With CEDIA just around the corne, Luxury CE asked David Berman, director of traning for the Home Theater Specialists of America (HTSA), some questions about what he expects to see at the upcoming show and how HTSA fits in.

What do you think will be the biggest news to come out of the show?

David Berman: 3D TV will be very hot and so will music servers, despite the decision on the video side against Kaleidescape. I also believe the new Crestron Prodigy entrance will gain a lot of attention.

Which vendors will be exhibiting the most interesting products?

DB: Panasonic will be hot on the 3D side and can potentially fuel a resurgence in plasma, if they succeed. Crestron as stated above and Blu-Ray models with expanded interactivity from LG, Samsung, Sony, Sharp and others, will draw significant attention.

What does CEDIA mean to HTSA members and vendors?

DB: We will gain more attention and press because we were the premier custom retailers and once again we have survived a significant shift in our business and become the premier group of integrators

What about the trend for more eco-friendly or "green" products and practices?

DB: It is affecting installers and the problem continues to be that most people do not think of green in regard to an integrator, but rather an HVAC or electrical subcontractor, who is generally very poor at designing, installing, and integrating green technology in a meaningful way. The successful integrators are taking a general contracting approach and are providing complete lifestyle improvement services.

Any other comments?

DB: With the economy still lagging and the field of representatives narrowing, we believe that customers expect to see more value before they spend money on these types of products and services. We feel strongly that expertise, service, and better quality products will draw discerning clientele to the possibilities of lifestyle improvement and systems integration. HTSA wants lead the way for those “second time buyers.”

Photography Courtesy of HTSA.