Media Streamer/Server Top PicksMore and more people are streaming audio and video directly from the Internet as well as storing and playing their media content from networked servers, giving rise to these relatively new product categories.
We'll help with tips for each stage starting with our top picks and a primer on making the right choice.
Media Streamers
At A Glance: Rent iTunes movies and TV shows • Stream Netflix content • View pictures galleries on Flickr and MobileMe • Extends Apple ecosystem with AirPlay
At A Glance: Vastly improved picture quality • More responsive, motion-sensitive, Bluetooth remote • Tiny footprint • Wide variety of content providers
At A Glance: Elegant touch-sensitive screen • Decodes multiple audio formats • Internet radio support • Integrates with Facebook and Flickr
Media Servers
At A Glance: Single-box solution • Easy setup and operation • Perfect for smaller rooms, garage, and outdoors • Integrates with existing Sonos systems • Product now called Play:5
At A Glance: Robust wireless communication between devices • Access to numerous online audio-subscription services • ZonePlayers can stream local analog sources to other zones
At A Glance: Upload and download content from Internet services • Excellent user interface • Designed to integrate with a variety of home-automation systems
At A Glance: Instant touchpanel music access • Housewide and worldwide access • Elegant, intuitive interface • Unlimited storage capacity • Automatic backup and MP3 creation
At A Glance: One-of-a-kind, best-in-class movie interface • Very expensive • Music management not at same level • Blu-ray playback currently cumbersome • Standout pure performance
Media streamers and servers come in a dizzying variety of types. We help you sort them out.
Even if you know which technology is the best fit for you, the salesroom floor can be unforgiving terrain. We'll help you become a smart shopper.
Once you get a media streamer or server home, what's the best way to hook it up? Find out here.
Sponsored Technology Center
Site Map / Direct Links| Displays Speakers |  |
HT Systems Sources Electronics | |
Other Gear Software AV Interiors | |
Top Picks
|
|
Community Show Reports | |
Blogs
|
|
Shop Resources Subscriptions |
