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September 1, 2006 - San Leandro, CA – The EDGE Distributors Group -- a rapidly-growing service-oriented group of 14 independently owned regional distributors catering primarily to custom install and residential systems integrators -- today announced a new relationship with specialty display leader Planar Systems, Inc.

Planar seeks to enter the home theater marketplace in the United States and will be making its comprehensive line of high-quality specialty video display products, including a complete offering of home theater projectors, full-HD flat-panel LCDs and the innovative Xscreen front-projection screen, available to EDGE’s network of dealers and custom installers.

According to Planar, the first available product will be the ambient-light-rejection Xscreen, which creates a new screen technology category because it greatly enhances front-projection performance in rooms with windows and light, offers connectivity and optional electronics for control and processing inside a sleek design that complements any décor. The Planar Xscreen is available now in 60”, 70”, 80” and 100” diagonal sizes.

In parallel to the innovative engineering and design of its Xscreen products, Planar plans to offer multiple sizes of other specialty home theater displays, including, full-HD 1080p LCD flat-panel displays and a comprehensive line of specialty home theater projectors.

Planar’s Home Theater products are backed by the company’s industry-leading Customer First(TM) advanced exchange warranties (US only).

“Planar clearly has exhibited expertise in developing and marketing superior quality video display devices,“ says The EDGE Distributors Group’s President Mike Hench. “With The EDGE Group’s focus on integration, service, support and education, we are perfectly poised to successfully launch and maintain consistent sales growth for Planar in our custom installation marketplace. “

“Home theater is an expanding and diverse market,” said Jim Davis, head of worldwide sales for Planar Systems, Inc. “Consumer interest in this space ranges anywhere from enthusiasts looking for a single display for their dedicated home-theater to an integrator looking to standardize on a brand that can offer multiple sizes and types of displays for the entire house.”

“As our home theater line continues to grow and diversify, Planar has the capabilities to meet consumer needs at all levels with its comprehensive line of specialty displays, and looks to the highest caliber of partners to reach these high-end customers. The Edge Group is perfectly aligned with Planar’s specialty home theater strategy and has harmonious philosophies to Planar, including providing the best products, service and support to its customers,” added Davis.

According to Director Katye Schmoldt, The EDGE Distributors Group differs from other distribution groups in that it offers products that are of both a basic need and a unique niche for its dealers, typically employing a complementary line philosophy. The EDGE Group strategically selects the lines it carries, enabling the group to offer a full-suite of solutions to partners and dealers alike.

About The EDGE Distributors Group
Founded in 1999, The EDGE Distributors Group™ consists of 14 independently owned regional distributors that primarily serve the premium U.S. custom installation market and select retailers. EDGE partners sell and support products aimed at residential value-added installers and specialty retailers. They encourage growth by their members and customers alike by carefully evaluating, then bringing to market the finest installation products available — emphasizing those that are reliable, innovative and exciting. EDGE members also highly value personal attention, and no dealer is ever treated as just a number. Product lines EDGE distributes and supports include Channel Vision™, Chief, Furman Sound, Gefen, ICM/F-Conn Industries, NEC, NûVision™, Peerless Industries®, Planar, Sanus Systems, Sheer Wire, Xantech, and ViewSonic®.
The EDGE Distributors Group / 1401 E. Juana Avenue / San Leandro, CA 94577
Phone. 866. 396.6531 / Internet: www.edgegroup.org