Are CD and DVD based source units dead? Here are three uniquely different ‘Digital Media Receivers’ that will let you say goodbye to the traditional source unit once and for all.
It feels like the humble Compact Disc has been with us for an eternity, and it’s easy to forget that when it arrived way back in the early 1980s it brought with it a whole new world of digital based fidelity and convenience compared to the old analogue vinyl record and cassette tape standards.
Likewise, the Digital Versatile Disc was introduced a decade later and (once DVD recording became semi affordable) consigned the old VHS recorder to the annals of history. The world embraced both formats very quickly, and this was largely thanks to their immediate and clearly apparent audible and visual improvements over the analogue formats they replaced.
Then, with much fanfare and hyperbole, Apple’s iPod was launched back at the start of the new Millennium, while telecommunication companies simultaneously rolled out broadband speed internet services across the globe. All of a sudden digital music & video file transfer, storage, and playback no longer needed a fixed plastic disc to be accessed. Thanks to the iPod keying into this technology the portable media player enjoyed a renaissance, with Apple taking over the mantle once monopolized by the Sony ‘Walkman’ in the 1970 and 80s. Even if you didn’t own an iPod you could still access digital files via PCs, other brands of portable media players, or even via flash based memory.
Like before, these new mediums heralded a host of improved convenience over the older standards, and yet both of the CD and DVD formats have still persisted in the market place for probably a decade beyond their used-by dates. That’s because unlike the previous transition this one didn’t happen virtually overnight, and instead it has taken almost a decade to gain mass-market acceptance.
A number of factors contributed to this slower transition. First of all the first broadband network – while better than dial-up speeds - really wasn’t much faster, and on top this hard disc storage was still very expensive. This meant that the most commonly available digital music and video files were heavily compressed so that they could be transferred and stored affordably.
Given these shortcomings, the new ‘second digital media revolution’ was marred by lower quality and fidelity than the first one. It was a step backward from a perception standpoint, even though technically equivalent fidelity was totally possible. Compounding this was the Napster debacle that tarred the downloading generation as a bunch of thieves and pirates. It also didn’t help that the likes of Sony and Apple needed to go toe-to-toe over yet another new format war, and thanks to their smarter business plan, brilliant marketing strategy, and most importantly their industry neutrality (they don’t own a music company for instance) Apple were the eventual victor.
It is only now in yet another new decade that it is finally time for CD and DVD to be retired forever. Now ADSL2 level broadband (and soon digital broadband) is truly fast enough, while cheap terabytes of storage makes transferring, storing and playing back of digital files both more convenient and equally as high fidelity as the original CD or DVD versions. Indeed, it is probably quicker and easier to download a High-Definition Blu-ray equivalent quality movie file these days than it is to go to the shops and buy one.
This brings us to the phenomenon of the specialist digital playback source units, which now exist as a whole separate category to CD tuners and A/V source units. These units offer no disc drive whatsoever, and appeal to a younger generation of consumers who may have never even bought or used a CD or DVD before. If you are a prolific user of Apple’s portable products they also make a lot of sense, since they are all designed to integrate into these devices seamlessly.
The buzz term for this new category isn’t universally agreed upon by the marketing types at the major brands. Clarion originally called them ‘Mechless’ when they launched them two years ago, but I dare say trying to market something as being ‘less’ is far from ideal. Sony, meanwhile, calls the category ‘Digital Media Players’, yet this can easily be confused with the actual portable players themselves and is therefore similarly flawed. Alpine and Pioneer seem to have consensus with tag ‘Digital Media Receiver’, and given that the ‘Receiver’ part also means AM/FM radio I reckon that within a few sales cycles this particular category slogan is the one that will be universally adopted by the industry.
Alpine deserve credit for being first to the market with a ‘D.M.R.’ unit, releasing the iDA series way back in 2006 at what should probably be considered a few years too early. Curiously, while first to the market, Alpine’s iDA series units haven’t evolved much in functionality since then. Their rivals, however, have recently come to the market with a slew of very cool and exciting new ‘D.M.R’s that each offer definitive advancements in different areas.
Wednesday, June 22, 2011
Tuesday, June 21, 2011
Set Top Box: The Emerging Magic Box
In this hectic and fast moving routine life, television and other entertainment media plays an important role in everyday life. The electronic device which transmits signals into a viewable format is called as a set top box.A set top box is a connecting device of an external signal source that displays the content on the television or any other display device. This was used since 1950s in some form. The ancestors of this box have 8 bit game data port; hence, it was known as Nintendo game box. A data port is an interface between the information levels.
As the technology developed there emerged this current set top box. This box functions as media extenders, consoles, and digital media receivers. This signal converter is capable of displaying HD signals and also provides two-way communication between the user and the service provider.
There are many types of set top boxes. They are: a broadcast set top box is capable of providing two-way communication. An enhanced set top box or smart box is a two- way communication box and is capable of providing the Internet browsing on demand. The other one is the advanced set top box. It is considered as a fully integrated box and has some built-in features of a desktop PC. It also provides television and DVR capabilities.
The hybrid digital cable box is a special box that has blue ray playback ability. It is also capable of merging with high-end multimedia signals from the multimedia centers for home. The over the top set top boxes contain videogame consoles, Internet abilities and wireless connectivity.
To set a set top box, we may need the following accessories:
1. Interactive network connection.
2. Network interface to connect STB.
3. A tuner to catch the signals.
4. A Decoder
5. A Buffer
6. The synchronization hardware and soft ware, and
7. Additional software, Middle ware, Platform, and Applications
The future trends
The popular trends are applying smart phone like iPhones to this. The latest trends involve in changing the set top box into Android operating system. This device is moving towards to be an integrator of all entertainment and internet services. This is possible because of its HDMI, USB and other peripheral device features. The future is looking at 3G and 4G options and a sleek model for this device as it can be used as independent home network.
As the technology developed there emerged this current set top box. This box functions as media extenders, consoles, and digital media receivers. This signal converter is capable of displaying HD signals and also provides two-way communication between the user and the service provider.
There are many types of set top boxes. They are: a broadcast set top box is capable of providing two-way communication. An enhanced set top box or smart box is a two- way communication box and is capable of providing the Internet browsing on demand. The other one is the advanced set top box. It is considered as a fully integrated box and has some built-in features of a desktop PC. It also provides television and DVR capabilities.
The hybrid digital cable box is a special box that has blue ray playback ability. It is also capable of merging with high-end multimedia signals from the multimedia centers for home. The over the top set top boxes contain videogame consoles, Internet abilities and wireless connectivity.
To set a set top box, we may need the following accessories:
1. Interactive network connection.
2. Network interface to connect STB.
3. A tuner to catch the signals.
4. A Decoder
5. A Buffer
6. The synchronization hardware and soft ware, and
7. Additional software, Middle ware, Platform, and Applications
The future trends
The popular trends are applying smart phone like iPhones to this. The latest trends involve in changing the set top box into Android operating system. This device is moving towards to be an integrator of all entertainment and internet services. This is possible because of its HDMI, USB and other peripheral device features. The future is looking at 3G and 4G options and a sleek model for this device as it can be used as independent home network.
Monday, June 20, 2011
Digital Media Receivers - A Great Way To Enjoy Streaming Movies At Home
Streaming media has seen an explosion of popularity recently. While many have found ways to put videos onto their computers; siting in front of a keyboard might not be the ideal situation. Being in the comfort of your living room watching videos on your large HDTV screen would definitely be preferable to most people. This has been made easier with the development of the technology called DLNA. Making streaming movies in the home simple and convenient.
With out much setup or configuration, DLNA can transfers movies, photos and other media from one device to another. It stands for Digital Living Network Alliance. All you would need to do is connect the DLNA Certified devices to your home Network - wired or wireless. Once connected the DLNA devices discover and communicate with one another over your Home Network. DLNA servers, that store your media, stream to DLNA compliant players. It provides a very convenient way for you to transfer media from one device to another.
The first step with DLNA is to designate a server on your network. Most computers with Windows Media Center will act as your server. You can use external storage devices such as the Buffalo Technology LinkStation Live 1.0TB, as your NAS or Network Attached Storage. You connect this NAS device directly to your network, so computers or other DLNA capable devices can access the stored media within. Therefore, your computer would not always have to be powered on when you want to watch movies on your TV. But for most people using Windows Media Center, or software such as Nero MediaHome or Tversity will turn their computer into an efficient DMS - Digital Media Server.
Additional hardware will be required, regardless if you use a hardware server or software server. You will need a DLNA certified device such as Sony's PlayStation 3, Mircosoft's Xbox or certain Blu-ray Players. They have DLNA capabilities that transform them into Digital Media Players or DMP. Allowing them to locate the media on your Digital Media Server and play the media back on your TV. Certain HDTV's can also have DLNA capabilities, eliminating the need for that third hardware device.
While DLNA is becoming more mainstream it is still not in every media device. So you have to look for the DLNA logo when purchasing Blu-ray Players or HDTVs. Other DLNA Certified devices include DVR's, Mobile Phones, Personal Digital Assistants, Printers, Digital Media Adapters and many more. If you have a large collection of videos, music and photos, it maybe worth it to purchase DLNA products which will make distributing your media around your home a breeze.
Home Network Devices
Digital Media Sever - Devices which store data and make it available to networked digital media players (DMP) and digital media renderers (DMR). Examples: PC's and Network Attached Storage (NAS) devices.
Digital Media Player - Devices which find data on digital media servers (DMS) and produce playback. Examples: TV's, Blu-ray Players, stereos, home theaters, wireless monitors and gaming consoles
Digital Media Renderer - Devices which will play data received from a digital media controller (DMC) and found on a digital media server (DMS). Examples: TVs, A/V receivers, video displays and remote speakers for music.
Digital Media Controller - Devices which find data on digital media servers (DMS) and then play it back on digital media renderers (DMR). Examples: Internet Tablets, Wi-Fi enabled digital cameras and Personal Digital Assistants (PDA).By: Curtis HoskinsArticle Directory: http://www.articledashboard.com...For more information on Blu-ray and Blu-ray Players try this handy comparison guide: Blu-ray Players Or view our list of the Best Selling Blu-ray Players and Blu-ray Deals: Blu-ray Player Deals Copyright 2010. This article may be freely distributed if this resource box stays attached.
With out much setup or configuration, DLNA can transfers movies, photos and other media from one device to another. It stands for Digital Living Network Alliance. All you would need to do is connect the DLNA Certified devices to your home Network - wired or wireless. Once connected the DLNA devices discover and communicate with one another over your Home Network. DLNA servers, that store your media, stream to DLNA compliant players. It provides a very convenient way for you to transfer media from one device to another.
The first step with DLNA is to designate a server on your network. Most computers with Windows Media Center will act as your server. You can use external storage devices such as the Buffalo Technology LinkStation Live 1.0TB, as your NAS or Network Attached Storage. You connect this NAS device directly to your network, so computers or other DLNA capable devices can access the stored media within. Therefore, your computer would not always have to be powered on when you want to watch movies on your TV. But for most people using Windows Media Center, or software such as Nero MediaHome or Tversity will turn their computer into an efficient DMS - Digital Media Server.
Additional hardware will be required, regardless if you use a hardware server or software server. You will need a DLNA certified device such as Sony's PlayStation 3, Mircosoft's Xbox or certain Blu-ray Players. They have DLNA capabilities that transform them into Digital Media Players or DMP. Allowing them to locate the media on your Digital Media Server and play the media back on your TV. Certain HDTV's can also have DLNA capabilities, eliminating the need for that third hardware device.
While DLNA is becoming more mainstream it is still not in every media device. So you have to look for the DLNA logo when purchasing Blu-ray Players or HDTVs. Other DLNA Certified devices include DVR's, Mobile Phones, Personal Digital Assistants, Printers, Digital Media Adapters and many more. If you have a large collection of videos, music and photos, it maybe worth it to purchase DLNA products which will make distributing your media around your home a breeze.
Home Network Devices
Digital Media Sever - Devices which store data and make it available to networked digital media players (DMP) and digital media renderers (DMR). Examples: PC's and Network Attached Storage (NAS) devices.
Digital Media Player - Devices which find data on digital media servers (DMS) and produce playback. Examples: TV's, Blu-ray Players, stereos, home theaters, wireless monitors and gaming consoles
Digital Media Renderer - Devices which will play data received from a digital media controller (DMC) and found on a digital media server (DMS). Examples: TVs, A/V receivers, video displays and remote speakers for music.
Digital Media Controller - Devices which find data on digital media servers (DMS) and then play it back on digital media renderers (DMR). Examples: Internet Tablets, Wi-Fi enabled digital cameras and Personal Digital Assistants (PDA).By: Curtis HoskinsArticle Directory: http://www.articledashboard.com...For more information on Blu-ray and Blu-ray Players try this handy comparison guide: Blu-ray Players Or view our list of the Best Selling Blu-ray Players and Blu-ray Deals: Blu-ray Player Deals Copyright 2010. This article may be freely distributed if this resource box stays attached.
Sunday, June 19, 2011
New digital media receivers: the future of car entertainment
The MVH-7300 and MVH-8300BT are specifically designed for the sources which are used most – whether that’s iPod, iPhone, USB, SD or other portable video and music sources via Aux-in. Now, the MVH-7300 also supports DivX video playback from SD and USB.
Both are single DIN receivers that feature an elegant 3-inch full-colour TFT Display. To add a personal touch, the display’s background and screen colours can be changed. As well as providing great video playback quality, it gives full access to all the playlists, album art, videos and more on a connected iPod or iPhone.
App mode
A new App mode even enables listening to music or watching video and navi content from various iPhone and iPod touch Apps, including games, video, internet radio, musical instrument simulators etc., provided the App supports analogue audio or video output.
With SDHC compatibility (32GB), it’s easy to take your whole library of film and video entertainment along on a journey.
Pioneer’s highly regarded 7-way rotary commander enables straightforward navigation and control. It allows you to browse or search through lists and quickly jump to new functions using just one handy dial.
USB and SD card slot on front panel
Detailed video playback is complemented by excellent audio quality. Both units play MP3, WMA and iTunes AAC music files via USB and SD memory card.
For easy access, the USB port is located directly on the front panel and the SD memory card slot is positioned discreetly behind the partially detachable front panel.
We equipped the receivers with our Advanced Sound Retriever (ASR) to enhance the listening experience, particularly for compressed digital formats. This patented technology helps to restore the musical details lost when compressed music files are created.
With the 8-band graphic equalizer you can adjust the sound of the system to suit your vehicle and preference, while dedicated hi-volt (4 V) pre-amp outputs for front, rear, and subwoofer allow for flexible system building.
For hands-free safety and convenience, the MVH-8300BT integrates a Parrot Bluetooth module, enabling you to hear the conversation through the vehicle’s speakers while your voice is broadcast through the included external microphone, which guarantees optimum speech quality.
Both are single DIN receivers that feature an elegant 3-inch full-colour TFT Display. To add a personal touch, the display’s background and screen colours can be changed. As well as providing great video playback quality, it gives full access to all the playlists, album art, videos and more on a connected iPod or iPhone.
App mode
A new App mode even enables listening to music or watching video and navi content from various iPhone and iPod touch Apps, including games, video, internet radio, musical instrument simulators etc., provided the App supports analogue audio or video output.
With SDHC compatibility (32GB), it’s easy to take your whole library of film and video entertainment along on a journey.
Pioneer’s highly regarded 7-way rotary commander enables straightforward navigation and control. It allows you to browse or search through lists and quickly jump to new functions using just one handy dial.
USB and SD card slot on front panel
Detailed video playback is complemented by excellent audio quality. Both units play MP3, WMA and iTunes AAC music files via USB and SD memory card.
For easy access, the USB port is located directly on the front panel and the SD memory card slot is positioned discreetly behind the partially detachable front panel.
We equipped the receivers with our Advanced Sound Retriever (ASR) to enhance the listening experience, particularly for compressed digital formats. This patented technology helps to restore the musical details lost when compressed music files are created.
With the 8-band graphic equalizer you can adjust the sound of the system to suit your vehicle and preference, while dedicated hi-volt (4 V) pre-amp outputs for front, rear, and subwoofer allow for flexible system building.
For hands-free safety and convenience, the MVH-8300BT integrates a Parrot Bluetooth module, enabling you to hear the conversation through the vehicle’s speakers while your voice is broadcast through the included external microphone, which guarantees optimum speech quality.
Saturday, June 18, 2011
Digital Media Receivers
In the UK the great digital switchover starts in 2008 and is due to finish in 2012. The analogue TV signal will be switched off leaving millions of televisions, video players and equipment obsolete. Tessa Jowell, the Minister for Culture and Sport, announced the Great Digital Switchover on 15 September 2005 in a speech to the Royal Television Society in Cambridge. 'Digital TV is no longer a probability, it is a certainty. And I believe it can leave us with a legacy of more choice for more people than anywhere else in the World' she said. The Start of a New, Digital Revolution Digital television is little short of the start of a digital revolution in our use of television in the home. It heralds the convergence of two of the greatest technologies of our age αΎ§ television and computers. In the future it is going to become ever more difficult, and the distinction more meaningless, to separate the functions of the two. As exciting as the prospect of the digital revolution undoubtedly is, we must not loose sight of the fact that as far reaching as the implications of this change are in our use of TV, its implementation is a logistical exercise of immeasurable proportions. Digital UK to Coordinate the Digital Switchover The digital switchover will be coordinated by Digital UK - an independent, not for profit company set up by the broadcasters, commercial multiplex operators and their suppliers. Digital UK - formerly known as Switchco - will ensure that the public have timely and accurate information about switchover, including knowing when their transmitter is going digital and what they have to do to receive the signal. Digital Receivers for Every TV and Video Recorder Every TV set and video recorder in the UK will need to be connected to a digital receiver to work. In many parts of the UK existing TV aerials cannot receive the terrestrial digital signals and will need to be replaced The current generation of portable TVs many never be adapted to the digital revolution. Small wonder then that TV manufacturers, engineers and media companies are rubbing their hands with glee. It wasn't too hard a decision for the Government either. Digital signals are far less greedy in their use of available bandwidth. There seems little doubt that the Government has its eye on the handsome profit from the sale of the airwaves once the digital switchover is complete. Who Pays? No surprises here, you pay. The Government has announced a package of measures to convert one television for the old and needy. Everyone else pays for themselves. And the bill could be substantial. Government statistics estimate that the average household in the UK has 4 televisions. Everyone must be connected to a digital receiver somehow. With freeview boxes currently costing around £40 and up and many home needing new aerials to receive terrestrial digital signals, estimates are that each household will need to spend between £400 and £2000. Make sure you are prepared. Know when the digital switchover will take place in your region. Budget to convert or replace your existing televisions over a period of time. And most importantly, don't rush into anything. Digital technology is changing rapidly. Prices are high. New technologies are sure to emerge. Keith Longmire is a self confessed technophile. He sees the switchover to purely digital television as nothing short of a revolution in home entertainment. His website, the Digital Switchover, is dedicated to providing independent information and guidance on your personal digital switchover.
Friday, June 17, 2011
5 Best Digital Media Receivers Under $100
Digital media receivers, or digital media adapters as they are sometimes called, allow users to easily access digital media files available through a home network or via an internet connection and display the files onto
a home theatre system or television. Before assuming these high tech devices are too expensive or too complicated for the non-tech savvy, consider five top digital media receivers that are both affordable and easy to use.
ASUS O! Play TV HD-R1 Digital Multimedia Player. Priced near $100, this media streamer from AsusTek offers high tech capabilities at a budget friendly price. The ASUS O! Play allows HD video streaming with up to 1080p resolution, and supports a variety of online media as well as a number of media file types without the need for file conversion. Unfortunately, the device is not wireless ready—but, for many interested consumers without wireless capabilities in the home, the simplicity of the set up with CAT cables combined with the unit's quality and functionality make it a great option. The units are available online and in stores where electronic devices are sold.
Western Digital WD TV Live Plus 1080p HD Media Player. This digital media receiver transfers media files via wired connections throughout a home network, directly from media storage devices such as digital cameras, or wirelessly with dual band technology. The device supports HD video up to 1080p, plays most media file types, and streams from online media sites such as Netflix. Western Digital WD TV Plus HD is also available through online retailers, such as Amazon, or stores where electronics are sold. It is currently priced under $100 USD.
Roku XDS Streaming Player 1080p. Unlike some digital media devices, there is no PC needed to access content via a high speed internet connection point. This device offers a large library of television shows and movies
plus easy access to various on-demand subscription services such as Pandora, Netflix or Hulu Plus to name a few. The Roku XDS is compatible with most television brands and models, even many older models, and is easy to connect both directly or wirelessly. The device is equipped with dual band wireless functionality and is currently priced around $100 USD. As with the other devices, this media player is available both in stores and online at retailers such as Amazon and Best Buy.
Seagate STCEA201-RK FreeAgent Theater + HD Media Player. The Seagate STCEA201-RK is capable of high definition display of streaming content, up to 1080p, in most file formats. The installation interface, whether used to install the unit wirelessly or via an ethernet connection, is user friendly with easy to follow directions. On the downside, this media player does not have a physical power button, making it necessary to power it down with the power cord. It is, however, compatible with a range of computer operating systems, including Windows 7, and most television models. As with the other devices, this media player is available for under $100 USD at select retailers.
Apple TV MC572LL/A.Apple TV allows device connectivity wirelessly or via wired connections in a much smaller, more compact unit than many other digital media receivers. Similarly, the Apple TV device streams HD content and t.v. programs available through a number of subscription services and rentals offered through the iTunes store. Applications are available from iTunes to also allow remote control of the media player directly with a user's iPod Touch, iPad or iPhone. Some features do require an iTunes account and iTunes software installation to operate. The device is available through the Apple Store and priced around $100 USD.
All five of these digital media receivers offer high quality sound and imagery with simple and easy to use installation and operation interfaces--all at prices under $100. Many of these devices, especially the Apple TV, also have platforms capable of growing and extending available options as technology progresses--adding to the long term value and ease of use.
a home theatre system or television. Before assuming these high tech devices are too expensive or too complicated for the non-tech savvy, consider five top digital media receivers that are both affordable and easy to use.
ASUS O! Play TV HD-R1 Digital Multimedia Player. Priced near $100, this media streamer from AsusTek offers high tech capabilities at a budget friendly price. The ASUS O! Play allows HD video streaming with up to 1080p resolution, and supports a variety of online media as well as a number of media file types without the need for file conversion. Unfortunately, the device is not wireless ready—but, for many interested consumers without wireless capabilities in the home, the simplicity of the set up with CAT cables combined with the unit's quality and functionality make it a great option. The units are available online and in stores where electronic devices are sold.
Western Digital WD TV Live Plus 1080p HD Media Player. This digital media receiver transfers media files via wired connections throughout a home network, directly from media storage devices such as digital cameras, or wirelessly with dual band technology. The device supports HD video up to 1080p, plays most media file types, and streams from online media sites such as Netflix. Western Digital WD TV Plus HD is also available through online retailers, such as Amazon, or stores where electronics are sold. It is currently priced under $100 USD.
Roku XDS Streaming Player 1080p. Unlike some digital media devices, there is no PC needed to access content via a high speed internet connection point. This device offers a large library of television shows and movies
plus easy access to various on-demand subscription services such as Pandora, Netflix or Hulu Plus to name a few. The Roku XDS is compatible with most television brands and models, even many older models, and is easy to connect both directly or wirelessly. The device is equipped with dual band wireless functionality and is currently priced around $100 USD. As with the other devices, this media player is available both in stores and online at retailers such as Amazon and Best Buy.
Seagate STCEA201-RK FreeAgent Theater + HD Media Player. The Seagate STCEA201-RK is capable of high definition display of streaming content, up to 1080p, in most file formats. The installation interface, whether used to install the unit wirelessly or via an ethernet connection, is user friendly with easy to follow directions. On the downside, this media player does not have a physical power button, making it necessary to power it down with the power cord. It is, however, compatible with a range of computer operating systems, including Windows 7, and most television models. As with the other devices, this media player is available for under $100 USD at select retailers.
Apple TV MC572LL/A.Apple TV allows device connectivity wirelessly or via wired connections in a much smaller, more compact unit than many other digital media receivers. Similarly, the Apple TV device streams HD content and t.v. programs available through a number of subscription services and rentals offered through the iTunes store. Applications are available from iTunes to also allow remote control of the media player directly with a user's iPod Touch, iPad or iPhone. Some features do require an iTunes account and iTunes software installation to operate. The device is available through the Apple Store and priced around $100 USD.
All five of these digital media receivers offer high quality sound and imagery with simple and easy to use installation and operation interfaces--all at prices under $100. Many of these devices, especially the Apple TV, also have platforms capable of growing and extending available options as technology progresses--adding to the long term value and ease of use.
Thursday, June 16, 2011
A Closer Look at Digital Media Receivers
Cutting the cord from cable companies is all the rage in home entertainment these days. Since many television shows and movies are available over the Internet, viewers and fans are able to check out the latest episodes of these shows without having to pay a cable bill. Digital media receivers allow users to stream content, such as television shows or movies, directly to their television. The main benefit of using a digital media receiver is not having to purchase a full-blown computer to connect to the television.
Still, just the purchase of any of the popular digital media receivers does not guarantee a successful cost-saving, cord-cutting venture. Many of the popular services these devices take advantage of require subscription fees. Sites like Netflix and Hulu Plus offer an astounding amount of content, but are two of the more popular sites that carry a fee. As with any other piece of technology, personal preference plays a huge role in selecting which media receiver to purchase and how it fits into a home entertainment system or schedule, because different types and different varieties fit different needs.
Potential buyers should be sure the player they are buying best fits their needs on desired content and price. However shoppers need to focus on total ownership cost, not just the price of the unit, which means looking at subscription costs and per-episode fees. Here is a look at a few of the most popular digital media receivers:
Roku XD
For around $80 the Roku XD delivers access to services like Netflix, Hulu Plus, Amazon Video on Demand, and iTunes. It also supports music service from Pandora and iTunes, plus the unit allows access to a number of Roku channels, some of which are free. The Roku XD also has a few great sports networks that are subscription-based for Major League Baseball and the National Hockey League.
Apple TV
Apple TV is available for under $100. While this unit does support Netflix and YouTube, it is primarily designed to work with iTunes. From that particular site customers can stream a number of movies and television
shows, although since it is a pay-per-episode deal it can get a little pricey. Still, there are a bunch of apps that allow all sorts of programming to be experienced.
Logitech Revue
The Logitech Revue with Google TV retails for around $300 and basically allows the user to search the Internet on any HDTV. Anyone looking for full Internet search capability in addition to watching services like Hulu and Netflix will enjoy this expensive but great digital media player. This is a platform that really has tremendous upside, as it offers the chance to stream new episodes of TV shows directly from their websites.
D-Link Boxee
The D-Link Boxee is a cool unit that can be found for around $200. This device allows users to stream video from a number of different websites including: Netflix, Vudu, YouTube, and more. Plus, users can access Facebook, which might prove to be a great place to watch video, and Pandora and Flickr as well. The cool feature on the Boxee is the media card slot for easy transfer and storage of media.
Still, just the purchase of any of the popular digital media receivers does not guarantee a successful cost-saving, cord-cutting venture. Many of the popular services these devices take advantage of require subscription fees. Sites like Netflix and Hulu Plus offer an astounding amount of content, but are two of the more popular sites that carry a fee. As with any other piece of technology, personal preference plays a huge role in selecting which media receiver to purchase and how it fits into a home entertainment system or schedule, because different types and different varieties fit different needs.
Potential buyers should be sure the player they are buying best fits their needs on desired content and price. However shoppers need to focus on total ownership cost, not just the price of the unit, which means looking at subscription costs and per-episode fees. Here is a look at a few of the most popular digital media receivers:
Roku XD
For around $80 the Roku XD delivers access to services like Netflix, Hulu Plus, Amazon Video on Demand, and iTunes. It also supports music service from Pandora and iTunes, plus the unit allows access to a number of Roku channels, some of which are free. The Roku XD also has a few great sports networks that are subscription-based for Major League Baseball and the National Hockey League.
Apple TV
Apple TV is available for under $100. While this unit does support Netflix and YouTube, it is primarily designed to work with iTunes. From that particular site customers can stream a number of movies and television
shows, although since it is a pay-per-episode deal it can get a little pricey. Still, there are a bunch of apps that allow all sorts of programming to be experienced.
Logitech Revue
The Logitech Revue with Google TV retails for around $300 and basically allows the user to search the Internet on any HDTV. Anyone looking for full Internet search capability in addition to watching services like Hulu and Netflix will enjoy this expensive but great digital media player. This is a platform that really has tremendous upside, as it offers the chance to stream new episodes of TV shows directly from their websites.
D-Link Boxee
The D-Link Boxee is a cool unit that can be found for around $200. This device allows users to stream video from a number of different websites including: Netflix, Vudu, YouTube, and more. Plus, users can access Facebook, which might prove to be a great place to watch video, and Pandora and Flickr as well. The cool feature on the Boxee is the media card slot for easy transfer and storage of media.
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