In the area of cardio theatre, there are two competing systems: Wired and Wireless.
Here is a breakdown of both:
Wired Systems:
The Cardio Theatre system runs from the main unit on 1 cable, and each CT receiver or top box is connected to a bottom box.
Good points:
- Only 1 cable from main transmitter
- Good sound quality
- Cheap to buy vs. wireless
- Up to 16 channels available.
Bad points:
- If a break in cable occurs then whole system goes down
- High maintenance
- High installation costs
- Reliability issues
- Dated system
The Cloud Pumpstation is similar to CT but runs on a matrix system which uses CAT5 cable from the main transmitter to each top box.
Good points:
- Superior sound quality
- Easy to use
- Cheap replacements
- Cheapest cardio theatre system on the market
Bad points:
- Expensive to install as each unit needs to be fed from main unit.
- Top boxes are vulnerable to water/sweat damage
- A break in a cable under the floor can be costly to repair.
- Limited to 8 channels
Wireless Systems:
The Audeon system is av:activ’s personal favourite. Works on wireless RF up to a range of about 300 metres, even through walls!
Easy to install and maintain and comes in different styles and colours to suit.
Good points:
- Easy to use
- Low installation costs
- Very reliable
- Up to 16 channels (license required for 9 or more channels)
- No Cables needed in gym area
- Sound quality
Bad points:
- More expensive, but lower installation cost should outweigh
- Top box units are bigger than wired ones
- System could interfere with wireless microphones within the building. But easily rectified.
The Cardio Theatre is almost the same as the Audeon system but slightly more expensive. Has same good points and bad points, so a matter of preference.
