media server
Latest
ReQuest produces HD user interface for its whole-home servers
We can't say we're thrilled to hear that ReQuest's wares didn't already come with a high-def interface, but given that HD GUIs are still mighty tough to come by, we can't harsh on it too much. The media server producer has just cranked out a presumably gorgeous high-definition graphical user interface for its iQ whole-home music system as well as its N-Series / F-Series media servers. Users can navigate the software with just five commands -- Up, Down, Left, Right, and Enter -- and while entering those inputs in that order won't give you a 1-Up or anything, they should be manageable with virtually any IR remote.
Conceptronic intros Media Titan server / PVR for DVB-T nations
After a long summer of staying all but silent, Conceptronic is hitting back with an all new PVR / media player. The aptly-named Media Titan brings along optional 802.11n wireless support, twin hard drives, dual DVB-T tuners and support for more formats than you can shake a stick at. You'll also find a bundled remote, three USB ports for external storage, HDMI / Ethernet ports and UPnP AV compliance. Pricing remains a mystery for now, but citizens of Germany, Spain, Portugal and France can expect to find out later this month. Full release after the break.[Thanks, KJ]
Hands-on with Niveus Media's Denali, Rainier and Cargo media wares
Niveus Media came to this year's CEDIA locked and loaded, and while most typical consumers won't look too far past the sub-$2,000 Vail system, those with cash to spare and colleagues to impress will certainly appreciate the Core i7-powered $19,999 Pro Series n9 media center PC. The rig setup on the show floor had said HTPC connected to four dual-CableCARD boxes via USB ($1,500 a pop), giving it the ability to record eight HD shows simultaneously while streaming HD movie clips to ten other Media Center Extenders (without a hiccup, might we add). The mid-range Denali was also on hand, and Blu-ray drives were found across the board. We also spent a tick with the new v1.5 Niveus Movie Library, which very neatly enabled us to surf to any media stored locally or on the networked 16TB Cargo Media Server. Even if you can't afford it, this stuff is still worth a look -- check it all out here at Engadget HD.
.jpg.cf.jpg)
Niveus reveals upgraded Rainier, Denali and Pro Series media servers
If you were curious as to which manufacturer would begin utilizing those fancy Core i7 chips first, we highly doubt Niveus Media came to mind. Granted, it isn't first to the punch per se, but Intel's latest will help power some of the 2009 line of media servers. The passively cooled Rainier, Denali Limited Edition (rear pictured after the break) and the rack-mountable Pro Series have all been upgraded with niceties like HDMI 1.3 and Seagate's Pipeline HD hard drives. You'll also find the G45 Express chipset, SSDs and support for eight CableCARDs scattered about, though pricing won't be disclosed until we get closer to the Q4 release date. More specifications are listed after the jump.
Sunfire' TGM-100 goes after the well-heeled media server crowd
Upmarket custom-installs are where the comfy margins are, so it's no surprise to see high-end specialists like Sunfire heading in that direction as well. The company is marking its entry into the media server market at CEDIA with the $10,000 TGM-100; and if you think that's pricey, wait until you add some storage -- you know, to make it useful -- your options are a 1TB RAID 0 (TGM-HD1, $700), 3TB RAID 6 (TGM-HD3, $12,000) or 6TB RAID 6 (TGM-HD6, $14,000). At these prices, we'd demand some Blu-ray support, but the release only mentions upscaling to "near-HD 1080P" (sounds familiar) for your DVDs and Gracenote metadata for your music. Like we said, this part of the market is about the margins.
ReQuest intros media servin' Intelligent Media Client
We hate to burst your bubble, but the rather beautiful looking device you see above won't do you much good without one of ReQuest's pricey servers. Designed to interact within a ReQuest ecosystem, the Intelligent Media Client gives users the ability to stream stored media (pictures, videos, audio, archived DVDs, etc.) across their network and onto a primary HDTV. The unit provides upscaled 1080p content and can even rip / store DVDs locally for searching across the LAN. 'Course, you could probably get all of this functionality in October for much, much less than $2,495, but we suppose elegance has a premium, after all.
PlayOn media server update smashes bugs, adds 64-bit Windows support
Just that fast, the folks behind PlayOn's Hulu / YouTube / soon-Netflix streaming software have gone to version 2.58.3152, including support for 64-bit versions of Windows and fixes for a few niggling video playback bugs experienced a few days ago. If you've somehow avoided grabbing the free beta software, go ahead and check it out (if you must, there's also our gallery for a the Buckaroo Banzai-YouTube-clips-streamed-to-PS3 future that awaits), but for any already on the bandwagon please be sure to uninstall the previous version and reboot first. Let us know, was it as easy as Head-on (apply directly to forehead) or has the pain continued?
PlayOn media server brings Hulu / YouTube to consoles, Netflix coming soon?
PlayOn wants to make sure you can get your daily dose of Barackrolls and Airwolf episodes beyond the desktop, while Hulu might not have a slick streaming set-top box of its own, this media server software turns flash video RSS streams into easily browsed folders for your DLNA-compliant hardware. PlayStation 3, Xbox 360 and HP MediaSmart HDTVs being at the top of that list (with Nintendo Wii support planned by year-end) owners can grab the beta release of the software and stream low-res episodes of Psych, or any assortment of YouTube video they please. With Netflix support "just down the road" this could provide an end around for PS3 owners looking for streaming love, or Xbox 360 owners without Xbox Live Gold (we know you're out there.) Bad news is the beta only lasts 60 days and there's a $30 pricetag waiting at the end of the free lunch highway. Our experience was good, with no stutters in a Psych episode streamed via Wi-Fi to the PS3 (albeit with no choice of HD clips), but we'd wait for confirmation on the whole Netflix bit before dropping any dough.Update: Getting 69-C00D36C4 / folder could not be accessed errors on your PS3 or Xbox 360, or waiting for 64-bit Vista support to dive in? PlayOn CTO David Karlton updated the official blog to let users know fixes and additional support is in the works, so keep an eye out for more news shortly if things aren't working just yet.%Gallery-29985%[Via PS3 Fanboy]
PlayOn beta allows streaming Hulu; Netflix support planned
The PS3's media server capabilities just got a nice injection with the recently released PlayOn beta. The easy-to-use client streams media from your PC to your PS3. The most exciting thing about the client must be its support for Hulu, the free video streaming site which broadcasts a number of high-profile network shows. For example, we installed the beta and we were able to watch NBC's 30 Rock almost instantly.There are a few problems, though. The files are poorly compressed: a single episode of 30 Rock is over a gigabyte, which demands a rather speedy connection between your computer and PS3. The quality isn't too great thanks to the web-friendly MPEG-2 codec being used. And, once the 60 day trial ends, the service will ask for $30. However, if PlayOn can get the planned Netflix streaming to work, they may just have a new customer.
Digital media revolution to give home servers a shot in the arm?
Just moments after ABI Research published a report suggesting that all-in-one PCs and internet TV would invigorate the HTPC market comes something similar from Forrester Research. Its latest analysis suggests that the growing trend of maintaining files rather than physical discs could give home media servers a significant boost. Essentially, HTPCs and home storage / networking devices could become entirely relevant as digital downloads become more common and physical media fades out. Granted, we're a firm believer that said scenario is still years away from happening, but we don't doubt that this prophecy will be realized in due time. As it stands, only around 400,000 US households posses a home server, suggesting that the market is just barely in its infancy. Forrester says that figure will grow to 4.5 million by 2012 -- we've got 3.5 years to find out.
Conceptronic now shipping Media Giant HD media server / DVR
Conceptronic's beastly Media Giant HD media server / DVR that made headlines a few months back is officially on sale across the pond, with a number of tipsters chiming to say that it is being offered for €379 ($603) from Metro Group. Better still, those who order are being treating to tracking numbers on the double, meaning that those who take the dive should have it in their hands in no time. Expensive? Sure. But that's the price you pay for built-in PowerLine networking (Pro version), a slew of ports, a 500GB hard drive and lots more features listed in the read link.[Thanks to everyone who sent this in]
Sans Digital offers up AccuNAS AN2L 2-bay NAS enclosure
Sans Digital caught our eyes earlier this month with a simple, albeit remarkably nifty CF to SATA adapter, and now it's doing so again with a 2-bay NAS enclosure. The AccuNAS AN2L is a RAID 0/1 chassis that supports file sharing in Windows, OS X and Linux, and it also enables playback of files via a PS3 / Xbox 360 or any other UPnP / DLNA-certified device. You'll also find that this thing doubles triples as an iTunes music server and BitTorrent client, which makes it all the more tempting, does it not? No word on pricing at the moment, but if you're strangely uncomfortable with loading in your own HDDs, the outfit will be selling these with 500GB to 2TB pre-installed for an undisclosed premium.
Inteset unveils ultimate media server: 15TB TeraRAID XV-NAS
When 8TB just isn't enough to shack up all your media on, look no further than Inteset. This firm has just unveiled one of the craziest NAS servers we've ever seen, with 15 hot-swappable bays armed with 15TB of storage space. The latest beast in the TeraRAID family is obviously AV focused and comes in a 5U enclosure perfectly suited for racks. Additionally, the system comes pre-configured to play nice with the company's Media Library, and of course, the internals are built to handle multiple high-bandwidth video streams. If you're ready to get serious about media storage (and deplete your bank account), you can snatch this one up for $14,495 (or snag a 7TB version for $10,995).
Stream YouTube videos directly to your XMB
If you have Google Desktop, you may want to download the Google Media Server application. With it, you'll have an easy way of sending YouTube videos to your PS3. Once a computer on the same network as your PS3 is configured with Google Media Server, you'll be able to easily access the most viewed, top rated, and other featured YouTube videos instantly from the XMB. In fact, you'll not only see thumbnails, but you'll also be able to copy the videos directly to your PS3 hard drive, for easy replayability. [Via thePSN]
How-to video details HDD installation process in Popcorn Hour's A-100
As far as mods go, it just doesn't much easier than this. Popcorn Hour's heralded A-100 HD media streamer contains a gap just big enough for a PATA HDD, and if you've been too timid to flex your DIY muscle and throw one in there, we've got the video to guide you through. Anxious to store files locally and turn your unit into a mighty useful BitTorrent client? Check out a demonstration of the painless procedure just beyond the break -- and grab your screwdriver while you're at it.[Via eHomeUpgrade]
Google Media Server brings PC-based content to your TV
As Google continues to dabble in more and more areas, we suppose it's not too shocking to see it dipping its toes in the blossoming media streaming realm. Available now for Windows-based PCs (sorry, Mac / Linux users), Google Media Server "uses Google Desktop technology such as Desktop gadgets for the administration tool and Google Desktop Search to locate media files," after which it broadcasts said content onto your television via any UPnP-enabled device (you know, like a PlayStation 3). Once connected, users can easily access multimedia files stored on their PC, view Picasa web albums and play back YouTube videos. Give it a go and see how it stacks up.[Via Yahoo / InformationWeek]
Ask Engadget: What's the best home media server?
So we've asked you which HD media streamer you prefer. And we've done the same for NAS drives. But what if you're the type that's looking for the best of both worlds? Take it away, Stuart: "We have a laptop and a desktop, with plans to add another computer in the near future. I'd like something that can primarily provide a large (1TB+) storage repository that can be accessed via our network, as well as have space for data backups and media streaming capabilities. I've read articles on Drobo and Windows Home Server-based devices, but after a certain point my brain just starts to get overloaded. Which solution out there would be best for me? I'm trying to stay below $700 if possible." We think your task is pretty clear cut here, reader. Which home server out there is a notch above the rest? Would you recommend a pre-built device or a homegrown solution? After giving this one a whirl, toss your own inquiry over to ask at engadget dawt com - your very words may grace this space next week.
Sony unloads two new VGX-TP1 media center PCs
The tried-and-true circle PC is back, this time with even more potent hardware under the hood to keep your media churnin'. First up is the VGX-TP1D, which features a white motif, 2.1GHz Core 2 Duo T8100 processor, 2GB of RAM, a 320GB hard drive, GeForce 8400M GT graphics card, integrated WiFi, a dual-layer DVD writer and HDMI / VGA outs. The black VGX-TP1DQ / B steps it up by including a 500GB hard drive and a Blu-ray burner to boot. Both units also boast four USB 2.0 ports, 4-pin FireWire, a multicard reader, TV tuner and a wireless keyboard. Look for each to land in just over a fortnight (in Japan) for ¥150,000 ($1,392) / ¥200,000 ($1,856), respectively.[Via AkihabaraNews]
CodexNovus intros new DML / DMS media servers
It's been a hot minute since we've seen any new kit from CodexNovus, but just recently the firm upped its DML offers and introduced the all new DMS-6000, all of which are worth taking a look at. Picking up where the 400GB DML-400 and 1TB DML-1000 left off, the 1.6TB DML-1600 enables owners to store loads of data, send out multiple streams of media to other HDcodex Players and Player / Servers and view / listen to networked media in surround sound / 1080p. If you're desperately in need of a place to actually house all of that media you don't own just yet, the rack-mountable 6TB DMS-6000 (pictured) should hold plenty. We haven't heard any pricing details yet, but judging by history, we don't reckon they'll be cheap.Read - DML expansionRead - DMS-6000 introduction
Popcorn Hour prepping trio of new media streamers?
Considering just how popular Popcorn Hour's A-100 has been with the media center crowd, we're not shocked at all to find the intarweb ablaze now that rumors of a new trio have surfaced. Said rumblings have originated from a curious post over at GeekZone, which sees a prospective reseller of Popcorn Hour products admit that "three new models" will be released "in the very near future," including one with WiFi. We are told that the three models will be priced around $250, $250 and $320, though not a bit of it has been confirmed. Hit the read link for a list of proposed specifications for each of the possibly forthcoming boxes, and in case you haven't figured it out, we'd keep those hopes low for now.[Thanks, Simon]
