Noob needing help on system build

[rtuimauga77]

So I have been trying to do some research on the HA world as I want to integrate this into my current home and I need some pointers. First off my home is a 20yr old 6000sf house that I will me remodeling to update and to put on an addition so I will have pretty good access for wiring. I want to DIY as much as I can but I think I may need a pro when it comes to the actual programming. Here is my wishlist:

Fully integrated Security System
8-10 cameras (some indoor, some out)
Intercom system throughout house
Distributed video and audio (around 10 zones)
Front door operation (can lock and unlock door remotely and be able to see who is at the front door)
ability to operate gate and garage doors
Sprinklers
Lights
blinds/shades
Dedicated HT
HVAC (I have 3 dedicated zones)
Swimming Pool Control

I know its a long list and not sure if it can be done within my budget. I would love to go the Savant route only because I'm a Mac guy but would be willing to look at more economical options. I'd like to keep it budget wise around $25k but could spend more if convinced otherwise. What do you guys think? Can I do Savant or do I need to look at C4, HAI, Homeseer etc? If so, which one and why?

 

[rtuimauga77]

BTW, I would like to use ipads throughout the house as much as possible but will be fine with a few dedicated touchscreens here and there where they are really needed. Need to be able to control with my iphone remotely though.

 

[rtuimauga77]

Anyone?

 

[cmjones70]

Greetings! I am a Savant dealer. (trolling the cocoontech site looking for unpublished RS232 codes.) I happened on to your post.

---- First, my 2 second explanation of Savant -----
Savant is not fully represented yet... they have been extremely selective as to what dealers they bring on. Generally speaking, the opposite approach as Control 4 seems to have taken. Because of this, there really aren't that many small dealers posting on forums and correcting all the wicked rumors that run wild.

I think you will find that with control function; Savant is only 15-20% more than a similar capacity controllers by any of the well known brands. (You pretty much have to compare it against their top of the line unit though... they do not offer any economy lesser capacity alternatives. When it comes to video and audio switching and distribution, there is no better alternative - but, the pricing for this technology is high - again with all brands.

--- now, off my soap box... and on to your question... and yes, I am bias to my brands but, I have reasons like any dealer:

Have you looked into the cost of your listed sub systems? That's a comprehensive list of gear. If you were to purchase quality equipment, you would spend more than $25k before you got 1/2 way down your list. (nothing to do with your control system brand)

Fully integrated Security System | Usually an inexpensive RS-232 module for most brands of panels
8-10 cameras (some indoor, some out) | Anywhere from $200 - $1200 each, for IP cameras
Intercom system throughout house | Many options - or integrated to the distributed music, using the camera and mic on iOS docked device!
Distributed video and audio (around 10 zones) | 8 zones is a standard card capacity for Savant, others are 4 or 6... consider pairing two zones for savings
Front door operation (can lock and unlock door remotely and be able to see who is at the front door) | use door strike or a z-wave with RS-232 interface
ability to operate gate and garage doors | Simple, no added cost unless they need a module
Sprinklers | depends on your installer's unit but, not expensive
Lights | do you have a load list? RadioRA2 is the best, not much more than alternatives. This is a big chunk of your budget
blinds/shades | Many options, native control via Lutron is impossible to beat but, less expensive alternative exist, no extra cost to control them
Dedicated HT | Speakers? Projector? acoustic treatments - poof $25k! but, it can be done reasonably too
HVAC (I have 3 dedicated zones) | look at Proliphix IP controlled devices, Aprilaire, or RCS ~ $1k for all 3
Swimming Pool Control | Jandy? after purchasing the controller - no extra cost


So, here's the summary, the Savant Host and controller will be one of the smallest line items. Programming it is a breeze for a qualified dealer - and the huge benefit that people don't realize when they bash Savant. (1/2 or less the legacy brands AMX / Crestron / etc.)

Send me a message, I'd love to be of assistance.

Matt

 

[rtuimauga77]

Greetings! I am a Savant dealer. (trolling the cocoontech site looking for unpublished RS232 codes.) I happened on to your post.

---- First, my 2 second explanation of Savant -----
Savant is not fully represented yet... they have been extremely selective as to what dealers they bring on. Generally speaking, the opposite approach as Control 4 seems to have taken. Because of this, there really aren't that many small dealers posting on forums and correcting all the wicked rumors that run wild.

I think you will find that with control function; Savant is only 15-20% more than a similar capacity controllers by any of the well known brands. (You pretty much have to compare it against their top of the line unit though... they do not offer any economy lesser capacity alternatives. When it comes to video and audio switching and distribution, there is no better alternative - but, the pricing for this technology is high - again with all brands.

--- now, off my soap box... and on to your question... and yes, I am bias to my brands but, I have reasons like any dealer:

Have you looked into the cost of your listed sub systems? That's a comprehensive list of gear. If you were to purchase quality equipment, you would spend more than $25k before you got 1/2 way down your list. (nothing to do with your control system brand)

Fully integrated Security System | Usually an inexpensive RS-232 module for most brands of panels
8-10 cameras (some indoor, some out) | Anywhere from $200 - $1200 each, for IP cameras
Intercom system throughout house | Many options - or integrated to the distributed music, using the camera and mic on iOS docked device!
Distributed video and audio (around 10 zones) | 8 zones is a standard card capacity for Savant, others are 4 or 6... consider pairing two zones for savings
Front door operation (can lock and unlock door remotely and be able to see who is at the front door) | use door strike or a z-wave with RS-232 interface
ability to operate gate and garage doors | Simple, no added cost unless they need a module
Sprinklers | depends on your installer's unit but, not expensive
Lights | do you have a load list? RadioRA2 is the best, not much more than alternatives. This is a big chunk of your budget
blinds/shades | Many options, native control via Lutron is impossible to beat but, less expensive alternative exist, no extra cost to control them
Dedicated HT | Speakers? Projector? acoustic treatments - poof $25k! but, it can be done reasonably too
HVAC (I have 3 dedicated zones) | look at Proliphix IP controlled devices, Aprilaire, or RCS ~ $1k for all 3
Swimming Pool Control | Jandy? after purchasing the controller - no extra cost


So, here's the summary, the Savant Host and controller will be one of the smallest line items. Programming it is a breeze for a qualified dealer - and the huge benefit that people don't realize when they bash Savant. (1/2 or less the legacy brands AMX / Crestron / etc.)

Send me a message, I'd love to be of assistance.

Matt

Matt,

Thanks for the info and insight. I am getting a little excited to think that Savant maybe a viable option. My $25k budget does not include the HT and I can spend more. See reply's above. I will be sending you a message.