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Netgear intros EVA9100 media streamer, DGN2200M WiFi / WWAN modem and more at CES
Some crazy stuff is going down in Vegas -- fancy that, right? Netgear is doing its darnedest to make its own scene with the introduction of three new items here at CES, so we won't waste any time in breaking 'em down. Up first is the now-available $249 Digital Entertainer Express (EVA9100), which incorporates the media prowess found in the EVA9150 in order to give users instant access to "Blu-ray quality digital video up to 1080p, MP3s and high-resolution digital photos from PCs, Macs or NAS devices." Portals to YouTube, Flickr and RSS feeds will be readily available, and the free trial of PlayOn will provide access to Hulu, Netflix, Amazon Video On Demand, BBC iPlayer and CBS. Next, we've got the $179.99 DGN2200M wireless router (available in April), which actually pulls double duty as an 802.11n-enabled DSL modem and a WWAN modem. Hailed as the only wireless-N product on the retail market with dual WAN capabilities, this one can get users online via a 3G or 4G USB dongle whenever they leave their home broadband connection. Finally, the $159 Powerline 200 AV+ Adapter (XAV2501) -- which will ship early next month -- enables homeowners to create a 10/100 Ethernet connection from any ordinary electrical outlet that already supports a powerline network. This one's also a HomePlug AV-certified device, so it should have no issues pushing through data at up to 200Mbps. We'll be scouring the show floor for a little hands-on action, so stay tuned! %Gallery-81231%
A.C. Ryan's Playon!HD Mini player is tiny, still pushes 1080p worth of pixels
Looking for an... alternative after being given a 1080p-streaming brick by Western Digital earlier this month? A.C. Ryan has a new option, the Playon!HD Mini. It's a smaller version of the bigger Playon!HD that seems to lose only its internal drive bay, card reader, and €50, meaning this one retails for €99 -- about $144. Yes, a good bit more than the WD TV, but it hits all the right marks, including 1080p output over HDMI or component, support for streaming media or USB mass storage, and even the ability to tune into Shoutcast and other undisclosed "internet feeds." The company also promises "very active new firmware releases" which, without a little restraint, could be a recipe to repeat WD's disaster. %Gallery-80338% [Thanks, Gavie]
Sherwood's 700W R-904N NetBoxx AV receiver dabbles in online media
Not sure if you've noticed, but CEDIA has just kicked off down in the ATL. One of the first to introduce something genuinely fresh is Sherwood (of all companies), with its R-904N NetBoxx pulling double duty as a 7.1-channel AV receiver and an internet media portal. For starters, the compact set-top-box looks nothing like a typical AVR, but you'll still find 700 total watts of amplification, three HDMI 1.3 inputs, one Toslink input, a pair of coaxial audio inputs and support for Dolby Volume, Dolby TruHD and DTS-HD Master high-resolution audio formats. Once you're done hooking up your music makers, feel free to shove an Ethernet cable in there and witness its ability to pull down material from PlayOn (Hulu, Netflix, CBS, CNN, ESPN, Amazon, etc.), CinemaNow, YouTube and SHOUTcast. There's also a USB socket for loading up media locally, and at just 17- x 10- x 2.5-inches, it shouldn't take up too much room underneath your current HDTV. It'll set you back $649.95 when it ships later this month, and you can feel free to dig even deeper in the full release just past the break.
Netgear expands Digital Entertainer line with the EVA2000 Digital Entertainer Live
Netgear's Digital Entertainer media streamers have always been well-admired as capable and flexible home theater units, and it sounds like the new Digital Entertainer Live will keep that trend alive while bringing prices down -- the $150 box will play back just about any format you throw at it from just about any source, while offering YouTube, pay-per-view CinemaNow movies and VuNow and PlayOn support in the bargain. Seems like a pretty decent piece of kit, no outrageous claims here -- oh, except for this line about the Live's new video search tool that can "locate videos on the entire worldwide web" by searching "more than hundred thousand websites." That sounds... ominous. Way to go, guys -- first you add MKV support, then you try to blackmail the entire world. We always knew this would happen. Update: We just spoke with Netgear and learned a couple interesting tidbits. First, although remote bears a resemblance to the one used with the Western Digital WD TV HD, that's all -- the actual box itself is completely different hardware, and the remote has a totally different layout. Second, PlayOn will be offered at a 25 percent discount to DE Live buyers, making the whole thing seem like even more of a bargain.
PlayOn video streaming beta playing on Wii now
MediaMall Technologies has opened up a beta of the Wii version of its PlayOn streaming media software, already available for PS3, Xbox 360 and other devices. Basically, that means that you should be able to download the PC software and then use the Internet Channel to watch Netflix, Hulu, YouTube and other content on your TV. There's a 14-day free trial of the software, after which you have to pay $39.99 for the full version -- by the way, we couldn't help but notice that the price has increased, and the duration of the trial decreased, since last year. $40 is kind of a lot, but not when compared to the cost of an Xbox 360 or another Netflix-capable device. Unless it turns out not to work well -- which many of us are no doubt on our way to determining right now. [Via Engadget]
PlayOn for Wii beta to be announced tomorrow
We know that some of you streaming media fanatics have been indulging in this one for the better part of a month already, but just in case: tomorrow the kids at MediaMall officially announce the beta release of PlayOn for Wii. The software license runs $39.99, but there is a 14-day free trial -- so you can see for yourself whether or not it makes sense to tie up your console with re-runs of CSI: Miami when you could be better off shakin' your groove thing to Dance Dance Revolution: Hottest Party. Hit the read link and decide for yourself. [Via New York Times]
Media server software capabilities charted for your easy reading
Nearly every device sold these days is packing a network jack and whether TV, set-top box or game console many of them are capable of easily tapping into DLNA compatible servers, but which one is right for you? The folks over at tubeCore have gone to the trouble of trying each one out (PlayOn, PS3 Media Server, TVersity and other familiar names are on the list) and presented their impressions in easy to digest chart form. Sure you could investigate the specs on your own, but when it comes down to it, price, ease of use and media formats supported will be the key factors, and here you can quickly get an idea of them. So, which one are you using for easy cross platform media streaming, or did you go a different route entirely?
PlayOn media server now serving Wii customers (in beta, anyway)
We knew good and well that the fine folks over at MediaMall were toiling away in an attempt to bring internet TV content from YouTube, Hulu, Netflix, CBS, CNN and a host of other sources to Nintendo's white-hot Wii, but there's just nothing like hearing that intentions have become reality. Based on an email from MediaMall support to a particularly curious user, the "latest version of PlayOn includes a beta version of Wii functionality in it." Naturally, the company's doing its darnedest to keep this under wraps for now, but we're eager to get legions of Wii users testing it out and reporting back with performance evaluations. The note does mention that quality will be lower than on the PlayStation 3 and Xbox 360 due to the inherit hardware limitations on Nintendo's baby, but hey, you knew that going in, right? Hop on past the break for the letter in its entirety, which includes instructions on getting this going on your console.[Thanks, Anonymous]
PlayOn media server adds local media browsing to go with Hulu & Netflix, goes on sale for half price
In a rather timely update considering recent events, MediaMall's pumping up its latest additions to the PlayOn media streaming software. In addition to access to Netflix, Hulu (still working) and other streaming video (new ones being added through plugins) on your PS3, Xbox 360 or other DLNA-compatible device, it's finally beta testing the long requested ability to stream locally stored music, movies and photos as well. Better yet, even if you've tried the software before and found it wanting, the trials have been reset so you have 14 days to give it another shot and, until June 31 can be purchased for half price at just $19.99 with coupon code PLAYON1999.
Moxi's spring updates brings PlayOn, DLNA and a little home automation
In Digeo's latest move into the consumer DVR market it is rolling out first big update since the launch only a few months ago. The list of additions is pretty nice, but our most anticipated feature, the Moxi-mate, is still just "coming soon." Although all the new features are interesting, the most notable is the DLNA certification which allows your Moxi to play all kinds of media from your PC, including from a PlayOn server. What's even better is that Digeo is actually throwing in the PlayOn software -- famous for its Hulu and Netflix support -- for free with the update, which $40 normally. The other new Moxi features users will have access to within the next few days is an expansion of Moxi Net outside its walled garden, as well as a few new home automation tricks that'll let you take advantage of Z-Wave lights and various IP cameras -- also configured via Moxi Net. Believe it or not though, there is actually more, but rather than go on and on covering the Flickr improvements and Rhapsody support, we'll just provide the entire release after the break.
vmcPlayIt pulls PlayOn streams into Media Center and Media Center Extenders
Sure there's other ways to get bits like Hulu and Netflix on your Windows Media Center and Media Center Extender interface, but since PlayOn media server's already set up to add streaming video from those and other services like ESPN and YouTube, why not slide them all in at once? If you've already dropped the cash for a PlayOn install or are trying out a demo, the vmcPlayIt add-in serves as a Vista Media Center front end for all those video sources. 32- and 64-bit versions are available for the low low price of free, if this matches your setup it should be worth a try.[Via eHomeUpgrade]
First unofficial PlayOn media server plugin caught in action
Taking advantage of the latest update to the PlayOn media server software, this YouTube video claims to capture the first unofficial plugin which enables users to easily browse GameTrailers.com trailers on their TV. Greater functionality should make the $39.99 fresh-out-of-beta pricetag a little easier to swallow, seeing GameTrailers (and its overcompressed "HD" videos) listed on a PlayStation 3 menu next to ESPN, Hulu, Revision3 and other supported services may not be incredibly impressive off the bat but it does bode well for the future of this DLNA streaming package.[Thanks, Jackson]
PlayOn media server upgraded with Amazon VOD & plugin beta
Just in time to ease worries that your Xbox 360, PlayStation 3 or other DLNA-capable device was falling behind the Roku video player in video capability, MediaMall has updated its PlayOn software for Amazon Video On Demand access. Version 2.59.3352 went out earlier today and also enables a beta version of its plugin system, that should allow interested providers to put their feeds into the PlayOn browser starting right now with Revision3. What's next? ABC.com on the content side and the Nintendo Wii on the hardware end. Of course, we could've just mentioned the (still working) Hulu to your TV access which is at least enough reason to give it a trial run.
PlayOn media server is out of beta, 14 days to decide if Netflix & Hulu on your PS3 is worth it
PlayOn's media server software -- capable of streaming Internet video from YouTube, Hulu, CBS, Netflix, CNN, ESPN and others to your PlayStation 3, Xbox 360 or other DLNA compliant hardware via a PC -- is finally out of beta. Going official means the trial period resets to 14 days for all users, keeping it after that will require $29.99. So tell us, now that Netflix streaming is implemented, bugs have been stomped and Wii support on the way, is it worth the one time payment to keep this service?
PlayOn Media Server streams Netflix to PS3 / Xbox 360 today
Forget the lames waiting for a New Xbox Experience to bring Netflix streaming to the console, the latest edition of Media Mall's PlayOn Media Server beta includes Watch Instantly support right now. An update notification should be on the way to anyone already testing things out, the impatient can grab it from the website. Also streaming Hulu, CBS, YouTube, ESPN and others to the PlayStation 3, Xbox 360, HP MediaSmart TV or other DLNA hardware (Nintendo Wii's still on the coming-soon list) the presence of Netflix (and the recent Watch Instantly additions) gives even more reason to check it out. Since its still in beta don't be surprised to find a few issues, but considering our smooth sailing so far, the list of reservations over its $30 price tag (after the 60 day free trial period is over) is rapidly shrinking.
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: PlayOn Media Server [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.
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All hail [Magic of Cinnamon Transcendence]!
PlayOn, the blog for a research center studying trends in MMORPGs, has created a guild name generator. They studied thousands of guild names and realized there was a method behind 90% of name creation. So they wrote a program that followed those methods and the results are...well, mostly hilarious.Here are some other ones randomly generated for me: Pack of Pretty Pretty Shadows Path of Ninth Bearded Samurai Knights of the Ankle DevastationThe Blood of Cucarachas Reborn Champion of Apple Dumpling Squashers Ronin of Fuzzy Pink RaidersClick here to generate your own list of unintentionally humourous names. If your interested in the methodology behind the program, PlayOn has an article that explains how they built the program.Via WorldofWar.net
PvP rank statistics
PlayOn has been collecting some interesting data on PvP in World of Warcraft. And while I'm not sure any of the information provides grounds for conclusion, it's certainly interesting to peek at. Both of these charts take into account sample data from 128,477 unique characters across 5 realms (one RP, two PvE, and two PvP) during one week in October. Above is their chart of average PvP rank for each class -- as you see, shaman takes the top spot and priest the lowest, but there's relatively little difference in rank between the two. (Perhaps suggesting that any class can be competitive with effort? Or simply that more shamans, warriors, and mages PvP?)Then we have average PvP rank for time played. Unsuprisingly, those attaining rank 13 are nearing 80 hours a week of playtime (for reference, the Daedalus Project suggests the average MMO player spends 20 hours a week in game), while those at rank 14 are dropping closer to 60 hours (possibly a sign of no further play efforts after reaching the maximum rank).
