Roku reveals first Netflix set-top-box
May 27th, 2008 • 781 views • Dave Bergschneider
After a mildly uncomfortable wait, the very first Netflix set-top-box has landed (the Xbox 360 with plug-ins notwithstanding). Thanks to Roku, users can finally tap into the Netflix browse instant library without having to wait for physical discs to arrive. All access for just $99.99 and the $8.95 month or higher membership fees for the traditional service.
The HDD-less Netflix player can even utilize a wireless signal to pull in streams, though your miles may vary on actual performance. As for ports, you’ll find HDMI, component, composite, Ethernet, S-Video and a Toslink optical audio jack. Initial reports are looking pretty positive from here despite the lack of HD support (480p only).
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#1
DM
May 30th, 2008 at 9:28 am
Interesting, How do you compare this Set top Box with Vongo as well as some of the emerging internet possibilities?
Kind regards,
Dave
#2
Dave Bergschneider
May 30th, 2008 at 10:06 am
It certainly poses a question, can Netflix compete in the online distribution market. Netflix is known for its ability to distribute movies quickly via its massive inventory of DVD’s however it is still an infant in online distribution and is offered as more as a bonus of instant gratification.
However because Netflix’s business model started as mail distribution and is still the forefront operation, the online distribution contains aged movies and are less likely to see the new releases for a while.
Vongo and other online distributers utilize your home computer and have agreements with most major studios to distribute their videos with DRM attached. This allows them to ensure security and earn record sales without any or little cost of production. Vongo doesn’t yet have an exclusive receiver so they rely on users to have a good enough computer setup to view movies in comfort or hookup to their TV’s.
I personally and many people I have spoken to, dislike watching movies on our home computers for the reason of small screens, poor sound and usually not located in a place that sustains comfort for a couple hours. Keep in mind I am speaking of the average home user and not people with the whole shebang.
Nowadays you can purchase a laptop with wireless-g and an HDMI output for a reasonable price of $1,200 and I find this to be a great alternative whether using Netflix’s Browse instant service, Vongo, or watching TV shows missed. If using this method, Vongo certainly takes the cake over the Netflix Box by Roku due to Vongo’s must larger and updated library of online media.
#3
Dave Bergschneider
June 9th, 2008 at 7:26 am
I have since looked into Vongo, and I must say the quality of movie playback is much better however they utilize the deprecated download entire movie first method which is a huge drawback to Netflix’s streaming capabilities. On the other hand Vongo doesn’t limit your output to just your computer. For example, I used Netflix via HDMI out from PC and Microsoft DRM is all over you for it. However you can trick it, since the check is only at the beginning of the movie. Therefore start the move normally and then switch displays once the movie has begun. Vongo doesn’t care how you about from your computer as long as their software is playing the movie.