HD MediaBox

Setup

It’s like connecting a DVD player: I’m using the HDMI out so that everything can be digital and upscaled to 1080p/SXGA resolution. There’s also a VGA port for Component use, as well as S-Video and Composite. If you get an IDE internal drive and take about 15 minutes to install it inside, you can format it in Windows XP using a USB connector, and then fill it with files to play directly, or play off of external drives or even thumb drives connected to either of the two high-speed USB ports. HDMI, a coaxial or optical out, or analog stereo RCAs can be used for audio. An infrared extension extends the illuminated remote’s “reach” as well. 

Networking

HD MediaBox configures itself to the home network through an Ethernet connection (either automatically or manually). There’s no soft-ware to install on the PC either: just go to the folder that you want to share, enable this function (full instructions included for this), and then give it a shared name to be found under. Keep in mind that anti-virus software and Firewalls might need to be disabled, as they can interfere with this process.

In UseMy wife’s PC is networked in, so I didn’t have to perform any gymnastics to get HD MediaBox to see it. When HD MediaBox is turned on, indicators on the front light up to indicate functions in use, and onscreen menus let you select the kind of file to play from internal/external drives or the network. Other menus include image adjustment and playback control, subtitle support, plus 10 user profiles for conforming to personal tastes. There’s also plenty to watch since it’s compatible with a wide range of video formats, such as MPEG 1/2/4,WMV9, and DivX. Audio is impressively good as well (those even more obsessed with their audio might want to consider the Audiophile edition, which goes even farther to improve audio clarity). One thing though: While MPEG 1, PCM, WAV, WMA, and AAC audio files are sup-ported, protected AAC (like those purchased through iTunes) is not. Also, response time from the menus is not instantaneous, so some patience is required.

HD MediaBox with Remote

Those looking for a small, easy, and powerful way to access video and audio computer files on their home theater will definitely be pleased. And in combo with an internal drive,HD MediaBox also makes for a very good high-definition traveling companion.

Specifications

HD MediaBox Computer Requirements: PC running Windows XP/Networking MSRP: $599 Pixel Magic www.pixelmagicsystems.com