OpenAudio, distributed by AVOZ in Australia, has expanded the KNX integration capabilities of its HOLO-WHAS range of multi-room streaming amplifiers, adding real-time media metadata to compatible control systems.

The HOLO-WHAS platform combines multi-room streaming, amplification, matrix routing, DSP processing and automation integration in a single hardware platform. The latest KNX functionality allows compatible control systems to display information about the content being played, in addition to providing audio controls.

The HOLO-WHAS platform uses a 16-channel architecture supporting eight independent audio zones and eight streaming sources. Depending on the model, it provides up to 100W or 200W per channel. The HOLO-WHAS Plus provides 16 x 100W of amplification for a total output of 1,600W.

OpenAudio’s original KNX integration provides mute, volume, source selection and audio routing control. The expanded functionality adds track title, artist, album, playback status and playback progress information.

This allows KNX touch panels and visualisation interfaces to display current audio content alongside standard control functions. The enhanced visualisation can show album artwork, track title, artist, album, playback status and a progress bar.

The HOLO-WHAS Plus supports eight streaming sources and eight zones, with sources able to be routed independently across the system. Streaming options include Qobuz Connect, AirPlay 2, Spotify Connect, DLNA and Bluetooth, while physical inputs include RCA, SPDIF, USB and HDMI ARC.

The platform supports 1-to-N, M-to-1 and M-to-N routing configurations, allowing sources and zones to be distributed according to the requirements of an installation. Multiple OpenAudio devices can also be cascaded for larger multi-room systems.

OpenAudio says the enhanced KNX integration provides integrators with greater visibility of audio content within building automation interfaces, allowing users to access media information without switching to a separate audio control application.

“Audio has traditionally been one of the least integrated subsystems within many building automation projects. While users could control volume and source selection, they often lacked visibility into what content was actually being played,” OpenAudio business development manager Darren Ma says.

“By bringing metadata directly into the KNX ecosystem, we’re helping create a more seamless and informative user experience.”

The HOLO-WHAS range is designed for residential, hospitality and commercial applications requiring multi-zone audio, centralised control and integration with building automation systems.