mentioned happen with other echo devices in my home as well.
I know this video shows a year old, but I was curious how you connected your TV's as an input. I'm getting ready to do this in my house with the Monoprice 6-zone system. I want to be able to hear whatever is playing on the Apple TV in multiple zones, if that's possible. Thanks!
HTD makes Input panels that are hardwired via an ethernet cable back to the main processor. They make several options for input panels from standard, Bluetooth, optical, etc. I installed these panels behind my tv locations, and that's what creates an option to select the tv as an input so I can listen to the tv output in any zone that I choose. Here is the link to the Lync options, if you scroll down towards the bottom you will find the various options for input panels. Hope this helps!
www.htd.com/Whole-House-Audio/Lync
@@TyEichele Thank you!!
Great video - I am thinking of doing HTD and I am building a house currently in framing stage- but I am wanting to have a full surround sound (atmos) in the great room which is vaulted a bit like yours and whole home audio as well. So I am hoping to use the same speakers in the great room space (or some of them, plus the others that support the Atmos design). Do you know how to accomplish this? I am thinking of a Denon AVR as the source with the TV in the same room and a central point in an office for cabling/rack
Thanks in advance!
If I'm understanding you correctly, you would not be able to run Dolby Atmos through the whole home audio system. That output needs to come directly from the Denon AVR itself straight to the speakers. You could use the Denon as a source for music or movie sound coming into the whole home unit, but it would only be in stereo pairs coming out of the whole home audio for other zones throughout your home, and you would always have to utilize the Denon if you want the sound to come out of the great room area that those speakers are hooked up too. I hope this makes sense, and hopefully I interpreted your question properly as well. Good luck with your build!
I've been looking for a whole home but I wanted to know if this system has support for a subwoofer?
I believe it does - if running to a powered subwoofer anyways. There are 4 RCA outputs that are unused on mine for example. You could use them to provide the signal to several subwoofers. For the best answer though, I'd email Home Theater Direct and get their answer to be on the safe side. They are generally very responsive whenever I've emailed them, or called them. Thanks for watching!
Ive been looking at the HTD System for awhile... My biggest hold back right now is how good is the sound quality. Ive looked at using JBL speakers but not sure if the HTD system could push good quality. What is your thought so far with the setup you have?
I really like them and have used them previously as well. I don't have anything to really compare them too since I haven't listened to other systems in person. I can tell you that the source quality makes a difference in music quality. For example, if listening to music from an echo dot device the music quality is not as good as when compared to streaming the same music from the Google Chromecast device. The Chromecast sounds much better.
I have installed home theater systems using various brands in the past and personally use HTD in my house. I think they have great sound at a good price. Obviously sound is very subjective, but I preferred them to the Micca, Polk, and Monoprice speakers I've used in the past.
Just curious, with the Alexas, when the music is at a higher volume, does Alexa have a hard time listing to your "Alexa!" command? Or is it able to pick up your voice without having to yell over the music or turn it down?
It really isn't that much different to be honest. What I've noticed works best is to look at the spot the device is located so your voice is projecting towards it. If you are looking away when music is playing, it's easier for her to miss a wake up command. I've never had to yell. If music is on maybe a slightly louder than normal voice but that's it.
@@TyEichele great information! Thank you for the reply :)
Great video! Ive considered using HTD among other companies for my whole home audio but haven't pulled the trigger yet. How is the reliability from the app? Have you had issues with losing connectivity? or issues with app or receiver not responding as they should?
You can see my setup on SPX Labs channel.
Thank you! I have not had any issues at all with my system to date. It works as it should, every time. I have had some issues casting music to the Google Chromecast for example, but eventually it connects and streams as it should. But the HTD products have been rock solid - the app works, the wireless connectivety, all the speakers, etc. I don't have any other brand to really compare it too, but I am completely satisfied with it and would do it all again in a heartbeat. Thanks for watching!
@@TyEichele Curious how much of the issues with the Chromecast are related to Google's lack of support. I believe they have or will stop supporting the Chromecast Audio devices (which were my favorite since they offered a 3.5mm optic output and the sound is fantastic). Thanks for providing the list of components. I'm putting together my system now.
@@DCCarGeek I'm not sure. I haven't had any issues with the Chromecast recently however. It's been rock solid now. Hopefully it keeps working for a while because it sounds way better than music streaming from an echo dot for example.
Hey TY- great video! I am looking into purchasing their system for my whole house audio setup. Any issues with your equipment or functionality?
Nothing to report at all - we still love the system and it has been working perfectly for over 3 years now. They just released a new mobile app too with some better functionality.
@@TyEichele wow that is great to hear! Going to finalize my layout this week and make the order! Super excited. I did have 1 question about setting up my basic entry level home network. Modem/Router combo>POE switch>Cameras/Access Points. Would I be able to run my question/thought by you? I have been able to gain base knowledge from your videos but just want to make sure I am on the right track before everything gets sealed up
@@kunalkishan9411 Sure go for it
@@TyEichele any chance I can email you so I could do a zoom call and show you my plans, little easier for me to talk through vs typing out.
@@kunalkishan9411 I'd love to help but I am not going to give out my personal contact info publicly.
What in the UI nightmare was that volume control screen?!?! How did that get by QA.
Good question!
How deep was your av rack?
It's adjustable actually - but currently it is set to a total depth of 20"
I Can't say I am a fan of how the app and sources work with HTD's solution. Maybe I am too spoiled with how Sonos works. My approach for my reno is going to use hacked Ikea Symfonisk boxes pumping out to in ceiling speakers. Way cheaper than getting into Sonos amps and the same UI and operations as we are used to.
Sonos is nice for sure! I have had a single Sonos 1 for several years and really love it. It was just too expensive for me to use for whole home solution. The HTD app really is easy to use once it's initially set up - select your source and where you want it to play and you're done! I also don't have other systems to compare it too firsthand so it's all I know currently.
I see they have a 12-zone unit. If I want 14 zones, can I use two control devices and have them work within the same app?
That would be a good question to reach out to Home Theater Direct for, because I honestly don't know. Their customer service is good and should be able to answer that question for you.
I looked at this system just seems a little dated to me
What other systems did you compare it with out of curiosity?
@@TyEichele He's probably comparing it to Sonos, which is more heavily publicized and polished looking.