The 2025 Inavation Awards celebrated the most groundbreaking innovations in AV technology, and now, for the first time, we’re bringing you in-depth details on all the winning products.
The Technology Awards, sponsored by TD Synnex Maverick, highlight the products and solutions driving progress in the AV industry. This is your chance to explore the technologies that impressed the judges and attracted the most votes from the readers of Inavate magazine.
From game-changing advancements in collaboration tools to cutting-edge display and audio systems, learn more about each winning technology.
BEST ACCESSORY: Gude Systems - Expert Power Control 1141
The readers of Inavate magazine chose the Gude Systems Expert Power Control 1141, a compact and intelligent power distribution unit (PDU) designed for professional AV and IT installations, as the winner of the 2025 Accessory category.
It offers remote-controlled power switching and real-time energy monitoring, enabling efficient management of connected devices. The unit features multiple switchable power outlets, secure network connectivity, and seamless integration with automation systems, making it a versatile tool for system integrators and facility managers.
Designed for rack-mounted installations, the Expert Power Control 1141 can be deployed in server rooms, control centres, and AV setups, helping to optimise power usage and streamline maintenance. Its space-efficient design, support for remote access, and robust build quality make it a practical solution for managing power distribution in both IT and AV environments.
Finalists:
Arthur Holm DynamicCableRetract; Chief Fusion Storage Cabinet; Da-Lite Myriad Electric Screen System; euromet Frameless Immersive Stand; Peerless-AV Seamless Kitted Universal dvLED Mounting System
BEST AUDIO TECHNOLOGY: Powersoft – Unica
Powersoft’s Unica is a next-generation amplifier platform that combines cutting-edge power management, cloud connectivity, and advanced DSP to deliver a new standard in professional audio. Designed for demanding installations, Unica integrates seamlessly into a wide range of applications, from performance venues and cinemas to corporate and hospitality spaces. Its patented power-sharing technology intelligently distributes power across channels, maximising efficiency without compromising sound quality.
With MyUniverso cloud integration, Unica enables remote monitoring, diagnostics, and updates, reducing downtime and ensuring optimal performance across multiple sites. Its compatibility with Dante and AES67 simplifies integration into networked audio environments, while a compact 1RU form factor provides high power density with minimal rack space.
Unica’s smart energy-saving features, including Power Factor Correction and Eco Mode, contribute to reduced power consumption, making it a sustainable choice for modern AV installations. Recognised by the readers of Inavate magazine as the Audio Technology of the Year, Unica is setting new benchmarks for reliability, adaptability, and performance in professional audio.
Finalists:
Ampetronic Auri; Blaze Audio PowerZone Connect 6008; Bluesound Professional BCS300; ClearOne Versa Lite BMA 360D; Extron XPA U 4004 FX; Genelec 3440A Smart IP PoE Subwoofer; JBL Professional COL Series; Nice Premium Tool-less Architectural Speakers; Sonos Era 100 Pro
BEST COMMUNICATION & COLLABORATION TECHNOLOGY: Yealink - MVC S40
The Yealink MVC S40 is an intelligent video conferencing solution designed for small to medium-sized meeting rooms, delivering seamless hybrid collaboration with AI-enhanced audio and video capabilities. Its innovative dual-camera system captures a 120-degree wide-angle view, intelligently stitching images together for a natural, immersive experience. The AI-driven IntelliFocus ensures active speakers remain in sharp focus, while Video Fence blocks out distractions, creating a professional and inclusive meeting environment.
With an advanced eight-microphone MEMS array and stereo speakers, the MVC S40 provides crystal-clear audio, eliminating background noise and prioritising speech clarity. Seamlessly integrated with Microsoft Teams, it supports Copilot functionality, identifying speakers and generating smart meeting summaries to enhance productivity.
Engineered for ease of use, the all-in-one design simplifies installation and operation, making it an ideal solution for enterprises embracing hybrid work. Praised for its compact yet powerful performance, the Yealink MVC S40 has been recognised by Inavate magazine readers as the Communication and Collaboration Technology of the Year, setting a new benchmark for smart meeting room solutions.
Finalists:
Aten International 4 x 2 True 4K HDMI Presentation Switch with Multi View; Barco ClickShare Bar Pro; Crestron 1 Beyond Cameras; Extron UCS 303; Jabra PanaCast 50 Video Bar System; Kramer SWT3-31-HU; Shure Microflex Wireless (MXW) neXt 2; Vaddio Venture VideoBAR; WyreStorm SW-640L-TX-W
BEST DISPLAY PRODUCT FOR COMMUNICATION & COLLABORATION: ViewSonic - ViewBoard 105”
The ViewSonic ViewBoard 105" is a cutting-edge interactive display designed to enhance communication and collaboration in modern workplaces. With its expansive 105-in ultra-wide 21:9 aspect ratio and 5K resolution, it provides an immersive platform for hybrid meetings, enabling seamless engagement between in-room and remote participants.
Designed to work natively with Microsoft Teams Rooms and Zoom, the ViewBoard 105" integrates effortlessly with Front Row and Gallery Mode, ensuring all participants are clearly visible and engaged. Its AI-powered TeamOne software enhances productivity with real-time whiteboarding, automatic note organisation, and digital handwriting conversion. The 40-point dual-pen touch capability enables fluid interaction, making brainstorming sessions more dynamic and effective.
Equipped with powerful speakers and an advanced eight-microphone array with noise reduction, the ViewBoard ensures crystal-clear communication. Multiple USB-C ports and wireless screen sharing provide versatile connectivity, while its energy-efficient design aligns with global sustainability standards. Recognised by Inavate magazine readers as the Best Display Technology for Communication and Collaboration, the ViewBoard 105" sets a new benchmark for interactive and hybrid work solutions.
Finalists:
Arthur Holm DB3Talk; Avocor E 92; Clevertouch Edge; Displax Tile Pro; Element One Multimedia Modis Five 173 4K Cam; Maxhub XCore Kit Pro
BEST DIGITAL SIGNAGE TECHNOLOGY: LED Studio – Fusion
LED Studio’s Fusion is a groundbreaking outdoor digital signage solution, designed for seamless installation, superior performance, and long-term sustainability. With an ultra-thin profile under 85mm and a lightweight structure, Fusion reduces installation costs by up to 70%, making large-scale billboard rollouts faster and more cost-effective.
Equipped with optional Focal lens technology, Fusion delivers a focused, high-contrast display while minimising light pollution, ensuring compliance in sensitive urban areas where traditional digital billboards may face restrictions. Capable of reaching up to 12,000 nits of brightness with a contrast ratio of 15,000:1, it ensures maximum visibility even in high ambient light conditions.
Fusion is powered by ScreenMetrics, a remote monitoring system that provides 800 points of real-time data across an 18 sq m display. With built-in proof-of-play verification, intelligent redundancy, and secure firmware protection, ScreenMetrics guarantees uninterrupted operation and proactive maintenance while reducing environmental impact.
Recognised by Inavate magazine readers as the Best Digital Signage Technology, Fusion is setting a new benchmark in performance, reliability, and sustainability for the DOOH industry.
Finalists:
Chief TiLED Series dvLED Universal Wall Mounts; CUE Navigation; Maxhub CMA Series; nsign.tv Applets; Vitec SignSync; ZetaDisplay Engage Suite
BEST DISPLAY TECHNOLOGY: Digital Projection - M-Vision 27000 WU
Digital Projection’s M-Vision 27000 WU redefines single-chip projection, delivering an unprecedented 27,000 lumens of brightness with a 10,000:1 contrast ratio. Designed to provide near 3-chip performance at a 1-chip price, it excels in large-scale installations and high-ambient light environments, making it ideal for events, visitor attractions, and immersive experiences.
The projector features Digital Projection’s ColorBoost+Red Laser technology, enhancing colour accuracy and vibrancy while maintaining energy efficiency. Its new Nexus electronics platform enables seamless blending, warping, and advanced image processing directly within the projector, eliminating the need for costly external servers. With a complete suite of professional lenses, including an ultra-short throw option, the M-Vision 27000 WU offers unmatched installation flexibility.
Sustainability is at its core, boasting a 23.8% efficiency improvement over its predecessor while drawing 500W less power than lower-lumen models. Recognised by Inavate magazine readers as the Best Display Technology, the M-Vision 27000 WU sets a new standard for high-brightness, precision projection in commercial AV applications.
Finalists:
ADI MTF; Alfalite Matix COB & MIP; Barco I600; LED Studio Edge-I; Qiangli LED CM Ultra; Sharp NEC Display Solutions Sharp ePaper Display; SiliconCore Mobile AIO 135” HD+ LED Display
BEST EVENTS TECHNOLOGY: Disguise - EX 2 and EX 3+
The Disguise EX 2 and EX 3+ are cutting-edge media servers designed to streamline the creation of live events, immersive installations, and location-based experiences. Built with a brand-new ruggedised 2U chassis, these compact yet powerful systems provide seamless playback, enhanced networking capabilities, and flexible video capture options to suit a variety of event and production needs.
Equipped with a PCIe Gen 5 motherboard, the EX range offers lightning-fast rendering, high-speed media transfers, and the ability to function within a network of Disguise machines for redundancy and failover protection. Users can choose between two or three 4K video outputs, with the EX 3+ supporting 12G-SDI/HDMI capture and up to 8x Full-HD inputs. This makes the EX range a versatile choice for everything from corporate keynotes to immersive theatre productions.
Designed for reliability, scalability, and creative flexibility, the EX 2 and EX 3+ have been recognised by Inavate magazine readers as the Best Events Technology, reinforcing Disguise’s role in shaping the future of live visual experiences.
Finalists:
Barco QDX; Cameo Oron H2; Naostage K System; PunQtum Wireless; Seada Technology G8K
BEST MONITORING & CONTROL TECHNOLOGY: AMX - Muse Automation Controllers
AMX Muse Automation Controllers redefine AV system management with a powerful, flexible, and secure approach to automation. Designed to handle complex and data-intensive tasks, Muse delivers 10 times the processing power of previous AMX controllers, ensuring seamless operation across a wide range of AV environments.
Built for both legacy and next-generation technologies, Muse supports Harman’s HControl, HiQnet, and ICSP protocols, providing unmatched compatibility across corporate, education, government, and mission-critical installations. Its fanless design and onboard eMMC storage ensure reliability for 24/7 operation, making it a robust choice for high-demand applications.
Security is a key focus, with Muse using Harman’s secure Linux OS to meet stringent network protection standards, making it ideal for government and enterprise use. Sustainability is also at its core, with energy-efficient operation that reduces power consumption and extends the lifespan of AV systems.
Recognised by Inavate magazine readers as the Best Technology for Monitoring and Control, AMX Muse Automation Controllers set a new standard in AV automation, offering future-proof flexibility, security, and reliability.
Finalists:
AtlasIED Atmosphere Cloud; Crestron Control for UC Systems; CUE touchCUE-5-knob; Extron MLC Plus 400; Kramer Panta Rhei; Maxhub Pivot; Powersoft MyUniverso; PureLink iCON-T10; Utelogy U-Manage Platform
BEST PRODUCTION & BROADCAST TECHNOLOGY: Unilumin - Upanel II MIP
The Unilumin Upanel II MIP sets a new benchmark for production and broadcast technology, delivering ultra-fine pixel pitches as small as 0.4mm (with 0.3mm in development) for unmatched image clarity. Using Unilumin’s proprietary Micro-in-Package (MIP) technology, the display ensures exceptional visual performance, even at close viewing distances—making it ideal for high-end broadcast studios and professional production environments.
Designed for durability and efficiency, the Upanel II MIP integrates EBL+ technology for soft, eye-friendly illumination, reducing viewer fatigue while maintaining stunning on-screen detail. Its advanced energy-efficient design significantly lowers operating costs and contributes to a more sustainable broadcast infrastructure.
Engineered to withstand the rigors of studio use, the display features anti-collision, anti-scratch, anti-moiré, anti-static, and high resistance to moisture and salt spray—ensuring reliability in demanding environments. With a >99% consistent side view and enhanced contrast, the Upanel II MIP offers visual excellence.
Recognised by Inavate magazine readers as the winner of Best Production and Broadcast Technology, this display is shaping the future of professional LED solutions.
Finalists:
Absen Saturn (SA) series; DirectOut Maven; INFiLED Studio Series; Vizrt TriCaster Vizion
BEST SIGNAL DISTRIBUTION & PROCESSING TECHNOLOGY: Extron - DTP3 CrossPoint Series
The Extron DTP3 CrossPoint Series redefines signal distribution and processing, offering a powerful all-in-one AV solution for professional environments. With support for uncompressed 4K/60 video at 4:4:4, HDCP 2.3, and HDR, it ensures high-performance video switching, scaling, and seamless integration across diverse AV setups.
Featuring DTP3 extension, the CrossPoint Series enables video, audio, and control transmission up to 100m over a single CAT 6A cable, while backward compatibility with earlier DTP products ensures a smooth upgrade path. Advanced Vector 4K scaling delivers pixel-perfect image upscaling and downscaling, while glitch-free switching effects provide a professional viewing experience.
Beyond video, the CrossPoint Series incorporates Extron’s ProDSP audio processing, Dante network audio compatibility, and an integrated Class D amplifier with selectable output modes, making it a comprehensive AV hub. Select models also include ShareLink Pro for wireless content sharing and an integrated IPCP Pro 360MQ xi control processor for full AV automation.
Recognised by Inavate magazine readers as the Best Signal Distribution and Processing Technology, the Extron DTP3 CrossPoint Series sets a new benchmark for AV system integration.
Finalists:
AMX SVSI N3300 Series; Audac Luna Series; Barco Encore3; Black Box Emerald Deskvue PE; Datapath VSNMini 300; Lightware Visual Engineering Taurus TPN; Matrox Video Avio 2 IP KVM; RGBlink D8plus; Valens Semiconductor VS6320
BEST SOFTWARE: Igloo Vision - Igloo Core Engine
Igloo Core Engine is a groundbreaking software platform that simplifies the creation and management of immersive environments. Designed to be hardware and content-agnostic, it seamlessly integrates with any immersive display, allowing users to blend multiple content sources into dynamic, interactive sessions. Its layer-based system makes content management intuitive, enabling users to create and recall immersive experiences effortlessly.
Built from the ground up, Core Engine eliminates the technical complexity traditionally associated with immersive spaces. It features deep integrations with platforms like Google Earth, Zoom, Teams, and Matterport, making it an essential tool for industries ranging from education and healthcare to architecture, energy, and telecommunications. The software’s True Perspective feature ensures accurate image formatting, eliminating distortion and enhancing realism.
With a user-friendly interface and broad compatibility, Igloo Core Engine empowers organisations to maximize the potential of their immersive spaces without requiring advanced technical expertise. Recognised by Inavate magazine readers as the Best Software, it sets a new standard for accessibility, flexibility, and innovation in shared immersive environments.
Finalists:
AMX Muse Automator; d&b group d&b SustainSymphony; Digital Projection Nexus tech; JBL Professional Venue Synthesis; Jetbuilt Project Platform For Everyone; PureLink iCON EZControl; Vizrt TriCaster Mini S