Tributaries Announces A Scaler

Tributaries, a virtually unknown manufacturer in the ProAV world, but well known in the home theatre arena, introduced the VX2 switcher/scaler at the CEDIA Expo, September 24-26. Tributariesí new VX2 is an advanced, flexible video router that receives any original incoming video signal (composite, S-video, component, FireWire video -IEEE 1394-, RGB or VGA signals) and automatically converts it to the highest quality format compatible with the end user's video monitor or television.By incorporating the VX2 into new and existing high-end home theatre installations, system designers can easily and affordably reconcile the numerous video formats prevalent in the marketplace - achieving the optimal video format output for each individual system. In addition, the modular architecture of the VX2 allows a precise level of system customization, as users may select from Tributariesí ""a la Card"" array of plug-in cards relevant to their specific system configuration.""The VX2 successfully streamlines what was once often a very unsatisfying and expensive enterprise,"" said Joe Perfito, Tributariesí President. ""Its proprietary coding technology ílabels' all source signals and routes them in real-time to achieve the video switching instantly following the processor. Best of all, the entire process remains transparent to the end user - there's no need for a separate remote, software or additional programming.""The VX2 offers twelve ports for integrating Tributaries plug-in printed circuit boards. The twelve available slots provide up to eight inputs, to maximize system customization options. The additional slots, including unused input slots, may be used for multiple outputs, data and auxiliary connections. All boards are hot pluggable and can be inserted or removed via the rear panel, facilitating changes and upgrades to existing systems.To accommodate larger systems or future upgrades, two VX2s may be yoked for use in tandem. In this configuration, one slot of each VX2 will be required by the system to complete the connection. A rack mounting option is available. A comprehensive list of available video input and output PCBs is available separately.The Tributaries VX2 measures 17-inch wide by 14-inch deep by 4 1/2-inch high, and has a suggested retail price of $1,500 to $3,000, depending on the number of ""a la Cards"" used in the system. The VX2 can be found on the web at http://www.tributariescable.com/tributaries.html.