Engadget HD http://www.engadgethd.com Engadget HD http://www.engadgethd.com/media/feedlogo.gif Engadget HD http://www.engadgethd.com en-us Copyright 2009 Weblogs, Inc. The contents of this feed are available for non-commercial use only. Blogsmith http://www.blogsmith.com/<![CDATA[Ready or not, the latest 3D technology is coming home]]>http://www.engadgethd.com/2009/10/26/ready-or-not-the-latest-3d-technology-is-coming-home/http://www.engadgethd.com/2009/10/26/ready-or-not-the-latest-3d-technology-is-coming-home/http://www.engadgethd.com/2009/10/26/ready-or-not-the-latest-3d-technology-is-coming-home/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

ESPN 3D camera
Avid readers of Engadget HD are up on the latest 3D display and display technologies, but the same can not be said for the general masses. And before you start on the whole "I'm not wearing any stupid looking glasses," because no matter what you say, there are more people paying extra to go 3D movies than ever and the reason is simple; it's because this isn't like the crappy 3D you saw during the Super Bowl last year -- or that our parents grew up with. No, the 3D that Sony, Panasonic, and others are promising next year is like nothing you've seen. We've come a long way since the old anaglyph red and blue glasses that come in cereal boxes. So if like most, you could use a refresher on the 3D technologies and when you might get to use them, you should head on over and check it out.

Ready or not, the latest 3D technology is coming home originally appeared on Engadget HD on Mon, 26 Oct 2009 14:06:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>120hz3Dcircular polarizationCircularPolarizationfeaturedfeaturesPanasonicSamsungshutter glassesShutterGlassesSonyMon, 26 Oct 2009 14:06:00 EST<![CDATA[Ask Engadget HD: How do you evaluate HDTVs in-store?]]>http://www.engadgethd.com/2009/10/21/ask-engadgethd-how-do-you-evaluate-hdtvs-in-store/http://www.engadgethd.com/2009/10/21/ask-engadgethd-how-do-you-evaluate-hdtvs-in-store/http://www.engadgethd.com/2009/10/21/ask-engadgethd-how-do-you-evaluate-hdtvs-in-store/#commentsFiled under: ,

We all know the situation, there's a series of impossibly large numbers on the spec card, the quality of the lighting is questionable, and a salesman who may or may not know anything about televisions is droning on about the death of plasma. Still, you want a new HDTV, and this is where the televisions are. What Sean wants to know is, how do you figure out the right set for you in a retail setting?

"Can anyone recommend video test files used to check the capabilities of HDTVs? It would be great to walk into an electronics store with a USB stick loaded full of video files to test color, contrast, motion etc. and see which performs best. Has anyone ever had success bringing in some of their own equipment to test with the televisions in-store? When I'm checking out different televisions, what differences should I be looking at to pick the right one?"

We've gotten a few handy anecdotes on how to evaluate televisions in even the worst store conditions, and we've seen enough specs to know they're never to be trusted without an independent evaluation, but as an informed buyer, what are you doing to tip the scales towards your specific interests, and not just what pads the stores sales or salesman's commission?


Got a burning question that you'd love to toss out for Engadget HD (or its readers) to take a look at? Tired of Google's blank stares when you ask for real-world experiences? Hit us up at ask at engadgethd dawt com and keep an eye on this space -- your inquiry could be next.

Ask Engadget HD: How do you evaluate HDTVs in-store? originally appeared on Engadget HD on Wed, 21 Oct 2009 12:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>ask engadget hdAskEngadgetHdfeaturesin storeInStoreretailshoppingtest patternsTestPatternstipsWed, 21 Oct 2009 12:30:00 EST<![CDATA[A first hand look at SDV and Copy Freely support in Windows 7 Media Center]]>http://www.engadgethd.com/2009/09/24/a-first-hand-look-at-sdv-and-copy-freely-support-in-windows-7-me/http://www.engadgethd.com/2009/09/24/a-first-hand-look-at-sdv-and-copy-freely-support-in-windows-7-me/http://www.engadgethd.com/2009/09/24/a-first-hand-look-at-sdv-and-copy-freely-support-in-windows-7-me/#commentsFiled under: ,

ATI Digital Cable Tuner

If you have a ATI Digital Cable Tuner connected to your Windows Media Center then you've been waiting a long time for a firmware update. In fact, although updates were released fairly steadily during the first year of the product's life, the last update (1.17.1) was dated April 30th 2008. But this long delay has been particularly painful because this is the first update since CableLabs relaxed the DRM requirements last Summer -- it's also the very same update Microsoft has been touting since CEDIA 2008. So what took so long? We'd like to know, but one thing is for sure, CableLabs sure took its time in the approval process as the date on the firmware is May 1st 2009! Better late then never, so while you wait for the public release click through to find out what all the fuss is about.

Continue reading A first hand look at SDV and Copy Freely support in Windows 7 Media Center

A first hand look at SDV and Copy Freely support in Windows 7 Media Center originally appeared on Engadget HD on Thu, 24 Sep 2009 11:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>7MCATICableCARDDCTDigital Cable TunerDigitalCableTunerfeaturedfeaturesMedia CenterMediaCenterocurSDVSwitched Digital VideoSwitchedDigitalVideoTATuning AdapterTuningAdapterWindows 7Windows media CenterWindows7WindowsMediaCenterWMCThu, 24 Sep 2009 11:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Ask Engadget HD: 5.1 or 7.1 surround sound audio for beginners?]]>http://www.engadgethd.com/2009/09/16/ask-engadget-hd-5-1-or-7-1-surround-sound-audio-for-beginners/http://www.engadgethd.com/2009/09/16/ask-engadget-hd-5-1-or-7-1-surround-sound-audio-for-beginners/http://www.engadgethd.com/2009/09/16/ask-engadget-hd-5-1-or-7-1-surround-sound-audio-for-beginners/#commentsFiled under: , ,


We've talked about more than one surround sound setup in these parts, but for someone just building up their system it's always confusing to pick a direction. Luckily EHD reader Abul has come to the right place, we'll let him ask the question:

"To complement the audio found on Blu-ray movies or HD downloads, is a 5.1 setup good enough or will 7.1 surround make a significant difference? Any suggestions on best low end or mid-range setup?"

There's only about a million different HTIB systems or audio components to choose from, but for someone starting from scratch it's hard to know which item on the sales rack will be the best fit. Given what's available today, what would you start out with?

Ask Engadget HD: 5.1 or 7.1 surround sound audio for beginners? originally appeared on Engadget HD on Wed, 16 Sep 2009 16:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>askask engadget hdAskEngadgetHdfeaturessurround soundSurroundSoundWed, 16 Sep 2009 16:15:00 EST<![CDATA[VIZIO Connected TV & VIZIO Internet App platform demoed at CEDIA]]>http://www.engadgethd.com/2009/09/12/vizio-connected-tv-and-vizio-internet-app-platform-demoed-at-cedia/http://www.engadgethd.com/2009/09/12/vizio-connected-tv-and-vizio-internet-app-platform-demoed-at-cedia/http://www.engadgethd.com/2009/09/12/vizio-connected-tv-and-vizio-internet-app-platform-demoed-at-cedia/#commentsFiled under: , , ,


With VIZIO's first LED local dimming backlit HDTV just days away from debut and its first Connected TV nearing production, we were able to lay eyes and hands on the television and its funky QWERTY Bluetooth / IR combo remote. Check the pics and videos (including looks at VIZIO's smaller LED sets ready to hit shelves this fall) for a look at our walkthrough; in the demos at least, the VIZIO Internet Apps platform was speedy and easy to use, however our experience with widgets so far has given us more than enough reason to wait for a full retail rollout before making any final decisions. One tidbit for those not ready to invest a whole new TV? The next iteration of VIZIO's Blu-ray player should pack not only integrated Wi-Fi, but also the full VIA / widget experience.

Gallery: VIZIO Connected TV & VIZIO Internet Apps demo

Continue reading VIZIO Connected TV & VIZIO Internet App platform demoed at CEDIA

VIZIO Connected TV & VIZIO Internet App platform demoed at CEDIA originally appeared on Engadget HD on Sat, 12 Sep 2009 21:09:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>cediacedia 2009Cedia2009demofeaturesviavideoviziovizio intenret appsVizioIntenretAppswdigetsyahoo widgetsYahooWidgetsSat, 12 Sep 2009 21:09:00 EST<![CDATA[Ceton is set to take over the CableCARD PC tuner market]]>http://www.engadgethd.com/2009/09/11/ceton-is-set-to-take-over-the-cablecard-pc-tuner-market/http://www.engadgethd.com/2009/09/11/ceton-is-set-to-take-over-the-cablecard-pc-tuner-market/http://www.engadgethd.com/2009/09/11/ceton-is-set-to-take-over-the-cablecard-pc-tuner-market/#commentsFiled under: , ,

Ceton CableCARD tuners
We can't say we saw this coming, but a little technology company we never heard of until CES '09 is going to not only be the first to market with a multi-stream quad tuner CableCARD device, but will probably be the only one for some time. It is for good reason too, as Ceton (pronounced sē-tən or seaten) has been able to pick up where AMD left off with its ATI Digital Cable Tuner for Windows Media Center and improve it in the best way we can think of. This startup seems to have some special sauce that no one else has, we can't even start to think of how hard it would be to decrypt four HD streams at the same time and re-encrypt them at the same time -- and apparently that is just the beginning. We say this because we sat down with Gary Hammer, the president and CEO, and to say he is on the same page with the Media Center market, is an understatement.

Gallery: Ceton CableCARD tuner


Continue reading Ceton is set to take over the CableCARD PC tuner market

Ceton is set to take over the CableCARD PC tuner market originally appeared on Engadget HD on Fri, 11 Sep 2009 15:58:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>7MCCEDIACEDIA 2009Cedia2009CetonfeaturedMedia CenterMediaCenterWindows 7Windows 7 Media CenterWindows7Windows7MediaCenterFri, 11 Sep 2009 15:58:00 EST<![CDATA[Video: First working Blu-ray Managed Copy demo]]>http://www.engadgethd.com/2009/09/10/video-frist-working-blu-ray-managed-copy-demo/http://www.engadgethd.com/2009/09/10/video-frist-working-blu-ray-managed-copy-demo/http://www.engadgethd.com/2009/09/10/video-frist-working-blu-ray-managed-copy-demo/#commentsFiled under: ,

Managed Copy video

Just because Pioneer isn't in the plasma business anymore doesn't mean the company is dead, and one of the new points of focus over there is on media aggregation. So part of the new do-it-all Entertainment Tap concept Pioneer was displaying today included a demo of storing Managed Copies of Blu-ray Discs on a hard drive. The copy itself was done in about 4x real time (dependent on the drive's speed) and looked great thanks to some hardware transcoding. We also appreciated the Pioneer interface that made copying the disc easy. Of course at this point this is just a demo, with no word on availability or price, but it is a start to what will one day hopefully be a better way to enjoy HD movies.

Continue reading Video: First working Blu-ray Managed Copy demo

Video: First working Blu-ray Managed Copy demo originally appeared on Engadget HD on Thu, 10 Sep 2009 19:44:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>AACSBlu-rayCEDIACEDIA 2009Cedia2009Entertainment TapEntertainmentTapETfeaturedManaged CopyManagedCopyPioneervideoThu, 10 Sep 2009 19:44:00 EST<![CDATA[Video: Dish Network Media Center tuner in action]]>http://www.engadgethd.com/2009/09/10/video-dish-network-media-center-tuner-in-action/http://www.engadgethd.com/2009/09/10/video-dish-network-media-center-tuner-in-action/http://www.engadgethd.com/2009/09/10/video-dish-network-media-center-tuner-in-action/#commentsFiled under: , ,


We told you we were able to get a video of the Dish Network tuner for Windows Media Center in action and here it is. You can see that for the most part, the Dish content plays back just like any other HD source. We did seem to think that the channel changes were slower than we were used to, but not bad enough to be a deal breaker. The short clip is after the jump.

Continue reading Video: Dish Network Media Center tuner in action

Video: Dish Network Media Center tuner in action originally appeared on Engadget HD on Thu, 10 Sep 2009 16:37:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>7MCCEDIACEDIA 2009Cedia2009Dish NetworkDishNetworkMedia CenterMediaCentervideoWindows 7Windows Media CenterWindows7WindowsMediaCenterThu, 10 Sep 2009 16:37:00 EST<![CDATA[Windows 7 to get a better version of Netflix than Vista]]>http://www.engadgethd.com/2009/09/10/windows-7-to-get-a-better-version-of-netflix-than-vista/http://www.engadgethd.com/2009/09/10/windows-7-to-get-a-better-version-of-netflix-than-vista/http://www.engadgethd.com/2009/09/10/windows-7-to-get-a-better-version-of-netflix-than-vista/#commentsFiled under: ,


No the Windows 7 version of the Netflix Watch Instantly still isn't going to work on Extenders for Media Center, but it will include a more seamless experience than the Vista version does, like the movie info image above. Microsoft really wasn't ready to share any more details with us, but we suspect the search is improved. The fact that they were so tight lipped leads us to believe that Microsoft is still holding back on some Windows 7 details -- at least in regards to internet content and Windows 7. At this point it appears we might have to wait until the official release of Windows 7 to truly figure out if all that work to bring internet content to Windows 7 pays off.

Gallery: Netflix in Windows 7

Windows 7 to get a better version of Netflix than Vista originally appeared on Engadget HD on Thu, 10 Sep 2009 16:24:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>7MCCEDIACEDIA 2009Cedia2009featuredMicrosoftNetflixnetflix watch instantlyNetflixWatchInstantlyWindows 7Windows Media CenterWindows7WindowsMediaCenterWMCThu, 10 Sep 2009 16:24:00 EST<![CDATA[Hands-on with the Ceton CableCARD tuner]]>http://www.engadgethd.com/2009/09/10/hands-on-with-the-ceton-cablecard-tuner/http://www.engadgethd.com/2009/09/10/hands-on-with-the-ceton-cablecard-tuner/http://www.engadgethd.com/2009/09/10/hands-on-with-the-ceton-cablecard-tuner/#commentsFiled under: , , ,


We learned all about it this new tuner first thing this morning and were very pleased to see a "technology preview" of the card in action at the Microsoft's booth. As expected, it is a single PCI-E card that uses one multi-stream CableCARD and offers the ability to record four HD channels at once. The tuner shows up as a single network adapter in Windows and still uses UPnP like the currently available ATI tuner does. The configuration and diagnostic interface included tabs for each individual tuner and apparently two Tuning Adapters -- unfortunately there wasn't a working demo of the SDV tuning in action. And in case you are wondering, we did ask about the price and as you might expect we were referred to Ceton for specific product questions. We do already have an appointment with them tomorrow, but we'd be surprised if they were ready to tell us.

Gallery: Hands-on with the Ceton CableCARD tuner

Hands-on with the Ceton CableCARD tuner originally appeared on Engadget HD on Thu, 10 Sep 2009 11:48:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>CableCARDCEDIACEDIA 2009Cedia2009CetonFeaturedM-CardMedia CenterMediaCenterMicrosoftSDVTuning adapterTuningAdapterWindows 7 Media CenterWindows7MediaCenterThu, 10 Sep 2009 11:48:00 EST<![CDATA[Dish Network Media Center tuner hands-on]]>http://www.engadgethd.com/2009/09/10/dish-network-media-center-tuner-hands-on/http://www.engadgethd.com/2009/09/10/dish-network-media-center-tuner-hands-on/http://www.engadgethd.com/2009/09/10/dish-network-media-center-tuner-hands-on/#commentsFiled under: , ,

Dish Network Media Center tuner.
We have good and bad news after visiting the Dish Network booth first thing in the morning. We're happy to say that Dish was proudly displaying a Dish Tuner for Media Center 7 at its booth. The bad news however is that it was just a "proof of concept." Which means no matter how hard we tried, no one would tell us anything about price or availability. The other thing up in the air was if the actual implementation would be based on VIP211K HD STBs like the demo, or if instead there would be a dedicated tuner. The last unknown was around VOD or PPV, which we know was recently being tested, but still no word if it'll make the final version. The other bad, but not unexpected news, is the fact that like the first generation CableCARD tuner for Media Center, all the content is copy protected. As for how it works, looks good, but the channel changing was slower than our CableCARD tuner enabled Media Center. We did grab a video, but you'll have to wait until we can get it uploaded.

Gallery: Hands-on with the Dish Network Media Center tuner

Dish Network Media Center tuner hands-on originally appeared on Engadget HD on Thu, 10 Sep 2009 11:28:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>7MCbreakingcediacedia 2009Cedia2009DISH NetworkDishNetworkfeaturedMCMedia CenterMediaCenterWin7windows Media CenterWindowsMediaCenterThu, 10 Sep 2009 11:28:00 EST<![CDATA[Eyes-on: Sony's XBR10 LCD and its wireless video streaming box]]>http://www.engadgethd.com/2009/09/09/eyes-on-sonys-xbr10-lcd-and-its-wireless-video-streaming-box/http://www.engadgethd.com/2009/09/09/eyes-on-sonys-xbr10-lcd-and-its-wireless-video-streaming-box/http://www.engadgethd.com/2009/09/09/eyes-on-sonys-xbr10-lcd-and-its-wireless-video-streaming-box/#commentsFiled under: , , ,


We know, it's easy to be distracted by the sexy, slim BRAVIA LCD HDTV in front of you, but refocus your eyes for a moment on that unassuming box to the lower right. Given a distinct lack of (read: none) media inputs on the screen itself, that little devices is where all your HDMI, coax and other video sources will be going. With it's $5,000 pricetag the ability to hide DVR's, game consoles and whatever else well away from the television itself is a major selling point so feel free to peruse these pictures (no iPhone comparisons, we promise) and get familiar before this set hits shelves in October.

Gallery: Sony XBR10 wireless LCD HDTV eyes-on

Eyes-on: Sony's XBR10 LCD and its wireless video streaming box originally appeared on Engadget HD on Wed, 09 Sep 2009 19:23:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>braviacediacedia 2009Cedia2009hdtvlcdsonystreamingwireless hdwireless hdtvWirelessHdWirelessHdtvxbrxbr 10Xbr10Wed, 09 Sep 2009 19:23:00 EST<![CDATA[Live from the Microsoft Windows Media Center event]]>http://www.engadgethd.com/2009/09/09/live-from-the-microsoft-windows-media-center-event2/http://www.engadgethd.com/2009/09/09/live-from-the-microsoft-windows-media-center-event2/http://www.engadgethd.com/2009/09/09/live-from-the-microsoft-windows-media-center-event2/#commentsFiled under: ,



It is almost time as we wait for the event to start and find out if all or any of our Windows Media Center CEDIA predictions come true. We had to travel a long way from the show floor to get here, but so far Microsoft is doing it right. They have us setup with free WiFi and a table right up front, so now we just wait for the show to begin.

Continue reading Live from the Microsoft Windows Media Center event

Live from the Microsoft Windows Media Center event originally appeared on Engadget HD on Wed, 09 Sep 2009 19:16:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Media CenterMediaCenterWin7Windows 7Windows 7 Media CenterWindows7Windows7MediaCenterWed, 09 Sep 2009 19:16:00 EST<![CDATA[Bobby Universal Remote for the iPhone review]]>http://www.engadgethd.com/2009/09/01/bobby-universal-remote-for-the-iphone-review/http://www.engadgethd.com/2009/09/01/bobby-universal-remote-for-the-iphone-review/http://www.engadgethd.com/2009/09/01/bobby-universal-remote-for-the-iphone-review/#commentsFiled under: ,


Anyone who has played with a capacitive touch screen has probably dreamed about using it as a universal remote, which is why we've been quick to try out just about every iPhone/iPod Touch remote software out there. The latest one to make its way into our setup is the Bobby Universal Remote from Cremote. The app runs $20 at the App Store and leverages one of our favorite pieces of home theater gear, the Global Cache´ GC100-6 -- which unfortunately sells for over $100. So basically Bobby is the software and the GC-100 is the IR emitter, but the real question is, how well does it work?

Gallery: Bobby Universal Remote

Continue reading Bobby Universal Remote for the iPhone review

Bobby Universal Remote for the iPhone review originally appeared on Engadget HD on Tue, 01 Sep 2009 12:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>BobbyBobby Universal RemoteBobbyUniversalRemotefeaturedGlobal CacheGlobalCacheUniversal RemoteUniversalRemoteTue, 01 Sep 2009 12:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Ask Engadget HD: Best way to feed HD to two TVs?]]>http://www.engadgethd.com/2009/08/28/ask-engadget-hd-best-way-to-feed-hd-to-two-tvs/http://www.engadgethd.com/2009/08/28/ask-engadget-hd-best-way-to-feed-hd-to-two-tvs/http://www.engadgethd.com/2009/08/28/ask-engadget-hd-best-way-to-feed-hd-to-two-tvs/#commentsFiled under: ,


Multiroom video setups are hardly an easy task, but what if you just want to pipe the A/V in whole from one spot to another? That's the conundrum facing our friend Ed, we'll let him break down the situation first.

"I have a question that I think has several answers, but I would like to know the best solution. I have a DirecTV HD-DVR - HR20-700 hooked up to my TV via HDMI and optical audio to my receiver. I have my receiver's sound also hooked up to outside speakers by the pool so I can listen to XM or any other program from DirecTV or radio. I would like to add the video outside as well. I already have an RG6 coax cable outside, and I have an open CAT-5 connection near the back door, but not outside where the TV would go. Both cable runs are approximately 100' or less. My question is, what is the best way to get the video from the HR20 outside? "

There's a bevy of splitters, extenders, slingers and media box solutions that could help our friend out, but it's hard to say what would be best for this situation. We're still waiting for the SlingMonitor to make a retail experience and give us the WiFi TV wherever we've always wanted, but how would you do it?

Got a burning question that you'd love to toss out for Engadget HD (or its readers) to take a look at? Tired of Google's blank stares when you ask for real-world experiences? Hit us up at ask at engadgethd dawt com and keep an eye on this space -- your inquiry could be next.

Ask Engadget HD: Best way to feed HD to two TVs? originally appeared on Engadget HD on Fri, 28 Aug 2009 12:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>ask engadget hdAskEngadgetHdfeaturefeaturesmulti roomMultiRoomsplittertwo tv setupTwoTvSetupFri, 28 Aug 2009 12:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Engadget HD Podcast 151 - 08.19.2009]]>http://www.engadgethd.com/2009/08/19/engadget-hd-podcast-151-08-19-2009/http://www.engadgethd.com/2009/08/19/engadget-hd-podcast-151-08-19-2009/http://www.engadgethd.com/2009/08/19/engadget-hd-podcast-151-08-19-2009/#commentsFiled under: ,

Engadget logoPlenty of Microsoft news this week as we just can't stop talking about the company that we love as much as we hate. For starters the Zune isn't even out yet and we are already starting to think it won't live up to its HD name. We roll right along from there into some Media Center news including how to import HD movies into Media Center, and the interesting details of the RVU alliances as potentially competing product. Sony was next on our list as we discussed the new PS3 and what it is and what it isn't. Finally the show rounds out with a little Netflix Movie Party, Redbox, ripping DVDs and finally FOOTBALL!


Get the podcast
[iTunes] Subscribe to the Podcast directly in iTunes (MP3). p
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[MP3] Download the show (MP3).

Hosts: Ben Drawbaugh, Steven Kim, Richard Lawler

Producer: Trent Wolbe

Program
00:01:20 - Comments from Engadget HD Podcast 150 - 08.12.2009
00:05:17 - Zune 4.0 software won't play nice with HDTV Media Center recordings
00:16:22 - Windows 7 includes support for Dolby Digital Plus
00:20:09 - How to import HD movies into Windows Media Center
00:33:00 - DirecTV, Cisco and Samsung have whole house DVR plans with RVU alliance
00:43:30 - Sony unveils slimmer PS3: $300, lands in September (updated!)
00:47:45 - A first hand look at the Netflix Movie Parties on the Xbox 360
00:55:52 - Fox and Warner want 30 day kiosk rental windows, maybe Netflix too
01:03:31 - Kaleidescape gets in line behind RealDVD for rough treatment
01:08:00 - Okay enough waiting, where is tru2way?
01:13:40 - A few broadcasters are moving back to UHF
01:17:40 - Poll: What's better than the return of football to our HDTVs?
01:20:05 - NFL's new RedZone channel won't be seen by most



LISTEN (MP3)
LISTEN (AAC)
LISTEN (OGG)

Engadget HD Podcast 151 - 08.19.2009 originally appeared on Engadget HD on Wed, 19 Aug 2009 14:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>featuredfeaturesHDHDTVPodcastWed, 19 Aug 2009 14:30:00 ESTEngadget HD Podcast 151Ben Drawbaugh, Steve Kim, Nilay Patel01:26:00podcasts<![CDATA[DirecTV, Cisco and Samsung have whole house DVR plans with RVU alliance]]>http://www.engadgethd.com/2009/08/19/directv-cisco-and-samsung-have-whole-house-dvr-plans-with-rvu-a/http://www.engadgethd.com/2009/08/19/directv-cisco-and-samsung-have-whole-house-dvr-plans-with-rvu-a/http://www.engadgethd.com/2009/08/19/directv-cisco-and-samsung-have-whole-house-dvr-plans-with-rvu-a/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

RVU alliance topology
One of our dreams is to have a true whole home DVR that allows us to watch any show we want, on any TV we want; but so far the perfect solution has eluded us. TiVo was really the first to try with its Multi-Room Viewing, but missed the mark by not giving us a single Now Playing list for the whole house or even any automatic conflict resolution between units. The FiOS HD DVR was the next disappointment because it limits us to two tuners and 160GB for the whole house -- seriously is that enough for anyone? Currently Windows Media Center offers the best solution, but it's expensive after you pay $300 a pop for a CableCARD tuner, not to mention it requires more maintenance because it is based on a PC. Needless to say we continue to look for the perfect solution, and we think that the RVU (R-vue) alliance might be just what we ordered. In addition to DirecTV, Cisco and Samsung, the chip maker Broadcom is also one of the founding members of the alliance, but it is their goals that get us excited. So excited, that we'd actually be shocked if they were actually achieved, but you'll have to click through to learn why.

Continue reading DirecTV, Cisco and Samsung have whole house DVR plans with RVU alliance

DirecTV, Cisco and Samsung have whole house DVR plans with RVU alliance originally appeared on Engadget HD on Wed, 19 Aug 2009 12:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>BroadcomCiscoDirecTVFeaturedFeaturesSamsungWed, 19 Aug 2009 12:00:00 EST<![CDATA[How to import HD movies into Windows Media Center]]>http://www.engadgethd.com/2009/08/18/how-to-import-hd-movies-into-windows-media-center/http://www.engadgethd.com/2009/08/18/how-to-import-hd-movies-into-windows-media-center/http://www.engadgethd.com/2009/08/18/how-to-import-hd-movies-into-windows-media-center/#commentsFiled under: ,


The upgraded Movie Library in Windows 7 Media Center is very appreciated, but while it's better than Vista, it still doesn't do everything we want. Our main point of contention is that although it is possible to play more file types, it still isn't possible to fast forward or rewind them (you can skip forward, back, and resume though). The other issue is that connecting the HTPC directly to a HDTV is for the birds, and codec support on Extenders is very limited. The good news is that with a little help from our favorite Media Center utility and our new best friend, we've devised a very easy way to convert just about any HD movie to DVR-MS (Media Center's native format). This is pretty easy to setup, lets you have full trick play capability on extenders, and the results are good enough to please even our discerning eye.

Continue reading How to import HD movies into Windows Media Center

How to import HD movies into Windows Media Center originally appeared on Engadget HD on Tue, 18 Aug 2009 11:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>DTBDVRMSToolBoxfeaturedfeaturesMencoderMencoderProperTue, 18 Aug 2009 11:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Engadget HD Podcast 150 - 08.12.2009]]>http://www.engadgethd.com/2009/08/12/engadget-hd-podcast-150-08-12-2009/http://www.engadgethd.com/2009/08/12/engadget-hd-podcast-150-08-12-2009/http://www.engadgethd.com/2009/08/12/engadget-hd-podcast-150-08-12-2009/#commentsFiled under: ,

Engadget logoWe started out this week on a good note, looking forward to exciting things for Windows MCE at next month's CEDIA show. The good vibes kept flowing as we discussed over 50-percent penetration of HDTVs and hopeful shifts among the media giants to move towards new business models for the content we crave. We should have stopped there, but we didn't, and our wings of wax failed us. Talking about the iTunes + Blu-ray rumors set us into a downward spiral that ended with us kvetching about broadcasters mangling aspect ratios, crappy TV demos at retail, Ben's sour notes about Harmony remotes, and "new" TiVo features that came to us from the 90s. Trainwreck? Maybe, but you know you want to check it out.


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[Zune]Subscribe to the Podcast directly in the Zune Marketplace
[MP3] Download the show (MP3).

Hosts: Ben Drawbaugh, Steven Kim, Richard Lawler

Producer: Trent Wolbe

Program
00:00:50 - Comments from Engadget HD Podcast 149 - 08.05.2009
00:08:27 - CEDIA 2009 Windows Media Center predictions
00:22:19 - Xbox 360 officially the only console to stream Netflix -- sorry, PS3 and Wii
00:28:09 - The revolution has been televised: Survey reports 53% of U.S. homes with HDTV
00:32:05 - Media bigwigs declare that free TV "is broken"
00:34:45 - Subscription services like Netflix Watch Instantly generates 20x the revenue of pay-per-downloads
00:43:12 - Roku Video player now streaming live HD baseball games from MLB.TV
00:47:29 - VIZIO VBR100 Blu-ray player freed from superstore confines, unboxed on video
00:50:12 - Toshiba applies for BDA admission, Blu-ray players and laptops coming soon
01:00:13 - Blu-ray support coming with iTunes 9?
01:00:13 - Steven Soderbergh calls out the aspect ratio villains: HBO, AMC - We're talking about you
01:02:15 - Poll: What's the worst mistake HD channels make?
01:06:03 - Don't let retailer's lights distract you from buying the right HDTV
01:10:55 - Logitech's Harmony 900 remote controls components behind closed doors
01:17:50 - TiVo turns on custom RSS video feed support


LISTEN (MP3)
LISTEN (AAC)
LISTEN (OGG)

Engadget HD Podcast 150 - 08.12.2009 originally appeared on Engadget HD on Wed, 12 Aug 2009 14:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>HDHDTVPodcastWed, 12 Aug 2009 14:00:00 ESTEngadget HD Podcast 150Ben Drawbaugh, Steve Kim, Richard Lawler01:21:11podcasts<![CDATA[CEDIA 2009 Windows Media Center predictions]]>http://www.engadgethd.com/2009/08/10/cedia-2009-windows-media-center-predictions/http://www.engadgethd.com/2009/08/10/cedia-2009-windows-media-center-predictions/http://www.engadgethd.com/2009/08/10/cedia-2009-windows-media-center-predictions/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,


With the Custom Electronic Design & Installation show in Atlanta only a month away, we thought it'd be fun to try and predict the future by laying out our expectations for Windows Media Center. The way we see it, CEDIA is the perfect launching pad for Windows 7 Media Center. For starters it is just over a month before the official release of the OS, but more so because Microsoft has used the venue in the past to announce new Media Center features. We really believe that this is going to be the year that Redmond brings everything together, so if you're the type who doesn't think it'll ever happen, then click through to find out why we think you're wrong.

Continue reading CEDIA 2009 Windows Media Center predictions

CEDIA 2009 Windows Media Center predictions originally appeared on Engadget HD on Mon, 10 Aug 2009 11:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>7MCAMDATIBlu-rayCEDIACEDIA 2009Cedia2009DCTDISH NetworkDishNetworkDRMExtenders for Windows Media CenterExtendersForWindowsMediaCenterHauppaugeHD-PVRInternet TVInternetTvLive MeshLiveMeshManaged CopyManagedCopyMicrosoftOCURPlayReadySDVSilverlightSky TVSkyTvTuning AdapterTuningAdapterVIP 211Vip211WebguideWindows 7Windows 7 Media CenterWindows Media CenterWindows7Windows7MediaCenterWindowsMediaCenterZuneZune HDZuneHdMon, 10 Aug 2009 11:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Ask Engadget HD: What's the best on the go HD camcorder?]]>http://www.engadgethd.com/2009/08/06/ask-engadget-hd-whats-the-best-on-the-go-hd-camcorder/http://www.engadgethd.com/2009/08/06/ask-engadget-hd-whats-the-best-on-the-go-hd-camcorder/http://www.engadgethd.com/2009/08/06/ask-engadget-hd-whats-the-best-on-the-go-hd-camcorder/#commentsFiled under: , ,


Summer time is in full swing, and we're sure you've got plenty of activities to attend to, but what about capturing those for later viewing on your HDTV? Since we last visited the HD camcorder question, a flood of mini HD capable cams have hit the scene, but which one is the best? We'll let Mariusz lay out his priorities:

"For some time now I've been thinking about getting one of these, but still cannot make my mind up. I'm looking for a camcorder that is portable first of all (will mostly use it outdoors, also for paintball and airsoft games), the quality(720p / 1080p) and functionality will come second and storage options third. I know there is quite a few products on the market from Kodak, Flip and Creative (and probably few more), but still do not know which one to choose... Hopefully Engadget's readers will help me with my decision-making."

We can relate Mariusz, you need something easy to take on the go, with good image quality and settings and last of all easy to play back later. Surely a few of you have faced the same dilemma, let us know which hardware you've picked up and how it's working for you.

Got a burning question that you'd love to toss out for Engadget HD (or its readers) to take a look at? Tired of Google's blank stares when you ask for real-world experiences? Hit us up at ask at engadgethd dawt com and keep an eye on this space -- your inquiry could be next.

Ask Engadget HD: What's the best on the go HD camcorder? originally appeared on Engadget HD on Thu, 06 Aug 2009 12:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>ask engadget hdAskEngadgetHdcamcordersfeaturefeaturesThu, 06 Aug 2009 12:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Engadget HD Podcast 149 - 08.05.2009]]>http://www.engadgethd.com/2009/08/05/engadget-hd-podcast-149-08-05-2009/http://www.engadgethd.com/2009/08/05/engadget-hd-podcast-149-08-05-2009/http://www.engadgethd.com/2009/08/05/engadget-hd-podcast-149-08-05-2009/#commentsFiled under: ,

Engadget logoAs we edge up towards podcast 150, we're not planning any kind of celebratory special; but that doesn't mean we can't have fun along the way! Break out the Zima and Jolly Ranchers as we go over some follow-up to last week's MCE-rich podcast, and then get into topsy-turvy strangeness. Giving Moxi a hard time and taking a "we'll see" approach to Vudu are nothing new, but when was the last time we handed out kudos to TiVo and BD-Live? Listen in and find out for yourself what had us in Bizarro-world.

Get the podcast
[iTunes] Subscribe to the Podcast directly in iTunes (MP3). p
[RSS - AAC] Enhanced feed, subscribe to this with iTunes.
[RSS - MP3] Add the Engadget HD Podcast feed to your RSS aggregator
[Zune]Subscribe to the Podcast directly in the Zune Marketplace
[MP3] Download the show (MP3).

Hosts: Ben Drawbaugh, Steven Kim, Richard Lawler

Producer: Trent Wolbe

Program
00:00:50 - Comments from Engadget HD Podcast 148 - 07.29.2009
00:14:49 - Poll: Do you / will you use Windows Media Center in your home theater?
00:25:10 - The Moxi Summer update brings the Moxi Mate, SDV support and more
00:32:40 - RCN making cobranded TiVO boxes its 'primary DVR platform' in 2010
00:36:10 - Verizon rolling out more apartment-friendly hardware
00:40:33 - Ask Engadget HD: Can I subscribe to a service for just HDTV channels?
00:44:45 - Modern Warfare 2, Halo 3: ODST are both not-quite HD games
00:53:15 - Paramount flicks to see Blu-ray purchase, DVD rental availability ahead of DVD sale date
00:56:58 - Wolverine Blu-ray disc includes BD-Live access to IMDB
01:00:00 - VUDU's streaming service demoed live on an LG TV
01:04:45 - Energy Star 3.0 regulations set to impact TV designs

LISTEN (MP3)
LISTEN (AAC)
LISTEN (OGG)

Engadget HD Podcast 149 - 08.05.2009 originally appeared on Engadget HD on Wed, 05 Aug 2009 13:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>HDHDTVPodcastWed, 05 Aug 2009 13:00:00 ESTEngadget HD Podcast 149Ben Drawbaugh, Steve Kim, Richard Lawler01:16:39podcasts<![CDATA[Windows 7 Media Center review]]>http://www.engadgethd.com/2009/07/27/windows-7-media-center-review/http://www.engadgethd.com/2009/07/27/windows-7-media-center-review/http://www.engadgethd.com/2009/07/27/windows-7-media-center-review/#commentsFiled under: , ,



We've been waiting a long time for this and it's finally here, the latest version of Windows Media Center. Well, we really stopped waiting a few months ago when the release candidate hit, but waited on composing our thoughts until after we had a chance to play with the RTM copy. For the most part, as you'd expect the RTM build is identical to the RC, sans the bugs, but there are plenty of upgrades over Vista Media Center. Many of these new features were also in the TV Pack, but in our book that doesn't count. For starters it was OEM only, and thus you could only get it (legitimately) by buying a new PC, but the real reason is because it was so buggy, it was beyond usable. In fact we still stand by the theory that the TV Pack was nothing more than an early preview for OEMs of the new guts of Windows 7 Media Center. Gladly that is all behind us now, so keep reading to find out what gets us excited about Windows 7 Media Center.

Gallery: Windows 7 Media Center review

Guide with colorsGuide without colorsCustom favoritesMini guide. Edit guide page

Continue reading Windows 7 Media Center review

Windows 7 Media Center review originally appeared on Engadget HD on Mon, 27 Jul 2009 11:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>7MCATIATI DCTAtiDctCableCARDDirecTVDISH NetworkDishNetworkManaged CopyManagedCopyMedia CenterMediaCenterPlayReadyProject DracoProjectDracoTuning AdapterTuningAdapterwindows 7Windows 7 Media CenterWindows Home ServerWindows Media CenterWindows7Windows7MediaCenterWindowsHomeServerWindowsMediaCenterWMCXbox 360Xbox360Zune HDZuneHdMon, 27 Jul 2009 11:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Samsung UN46B7000 LED backlit LCD review]]>http://www.engadgethd.com/2009/07/23/samsung-un46b7000-led-backlit-lcd-review/http://www.engadgethd.com/2009/07/23/samsung-un46b7000-led-backlit-lcd-review/http://www.engadgethd.com/2009/07/23/samsung-un46b7000-led-backlit-lcd-review/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,



There aren't many technologies that are as fun to watch mature as LCD TVs. It is definitely one of the those technologies that continues to evolve and improves with each iteration. The latest crop of LED edge lit LCD TVs from Samsung fit into that category. The 46-inch 7000 Series is a mere 1.2 inches thick and uses less power than just about any HDTV of its size ever made. To top it off, it offers some of the best picture quality of any LCD HDTV ever made; and it does all of that while being more affordable than its predecessors. It goes without saying that we were excited to get our hands on it, but you'll have to click through to find out how we felt after wards.

Gallery: Samsung UN46B7000 LED backlit LCD review


Continue reading Samsung UN46B7000 LED backlit LCD review

Samsung UN46B7000 LED backlit LCD review originally appeared on Engadget HD on Thu, 23 Jul 2009 13:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>7000 series7000SeriesLED backlitLED TVLedBacklitLedTvSamsungUN46B7000Thu, 23 Jul 2009 13:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Ask Engadget HD: What's the best plasma to pick up in 2009?]]>http://www.engadgethd.com/2009/07/22/ask-engadget-hd-whats-the-best-plasma-to-pick-up-in-2009/http://www.engadgethd.com/2009/07/22/ask-engadget-hd-whats-the-best-plasma-to-pick-up-in-2009/http://www.engadgethd.com/2009/07/22/ask-engadget-hd-whats-the-best-plasma-to-pick-up-in-2009/#commentsFiled under: , , ,


We're not going to pretend this question hasn't been asked before, but it's a new year and there's a few new competitors for the plasma throne. Looks like our friend Akshay was all about LCDs until checking out this article, and now he's ready to look at plasma for his next flat panel HDTV. The only question is, which one? The Panasonic G10 or V10 series? Find a Kuro on closeout? We'll let him set the mood:

"Ok, now to the main point - I'm looking to buy a HDTV. I have been trying to read reviews online and have been stuck with the basics -- Plasma or LCD. I was going through some Engadget HD archives when I found this article and decided to ask for some advice from the experts. I was leaning a bit towards LCD, especially the Samsung lineup interests me a lot. Then I read an article which easily proved that Plasma is somewhat a notch higher than LCD even though its phasing out.

Ever since I read this, I'm wondering which technology to opt for, given all the factors including picture quality, viewing angles, pricing, marketing gimmicks, etc. If I were to go with Panasonic, which model would be a really good one? My budget is around $1700 (LCD or Plasma). Any lil bit of help/advice from your team would be highly appreciated as I really respect what and how you guys manage engadget! I'm looking to buy it in Aug end/Sept time frame."

We know at least a few plasma TV owners are reading this, reach out via the comments and let us know which one will fit Akshay's budget best.

Got a burning question that you'd love to toss out for Engadget HD (or its readers) to take a look at? Tired of Google's blank stares when you ask for real-world experiences? Hit us up at ask at engadgethd dawt com and keep an eye on this space -- your inquiry could be next.

Ask Engadget HD: What's the best plasma to pick up in 2009? originally appeared on Engadget HD on Wed, 22 Jul 2009 13:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>ask engadget hdAskEngadgetHdfeaturefeaturesplasmaWed, 22 Jul 2009 13:00:00 EST<![CDATA[How-to: Build an HD Media Center for under $1000]]>http://www.engadgethd.com/2009/07/21/how-to-build-an-hd-media-center-for-under-1000/http://www.engadgethd.com/2009/07/21/how-to-build-an-hd-media-center-for-under-1000/http://www.engadgethd.com/2009/07/21/how-to-build-an-hd-media-center-for-under-1000/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

HTPC How to

You probably thought we had all the fun at Engadget HD, but you'd be wrong. Because sometimes the crew over at classic Engadget reaches over and surprises even us. This latest How-To is right up our alley and as extensive as any feature we've done. So click on over and check it out, just be sure you didn't have anything else planned for this afternoon as this is going to take awhile.

How-to: Build an HD Media Center for under $1000 originally appeared on Engadget HD on Tue, 21 Jul 2009 13:12:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>7mcHTPCMedia CenterMedia Center PCMediaCenterMediaCenterPcVista Media CenterVistaMediaCenterVMCTue, 21 Jul 2009 13:12:00 EST<![CDATA[Ask Engadget HD: Best media streaming set-top box?]]>http://www.engadgethd.com/2009/07/17/ask-engadget-hd-best-media-streaming-set-top-box/http://www.engadgethd.com/2009/07/17/ask-engadget-hd-best-media-streaming-set-top-box/http://www.engadgethd.com/2009/07/17/ask-engadget-hd-best-media-streaming-set-top-box/#commentsFiled under: , ,


Let's be realistic, we're not going outside, and 3D isn't quite ready yet, but we've all got video files on the PC we want to get on our HDTV and with new set-top boxes seemingly dropping every day, why not ask the question one more time? We'll let Brian break down his situation:

"I have recently upgraded my home theater and am now rocking a 55" 1080p screen, full surround sound and a subwoofer big enough to use as an end table. But what I don't have is any way to watch a movie that doesn't involve putting a disc in a drive and pressing play. Just doesn't seem right! So what I'm looking for is a decent set top box that has:

1. Internal storage, 1TB at least
2. Network connectivity. Wireless is not necessary, as I have ethernet already run to the cabinet
3. Upscaling to 1080i or 1080p. I have a lot of my DVDs ripped, and if I can encode them in native resolution it will save an enormous amount of drive space over upscaling them to a size that works on the big screen
4. Support for all the usual video formats, especially h.264
5. Responsiveness. This is important, I don't want something that's frustrating to use

Oh yeah and price. I don't have a rock solid limit, but I'd like it to be less than $250 without storage or $350 with it. There are so many options out there I'm not sure where to start. So, what do you think?"

So Brian wants to go all digital with his movie watching experience, we're sure more than a few of you have or are thinking about a similar setup, what do you suggest?

Got a burning question that you'd love to toss out for Engadget HD (or its readers) to take a look at? Tired of Google's blank stares when you ask for real-world experiences? Hit us up at ask at engadgethd dawt com and keep an eye on this space -- your inquiry could be next.

Ask Engadget HD: Best media streaming set-top box? originally appeared on Engadget HD on Fri, 17 Jul 2009 12:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>ask engadget hdAskEngadgetHdmedia streamersMediaStreamersset top boxSetTopBoxFri, 17 Jul 2009 12:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Samsung BD-P4600 review]]>http://www.engadgethd.com/2009/07/16/samsung-bd-p4600-review/http://www.engadgethd.com/2009/07/16/samsung-bd-p4600-review/http://www.engadgethd.com/2009/07/16/samsung-bd-p4600-review/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

Samsung BD-P4600

In a day when the most inexpensive Blu-ray player can be had for $99, you really have to do something special to a player to make it warrant a $499 price tag. This is obviously what Samsung is trying to do with the BD-P4600, but not in the normal way we'd expect. Instead of adding features or improving the specifications, Samsung has instead went the supercilious route and focused this player on the "wall people.' We all know looks aren't everything -- or shouldn't be at least -- so you'll just have to read on to find out if the functionality of the BD-P4600 matches the appearance.

Continue reading Samsung BD-P4600 review

Samsung BD-P4600 review originally appeared on Engadget HD on Thu, 16 Jul 2009 13:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>BD-P4600Blu-rayFeaturedFeaturesReviewsSamsungThu, 16 Jul 2009 13:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Engadget goes behind the Dolby logo]]>http://www.engadgethd.com/2009/07/08/engadget-goes-behind-the-dolby-logo/http://www.engadgethd.com/2009/07/08/engadget-goes-behind-the-dolby-logo/http://www.engadgethd.com/2009/07/08/engadget-goes-behind-the-dolby-logo/#commentsFiled under: ,

Dolby front door
With AV software and hardware alike carrying at least one Dolby logo, not to mention the presence of that same branding on big screen cinema, Dolby is truly a household name. If you ask people exactly what Dolby does, however, you're likely to get a pretty fuzzy picture, which isn't too surprising -- the brand is so prevalent in the media space that it's kind of like asking a fish to describe what water feels like. So when Dolby invited us to spend a day with them to talk about their current goings-on in home theater, we just couldn't pass up the opportunity.

To get a look behind the familiar logo, we spent a day at Dolby's lab in San Francisco. During our time there we talked about TrueHD, Digital Plus, Dolby Volume, the new Pro Logic IIz, and even got a short peek at some current research efforts. It was a fast run over a lot of ground, for sure!

Continue reading Engadget goes behind the Dolby logo

Engadget goes behind the Dolby logo originally appeared on Engadget HD on Wed, 08 Jul 2009 13:28:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>digital plusDigitalPlusdolbydolby digital plusdolby pro logic iizdolby truehddolby volumeDolbyDigitalPlusDolbyProLogicIizDolbyVolumefeaturespro logic iizProLogicIiztourtruehdWed, 08 Jul 2009 13:28:00 EST<![CDATA[85 percent of the 14 billion videos downloaded last year were illegal]]>http://www.engadgethd.com/2009/07/07/85-percent-of-the-14-billion-videos-downloaded-last-year-were-il/http://www.engadgethd.com/2009/07/07/85-percent-of-the-14-billion-videos-downloaded-last-year-were-il/http://www.engadgethd.com/2009/07/07/85-percent-of-the-14-billion-videos-downloaded-last-year-were-il/#commentsFiled under:

Down with DRM logoA new report from In-Stat indicates what we already suspected; because of the ridiculous DRM on digital downloads, most people are opting to obtain content illegally. Consumers will come up with just about any justification because the current offerings from Hollywood are just way too draconian to buy in to. For us that is good news and we can't wait for the video industry to follow the music's lead and give up on all of this overly complicated DRM, that really just doesn't work. Like us, In-Stat believes that watermarking will become the preferred way to control the distribution of digital content. It really is win-win because while consumers are free to use the content as they deem fit, it is very easy for Hollywood to catch up with them if they decide to share it with the whole world.

85 percent of the 14 billion videos downloaded last year were illegal originally appeared on Engadget HD on Tue, 07 Jul 2009 20:43:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Digital DownloadsDigitalDownloadsDRMIllegal downloadsIllegalDownloadsIn-StatVideo DownloadsVideoDownloadswatermarkTue, 07 Jul 2009 20:43:00 EST<![CDATA[How to relocate a HD set-top-box and still have it work with an HDTV]]>http://www.engadgethd.com/2009/07/02/how-to-relocate-a-hd-set-top-box-and-still-have-it-work-with-an/http://www.engadgethd.com/2009/07/02/how-to-relocate-a-hd-set-top-box-and-still-have-it-work-with-an/http://www.engadgethd.com/2009/07/02/how-to-relocate-a-hd-set-top-box-and-still-have-it-work-with-an/#commentsFiled under: ,


We know how it goes, you pick up a nice big HDTV and a wall-mount only to get it all setup then realize you still need a place to put your HD set-top-box. Or maybe you have a nice piece of furniture nearby to hide the box in, but since it is out of sight you need to get the IR remote working. Or you could even be like us and refuse to have any equipment with a loud fan in your home theater -- yes we're talking about you Mr. Xbox 360. Luckily there is a workable solution and with a little money and some elbow grease, you can hide that box in a place that will be out of sight and out of mind.

Continue reading How to relocate a HD set-top-box and still have it work with an HDTV

How to relocate a HD set-top-box and still have it work with an HDTV originally appeared on Engadget HD on Thu, 02 Jul 2009 16:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>ComponentHDMIHDMI extenderHDMI repeaterHdmiExtenderHdmiRepeaterIRIR RepeaterIrRepeaterMonopriceWall-platesXantechThu, 02 Jul 2009 16:45:00 EST<![CDATA[Dish Network DTVPal DVR review]]>http://www.engadgethd.com/2009/06/29/dish-network-dtvpal-dvr-review/http://www.engadgethd.com/2009/06/29/dish-network-dtvpal-dvr-review/http://www.engadgethd.com/2009/06/29/dish-network-dtvpal-dvr-review/#commentsFiled under: , , ,


For some reason almost all DVRs are like cell phones, they have lots of strings attached. You either need to pay a monthly subscription or you need to get a CableCARD from your provider and give up access to other features your provider offers that you pay for. There are a few exceptions and the newest one is from Dish Network in the way of the DTVPal DVR. It doesn't require a monthly subscription, or even a cable or satellite provider because it works with free over-the-air TV. It does HD, has two tuners, and a 250GB hard drive; all for the reasonable price of $250. If this all sounds good so far, then keep reading because like all things there's a catch.

Gallery: DTVPal DVR

Continue reading Dish Network DTVPal DVR review

Dish Network DTVPal DVR review originally appeared on Engadget HD on Mon, 29 Jun 2009 15:39:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Around Engadget we're always looking for a better way to enjoy our HD home theater experience and a central part of that is the remote control. Now let us tell you, we've been through more programmable remotes then most people know exist and we still have yet to find one we're satisfied with. All that being said, we just can't believe that it's been well over a full year since capacitive touch screen devices have been readily available to consumers and no one other than Apple seems to understand the potential. As cool as touch screen interfaces look, for the most part they down right stink at controlling anything in a home theater. The root of the problem is that most require you to look at 'em, instead of the HDTV. This is such a bad idea on so many levels, but most of all, it doesn't work because just drawing a regular remote with buttons on a screen really defeats the entire point. Apple has shown it understands this in the past and with the latest update to its Apple TV/iTunes remote app it has stepped up its game a notch.

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Hands-on with the Apple TV iPhone remote originally appeared on Engadget HD on Fri, 26 Jun 2009 14:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Apple TVAppleTviPhoneiPhone RemoteIphoneRemoteFri, 26 Jun 2009 14:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Netgear MoCA Coax-Ethernet adapter review]]>http://www.engadgethd.com/2009/06/25/netgear-moca-coax-ethernet-adapter-review/http://www.engadgethd.com/2009/06/25/netgear-moca-coax-ethernet-adapter-review/http://www.engadgethd.com/2009/06/25/netgear-moca-coax-ethernet-adapter-review/#commentsFiled under: , ,

Netgear MoCA kit
Although we were just kids when all the world's computers connected to each other via a coax cable, we still recognize the throughput potential of the medium. This and the fact that just about every home in America already has coax running through its walls has always made us wonder why we couldn't utilize those wires to connect our computers. If you've wondered the same thing, then MoCA might just be for you. It is a CableLabe specification that allows devices to utilize the unused bandwidth on the coax at your house to send bits where no other medium can. So if you're sick of trying to stream HD via Wifi and power-line technologies, you're going to really want to click through and read about how these babies work.

Continue reading Netgear MoCA Coax-Ethernet adapter review

Netgear MoCA Coax-Ethernet adapter review originally appeared on Engadget HD on Thu, 25 Jun 2009 15:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>FeaturedFeaturesMCAB1001MoCANetgearNetgear MCAB1001NetgearMcab1001Thu, 25 Jun 2009 15:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Moxi HD DVR Review]]>http://www.engadgethd.com/2009/06/22/moxi-hd-dvr-review/http://www.engadgethd.com/2009/06/22/moxi-hd-dvr-review/http://www.engadgethd.com/2009/06/22/moxi-hd-dvr-review/#commentsFiled under: , ,

Moxi HD DVR search interface
In our world the only thing that stays the same is our desire to discover the next great thing. The cycle starts with new product announcements, which builds to anticipation, and eventually to disappointment once we realize the latest gadget isn't everything we hoped. This is more true in the DVR world than any other category we cover because although DVRs have been around for about 10 years now, it seems little has changed since. This is especially true when it comes to 3rd party DVRs which have been few and far between. In fact we are hard pressed to think of even a hand-full of DVRs that made a single dent in the market. TiVo is the most notable, but far from perfect and ReplayTV was great, but didn't last. Both LG and Sony had an HD DVR out there at one point, but you don't remember them for a reason. It's just a really hard sell to convince people to spend cash up front when their provider will give 'em a box for free. So it should come as no surprise that we couldn't wait to try out the Moxi HD DVR from Diego. We thought, finally a real competitor to TiVo, and now with a real HD interface for our HDTV.

Gallery: Moxi HD DVR GUI

Continue reading Moxi HD DVR Review

Moxi HD DVR Review originally appeared on Engadget HD on Mon, 22 Jun 2009 13:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>DigeoFeaturedFeaturesMoxiMoxi HD DVRMoxiHdDvrReviewsMon, 22 Jun 2009 13:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Blu-ray's Managed Copy explained, a Movie Jukebox is possible]]>http://www.engadgethd.com/2009/06/19/blu-rays-managed-copy-explained-a-movie-jukebox-is-possible/http://www.engadgethd.com/2009/06/19/blu-rays-managed-copy-explained-a-movie-jukebox-is-possible/http://www.engadgethd.com/2009/06/19/blu-rays-managed-copy-explained-a-movie-jukebox-is-possible/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

AACS LogoWe'll be honest, while others were predicting how poorly implemented the new Managed Copy system for Blu-ray would be -- mostly because the studios can charge for copies -- we were dreaming of new ways we'd like to enjoy our favorite movies. With DVD's CSS, everything was very restricted; simple tasks like transferring a movie to your PMP or storing 'em all on a Media Center PC was way, way more complicated than it should be -- not to mention a violation of the DMCA. Obviously we wanted to know more, so we went straight to the source and asked the AACS-LA exactly how it'll work, as well as how it'll handle things like rent, rip and return. Surprisingly, we were actually happy after the call and contrary to what you might believe, Managed Copy was actually designed with the consumer in mind.

Continue reading Blu-ray's Managed Copy explained, a Movie Jukebox is possible

Blu-ray's Managed Copy explained, a Movie Jukebox is possible originally appeared on Engadget HD on Fri, 19 Jun 2009 17:39:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>AACSAACS-LAFeaturedFeaturesManaged CopyManagedCopyMandatory Managed CopyMandatoryManagedCopyFri, 19 Jun 2009 17:39:00 EST<![CDATA[Samsung HT-WS1 soundbar review]]>http://www.engadgethd.com/2009/06/17/samsung-ht-ws1-soundbar-review/http://www.engadgethd.com/2009/06/17/samsung-ht-ws1-soundbar-review/http://www.engadgethd.com/2009/06/17/samsung-ht-ws1-soundbar-review/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

Samsung HT-WS1 soundbar
Without a doubt, soundbars are a popular market. As we said in our ZVOX review, they certainly have an appeal -- better sound quality than the terrible speakers and amplifiers typically built into TVs, no-hassle installation, small footprint, and modest pricing. For smaller rooms, especially secondary setups, soundbars can be a really good fit. So when Samsung offered up its HT-WS1 model to us for review, we just had to check it out. Our time with the HT-WS1 was a kind of an up and down ride with, so follow us past the break as we relive the details, won't you?

Continue reading Samsung HT-WS1 soundbar review

Samsung HT-WS1 soundbar review originally appeared on Engadget HD on Wed, 17 Jun 2009 13:08:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>featuresht-ws1reviewsamsungsamsung ht-ws1SamsungHt-ws1soundbarWed, 17 Jun 2009 13:08:00 EST<![CDATA[Ask Engadget HD: A good & cheap 1080p projector?]]>http://www.engadgethd.com/2009/06/10/ask-engadget-hd-a-good-and-cheap-1080p-projector/http://www.engadgethd.com/2009/06/10/ask-engadget-hd-a-good-and-cheap-1080p-projector/http://www.engadgethd.com/2009/06/10/ask-engadget-hd-a-good-and-cheap-1080p-projector/#commentsFiled under: , ,


We've had a few projector related questions before, but this one comes from a commenter on a previous post interested in upgrading his cinematic experience, lakersin2025 take it away:

"Can anyone recommend a decent 1080p projector that won't break the bank? Mainly for movies at night."

Not a whole lot to go one, with no particular desired technology or info on room size, but for someone trying to pick up a 1080p projector nowadays while spending something less than a million dollars, or perhaps something more resembling a couple grand at most, what's your pick?

Got a burning question that you'd love to toss out for Engadget HD (or its readers) to take a look at? Tired of Google's blank stares when you ask for real-world experiences? Hit us up at ask at engadgethd dawt com and keep an eye on this space -- your inquiry could be next.

Ask Engadget HD: A good & cheap 1080p projector? originally appeared on Engadget HD on Wed, 10 Jun 2009 12:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>1080pask engadget hdAskEngadgetHdfeaturedfeaturesprojectorWed, 10 Jun 2009 12:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Hertz so good -- Paradigm Signature SUB 25 subwoofer review]]>http://www.engadgethd.com/2009/06/09/hertz-so-good-paradigm-signature-sub-25-subwoofer-review/http://www.engadgethd.com/2009/06/09/hertz-so-good-paradigm-signature-sub-25-subwoofer-review/http://www.engadgethd.com/2009/06/09/hertz-so-good-paradigm-signature-sub-25-subwoofer-review/#commentsFiled under: , ,

Paradigm Signature SUB 25 subwoofer
We've had Paradigm's top-end Signature SUB 25 in our room for quite a while now, but trust us, coming to grips with how this beast performs has been truly challenging. Obviously, it goes really low, really loud -- the combination of a 15-inch front-mounted driver, an amp capable of cranking out 3,000-Watts (if your electrical service is up to snuff), and Paradigm's design and engineering chops pretty much guarantees that much. But after the novelty of cranking up the bass and making everything in the room rattle wears off, you've got to integrate the bass with the rest of your system. How well a sub can pull off this disappearing act is the true test of its worth. Read on to find out how well Paradigm's big dog pulled off this stunt.

Continue reading Hertz so good -- Paradigm Signature SUB 25 subwoofer review

Hertz so good -- Paradigm Signature SUB 25 subwoofer review originally appeared on Engadget HD on Tue, 09 Jun 2009 11:22:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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After making sure there was a domain name locked down for Epix, the new premium movie network formed by Studio 3 Networks (Paramount, Lionsgate and MGM) it was all about taking advantage of an early peek at the 720p Flash powered site to see what a new generation of home movie distribution has to offer. The tech end (opening up to invited users this week for beta testing) is powered by Akamai's variable bitrate streaming streaming technology, delivering up to 3mbps HD video with stereo audio all the way down (6 different levels) to 500kbps encodes. Where it surpasses current online offerings from the competition is the ability, thanks to the aforementioned studio backers, to provide many of the recent movies you want to see. Our impressions of the service and a few more pictures of the interface are after the break.

Continue reading Epix HD 720p movie streaming service eyes-on

Epix HD 720p movie streaming service eyes-on originally appeared on Engadget HD on Mon, 08 Jun 2009 12:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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