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Yamaha RX-V863 AV Receiver Overview

The RX-V863 is the top of the new mid line receiver offerings from Yamaha. It sports HDMI 1.3 inputs, internal decoding of all the latest HD audio formats, 1080p analogue video upconversion, and two subwoofer outputs. All the bells and whistles include and HD radio tuner, 7x105 watts, and no less that 17 surround modes. All that and more for just under $1k!

EMP ECA-4 & ECA-44 Compact Satellite Speaker System Review

This is a must have solution for any application requiring a compact clutter free and inconspicuously mounted installation. For a limited time, EMP is extending 50% off their MSRP which makes this system even more attractive and a very uncommon value. So basically $500 gets you 5 high performance compact satellite speakers. I recommend pairing this system with two small but potent subs and you’ve got a “cubed speaker system” killer for under $1k.

Recently Reviewed Digital Media Servers

First Look: Panasonic/Comcast Portable DVR
by Tom Andry — last modified January 14, 2008 10:31

Panasonic and Comcast Corporation unveiled the industry’s first Portable DVR/DVD player powered by tru2way technology at the CES. The Comcast/Panasonic co-branded AnyPlay Portable DVR (P-DVR) will let Comcast customers record programming at home and take it with them wherever they go. The P-DVR will be available beginning in early 2009.

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First Look: D-Link Media Center Extender
by Tom Andry — last modified January 14, 2008 09:15

Microsoft was touting a number of media center extenders (other than the Xbox 360) at CES this year. The DSM-750 from D-Link features dual-band wireless Draft 802.11n technology for fast Wi-Fi performance, making the wireless streaming of high-definition (HD) video possible. It also offers content from more than 21 providers - including sports, movies and other entertainment. The box as small as a DVD player and seems to have the performance to match.

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First Look: Microsoft Home Servers - for Kids?
by Tom Andry — last modified January 14, 2008 08:56

While the home servers are nothing new, Microsoft's new method of introducing them to your child certainly is. "Mommy, why is there a server in the house" children's book was eye opening to us on a lot of levels. First of all, how does someone (no matter their age) call a server a server without knowing what it does? Second, why does the child sound so scared?

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First Look: Dish Network VIP 722 DVR
by Clint DeBoer — last modified January 11, 2008 14:14

The slightly updated Dish Network ViP722 HD-DVR was on hand for our viewing pleasure and we noted that the primary improvement was in the storage department. The new ViP722 is MPEG-4 (and MPEG-2) compatible and stores around 55 hours of 1080i or 720p HD video and a whopping 350 hours of standard definition programming. That's like 16 seasons of House! They added the ability to add a second USB-connected Hard drive externally for almost unlimited storage. For users who really like to archive, this means you could theoretically buy cheap drives and swap them out as you go...

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First Look: Dish Network DVR Converter
by Clint DeBoer — last modified January 11, 2008 12:09

We got a sneak peek at the as-yet-unnamed DVR converter system that Dish plans on rolling out later this year. While they didn't have a lot of information on the product, the system is essentially a device which transforms any non-DVR product into a DVR system. It was contained in a Maxtor-branded external enclosure which, when paired with a Dish receiver, enables digital video recording of program material. It will allow all of the DishDVR features, including 30-second skip fast forward and reverse. It will of course, record and play back shows form the program guide - but a bonus feature is that it extends 2-day program guide systems to 9-days.

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First Look: Squeezebox Duet Network Music System
by Tony Leotta — last modified January 08, 2008 15:19

Logitech annouced the release of their new and improved Squeezebox Duet network music system, which allows people to access and listen to the music they in any room of their home. The new Squeezebox Duet system offers an innovative controller, which includes a full-color LCD screen, and a compact receiver which enables people to wirelessly browse, select and play their digital music on their existing stereo speakers anywhere in the home – even when their computer is off.

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First Look: Escient Vision Series
by Clint DeBoer — last modified December 20, 2007 08:29

Escient stunned us by showing off its highly anticipated Vision Series Media Management products which will begin shipping in February, 2008. These new products provide users with the ability to play and import all their movies, videos, music, and photos using the front-panel drive and home network. If you read between the lines you'll see why we might be excited. It looks like the days of including a DVD changer in an Escient system may be over. The Vision Series products including two versions of an all-in-one server/player, ModelsVS-100 and VS-200, as well as the VC-1 networked audio/video zone player. All ship with HDMI 1.3 and there is also the large-capacity VX-600 media server which removes the need for an external DVD changer. All told, the new system provides consumers with an elegant new solution for managing, accessing and enjoying movies and music throughout the home, all via the intuitive Escient interface.

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Pro Review: Impact Acoustics Multi-Function Converter with Tuner and Picture in Picture Review
by Tom Andry — last modified June 06, 2007 10:09

The first thing I thought when I saw the Impact Acoustics Multi-Function Converter with Tuner and Picture-in-Picture was, “Wow, that’s a mouth full!” I knew two things, first, that I had no idea what it was and what it did, and two, that there had to be a better name. Well, I now know what it is but I can’t say I’ve come up with a better name. In short the MFCwT&PnP (I don’t think that acronym is going to catch on) stands between your computer and your display. When activated, it mutes the volume from your computer, overlays a TV signal on your display, and sends the audio to your speakers. But how well does it work?

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Pro Review: Slim Devices Transporter Digital Music Player Review
by Clint DeBoer — last modified March 06, 2007 05:42

I hate CD players. They're bulky and they typically play only 1-5 discs at a time - unless you get a CD changer and that's like getting the family pack at Krystal - it isn't about quality. We're no strangers to Slim Devices Digital Network Music Players. In fact, we've reviewed both the second and third iterations of the Squeezebox Digital Music Players. This product is more than I would have expected - or even hoped for - a completely tricked-out Squeezebox with dual displays, upgraded DAC, and enough functionality to serve as the true powerhouse in any "analogue-is-my-friend" system. But can this new "Cadillac" model really replace your CD player?

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Featured Digital Media Server Reviews

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Yamaha RX-V863 AV Receiver Overview

EMP ECA-4 & ECA-44 Compact Satellite Speaker System Review

Recently Reviewed Digital Media Servers

Digital Media Servers