Systems integrators can see at ISE 2025 how Torus Power’s toroidal isolation transformers help sophisticated AV systems perform better by providing clean, uninterrupted electrical power. ISE Stand #2J400 – AV EMEA
TORONTO, ON, CANADA (January 9, 2025) For almost two decades, Torus Power Inc.has emphasized to the systems integration industry the importance of clean, isolated power to the performance of high-end AV systems. At ISE 2025 Stand #2J400 (AV EMEA), Torus Power will showcase its flagship RM 16CE and AVR-2 ELITE 8CE toroidal isolation transformers and debuts for the first time at ISE a brand-new whole-house surge protector, the Armada Series 4.
Not to be confused with power conditioners, toroidal isolation transformers decouple and electrically isolate AV components from the incoming power source to eliminate transients and improve audio quality by dramatically lowering the noise floor while adding better dynamics, imaging, and bass. Video is noticeably crisper with brighter colors, deeper blacks, better contrast, and a more captivating overall image. Connected components are protected from surges, spikes, and brownouts, ensuring systems continue to perform as intended despite fluctuating power conditions. Torus Power offers its toroidal isolation transformers in wall- and rack-mount configurations, affording superior installation and performance flexibility.
RM Series Ideal for Luxury Residential AV Applications
Great for luxury home theater and high-end home audio systems, the Torus Power RM Series models remain unparalleled industry-wide for performance, protection, and value. With models ranging from 4 Amps to 50 Amps, one of the most popular models, the RM-16CE, will be showcased by Torus Power at ISE 2025. Feature-rich and technologically advanced, the RM 16CE safeguards and optimizes the performance of AV systems via toroidal isolation, noise filtering, high instantaneous current capability, and lightning and surge protection.
AVR ELITE Series Keeps AV Equipment Running at Optimal Voltage Range
The AVR-2 ELITE 8CE, equipped with Torus Power’s exclusive AVR technology, provides true isolation and protects connected equipment from surges. Ideal for applications where high-end AV equipment is connected to variable incoming line voltages, the AVR-2 ELITE 8CE’s multiple input taps ensure stable voltage output to keep equipment running in the optimal range of 230V (+/- 8V). This state-of-the-art solution supports local web-based setup, monitoring, and control, as well as remote management via Torus Power’s integrated Power Connect cloud platform.
Introducing the Armada Series 4: Advanced Whole-House Surge Protection
Engineered for 220-240V installations, the Armada Series 4 surge protector provides comprehensive protection for electronic components throughout an entire building. This compact, robust solution attaches directly to the electrical circuit breaker panel and employs patented Power Pressure technology to convert electrical energy into kinetic energy, effectively absorbing powerful surges.
Key features of the Armada Series 4 include:
Modular Design: Flexible installation options as a single unit or in series to accommodate various electrical loads.
Nanosecond-Level Reactivity: Rapid response to power surges.
Non-Flammable Housing: Enhanced safety for residential and commercial installations.
Where to See Torus Power at ISE 2025
To learn why Torus Power isolation transformers are being chosen to power and protect audio systems, home theaters, and critical listening rooms, as well as LED video walls and other high-performance AV products, and to better understand the difference clean power can make, talk to Kevin Main, President and COO of Torus Power at the AV EMEA Stand #2J400, or email [email protected].
Torus Power toroidal isolation transformers are the world’s finest clean power source for audio, video, and control systems. Dramatically increasing performance levels of connected AV components from video displays to amplifiers and powered speakers, Torus Power products utilize patented NBT noise filtering technology and medical-grade toroidal isolation transformers to eliminate power-line noise artifacts and protect equipment from potentially damaging AC power line events while increasing system reliability and extending product life. Torus Power products deliver higher levels of instantaneous current which ensures that dynamic components and high-performance systems are never compromised, or starved for power.
Built to rigorous specifications in Toronto, Canada, Torus Power’s toroidal transformers perform and protect like no other. For more information about Torus Power, visit www.toruspower.com and follow Torus Power on Facebook and LinkedIn.
All products, product names, trademarks, and registrations mentioned are the property of their respective owners, all rights reserved.
Media Contact
For interviews or reviews please contact Katye (McGregor) Bennett of KMB Communications, Inc. by phoning (425) 328-8640 or emailing [email protected].
Make this the year to do what often gets set aside before the end of Q1.
As we greet 2025 with renewed excitement, it can be easy to jump right in and get to work. However, if you haven’t done it already, now is the time to finish your homework. Before mid-January, technology integration firms need to focus on executing a proactive and strategic marketing plan. A comprehensive approach that includes a well-structured Content Marketing Calendar and thoughtful budget allocation is key to driving visibility, engaging with consumers, and staying ahead in a competitive marketplace. Here’s a roadmap to help you plan your content effectively. The key is to do it now.
The Power of a Content Marketing Calendar
A successful marketing strategy starts with a robust Content Marketing Calendar. This essential tool keeps your messaging consistent, relevant, and aligned with both industry trends and broader consumer interests. When done right, it becomes the backbone of your outreach, ensuring that your blogs, newsletters, and social media efforts resonate with your audience year-round.
Identify Key Themes by Month. Begin by mapping out topics that align with the calendar year and consumer priorities. For example:
January: “Smart Home Resolutions” — Showcase products or systems that promote sustainability, energy efficiency, and wellness.
Spring: Focus on outdoor entertainment solutions and the convenience of automation as families prepare for warmer months.
Summer Celebrations: Focus on graduations, weddings, parties, and gatherings and the ways technology can enhance the ambiance, convenience, and fun factor.
Back-to-School Season: Highlight tech for home office setups, hybrid learning, and security solutions for busy households.
Holiday Season: Push “giftable” solutions or create guides for hosting stress-free gatherings with smart technology.
Use analytics tools, industry reports, and trending news topics to refine your themes. Sites like Google Trends, social media hashtags, and consumer tech publications can offer valuable insights into what’s capturing attention.
Blend Original and Curated Content. Balance your calendar with original blogs, guest contributions from partners or manufacturers, and curated content from trusted sources. Not every piece needs to be from scratch, but all content should align with your brand voice and expertise.
Diversify Content Formats. Today’s consumers expect variety. Mix long-form articles with short, digestible content like “how-to” videos, infographics, and Reels, Stories, and image carousel posts on social media.
Leverage News Trends. Stay nimble by incorporating current events and trending topics into your schedule. For example, if a high-profile news story discusses cybersecurity risks, tailor a piece on smart home network protection to ride the wave of interest.
Budgeting: The 2% Rule and Beyond
Allocating an appropriate budget is essential for executing your marketing plan. While marketing budgets will vary by firm, a rule of thumb is to allocate at least 2 percent of your projected annual sales to marketing efforts. For some integration firms, this could mean shifting resources or reprioritizing expenses, but the ROI on an effective marketing strategy justifies the investment.
Where to Allocate Funds. Divide your marketing budget strategically:
Content Creation (30-40%): High-quality blogs, videos, and professional photography require investment. Don’t cut corners here — your content represents your brand.
Social Media Advertising (20-30%): Platforms like Facebook, Instagram, and LinkedIn remain powerful tools for reaching targeted audiences. Use these channels for boosted posts or ads tailored to homeowners.
Email Marketing Tools (10-15%): Platforms like Mailchimp and Constant Contact are critical for creating and automating newsletters and campaigns.
SEO and Paid Search (10-20%): Ensure your website ranks well in searches with optimized content and paid ads that capture leads.
Event Sponsorships or Local Collaborations (10-15%): Build awareness by participating in home shows, networking events, or partnering with builders and designers.
Track and Adjust. As you execute your plan, measure what works and what doesn’t. Use tools like Google Analytics, email open rates, and social media engagement metrics to assess the effectiveness of your efforts and pivot when necessary.
Capitalize on Consumer Interest
In 2025, expect consumers to remain focused on topics like sustainability, security, health, and convenience. Tailor your messaging to address these concerns, weaving them into your marketing calendar and overall strategy. For example:
Sustainability: Promote energy-efficient solutions and systems that reduce environmental impact.
Security: Focus on smart locks, cameras, and monitoring services that provide peace of mind.
Health and Wellness: Highlight technologies such as air purifiers, circadian lighting, and home fitness solutions.
Convenience: Emphasize automation and voice control systems that simplify daily life.
Personalization and Customization: Of current homebuyer-aged adults, 71% expect some level of personalization and customization in their homes.
Incorporate these topics into your plan and categorize and tag the content accordingly for added reach and visibility.
Plan for Consistency, but Stay Flexible
A Content Marketing Calendar isn’t set in stone. It’s a living document that should evolve as new trends emerge or consumer behaviors shift. Build time into your schedule for quarterly reviews to adjust your strategy and ensure alignment with your business goals.
Final Thoughts
In the fast-evolving residential technology market, marketing success in 2025 will come down to preparation, relevance, and execution. By developing a clear Content Marketing Calendar and committing at least 2% of your sales projections to marketing, your firm will be well-positioned to connect with customers and achieve measurable growth.
Take the time now to map out your plan, fine-tune your messaging, and set your team up for success. With a solid foundation and strategic focus, 2025 could be your best year yet.
A 25+ veteran of the residential tech & AV integration industries, Katye McGregor Bennett is the CEO of KMB Communications, a boutique communications firm that anchors the intersection of technology + design by connecting brands, buyers, and prospective audiences through creating compelling content and conversation that elevates and amplifies. In addition to co-hosting Design Uncut with Veronika Miller, Katye hosts two popular podcasts, Connecting Tech+ Design and AV Trade Talk. She is part of the DesignHounds influencer group and also serves on the NAHB Custom Technology Work Group, is a strategic advisor in the CEDIA, HTA, and AVIXA communities, a frequent contributor to Residential Systems, Connected Design and founder of the AV Yoga group.
Keeping it simple and relatable is the best way to engage an audience.
Technology’s role in our line of work is simple: to make people’s lives easier and more enjoyable. Yet the messaging many tend to use in their marketing and sales efforts is engineering- or spec-driven, highly technical, overwhelming, or assumes too much familiarity. In that case, clients, prospects, and trade partners often feel alienated and dismiss what’s being offered as unnecessary or even intimidating.
The solution? K-I-S-R (Because I had to use at least one acronym in this column) — Keep it Simple and Relatable.
Image: Alena Butor/Getty Images
Why Simplified Messaging Matters
While home technology can add convenience and luxury, many potential customers may initially view it as complex or intimidating. A survey by CEDIA, for example, reveals that clients often want technology that is easy to use and understand rather than overwhelming or overly complex. As I’ve shared in other columns, the best way to engage new users is to strip down the complexity and talk in terms that resonate on a personal level.
You may be reading this and thinking, “That’s easy, I’ve been selling AV for decades!” Challenge yourself to put that confidence to the test. Write a promotional narrative for one product or service you want to sell more of that addresses the needs of the least knowledgeable person in a specific audience segment you want to attract, using 50 words or less, zero acronyms, and basic language. What image would you pair with that? Not easy.
As part of your annual planning, go through this exercise with stakeholders and sort out the language you’ll use to reach the audiences you seek. It will be both enlightening and beneficial, and the outcome will be useful.
Here are a few key strategies for keeping your marketing language simple.
Skip the Jargon. Tech talk can make a brand seem authoritative, but it can also put off potential customers who are unfamiliar with the field.
Use Relatable Language and References. Connect with clients on a personal level by referencing everyday scenarios that show how your technology offering fits into their lives. People need to see how your product can solve a real problem or enhance their day-to-day lives.
Don’t Assume People Want Complex Technology. People generally want technology that “just works” without requiring too much interaction or maintenance. Brands and businesses should therefore focus on promoting ease-of-use and reliability rather than over-emphasizing advanced features that require technical knowledge. Promote features that show how easy it is to operate, like voice commands or app-driven experiences.
Share Fun and Unique Use Cases. Showing people how tech can be enjoyable and enhance their lifestyle in new ways can be a big draw. Show them how you can deliver personalized and customized experiences. Talk about scenes that create memorable moments, like movie nights with lights that dim automatically, or for holidays or events with color-changing lighting and preset playlists. Some have had success touting audio systems that bring the concert experience into the living room. However, in recent experience, even “audio” may not be a term some are familiar with, which again illustrates the need to scrutinize every word used.
Adapt your approach based on the primary needs and concerns of the audience you seek to engage
After you’ve implemented this and have analyzed the results of a more targeted approach, what did you learn? Was there a particular segment that leaned in more or a category or conversation style that resonated more? Perhaps the timing was right or the visuals were spot-on. Ask people what drew them to your brand or business and then iterate based on that feedback.
Remember, marketing should meet clients, prospects, and trade partners (or whoever your audience is) where they are, with clear, relatable, and enjoyable content that shows how technology can make their lives better. When brands and businesses avoid jargon, use compelling visuals to explain concepts, and make tech accessible, people will feel more inclined to engage and explore.
Clarity and simplicity are key to capturing and retaining an audience eager to understand just how technology can enhance their home experience. If you focus on this as you develop and refine your marketing plan for the year ahead, you will likely establish a more engaged audience that has a deeper interest in what you’re offering.
Not sure where to start or how to get off-center with this concept? Drop me a line — I can provide a few quick tips and if you’d like to know more, we can schedule time for a deep dive. [email protected].
A 25+ veteran of the residential tech & AV integration industries, Katye McGregor Bennett is the CEO of KMB Communications, a boutique communications firm that anchors the intersection of technology + design by connecting brands, buyers, and prospective audiences through creating compelling content and conversation that elevates and amplifies. In addition to co-hosting Design Uncut with Veronika Miller, Katye hosts two popular podcasts, Connecting Tech+ Design and AV Trade Talk. She is part of the DesignHounds influencer group and also serves on the NAHB Custom Technology Work Group, is a strategic advisor in the CEDIA, HTA, and AVIXA communities, a frequent contributor to Residential Systems, Connected Design and founder of the AV Yoga group.
Co-hosted by Luxe magazine, top designers, builders, and architects explore the seamless fusion of luxury living and smart home innovation at Daisy’s new Coachella Valley Experience Center
Costa Mesa, Calif., December 18, 2024 – Daisy, the first nationwide home and small business technology installation and services company, celebrated the grand opening of its newest branch location with local designers, builders, and architects at an event co-hosted by Luxe magazine. Surrounded by several high-end design stores in the trendy Coachella Valley region of Palm Desert, California, Daisy’s newest location features a state-of-the-art 2,000-square-foot Experience Center. On hand to demonstrate to guests a range of beautifully integrated world-class technologies, were the Daisy franchise co-owners Matt Walin and Charles Dyer, Daisy CEO Hagan Kappler, and several team members across operations, sales, marketing, and finance.
The Coachella Valley Experience Center is intentionally designed to accurately depict life in a luxuriously appointed smart home, featuring the seamless integration of professionally customized Ketra lighting, Lutron shades, audio/video, and automation systems. Guests attending the exclusive event were able to witness the harmonious relationship between a home’s design elements and technological capabilities.
“Building on many years of experience servicing clients in Orange County, we’re excited to launch in the trendy Coachella Valley – an area known for modern luxury,” says Walin. “We’re proud to premier this unique space, which sets a new benchmark for how technology can enhance living experiences with a blend of innovation and artistry,”
Dyer adds, “We’re thrilled to launch this brand new Daisy branch and are already bringing exceptional experiences to Coachella Valley clientele. I’ve been in the technology industry for many years, but this journey from first meeting Daisy earlier in 2024 to today has been amazing. Matt and I appreciate Daisy’s dedicated team and branch support systems behind us to get to this point and are excited for our growth ahead.
Kali Smith, Associate Publisher of Luxe Magazine, Southern California, says, “At Luxe Magazine, we celebrate spaces that blend design, innovation, and luxury. Daisy’s Coachella Valley Experience Center perfectly showcases how technology can elevate home design with style and sophistication. We were thrilled to partner with Daisy for this grand opening.”
Groundwork for the Coachella Valley Experience Center grand opening began just over three months ago, with the partnership of Walin, the owner of Daisy’s flagship franchise in Costa Mesa,and Dyer who Daisy’s Franchise Development team initially engaged and who brings a wealth of expertise from Microsoft to technology start-ups.
To learn more about becoming part of Daisy’s team visit daisyco.com. To learn more about converting your existing custom integration company to a Daisy franchise, visit https://daisyco.com/for-integrators/, or to start a new business, visit https://daisyco.com/franchising/.
Daisy is a national home and small business technology installation and services company. Daisy partners with builders, architects, designers, and homeowners to create, install, and service optimal audio visual, lighting, shades, and security designs to enhance their clients’ experiences in their homes and offices. Daisy also provides ongoing support to steward clients through their lifetime technology journeys. For more information visit daisyco.com.
Daisy Media Contact
For interviews or more information please contact Katye McGregor Bennett of KMB Communications by phoning (425) 328-8640 or emailing [email protected].
Iconic San Francisco Bay Area home technology services company, Hermary’s, brings six decades of expertise, client trust, and innovation to Daisy’s national network of 14 company owned and franchise locations.
Costa Mesa, Calif., December 6, 2024 – Daisy, the first nationwide home and small business technology installation and services company, expands its northern California footprint by acquiring Hermary’s, a groundbreaking luxury home technology integrator since 1963. Founded and led by Clarence Hermary, the company has built a strong reputation for cutting-edge technology, outstanding craftsmanship, and commitment to high-quality client services. Hermary himself originally pioneered the designing and building of switches and controls for whole-home audio, followed by the addition of visual technology. Decades later the company continues to thrive, servicing loyal clients and upholding deep connections with leading architects, designers, electricians, and builders in the area.
“We’re thrilled to welcome Hermary’s as a Daisy flagship location,” says Daisy’s Co-Founder and CEO Hagan Kappler, who recently won the Gold Stevie Award for Most Innovative Woman of the Year in the Franchising category. “The Hermary’s team brings design expertise, innovation, and a commitment to quality, not to mention their incredible showroom in San Francisco’s design district. We’re honored to partner with a firm with such an impressive legacy, and to pursue new growth opportunities together.”
The Hermary’s showroom, in the design district of San Francisco, adds a unique dimension to the Daisy network with its high-end retail footprint. Daisy’s showrooms, located in Costa Mesa, CA, Pompano Beach, FL, Los Gatos, CA, and now San Francisco, CA, enable its clients, including interior designers, builders, architects, and homeowners, to experience technology in real-life settings, including striking visual, audio, and lighting experiences that sometimes need to be seen (and heard) to be believed. Hermary’s expansive space located in San Francisco’s downtown design district features leading technology brands including Control 4, Savant, Lutron, Hunter Douglas and more, and highlights the latest in luxury technology available to homeowners in the Bay Area.
“After decades of building strong relationships with our clients as well as with the design and builder communities, our partnership with Daisy provides an exciting path forward,” says Hermary. “Joining Daisy allows us to extend our reach while maintaining the values that have guided us for 60 years. This collaboration reinforces our commitment to delivering top-tier connected home experiences that enhance the comfort, security, and sophistication of luxury residences. We look forward to combining our expertise with Daisy’s unique support systems to create even more innovative, customized solutions.”
As Hermary’s integrates with Daisy, Clarence Hermary will step down from his responsibilities at Hermary’s to join Daisy’s team as a senior advisor and Paul Foley, a long-time Hermary’s leader, will become General Manager.
With the addition of Hermary’s, Daisy has now completed eight acquisitions in less than 10 months. Daisy has also added seven franchise locations during that time. The Daisy team supports its branches through its 10-point operating system, including call center, technician support, product support, finance support, talent recruiting and training support, recurring service support, and sales, marketing and branding. Daisy also applies its expertise in acquisitions, with team members hailing from M&A authorities such as Goldman Sachs, ServiceMaster, Terminix, and Berkshire Hathaway, providing an additional layer of growth support for its franchisees looking to consolidate in their markets.
To learn more about becoming part of Daisy’s team visit daisyco.com. To learn more about converting your existing custom integration company to a Daisy franchise, visit https://daisyco.com/for-integrators/, or to start a new business, visit https://daisyco.com/franchising/.
Daisy is a national home and small business technology installation and services company. Daisy partners with builders, architects, designers and homeowners to create, install and service optimal audio visual, lighting, shades and security designs to enhance their client’s experiences in their homes and offices. Daisy also provides ongoing support to steward clients through their lifetime technology journeys. For more information visit daisyco.com.
Daisy Media Contact
For interviews or more information please contact Katye McGregor Bennett of KMB Communications by phoning (406) 446-1283 or emailing [email protected].
All brands, products, product names, trademarks, and registrations mentioned are the property of their respective owners, all rights reserved
