XStreamHD

CES 2011

By uavKim Wilson • Posted: Jan 9, 2010

I've seen the XStreamHD satellite service demonstrated for the last couple of years at CES, but so far, it hasn't actually been available to consumers. Well, that's finally about to change—the service is due to launch on April 30. It allows users to download movies, music videos, and games from a satellite to a hard-disk-based server, from which they can be streamed to several receivers in the home—in fact, up to four HD streams can be served simultaneously. Users have the option of renting or buying the content, and they can even order physical discs if they wish. Movies are downloaded in 1080p/24 format with up to 7.1 DTS-HD MA audio (Dolby TrueHD is not supported as of now), and the server can download up to two titles at once, each with a maximum bandwidth of 100Mbps per stream.

Two hardware packages will be available—Fast Start ($400) and Pro Start ($500). Both come with 1TB of hard-disk storage, expandable to 4TB, and one receiver; additional receivers can be purchased from XStreamHD, or you can use any DLNA receivers. Both servers also include three ATSC tuners that let you record up to three over-the-air DTV broadcasts, and an integrated PBX server allows VoIP phone calls. The only difference between these two packages is that Pro Start includes analog audio outputs and provides a wider dynamic range for audiophiles. Users also have to pony up a monthly subscription of $10, which allows them to download as many titles as they want.

Comments

Submitted by nathan on January 10, 2009 - 12:55pm.

It's called "vaporware" until they confirm they have signed a content provider.

Submitted by Roger on January 11, 2009 - 12:44am.

"XStreamHD is not compressing content" Well, somebody must be doing it. Their PR from last year's CES states: "MPEG-2 or MPEG-4/H.264 in 4:3 or 16:9 screen formats."

Submitted by Scott on January 9, 2010 - 1:15pm.

The $10 per month fee only covers access to OTA content, and the ability to download material, correct? Or does it also cover the rental fee for movies? If owners could download and watch unlimited titles, this would be an amazing breakthrough. It had read a rumored price of $7 per rental, though. If that's the case, I can't see this service succeeding. Thanks for the coverage. The hardware looks very nice, spec-wise at least.

Submitted by Frank M. on January 9, 2010 - 3:47pm.

Internally decode DTS HD MA for PCM out or just stream?

Submitted by Scott Wilkinson on January 19, 2010 - 1:15pm.

Scott, the $10/mo subscription provides access to downloads, OTA DVR and program guide, VoIP, and system updates. According to the company, first-run rentals will likely cost $4-6 per title, and purchases will likely be in the $20-30 range. Frank, the Pro server and all XStreamHD client receivers can decode DTS-HD MA. The content is distributed to all client receivers via Ethernet.

Submitted by Scott on January 20, 2010 - 9:20pm.

Thanks for the clarification, Scott. I can't see this pricing working for most consumers, but it could find a niche in the market. The $10 monthly charge doesn't seem unreasonable, but the rental costs are and additional 2-3 times Netflix or Blockbuster Online charges. I wish them luck, and hope that pricing may fall in line with other media.