On September 6, AudioControl announced the introduction of two compact-chassis home theater receivers, the 1U chassis of the Bijou3 and CXR-5. These new products will enable integrators to deliver Dolby Atmos and DTS:X Pro processing in any surround sound application. Both models feature an HDMI eARC input for easy connection to modern displays. Loudspeakers will be driven by the company’s innovative adaptation of a Gallium Nitride (GaN)-based high-power amplifier platform.  

“Clients are asking for a surround sound experience away from their main home theater—and these new mini surround receivers have been engineered to deliver superb performance in media rooms, bedrooms, workout rooms, home offices, and more,” explained AudioControl VP of Sales, Chris Kane, in a press release.  

The Bijou3 and CXR-5 by AudioControl 

The compact 1U chassis of the Bijou3 and CXR-5 lend themselves to easy installation in convenient locations such as behind the display, inside a cabinet, or in a small equipment rack, making them ideal for theater projects where space is limited. The eARC input on each model enables integrators to deliver clarity of 192 kHz, 24-bit uncompressed audio to any zone. The CXR-5 provides three additional HDMI inputs as well. 

The Bijou3 by AudioControl. Image courtesy of AudioControl.
The CXR-5 by AudioControl. Image courtesy of AudioControl.

The Bijou3 offers three powered channels for L/C/R applications at 100-watts per channel plus a subwoofer output and two additional audio outputs for system flexibility. The CXR-5 offers five powered channels at 65 watts per channel plus a subwoofer output and two additional audio outputs for easy 5.1 or 7.1 system configurations. Both models provide exceptional performance from a compact 1U form factor that can be housed in an AV rack or mounted behind a TV.  

The AudioControl Bijou3 and CXR-5 offer small form factor solutions for multi-channel audio/video in any room. Dirac Live room correction will be offered as an option, and integrators will be able to effortlessly manage system configuration via IR or an ethernet connection, making both models suitable for CI professionals. Drivers are available for popular 3rd party smart home ecosystems including Crestron, Savant, RTI, and Control4.