As clunky as my description above may sound, don’t let it deter you. The Multi-Function Converter totally rocks. Turning it on immediately discards the PC picture and sound in favor of the TV signal. This is initially full screen but you can hit the PiP (Picture-in-Picture) button to reduce the screen size. Once it is reduced, you can move it around the screen with the arrow keys on the remote. Pressing the PiP button once reduces the picture to 1/4th its size and subsequent presses will change it to 1/9th, 1/16th, and completely off. While in PiP mode, hitting the Select button will cycle back and forth from the TV audio and the PC audio (a nice feature that I wished worked in full screen mode too). The only problem with the PiP is that it doesn’t cycle back to full screen. The only way I could find to get it back to full screen was to turn the unit on and off again.

The picture out of the Multi-Function Converter is as good as any you’re going to see with a standard definition cable. The different available resolutions mean that you’re going to be able to find the right one for your display. In my setup, I use two displays (a bit unusual for most but I do a lot of work in here). What is cool in my setup is that I can switch my work screens over to the secondary display while watching TV on the primary. It’s like PiP but full screen. For most people the 1/4th screen size will be fine for multitasking and the ability to move the TV display out of the way on the fly is very convenient. The only real problem? I don’t need any more distractions in my office.

This product, to my mind, is not really marketed to someone like me (perhaps someone that needs (for work reasons) to keep up on current news on a minute by minute basis though). The Multi-Function Converter is a complete no-brainer for a college student with limited space. You’re going to need a computer (that’s a given) and finding room for a second display can be a problem. Of course, you could pick up a computer with Windows Media Center Edition or Vista but then you have to deal with all the problems that those operating systems entail (they have a lot more functionality too but that isn’t the point). Not to mention that college students may not have the money for a new computer and at $120, this is practically tailor made for a Christmas present.

One of my favorite features is engaged by hitting the left side of the Ch View button (at the bottom of the remote). Basically, it puts up some still images of nine channels in a grid formation (just like the numerical buttons on the remote). Then when you see the channel you want, you hit the corresponding number on the remote and you are taken directly to it. It starts with the current channel you are on as #1 and continues up from there. If you don’t like any of the channels displayed, you simply hit the left side of the Ch View button again and it will shoot up to the next 9 channels on the list. So, for example, if you are on channel 51, it will display 51-59 when you hit the button. If you hit the button again, it will display 60-68 (or wrap to the beginning once you reach the end of the scale). Now, I keep saying, “Hit the left side of the button,” because it is obviously double sided. Why you can’t scroll up through the channels with the right button and down with left is beyond me.

Recommendations

The Multi-Function Converter is a strange mix of coolness and design compromises. It seems that the remote and box was OEM’ed and almost fits the functioning of the device. Almost. I think the idea of the device is very cool and for the most part it works really well (if a bit clunky). Still, there are a couple of things I’d change:

• I’d love to have the base attach to the unit better and perhaps be a bit heavier for more stability

• Right now, it passes MTS only (Dolby ProLogic). That is fine for the standard definition TV but it is possible that someone is utilizing 5.1 analogue outputs. A pass-through of this (and others) type of audio would be a nice addition.

• True pass through of audio (no change in the volume) is a must

• Cable card or digital cable/satellite support would be nice

• The front of the unit should have a display. It looks like it does, why doesn’t it?

Conclusion

Despite all its quirks, the pure functionality of the Multi-Function Converter makes it a winner in my book. The space saving quality lets you utilize that computer display that has a much higher resolution than any TV a college student might have. For $120, you can have your computer do double duty and perhaps bump up your monitor budget to the next size monitor. As a parent, when the over-the-air broadcasts transitions to digital broadcasting on February 17th, 2009, this unit will need an ATSC tuner or adapter box. Perhaps making your kids pony up for one will be just the motivation they need to get out of college and get a real job.

About Impact Acoustics

Since 1984, Lastar has been a leader in the computer connectivity industry. Under the brand name Cables To Go, Lastar created a line of computer connectivity products known for quality and value. CTG uses the finest components and the latest construction technologies to maximize cable performance and ensure compliance to industry specifications for each cable and its designated application. From PC Cables and Adapters to Networking and Data Sharing products, Cables To Go has delivered the best products at an always-competitive price.

In 2002 Lastar created Impact Acoustics in order to deliver its expertise in computer and data connectivity products to the consumer and commercial communications electronics industry. Tasked with a single goal – to manufacture and deliver the finest performing products at the most competitive price possible – Impact Acoustics has the ability to leverage its manufacturing facilities, sales team, service team and engineering professionals to bring you state-of-the-art audio and video performance at prices that define value.

Unlike many of our competitors, Impact Acoustics does not repackage generic product to call its own. Each and every Impact Acoustics product is designed from the ground up to meet meticulous construction and rigorous engineering standards. We won’t compromise, and neither should you!