Which multimedia player to choose. Choosing a universal media player to connect to a TV

Many modern TV models already have built-in devices for playing multimedia content, but their functionality may be lower than that of a separately installed media player for a TV. By connecting additional equipment, you can significantly expand the capabilities of your TV, get access to social networks and various Internet services, even from the screens of the simplest models. Therefore, many users are thinking about buying an additional TV set-top box.

Modern multimedia TV set-top boxes have replaced VCRs and DVD/CD players. Today they are:

• read almost any video and audio formats;
• able to open any image;
• reproduce information from a variety of sources (portable portable storage devices, mobile gadgets, etc.);
• broadcast streaming video;
• enable users to access the Internet through a browser, use large quantity entertainment services;
• support uTorrent, 3D, Wi-Fi and gaming features.

Specific functionality may vary by model.

In appearance it small devices with different ports and control panel. Latest Versions Can have LCD display, user touch operation tool. Connection to the TV is made via an HDMI cable, wireless connection or component jack.

Some devices fit and to old kinescope types of TV. In this case, information is transmitted via S-Video or a composite slot. It should be understood that the functionality of such a pair will be limited. Since if the media player has any capabilities, then such a TV will not be able to reproduce, for example, the FullHD or 3D format. Of course, users of modern LED TV models have more opportunities.

Composite RCA and S-Video output

Is it worth buying a media player for a TV if you have a computer

At first glance, it may seem that such a device is a waste of money when you have a PC or laptop. After all, the computer just performs these functions. But not every electronic computing device is capable of transmitting high quality picture and sound as widescreen LED TV will do, especially in high definition HD and FullHD, as well as Blue Ray.

You can connect a laptop or system unit to a large screen via an HDMI cable, but this is not always convenient. In addition, you often have to rack your brains over setting up device synchronization, especially for playing streaming video or recording TV broadcasts on HDD computer.

Another plus in favor of a separate TV set-top box - silent operation. Since the computer is equipped with a cooling device, it creates a certain amount of noise during operation. The advantages are obvious, so for connoisseurs of excellent video playback quality, you should think about how to choose a media player for your TV.

Connecting the computer system unit to the TV

What criteria should you pay attention to when choosing a modern TV set-top box

Today the market is represented by a wide range of digital players for TVs. To determine the choice of the most suitable device model for yourself, you should pay attention to the following criteria:

• media player interface;
• possible playback formats;
• control system;
• sources and media of content (support for Internet services);
• additional functionality.

Media player interface

Even before sending to the store for a new device for your TV, you need to find out the availability of ports and connectors that television equipment has. This information is important for choosing how to connect the set-top box. The most optimal and popular option today -HDMI-cable, such a connection will provide high quality video transmission and multi-channel audio. This digital connector allows you to play HD and FullHD resolutions available for modern LED TV models from LG, Samsung, Sony and other manufacturers.

For older TVs, the set-top box may need to support the following connector types.

1. Component output. For synchronization, many well-known "tulips" are used. A feature of this connection is the transmission of individual components of the video signal over several cables, at the end of which there are three RCA connectors. In this case, only the image is transmitted, the sound in stereo format is connected separately.

1. Composite output. The principle of video signal transmission is similar to the previous one, but the image quality is worse. If possible, it is better to use an analog interface.
2. S— video. Such a connector is rarely found even on CRT TVs, but it is still present in some models. The design feature and quality of the video signal transmission are somewhat better than the composite one. It is based on two dividing lines, which are used to transmit luminance and chrominance signals in an image.

In addition to the ports for connecting the media player to the TV, it must support and additional set of interfaces. Modern models, in addition to the mandatory HDMI and USB, may have an optical or card reader for connecting other storage media. Not all devices provide for a built-in HDD, but most allow you to connect a removable hard drive (two USB connectors are required for quality work).

It is important not only to think about how to connect the set-top box to the TV, but also to synchronization with other devices. All the necessary connectors must be present in the technical specifications of the device. Also, if necessary, you should take care of purchasing additional adapters that are not included with the media player.

Possible playback formats

Without exaggeration, we can say that modern multimedia TV boxes play almost all video and audio formats, and also open any images. Even the most budget devices will play popular AVI, MKV, MP4. Therefore, through most set-top boxes, you can watch movies in the BDRip (-AVC) or DVDRip standards.

The entire list of readable formats is indicated in the technical specifications.

But many inexperienced users are mistaken, evaluating the device according to the list of supported formats, not taking into account the concept media containers and codecs by equating them. Simply put, if the set-top box supports playback of the mp4 container, this does not mean that all files with this extension will be played in high quality. They can open, for example, without sound or with noise, if the audio track is not supported. Since the concepts of media container and codec have different definitions. In the first case, this is the file format, in the second, the stream format in it.

For those who want to watch movies on their home theater in high quality or format 3D, you should choose advanced reading formats. For example, films often 3D graphics have the ISO extension or several folders with files of various formats. And support for the ISO BD3D extension is not present in all models.

3Q F370HW 3D Media Player

Control system

In addition to supporting standard media formats and optimal loading times, a media player must have Russian-language menu with convenient control and navigation are fundamental factors in the analysis of this criterion. Users have the ability to control the media set-top box both from the device itself and from the remote control or through a mobile gadget. There are also models that provide support for a QWERTY keyboard and computer wireless mouse. These accessories will come in handy when working with social networks or an Internet browser through a TV screen. For convenience, you can use a universal remote that allows you to control both the set-top box and the TV at the same time.

Sources and carriers of content (support for Internet services)

The set-top box can play media content from various media.

1. Built-in HDD. In this case, the media size will be important. A plus built-in hard drive– all multimedia content is stored in one place and is available at any time.
2. portable storage device (flash drive, external hard drive) connected via USB.
3. Memory cards for cameras, camcorders, mobile gadgets. Their connection is made either through a built-in or external card reader, or through a cable.
4. Hard drives of devices connected to Wi-Fi (if wireless connectivity is available).
5. Online services such as youtube, IVI, Google Video, Apple Trailers, Meta Cafe, etc. (if connected to the Internet).

The possibilities of media players are constantly expanding. Modern models allow you to read letters received by email, play online games, find out news and weather forecasts, view new films that are just appearing in wide distribution, etc.

Media player Zappiti Player 4K

Additional functionality

More advanced devices give users more options. Therefore, if the purpose of the purchase is to make Smart TV out of your Samsung or LG TV, it is better to give preference to set-top boxes with:

• opportunity connection to home network (via wireless connection or Ethernet cable);
• Internet access to be able to use popular online services, social networks, IP-TV;
• modern operating system to be able to update it and install additional software.

The choice and purchase of a media player, even for modern TV models, will be very helpful. Especially for those users who appreciate high-quality images and multi-channel sound. In addition, such a device can turn a simple TV into a Smart one, and in models with such a function already built in, it can significantly expand its capabilities. After all, even an expensive home theater may not have all the necessary functionality, and the right multimedia TV set-top box can solve these problems.

What is a TV media player? Probably everyone has a distant idea of ​​​​what kind of device it is. Multimedia technology has been and will be associated with watching movies, TV shows, listening to your favorite music. Media players at the time of the appearance on the electronics market provoked the transformation of televisions from ordinary television signal receivers into a home multimedia entertainment center. At the same time, this function is more often assigned to the software built into smart TV. At the same time, media players are popular in the market because they are universal and allow you to replace them with a more modern model.

As a carrier of information, not only a CD, a flash drive, which is familiar to most users, can be used, with the help of which multimedia content is played. Modern devices work with Internet access due to support WiFi technologies. Therefore, they provide the opportunity to watch series and movies on large Smart TVs. Media players provide an opportunity for users to enjoy a high quality picture.

Previously, the number of media players and the number of manufacturers was insignificant. It is easier for a modern user to get confused in the abundance of both companies and the number of models available. The TV set-top box, with the right choice, will be easy to use and multi-tasking.

Plasma TVs are produced with an already built-in player, but you need to understand that their functionality is lower than that of a separately purchased device.

The acquisition of any technology can be approached in different ways. Someone takes into account the available budget. But this option of choosing a device is not always crowned with success, since the functionality of inexpensive models leaves much to be desired. Next, consider key points, which you need to pay attention to when choosing a media player.

The range of available interfaces during the period of digital broadcasting is gradually losing its positions, TVs are considered to be a candidate for connecting a media player, in which there is an HDMI input and support for resolutions from HD Ready and higher.

The connector will allow you to get maximum quality during video signal transmission, making it easier to output multi-channel audio to your home theater. Digital sound can be transmitted to acoustics in a modified format - this is a characteristic feature of HDMI.

If you analyze the question of how to choose a media player, you need to dwell on the size of the device. The dimensions of the new models depend solely on the number of connectors for connecting to the TV, and the compartment for the hard drive.

It is not necessary to choose a model with a HDD connector only, since this option may become unclaimed in the near future. The constant need to connect a media player to a computer, remove the drive to transfer new content, work with a torrent - all this takes a lot of time. Play content by local network is one of the fastest ways.

Players without the function of supporting data exchange over the network are a rarity. Even inexpensive models can offer their future owners an Ethernet connector or Wi-Fi support. When Wi-Fi is at home, it is logical to immediately purchase a model with the option of accessing home network storage.

An Android-based media player with Internet access is an additional support for various functions: a Facebook client, VK, Skype and various instant messengers.

Let's move on to the supported formats. Over the years, devices have appeared that support formats such as:

• Divx/Xvid;
• H.264;
• MPEG1/2.

In terms of sound, there are also high-quality audio formats here: DTS, Dolby Digital Plus and Dolby TrueHD.

Fans of “full-format and surround video” may face problems. Since movies that support 3D are not often found as an ISO extension or as a file folder. In this case, it is necessary to select models of media players that support such standards as ISO BD3D, while navigating through the movie should be carried out at the expense of Lite.

Control methods in most cases are represented by: remote control, computer keyboard, mouse (in some models). The last two options make switching the TV comfortable.

For a competent choice of a media player, you need to consider the following criteria:

• formats with which the device works;
• hard disk memory;
• number and types of connectors;
• availability of support for Internet services;
• menu navigation;
• Russian-language interface;
• budget size.

Options for connecting a media player to a TV

For those who prefer simplicity in operation, it is better to opt for Full HD media players. Most models connect to the Internet via Wi-Fi. The device is connected to the TV using special interfaces.

When it comes to connecting the player to an outdated TV model, the situation becomes more complicated here. Since, due to the lack of HDMI in the old TV, you have to choose one of the analog interfaces:

1. Composite output, or "Tulip". It has been used for over ten years to output video signal, stereo sound. The sound quality is significantly reduced, it is better to dwell on alternative options.
2. component output. It also uses several cables or "tulips", which contributes to image quality, and is considered the best among the available options.
3. scart. To a greater extent, this is not an interface, but "container" to transmit an RGB image. V modern devices is rare.
4. S video. This connector is characteristic of outdated computer video cards. Rarely used by TV manufacturers.

Also used for HDMI connections. It is standard, and identical for all equipment. When there is no HDMI, you can use "tulips".

The best models of media players

When choosing which media player to buy, everyone initially pays attention to the company that produces this product. Previously, the number of manufacturers was insignificant, today the number of brands is huge, so those who are faced with the purchase of such equipment for the first time may be confused. The most popular brands are: Apple, Nvidia, Xiaomi, Google, Pioneer, Dune, Rombica. And before you are only the most important representatives of this industry.

Each brand has its own characteristics, style, chips, technical characteristics. Next, we will look at the rating of media players in 2019.

Apple TV 4K 32GB

This is one of the best media players for TVs from the world brand Apple. The design is discreet, in black. The dimensions of the box are small, the edges are rounded. There are no extra decorative elements. The maximum resolution is 4K.

Also the player supports such formats as: MOV and MP4. If we talk about sound and graphic formats, the device supports all known options. Connection to TV is carried out using a digital channel HDMI 2.0. Additionally, you can use Wi-Fi. Alternative connectivity options include Bluetooth and Ethernet.

For those who use other Apple products, AirPlay technology can be used. This greatly simplifies the work with all devices, due to the fast transfer of files.

High performance is provided by the processor of its own production - Apple A10X Fusion. RAM - 3 GB, built-in memory - 32 GB. Passive type of cooling is used. But you have to pay for this functionality.

Nvidia Shield TV

It should be noted that this iron is presented in two versions. Characteristic differences are the size of the built-in memory and the dimensions of the device.

Multifunctional player, which is presented by the legendary manufacturer GPUs. The maximum resolution is 4K. Supported video formats such as: MKV, AVI, M2TS, MP4 and others. All sound files are read.

To connect, you will use HDMI 2.0. Additional interfaces are also presented in a wide range from Wi-Fi to Ethernet.

Personal production processor - Nvidia Tegra X1. 3 GB - random access memory. OS - Android 7.0. Users can download the necessary applications from Google Play. The main menu is easy to use, to use the joystick you need to synchronize the console with an Nvidia account.

The design of the player deserves special attention. Indeed, the manufacturer has relied not only on the functionality of the device, but also on the original appearance.

Dune HD TV 102W

We can say that this is a little-known brand that specializes in the production of digital media players. Despite the insignificant work experience in this sector, its products are actively bought both in Russia and on the territory of foreign countries. TV-102W is the junior model, it provides high speed and stable operation.

The processor works with current video and audio formats. Due to streaming services, the set-top box is practical to use. Users will be able to enjoy working with web browsers, free online cinemas, extended media player OS. Social networks are also available, work with files in the local space is supported. Suitable for Smart TV.

Among the minuses, one can note the lack of support for 3D video and sound in DTS format. But this is more of a drawback for those who love a rich picture. You can also note the low power wifi transmitter.

The device catches digital channels IPTV. You can control it with a remote control. If set special software on a gadget (cellular, tablet) you can control the media player. The option to share data via iOS and Android is available.

The Russian-language menu is simple, all plugins are presented on one screen. The user can immediately select the section he needs: browser, virtual keyboard, radio. The advantage of this model is a stable firmware update, it can be downloaded from the official website of the manufacturer.

Xiaomi Mi Box 4K

The Xiaomi brand is extremely famous in Russia and other countries. The company specializes in the production of various equipment. In particular, Xiaomi is famous for its stylish, functional smartphones. Not the last place in the production process is occupied by media players.

Here is one of the most interesting and reliable models. In general, the technical characteristics for such a price are worthy. The maximum video playback format is 4K. Connection methods are presented:

• HDMI;
• stereo jack;
• "tulips";
• Audio video connectors.

Wi-Fi and Bluetooth wireless interfaces are also available. Through the USB connector, you can connect a hard drive or flash drive.

The Amlogic S905 chipset powers the player. The available RAM is slightly less than the previously presented options, 2 GB. A passive cooling method is also used.

Apple NV Gen4 32GB

Here is a video player model that was presented by a global brand a long time ago. The latest updated version of Apple TV 4th Generation 32GB was slightly changed by the manufacturer, namely, the company relied on applications, now the set-top box supports the most popular programs from the App Store.

The model runs on the tvOS user interface. The connection can be made using an HDMI cable, there is also a wireless Wi-Fi interface or wired Ethernet.

It should be noted that the kit includes a smart remote control equipped with a microphone. Also for game lovers, a built-in motion sensor to work as a game controller.

Rombica Smart Box Ultra HD V003

This media player works with different video formats up to 4K. Works on Android OS, it is possible to install applications from Google Play or APK applications operating system. Built-in Internet services and clients of various social networks simplify the work with the player.

Supports 3D. 8 GB built-in memory. Three additional USB ports are available. You can also connect a wireless keyboard or mouse for comfortable operation of the device.

The appearance is unremarkable, reminiscent of a router. The design is concise, compact, without unnecessary elements, fingerprints do not remain on the matte finish. The player is equipped with feet, which improves air circulation. The advantage is the connection to older TV models.

As for cooling, this model has a reshaped bottom cover, due to which additional ventilation is created.

Iconbit XDS94K

The square box is made of plastic, has a metal edging. The disadvantage is that all fingerprints remain on the player.

The device works with such interfaces as:

• USB ports (4 pieces);
• HDMI cable and Ethernet;
• power cable;
• S/P-DIF;
• microSD slot.

The player's menu is simple, there are no unnecessary elements that distract users. It is also worth mentioning that the remote control is small in size; for the most frequent functions, the corresponding buttons are placed on the remote control.

Working with the remote control, you can open all sections of interest, configure the device. A virtual mouse mode is also available here. If desired, the user can connect a wireless keyboard and mouse.

The remote control supports the HDMI CEC protocol, which ensures synchronization between the player and the TV. For budget devices, such a solution is rare, but here, as we can see, the manufacturer decided to please its users.

The media player can be used as a commercial video player. The equipment can work 24/7 without days off, and special applications can play files without interruption and return to the main menu. Additionally, each owner of this device can activate the auto-off function due to the timer. This option is also available for instant launch desired file after turning on the TV.

Amibox X96

Completes the list of some of the best X96 Mini consoles. Thanks to the ability to purchase players, and choose the most suitable ones depending on your goals and preferences, there is no need to constantly purchase new TVs.

This device is easy to connect. You can use cords, or use Internet technologies.

The player operates on the Android TV operating system. This opens up the ability to watch videos, view social networks, additionally download applications from the store. For more comfortable use, you can purchase and connect a wireless keyboard or mouse. But in general, you can switch, work with the menu, scroll through social networks using the remote control. The remote control contains buttons for performing basic functions.

The manufacturer equipped the device with a powerful Amlogic S905W 64 bit Cortex-A53 processor with a frequency of up to 2.0 GHz. The model is equipped with 4 cores. 2 GB - RAM. The model is not equipped with Bluetooth. Supports UHD 4K.

Note.

Recently, the TV has evolved from a simple “box” for watching analog TV programs into a high-tech device that can be compared with a computer in its functionality. Modern models can be included in a home local area network. Some people use them to surf the web, chat with friends via Skype, and play games. Of course, the hardware of the TV will not pull powerful 3D shooters, but you will definitely leave Angry Birds.

But here's the catch: only SmartTVs have all of the above functionality, the price of which often exceeds the cost regular TV and a powerful computer combined. Of course, many consumers have very serious doubts about the need for such a purchase. It is right, since the media player for the TV will turn the old LCD model into a good analogue of the “smart”, and for all the pleasures you are unlikely to pay more than five to six thousand rubles.

What it is?

It would be foolish to continue talking about such devices without digressing and describing this concept in some more detail. So, what is a media player for a TV?

If you are a user of gadgets on the Android mobile OS, then you can imagine a kind of mini-computer under its own control. Have you heard of the Raspberry Pi? So, the media player is the same "Blackberry" based on an ARM processor. Unlike the mentioned mini-computers, it already has a proprietary shell from the manufacturer, usually based on Android with the addition of some specific services and programs.

Roughly speaking, this is such a miniature for which your TV acts as a monitor.

Advantages

In principle, you can easily guess about the positive aspects of this kind of technology yourself. Having bought a media player for a TV for only four to five thousand rubles, you will make a modern entertainment center even out of outdated technology.

Given the speed of Android development, you don't have to worry about the lack of any applications: players for video and audio files, browsers, programs for We have already said that there is even Skype! Of course, in this case, you will need to purchase an additional webcam, but it also does not cost too much.

In addition, portable devices can be connected to such devices in combination with the ability to launch torrent clients, which makes any media player for TV a real treasure for connoisseurs of watching movies.

Easy setup and security

If you somehow follow the news of IT technologies, then you have probably heard about the scandal that erupted around SmartTV from LG. Recall that at that time users caught too smart technology in espionage. Not only was it very difficult to refuse targeted advertising in the settings (the option was hidden far away), but even after the corresponding check-box was removed, user information continued to be sent to the company's servers.

Of course, the Android OS is far from perfect in this regard. Currently, there are hundreds of thousands of malicious programs for it that can be dangerous to your personal data. But there are also important differences.

Firstly, there are many effective antivirus programs for Android. Secondly, if you have not so deep knowledge in the topic, you can install not only a different firmware on stationary media players, but even a new operating system! In any case, instructions for installing special ARM builds of Debian and Ubunu are found on the net without any problems.

As you can understand, no such fundamental feature is provided in SmartTV. Moreover, even with updating its firmware, problems may arise, since not everyone has a normal wired Internet, and such a technique is simply not able to recognize a USB modem.

Where can content be played from?

Unlike Smart TV or any other, it is easy to “pick up” a movie or a musical composition from a home local network, from an external hard drive or NAS server, which are currently insanely popular. Some of them have a built-in hard drive to which you can download music and video, and nobody canceled playback from a flash drive.

Keep in mind that a portable media player with a supply of movies will fit into your pocket, becoming a faithful and indispensable companion on a business trip or travel.

LAN settings

Unlike the aforementioned "smart TVs", you are unlikely to encounter problems. The most commonly used Wi-Fi network. As a rule, the device will immediately "hook" to the home wireless network, requiring only a password to enter.

If you want to connect the gadget via a wired connection, there may be more difficulties. So, for sure, you will need to enter the IP address of the set-top box itself, and other attributes. When setting up a digital media player, you will have to contact the manufacturer, study the procedure for setting up connected devices on their website.

Formats and other "buns"

As for the number of supported photos and videos, in this case, these devices are beyond any competition. In addition, the media player will be indispensable for those who have an HD video camera at home. Why? Judge for yourself:

• Write to disk? Expensive, tedious, and the optical drives themselves are already gradually becoming a thing of the past.
• It is simply inconvenient to watch from the small display of the camera itself.
• Of course, you can use a computer monitor for the same purpose, but professional videos will look much more colorful on widescreen TV.
• In the end, you can connect a system unit or laptop to a TV, but not everyone can handle the settings.

Media players are different...

In order to choose the best media player, it is highly advisable to follow some of the guidelines below. First, the appearance and dimensions of the device must be in harmony with the appearance of all your equipment. It may seem absurd, but if the gadget stands out against your plasma panel, it will catch the eye even when watching a movie.

However, the technical characteristics of the player are much more important, which must include the following parameters:

• The more supported formats, the better. The MKV codec in their list is required. Ideal for imitation - software media player "classic".
• It is highly desirable that only the most efficient chips are used (like Sigma Designs 8634/8642).
• It would be nice if the player supports playback of Blu-Ray disc images.
• If you are a beginner, you should be interested in the option to automatically scan your home network for public folders.
• Is it possible to watch IPTV? It is perfectly!
• For the same beginners, it will be much better if the technique itself sets the mode for displaying the image on the TV screen.
• In the case when the buyer classifies himself as a connoisseur of music, it is highly desirable to have HD-audio (DD TrueHD/Master Audio) decoders.

Some disadvantages

Of course, nothing is perfect in the world. Media players are no exception. What are the shortcomings of the technique we are considering? How serious are they and interfere with watching movies and listening to music?

You need to start with what android platform without a stable and fast Internet is of little use. Of course, you can try to watch a movie on a device you just bought, but no one can guarantee that there will be the necessary codec or a sufficiently "omnivorous" player.

Everything needs to be downloaded from the network, so you won't envy the proud owners of a GPRS/EDGE channel in this situation. In their case, nevertheless, the best solution would be to connect a laptop or computer to a TV, since they will certainly be able to cope with the image output setting, but it is unlikely to do without a normal Internet. In a word, a network media player that is completely dependent on the availability of an Internet connection is definitely not suitable for us.

The convenience of use

If possible, be sure to turn on the device while still in the store, try to cope with its management. Often there are cases when the media player itself is quite good, but its menu and navigation through it are so terrible that it is impossible to use the device normally.

The same item should also include the size and ergonomics of the console. Today on the shelves you can find a lot of such devices, in which the remotes are more like a horseshoe for a flea in size. It is not known what designers are guided by, but in the dark you definitely do not get to the right button.

Avoid remotes that have only a couple of buttons: they look nice, but it's much more convenient to launch many functions with a single press, rather than circling through several menus. If possible, you should purchase a universal control device that includes the functions of a mouse and keyboard.

Please note that the keyboard, mouse and webcam in most cases will have to be purchased separately. The cost of specialized devices (a special camera for the player) is often much higher than that of their conventional counterparts.

Don't forget the platform too. ARM processors are not very productive devices, so films at maximum resolution can noticeably slow down. However, this statement is far from being true for all devices: almost any Sony media player is almost certainly deprived of this drawback.

Instead of an introduction, we would like to draw the attention of buyers to the reduction in cost and progress of Smart TV systems over the past year. The ability to connect drives and wide support for various formats are now available even in the most inexpensive TVs. This is great, but the functionality of the "boxes" threatens media players entry level. Up to complete disappearance.

Players are different

Several classes of devices are able to “inject” multimedia functions into a TV today: the successors of DVD players, computers and tablets paved their way to TV screens.

The most time-consuming type of media players are nettop class models. These avant-garde mini-computers impress with their compactness and stability, and the quality of components, the performance of ultra-low-voltage processors and desktop OS capabilities cannot be compared with the potential of other media players. All the power of computer browsers, content playback programs and file-sharing networks can now be obtained within a quiet and compact "box".

Nettops: media players outside - computers inside

The problem is that the domestic use of these, in fact, desktop computers is hardly compatible with the tasks of a set-top box. Choosing and buying a remote control, finding a suitable media shell and setting up a DVB tuner will require serious patience, and therefore turn the project into a long-term project. We leave this method to experienced and determined fans of the PC platform, and we offer you to get acquainted with the world of nettops in numerous news and reviews on the site.

The next subspecies of media players are devices based on Android OS. Attempts to endow TVs with the functionality of smartphones and tablets have become a trend in recent years: familiar and ready-to-use applications, OS adaptation to high-resolution displays, and inexpensive processors have had a positive impact on the spread of such devices. The disadvantage, as in the case of nettops, is the mediocre adaptation of the system to new controls: manufacturers have to “reinvent” the Android interface, taking into account the lack of touch input, and users have to get used to the specifics of using the “lazy” Air Mouse.

Standing apart among these media players are mini-computers of the Android Stick format. These miniature (the size of a large flash drive) devices are deprived of a digital tuner and have only an HDMI connector. But they can boast of an affordable price and a powerful operating system.

HDMI Stick - compact media players based on Android OS

The main role in the media player market is played by devices running Sigma Designs and Realtek platforms - direct descendants of hardware DVD and Blu-ray players. The loss of an optical disc drive is compensated by the introduction of streaming services, "omnivorousness" and, sometimes, a standard HDD connector in the media player case. Being more household than computer equipment, this class of devices rarely allows the installation of third-party applications and services. The efforts of the developers lie in the plane of ease of management and picture quality.

Classic IPTV set-top boxes are still relevant today

Our guide will focus on two latest categories devices.

In the dark forest of characteristics

Buying a media player can be treated differently. Nothing prevents you from being guided only by the budget for the purchase of the device. And such an approach will not necessarily result in disappointment, since the functionality of even the most budget models today satisfies the needs of an undemanding user. We will try to identify priorities for those who want to get the most out of the media player when minimum investment funds.

Interfaces

The variety of interfaces in the era of digital broadcasting is fading, so the ideal candidate for connecting a media player is a TV equipped with an HDMI input and support for resolutions from HD Ready and higher. The digital connector will ensure maximum video quality and greatly simplify the output of multi-channel audio to your home theater. The HDMI specification allows you to transmit digital sound to acoustics in an unchanged form (bitstream technology), which makes it possible to use the full potential of a high-quality audio system on media players running Sigma and Realtek platforms. Things are worse for set-top boxes based on ARM Cortex chipsets. In their case, the sound potential is most often limited by the transfer of a stereo stream (LPCM) already processed on the set-top box to the TV.

When it comes to connecting a media player to an outdated TV, the situation becomes much more complicated. In the absence of an HDMI connector, you will have to choose from the following analog interfaces:

• composite output. Referred to on devices as AV Out or RCA. Uses familiar for the second decade "tulips" to output video and stereo sound. The quality of sound and video with this connection method leaves much to be desired, and if possible, we recommend using alternative connectors.

Composite interface

• component output. Referred to on devices as YUV Out or YPbPr. It is based on the same "tulips", but the video signal is transmitted through several cables at once, and the final picture quality is the best among all available analog interfaces.

Component Interface

• scart. In fact, it is not an interface, but a "container" for transmitting an RGB image with low image quality by modern standards. Rarely found among media player connectors and, as a rule, it comes in the form of an adapter from a composite connector or an S-Video interface.

SCART socket

• S video. The least common interface in media players and TVs. Structurally, S-Video is a slightly better alternative to the composite connector. This development did not gain much popularity among TV manufacturers, and today it often catches the eye among the connectors of outdated computer video accelerators.

S-video connector

Media players with an analog tuner on board have practically disappeared from retail, and support for the standard has come in their place. digital TV broadcasting DVB-T2. The digital television network in Russia is rapidly expanding, but broadcasting in this standard is still far from widespread. The presence of a digital signal in a particular locality should be checked in advance on the website of the operator of the all-Russian digital television broadcasting or from local providers.

Form factor and network communications

The usual trick on video recorders with the definition of the flagship "by eye" is no longer relevant. In the media player segment, the bulkiest model is not always the most productive. The dimensions of the new players are dictated only by the number of connectors for connecting to a TV, as well as the presence of a hard drive compartment.

It is also not worth unconditionally giving preference to media players with a HDD connector: in the absence of a “home video library”, this function will very soon cease to be in demand. Connecting a media player to a PC, constantly removing the drive to write new files, or painstaking work with the web interface of a torrent client is tiring. But playing files from the local network will be faster and more efficient. In the case of a mini PC based on Android optional The argument for this use is the characteristic lack of ports for connecting drives: the only USB connector is occupied by a wireless keyboard, and the weak current in the device does not allow connecting a USB Hub without mains power.

A capacious drive on board will shelter any collection of media files

Fortunately, media players without support for data exchange over the network are rare today. Even budget models are able to offer an Ethernet connector or Wi-Fi support for receiving content via DLNA or a Samba server. If possible, you should use the RJ-45 connector - wireless playback of Full HD video will require support for Wi-Fi 802.11n and the presence of a productive router in line-of-sight conditions.

The unequivocal advantage of Android-based media players is the support for social functions: clients for Facebook, VKontakte, Skype and other instant messengers work quickly and are always up to date. current versions. Some media players are equipped with support for webcams via USB-OTG, and the second half of 2014 was marked by the release of the Android Stick with a video camera and microphone in the device itself. Alas, the power of the mini PC's Wi-Fi transmitter leaves much to be desired, and in order to play 1080p video over a network, you will most often need a USB to Ethernet adapter.

Playback formats

With some reservations, we can say that the "omnivorousness" of modern media players has reached almost peak values. Over the past few years, there have been no models left on the market that would not be able to play video files in Divx / Xvid, H.264 and MPEG 1/2 formats. As for sound files, it is worth paying attention to the presence of support for high-quality audio in DTS, Dolby Digital Plus and Dolby TrueHD formats. Some media players are deprived of sound support in this format (due to the lack of a license for the codec or the design features of the chipset), so avoid unpleasant surprise in the form of a "silent movie" better in advance.

As for containers, the popular AVI, MP4 and MKV are easily played even in budget models, which means that any modern model is suitable for watching movies in DVDRip, BDRip, BDRip-AVC and BDRemux standards.

Problems with the selection of a media player haunt only lovers of "full-format" Blu-ray and surround video. 3D movies are often distributed as ISO images or file folders. A truly convenient playback of such a video can only be provided by media players that support the ISO BD3D standard, but with the proviso that the movie will be navigated through a simplified BD Lite menu. Support for 3D HD video in other media players will be limited to the "heuristic" launch of the M2TS file from the folder structure or the complete lack of support for the standard. Unfortunately, support for the full Blu-ray specification has fallen into oblivion along with optical discs. The aggressive lobbying for copy protection called Cinavia played a role in this.

Devices developed in close cooperation with content providers stand apart - in the pursuit of copyright compliance and the promotion of purchases in online cinemas, media players receive a limited list of compatible codecs and / or streaming services that are relevant only to foreign audiences.

Governing bodies

The interface of the Sigma SDK and Realtek SDK operating systems was developed taking into account the capabilities of a standard remote control: therefore, controlling such media players does not require additional skills from users of a TV or game console. Support for computer keyboards and mice is present in many models, but it is of no practical use - multi-stage menus are easier and faster to master using the same remote control than using the mouse cursor.

The comfort of a TV versus the functionality of a computer

Media players under Android control there is another extreme: to compensate for the lack of touch input in these products, only multifunctional remote controls with a QWERTY keyboard and Air Mouse mode, which are not particularly ergonomic, can compensate. In the end, all Android Stick users are moving to control through a full-sized set of computer keyboard and mouse - controlling a media player from the couch will never be easy.

Performance and hardware platform

The confrontation between Sigma and Realtek chipsets is painfully reminiscent of the picture on the PC processor market. The Sigma Designs platform tends to be accompanied by a more subtle technological process and superiority in synthetic performance. The stability and speed of operation of the SMP series chipsets are overshadowed by the high cost of the platform for manufacturers - media players based on Realtek and Sigma that are equal in price will differ in functionality not in favor of the latter.

Realtek media processors are much more flexible. Thanks to a loyal pricing policy, they have become much more widespread. As is often the case in budget products, a number of annoying flaws have plagued RTD series platforms for a long time - experienced users of media players will nod in the direction of a well-known flaw, when video playback at a frequency of 23.976 frames / s was accompanied by constant jerks. The next negative moment occurred already through the fault of negligent manufacturers of set-top boxes: ventilation problems in models equipped with an HDD slot led to overheating and unstable operation of a whole family of media players. Today, all these problems have been eliminated, and the competition between the two chipset manufacturers is on an equal footing.

Comparison of the performance of these platforms can be done "the old fashioned way", guided only by the operating frequencies of the processor, however, the lion's share of the load in the SoC of media players falls on hardware decoders. The efficiency of content playback for these devices is beyond the competence of benchmarks.

Nevertheless, performance measurement in "synthetics" remains the only possible way SoC classification. Specialized multimedia processors and competing chips based on the ARM Cortex architecture can be divided into five classes (in descending order of performance).

For buyers who are not ready to analyze the market in search of the ideal media player, we have prepared a list of current Smart TV systems for any budget and needs. The market leaders will not necessarily appear among these products, but the ratio of price and functionality allows us to recommend these models for purchase with confidence.

Upvel UM-521TV

The UM-521TV media player is the most successful candidate for livening up the TV screen with social networking, online entertainment and other applications for the Google platform. The quad-core processor, 2GB of RAM, and stock Android Jelly Bean will appeal to customers for whom timely access to news feeds and videos means much more than painstakingly selecting content for long-term viewing.

TVZor TVZ100ZT

The ideology of the TVZor media player goes against fashion - the model belongs to a small class of devices developed in collaboration with content providers. In the Russian market, a limited selection of streaming services rarely boasts of success with buyers, but the TVZ100ZT has every chance of turning the tide. For only 3,000 rubles, the buyer receives a media player with a rich bundle, a programmable remote control with a QWERTY keyboard, a DVB-T2 tuner, an online media library and a set of connectors for connecting to a CRT or LCD TV.

Unfortunately, there is no trace of the functionality of the Android system, and access to files on the local network is closed. But 20 stably working IPTV channels are supplemented with a pack of free series in the online store, and support for formats for digital media is in no way inferior to "full" and more expensive competitors. More details with TVZor TVZ100ZT

IconBit Movie3D IPTV

IconBit Movie3D IPTV

"Functionality over performance" - the Movie3D IPTV model is based on the obsolete Allwinner A20 chipset, and the proprietary shell adjacent to Android leads to extremely slow navigation through the device's menu. In contrast to these shortcomings, the player has a rich set of features and a reasonable price. Working with custom IPTV playlists, support for stereo pairs of the BD3D ISO standard, numerous streaming services and access to the Google Play app store cannot fail to please budget buyers. Beginners will also enjoy the abundance of free content, while experienced Android users will appreciate root access and the ability to install third-party apps. You can learn more about IconBit Movie3D IPTV in our review.

ASUS O!Play Mini Plus

ASUS O!Play mini plus

In the O!Play Mini Plus model, ASUS engineers chose not to get involved in the pursuit of smartphone features. The lack of support for Blu-ray ISO images and the shortcomings of the online component will be accompanied by fair complaints from users. However, this model is aimed at practitioners and its main goal is to conveniently play content from local and network drives. Gigabit Ethernet, a card reader and an eSATA connector allow you to take any video and music fully armed. The level of implementation of these functions directly speaks about the quality of the media player. The presence of a composite output will allow you to play Full HD files even on older TVs. But among enthusiasts, O!Play Mini Plus is not respected, since the media player is based on the infamous revision of Realtek MD chipsets, which means that the device is completely closed for flashing at home.

Google Nexus Player

Google Nexus Player

Google presented its vision on what should be a set-top box based on the Android operating system. A model called Nexus Player, developed in collaboration with ASUS, is finally on sale. The interface and functionality of the base Android has been adapted for easy use on the TV screen and content streaming. The media player supports Google Chromecast functions, allowing you to broadcast videos, music and photos from your computer, smartphone or tablet to your TV screen. A distinctive feature of the interface is the automatic ranking of applications and multimedia files in accordance with user preferences.

The basic kit includes a multifunctional remote control with an integrated microphone, and a game pad is available for an additional fee.

Nexus Player is based on the quad-core Intel Atom platform, clocked at 1.8 GHz. The graphics component is based on the Imagination PowerVR Series 6 video accelerator, and the memory subsystem has 1 GB of RAM and 8 GB of storage. internal storage. Wireless communications are represented by Wi-Fi 802.11ac and Bluetooth 4.1, and among the communication connectors there is HDMI and Micro-USB. The cost of new items is 99 US dollars.