Average Reviews:
(More customer reviews)I've had this for three years now and have a lot of respect for the solid design and overall versatility of the unit.
I have also had to return the unit for service, due to a power hit - no fault of the Niles, I wish to make clear. I have comments on this too.
First, dislikes:
--No macro capability (well primitive). I would like to be able to pre-define a key on the touchpad, or use a shift-key function to trigger multiple events. Essentially, I need multiple macros on one source. Each macro can have as many as 12 steps. I solved this limitation by using a programmable remote that holds the key sequences. Be aware I am doing lots of programming of groups with a CD Jukebox. Using the jukebox remote is a nine step keysequence, so this is far more than just hitting play.
--One of the inputs is hardwired to be built in AM/FM tuner. I wish I could have the option to make it a switchable external input.
No optical input. In fairness, we are not doing audiophile quality here, just music thru the whole house; not that important IMO.
--Have to pick the devices you hook up to it carefully and do lots of planning. Not Niles fault here, it's the lack of standardazation in the whole AV community. There's a bunch of device codes out there and different IR signalling protocols. It makes every device a custom job and seriously hinders widespread acceptance of whole home audio IMO. I recommend using a pro installer unless you are a serious geek like me. This also means additional costs if you want to upgrade components that feed it periodically. True of all of them, I think.
Likes:
--Build/sound quality I compared to Russsound and several others, and found the engineering IMO to be overall superior. Component quality was very good and the flexibility of the unit was great. Pre-outs for several rooms as will as the ability to combine speakers from several rooms into one zone. Layout on the back has lots of options and well designed. Speaker clips are great.
--IR quality-Best darn IR transmitters/receivers I've ever seen. I have a CI solor IR behind a bunch of books and the thing still works. ANother is the MS-100 in ceiling. I can aim the remote any direction and it works. Apparently plasma TV's cause IR interference and this has the ability to avoid that as well as other forms of interference. These devices are nothing short of amazing. You should consider their IR devices if you are looking to relay IR around your home. They may seem expensive, but they work.
--Support, short hold times, toll free number. Friendly supportive tech folks who know their stuff and happy to help. What's not to love here?
Service-As mentioned before I had a power hit and it killed it along whit a bunch of other stuff. I sent it in, even though out-of-warranty and was bracing myself for a large repair bill, considering the initial cost of the unit. It was under $100. Delighted, shocked amazed... this is really one of the few companies whose support is as good as the product.
"Curb appeal"--CI solo looks good installed in the wall, the Gloria looks/feels well designed.
Versatility of inputs/outputs-- ANyting with an RCA jack is a source. Pre-outs for the study or other rooms where you want supplemental "kick".
Their stuff is not the cheapest, but it is well engineered and designed to years of use, not just until the warranty runs out. They've earned my loyalty.
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Product Description:
ZR-4630 MultiZone Receiver from Niles is the perfect blend of simplicity, automation and value that you and your customers have been asking for. The ZR-4630's 12-channel receiver distributes its built-in AM/FM tuner and up to three additional sources to six stereo listening zones. It combines with keypads, IR Sensors and hand-held remotes to deliver complete control of your home entertainment system. Because all the IR codes are programmed and stored in the ZR-4630, installation time is dramatically reduced.
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