Streaming Media To Your TV: Part 2
Since I wrote What Do I Need For Backups And Streaming Media? I've learned a lot about the various options. Unfortunately, there does not appear to be a device that serves as both Network Attached Storage and a Media player. So that means figuring out what combo of devices I need to get. Aside from cost, there are lots of things to consider such as Mac support, wi-fi support, which internet services are supported (ex:Netflix, Pandora, Flickr, Youtube, etc), which file formats are supported (ex: MKV videos), will the services work outside of the US, can it be purchased in a local store or online only, and more.
Below is a table of options I've found so far.
I already have a PS/3, so I think my first step is to get a NAS and get my content backed-up and organized. Then I'll use the PS3's DLNA features to access photos, videos and music from the NAS. If I feel like I need the additional features and UI of a dedicated media player, then I guess I'll have to head back to the store.
Thoughts?
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Below is a table of options I've found so far.
| Vendor | NAS / Backup | Media Player |
| Apple | Time Capsule | Apple TV |
| Boxee | ----- | Software only or Boxee Box by D-Link |
| Buffalo | LinkStation | LinkTheater |
| Drobo | Drobo | ----- |
| ----- | Google TV (fall 2010 in USA) | |
| Lacie | Network Space | LaCinema |
| Microsoft | Windows Home Server (software only) | Xbox |
| MythTV | ----- | MythTV (software only) |
| Netgear | ReadyNAS | NeoTV or Digital Entertainer |
| Plex | ----- | Media Center for OS X (software only, Mac only) |
| Popcorn Hour | ----- | Popcorn Hour |
| Roku | ----- | Roku |
| Sage | ----- | SageTV HD Theatre |
| Seagate | GoFlex | FreeAgent Theatre or GoFlex TV |
| Sony | ----- | PS3 |
| Synology | DiskStation | ----- |
| Western Digital | My Book | Elements Play or WD TV |
| XBMC | ----- | XBMC (software only) |
| Xtreamer | ----- | XtreamerPRO |
I already have a PS/3, so I think my first step is to get a NAS and get my content backed-up and organized. Then I'll use the PS3's DLNA features to access photos, videos and music from the NAS. If I feel like I need the additional features and UI of a dedicated media player, then I guess I'll have to head back to the store.
Thoughts?
Tweet
