BSS EC-V-BLK – Soundweb Contrio Ethernet Wall Controller, Volume (Black)

Product Overview

The BSS EC-V-BLK is a black Soundweb Contrio Ethernet wall controller with a push/rotary volume encoder, designed for Harman HiQnet commercial AV installations. This PoE-powered, single-gang Ethernet wall controller connects directly to BSS Audio Soundweb London processors and other HiQnet devices, giving end-users tactile, intuitive volume control from any wall-mounted position. Configured via drag-and-drop in HiQnet Audio Architect, the EC-V-BLK is the preferred choice for spaces where continuous parameter adjustment — such as volume fading — is the primary user interaction.

Product Description

The BSS EC-V-BLK is a commercial-grade Ethernet wall controller built around a single push/rotary encoder, making it ideal for any application where smooth, continuous volume adjustment is the primary requirement. The black US Decora single-gang housing integrates neatly into standard wall plate systems used across boardrooms, conference rooms, house of worship installations, and multi-purpose commercial spaces. The rotary encoder allows continuous parameter control — most commonly volume — while its push function provides binary control such as mute or preset recall. Surrounding the encoder, a multi-color backlit encoder ring (eight selectable colors, adjustable intensity) can display a bouncing audio meter, temporarily show a volume level when the encoder is turned, or indicate a binary parameter state such as muted/unmuted via color change. Power is delivered over PoE on a single Ethernet cable, which simultaneously handles configuration, control, and monitoring — no separate power run is needed. The EC-V-BLK operates on any Soundweb London or HiQnet network, controlling parameters across BSS Audio processors and compatible Crown DCi amplifiers. A configurable sleep function disables all LEDs after a set idle period, preventing visual distraction in darkened environments. Remote lock/unlock is supported via external control systems. All programming is completed in HiQnet Audio Architect via drag-and-drop operations — no scripting required. The EC-V-BLK is the black US Decora version; a white variant (EC-V-WHT) and EU form factor versions are also available at Creation Networks.

Key Features

• Push/Rotary Encoder — Single encoder supports continuous parameter control (e.g. volume) via rotation and binary control (e.g. mute) via press.
• Multi-Color Encoder Ring — Programmable backlit ring displays audio meter, volume level, or binary status in eight selectable colors with adjustable intensity.
• Soundweb London Compatible — Controls and monitors parameters within BSS Audio Soundweb London processors and any Harman HiQnet device including Crown DCi amplifiers.
• PoE Powered — Receives power, control, configuration, and monitoring data over a single Ethernet cable; no local power supply needed.
• Audio Architect Configuration — Fully configured via drag-and-drop in HiQnet Audio Architect; no custom scripting required.
• Sleep Function — Automatically disables all LEDs after a configurable idle period, ideal for dimly lit rooms and house of worship environments.
• Security Lock — Remote lock/unlock supported via external control systems, preventing unauthorized parameter changes.
• US Decora Single-Gang Form Factor — Black finish fits standard US Decora single-gang wall plates for clean, professional installations.
• Black Finish — Matte black housing suits modern commercial interior design and dark-finish AV installations.
• HiQnet Network Integration — Compatible with the full range of Harman HiQnet devices across a standard Ethernet infrastructure.

Typical Applications

• Boardroom and conference room volume control
• Commercial meeting space and huddle room audio level adjustment
• House of worship volume and mute control at zone positions
• Multi-purpose room and all-hands room continuous audio control
• Training room and auditorium volume wall stations
• Government space and institutional zone volume control

Technical Specifications

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: What is the primary use case for the EC-V-BLK versus the EC-4B-BLK?

A: The EC-V-BLK is designed for applications requiring smooth continuous parameter control, most commonly volume adjustment via a rotary encoder. The EC-4B-BLK uses four discrete buttons for binary control functions like mute, preset recall, and source selection. Many installations deploy both in the same system — a volume controller at the user position and button controllers at AV rack or podium locations.

Q: What DSP systems is the EC-V-BLK compatible with?

A: The EC-V-BLK is compatible with BSS Audio Soundweb London processors and any Harman HiQnet device on the same network, including Crown DCi series amplifiers. It operates over a standard Ethernet infrastructure.

Q: Does the EC-V-BLK require a separate power supply?

A: No. The EC-V-BLK is powered via PoE (Power over Ethernet). A PoE-capable network switch or inline PoE injector is required at the infrastructure level; no additional wiring or local power supply is needed at the wall position.

Q: How is the EC-V-BLK configured?

A: All configuration is performed in HiQnet Audio Architect using drag-and-drop operations. Encoder function, ring color, sleep timeout, and LED behavior are all set within Audio Architect — no scripting is required.

Q: Can the encoder ring display audio level metering?

A: Yes. The encoder ring can display a bouncing audio meter in real time. It can also temporarily display the current volume level when the encoder is rotated, and show binary parameter status (e.g., red for muted, green for unmuted) when the encoder is pressed.

Q: Can the EC-V-BLK be locked to prevent unauthorized changes?

A: Yes. The EC-V-BLK supports remote lock/unlock via external control systems such as AMX, Crestron, or other third-party controllers connected to the HiQnet network.

Q: Is the EC-V-BLK covered by a manufacturer warranty?

A: BSS Audio products are covered by Harman's standard manufacturer warranty. For warranty details and registration, visit the BSS Audio support page. For purchasing support, contact Creation Networks.