September 3, 2003 - CEDIA BOOTH #1435

Antex Electronics introduces Internet Capable Audio Playback Device for commercial and institutional use

Media Director 2® Allows Security & Control over Private Broadcast Network

Indianapolis, Indiana (September 3, 2003) --Responding to business’s growing need to manage how music and other audio files are distributed, stored, and played over private broadcast networks such as retail chains and corporate offices, Antex Electronics has introduced Media Director 2®, an Internet capable audio server specifically developed for commercial and institutional use. Equipped with up to 160 GB of hard disk storage, the Media Director 2 (MD2) receives instructions and content from a central server, which can manage an unlimited number of MD2 devices in one or more networks. Antex, of Gardena, Calif., is a leading developer and OEM manufacturer of professional digital audio products and satellite receiving systems for the broadcast industry.

“The Media Director 2 provides a unique and cost-effective solution for companies looking to securely distribute audio files to one or more business locations,” said Dave Foley, president of Antex. “It gives managers complete control over the message or entertainment played at each location, while offering substantial savings and flexibility when compared to current systems that rely on distribution of audio tapes or CD’s.”

The MD2 connects to an organization’s WAN/LAN network, which enables communication with a server running Antex-developed software applications providing backend support for content management and distribution. At scheduled times, the MD2 console pulls content from the network server onto the console’s hard drive, along with the associated play lists and instructions. The MD2 then integrates this new information automatically and organizes playback of audio messages. With this management software located on the server, the content manager or system integrator can control thousands of remote MD2 playback units, as well as check their general operating status at a glance. Each MD2 can also be programmed to lockout any on-site control by employees, or allow for varying levels of control, including play list selection and volume.

Because play lists are completely customizable, the MD2 can be used for many purposes, including entertainment, product promotion, public address and information systems, corporate training and retail advertising. An audio pass-through feature allows an existing third-party music source to feed through the Media Director while a commercial message plays over the music. The music’s volume is automatically faded down and then back up when the advertising message is completed.

An optional CD drive is available for loading content into the media director when phone or other connections are not available to connect to a server. Content, play lists and instructions are downloaded onto the CD for loading onto the hard drive for the Media Director to process.

Outfitted with RCA outputs for connection to an amplifier and speakers, the MD2 will be available to installers and systems integrators with a MSRP of $995.

Company Information

About Antex Electronics
Founded in 1983, Gardena, Calif. based Antex Electronics is a leading developer and original equipment manufacturer of digital audio sound cards, satellite receivers and Internet appliances for the broadcast, communications, and entertainment industries. Antex products are used around the world in mission-critical audio applications for a wide variety of consumer and corporate customers, including Akamai, Microsoft, Yahoo, DMX MUSIC and Pinnacle Systems. For further information about Antex or the company’s products, visit www.antex.com.