Audio/video distributor Stampede shows up at CES 2015 with three new product categories: powerline-based DIY smart home system, 3D printing and drones.
By Julie Jacobson – cepro.com
Stampede, the distributor famous for its Big Book of A/V, is going to have to add a few extra sections and several additional pages to the tome.
At CES 2015 the company is highlighting its entry into three more product categories: 3D printers, drones and home automation … and even the new smart home stuff is unique to the A/V distribution business—meant to be sold in boxes to do-it-yourselfers.
When I saw Stampede’s iconic saloon booth in the Smart Home zone at the Sands, I was wondering what could possibly bring the distributor to CES. But the new lines give the company a reason to be at the show.
First up is Neurona, an Amherst, N.Y.-based home automation startup that uses HomePlug powerline technology for multiroom A/V (now) and home control (coming). Stampede is the exclusive distributor of the DIY product for the A/V channel.
The product is meant to be sold to dealers for resale to DIY customers, not really for professional installation.