By using a compact media player, you can save space, expand the functionality of your TV and play multimedia content on it from a computer, NAS ( home server) or from the Internet. Immediately I will note a couple of models, for those who want to buy best devices multimedia in its class: ASUS O!Play Air HDP-R3 and WD TV Live.

Network media players can be used to store and play home multimedia content paired with a TV (monitor) and speaker system. The media player is able to transfer movies, music and images from the PC directly to the TV screen in optimal quality, while the computer can be used for work at this time. Furthermore, network player can be equipped with a built-in hard drive or connected to an external drive. In this case, it is not even necessary to turn on the PC to view it, especially since many players allow you to browse the web.

Another 1.5 years ago network media players equipped with a built-in TV tuner, and also had the ability to install hard drives and an optical drive, but now, choosing a media player for yourself, such slots to expand the capabilities of the device are rare. But in the models that are currently on the market, the Wi-Fi module is installed by default, which cannot be said about their predecessors. True, to play Full HD video wirelessly, you will need a modern wi-fi router so that you are not disappointed with breaks when watching. The network media player will be especially useful for users with old LCD TVs, as they can act as an alternative to panel models with. New models of media players support a large number of Russian-language Internet services and allow you to view streaming video from the Internet.

Of course, all functionality media player and even more, it can replace an inexpensive, or laptop, but the media player has a more compact size, low price and ease of use.

How to choose a multimedia player? Criteria for choosing a network media player

The criteria that you should pay attention to first of all: comfortable operation, convenient menu navigation and support for Internet services. media player Western Digital TV Live perfect as the best choice for the above characteristics: miniature body, full Russification of the menu, correct display of Russian file names and tags. And the equipment of this player is not lame. For those who are often going to enter information on the TV screen, a model with a full QWERTY keyboard (for example, ScreenPlay TV Link DX) is suitable.

Internet services of modern media players

Users who are attracted to Smart TV should take a closer look at the media player LG ST600 supporting this service. Plus, you'll also get LG Apps app store, with which you can download the necessary programs + Flash-enabled browser on board LG. Other media devices rarely boast of having it at all. The device is controlled from a remote control or a regular mouse from a PC via a USB port. And the “Smart Share” function makes it possible to transfer content from tablets and smartphones directly to the TV screen.

I think that a particularly important criterion when choosing a media player is the set of interfaces and ports it supports. Mandatory HDMI and USB, it's always a good idea to add something else (optical, card reader), for the reason that it will be possible to use media player in conjunction with various devices. It is better to think about the interfaces that you will need in advance, it is difficult to take into account all the subtleties during the purchase. There are fewer and fewer models with a built-in hard drive, but a USB connector for connecting an external HDD is the standard. Some users will need composite and component video outputs to connect the player to a TV; be careful, check their presence in the technical characteristics of the devices.

An important parameter is the "omnivorous" media player. This is very important for those who store and play various media files, neglecting Internet services. For such users, I would recommend a media player. Inexperienced users even often evaluate devices by the list of supported media containers and codecs. Not to be misled: a media container is the format of an audio or video file, and a codec is the format of the audio or video stream in it. Let me clarify that support for the mkv container does not mean that all files with the *mkv extension will be played on the device (for example, an audio track may not be supported). Do not forget about the release of new firmware for multimedia devices.

Who needs a full-fledged operation of the device with Blu-Ray media, then take a closer look at Netgear NeoTV 550 with excellent performance (high-performance processor on board Sigma Designs SMP8642). Opponents will like the device's support for ISO images of Blu-ray discs (you can also add here). It is also possible to select the required M2TS file manually, for those who get rid of unnecessary materials after downloading the image. Dear fans of Blu-Ray discs, pay attention to the processor...

Compact media players for home theater

Now let's consider compact media players Apple TV, Raspberry Pi and iconBit Toucan Nano SX. You can buy them at a price of 4000 to 5000 rubles. These multimedia devices will help solve the problem of the main media player in your home theater.

In order not to use your SMART TVs only for watching TV channels, you can expand their multimedia capabilities using a functional media player that will allow you to play familiar multimedia files on a large TV screen without problems, like Allshare, home media Server, etc.

Admit it, even an expensive TV with Smart TV functionality cannot have all the necessary functionality: someone will not be satisfied with a browser, someone with a remote control, and someone with limited memory when watching online video. What can I say, often the multimedia player built into the TV does not support any format, not to mention the fact that application stores may offer an insufficient set of services to fully use your TV. Choice of compact media players solves the problem of lack of functionality.

AppleTV media player

You should immediately warn if you are not a user of devices from the company Apple TV, but stick to using a PC more, then bypass Apple TV. But if you own an iPad or iPhone, then Apple TV is your device. The latest generation of Apple TV has received Full HD support and a new user interface. We carefully examined this elegant little box.

The device from Apple, as always, demonstrates exemplary ease of use:

• connect Apple TV to the mains
• connect the HDMI connectors on the TV and on the set-top box
• and enter your Apple ID

As for connecting the media player to a home network, the multimedia player supports connection using LAN or Wi-Fi. As for the operating system, fans of the hardware from Steve Jobs will be familiar with everything. The media player is controlled by a small remote control, or free application Remote App for iPad, iPhone, or iPod touch, which you can download from the App Store.

On Apple TV, you can rent a huge number of movies in HD and SD quality from the iTunes Store. If you have a fast Internet connection, you can watch movies right after purchase. A little frustrating is the fact that in the HD section there is no option to choose between 1080p and 720p. Speaking of rental prices, the average value for watching a movie in HD quality is 299 rubles, for renting it is 99 rubles, but not everyone can afford to buy movies.
The library stored on your iPad or iPhone can be transferred to the media player via a wireless network using AirPlay - this function is supported by all devices with iOS version above 4.3. For those who are going to play movies from their network attached storage (NAS), it is worth considering that Apple TV does not support all codecs and video container formats, but content downloaded from iTunes will be played without overlays.

As online services, you can use the iCloud cloud, which synchronizes files stored on Apple devices. Applications from the AppStore will expand the functionality of the device: YouTube, Vimeo, or Stream HD. By the way, USB port on the AppleTV case is used for service purposes, connect USB to it HDD will not work.

For those who like to delve into technology and set everything up manually, I will advise an inexpensive Raspberry Pi, which is a small but complete computer for 5000 rubles. Add a case, power supply and a 2GB SD memory card to it, then combined with Raspmbc or OpenELEC Rasberry Pi software, you have an excellent multimedia player.

I can say with confidence that this is a full-fledged media center for 5000 rubles. As a software, it is enough to use a multimedia shell.
The Raspberry Pi is a small motherboard with the necessary interfaces and components. For full use, you will need a microSD memory card, a micro-USB power supply and a compact case. The above amount includes all necessary components. To connect to a wireless network, an optional WLAN USB dongle is available to solve this problem. Assembling the portable is quite simple: you just need to install the board in the finished case. This is a device for enthusiasts, as its capabilities directly depend on your desire to "tinker". That's why I think Raspberry Pi such an interesting solution as a media player.

First, install one of the XBMC-based programs - Raspbmc or OpenELEC (I posted links to them above). The media player is controlled using the familiar keyboard and mouse. Alternatively, you can use the dedicated Raspberry Pi Remote Control app for Android and iOS smartphones and tablets. The performance of the device is very decent, it starts to slow down only when playing video content with a resolution of 1080p and a high bitrate (for those who do not understand, small DVDRip and BDRip will work without problems). The media player allows you to play files both over the network (via shared folders or UPnP server AV) and from USB devices (flash drives and hard drives).

For XBMC and its modified variants used in the Raspberry Pi, there are all kinds of extensions - addons. By the way, the Raspberry Pi case costs from 700 rubles.

For those who are interested in RaspberryPi, it will be interesting and mini computer BeagleBone Black with a single-core TI Sitara AM335x (1 GHz) processor based on the ARM Cortex-A8 microarchitecture. You can also install an XBMC based skin on the BeagleBone Black.

Iconbit Toucan Nano XS - media player for Android OS

I also want to draw the attention of applicants for multimedia players to iconBit Toucan Nano SX running on Android OS 4.0.4. This compact multimedia center will cost you less than 4000 rubles, which is not limited to playing movies, music and photos. Owners of Android devices know that any device running on this OS will help turn the Google Play online store into an almost full-fledged PC.

As with all Android devices, the first time you connect and set up, you only need to select a language and link the device to your Google account. Compact media player connects to home network via LAN or built-in wi-fi module, and the image and sound are transmitted to the TV via an HDMI cable. The Toucan Nano XS itself isn't a complete media player, but the Google Play Store will fix that issue. It is enough to download a software media player, I would recommend XBMC for Android, or MX Player (the required codec is downloaded from the Internet during installation).

Controlling with the remote control takes some getting used to. When using the XBMC or VLC media player, you can use special applications to control the iconBit Toucan Nano SX. Alternatively, you can purchase a wireless multimedia keyboard with an integrated mouse function that makes it easier to navigate the Internet. Excellent performance, even 1080p movies in the MKV container do not slow down. Let me remind you that on Google Play you can rent and purchase HD and SD videos at prices that are similar to Apple's iTunes Store.

I think I will constantly update and supplement the article so that you can always get up-to-date information when choosing a device. I will be happy to answer any questions questions when choosing a media player.

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 entry-level media players. Up to complete disappearance.

Players are different

The "injection" of multimedia functions into the TV today can be performed by several classes of devices: 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 of recent years: familiar and ready-to-use applications, OS adaptation to high-resolution display and inexpensive processors had a positive impact on the distribution 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 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 domestic than computer technology, this class of devices rarely allows installation 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 the last two categories of 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 with minimal investment.

Interfaces

The variety of interfaces in the era of digital broadcasting is fading, so a TV equipped with an HDMI input and support for resolutions from HD Ready and above will be an ideal candidate for connecting a media player. 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 all 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 connector

• 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 DVB-T2 digital broadcasting standard has come in their place. 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 play the files from local network get faster and more efficient. In the case of an Android mini PC, an additional 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 a codec or the design features of the chipset), so it's better to avoid an unpleasant surprise in the form of a "silent movie" 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 the 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 careless 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. Quad-core processor, 2 GB random access memory and stock Android Jelly Bean will appeal to buyers for whom timely familiarization with the news feed and videos means much more than painstaking selection of 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 feature set 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 shortcomings in 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 according to 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 built on the quad-core Intel Atom platform, running on clock frequency 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 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.

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 built-in smart TV software. At the same time, media players are popular in the market, since they are universal and allow replacement 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 the support of Wi-Fi technology. 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. A 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 the key points that 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 the maximum quality in the video signal transmission process, which makes 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 a TV, and a compartment for 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. Playing content over a 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. IN 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 connection. 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, specifications. 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 - RAM. 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. Also available social media, work with files in 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 of the Wi-Fi transmitter.

The device picks up digital IPTV channels. You can control it with a remote control. If you install 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. Immediately the user can 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 user interface tvOS. The connection can be made using an HDMI cable, a wireless Wi-Fi interface or wired Ethernet is also presented.

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 of the 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 cord;
• 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. Technique can work 24/7 without days off, and special applications can play files without interruption and return to the main menu. Additionally, each owner this device can activate the auto-off function due to the timer. This option is also available for instantly launching the 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.

well known Russian user with their processor-based media players Realtek, introduces a new model series movie home, named V9. In fact, the novelty is a successful development of the well-known "eight", which has become the prototype for many modern HD players.

One of the features that distinguish Noontec MovieHome V9 against the general background, is to support recording video and sound from a low-frequency input, so we can record our favorite TV show or movie from a satellite or IPTV receiver, or digitize recordings from an old camcorder or video player. In fact, the ability to record video is not something unique today, and is already found in some models of media players from other manufacturers. Quite another matter, the ability to connect the internal DVB-T tuner, with the help of which it becomes possible to view and record digital TV programs, including in HD format (decoding of H.264 and MPEG2 streams is supported).

Peculiarity:

* Support most video formats including MKV/ H.264
* HD recorder and player
* DVB-T DTV receiver, support EPG (only for V9-T)

* TV program recording schedule (V9-T only)
* Internet browser (eg Picasa, Flickr, news…etc.)
* Support WiFi 802.11g/n (WiFi dongle optional)
* 1080p Full HD decoding
* ANT IN -DVB-T digital TV input signal (only for V9-T)
* LOOP-DVB-T outgoing digital TV signal (only for V9-T)
* Streaming support

Purpose
* SATA 3.5” hard drive
* HD recorder and player

Language support:
* English, Russian, German, Spanish, Italian, French, Portuguese, Danish, etc.

Control
* Remote controller remote control and keypad control

Firmware
* Ability to upgrade the firmware

Data interface
* USB 2.0

Max. hard disk capacity
* up to 2 TB

Support for information storage formats
* FAT32 and NTFS

Multicard reader
*SD/MMC/XD/MS/MS pro

USB 2.0 host
* 2 pcs.

network connection
* RJ45 10/100M, streaming support

Audio playback
* MP3 WMA WAV ACC OGG (no DRM) AC3, FLAC, Dolby Digital, DTS Digital
* Bit rate: MP3 32kbps~320kbps
* WMA: 32kbps~192kbps

Video playback
* Codecs:H.264,VC-1,RM,RMVB,MPEG 1/2/4, DIVX3.x/4.x/5.x, Xvid
* Formats: WMV,MKV,MOV,AVI,MP4,MPG,TS/M2TS/TP/TRP,FLV,ISO,IFO

Subtitles
* Text: SSA, SMI, SRT,ASS,IDX+SUB
* Images: .sub

Graphics Format Support
*BMP/JPEG

Graphics playback mode
*Slide view support

Analog video output
*CVBS/YPbPr

Digital video output
* HDMI 1.3

Permission
* High definition up to 1080p

Audio output
*Stereo/HDMI/Optical
*Stereo, SNR>90dB,
* Playback frequency 20-20KHz(+/-1dB)

Input signal recording
* Audio: Stereo (Left/Right)
* Video: Composite(CVBS)

Video recording format
*MPEG2

Recording quality
* For NTSC 720 X 480 at 30 fps or for PAL 720 X 576 at 25 fps

Quality Level
*HQ/SP/LP/EP/SLP
* Editing recorded video clips

Recording timer
* Timer recording or one button recording

AC input
* 100V~220V,50/60HZ

DC output
* 12V 3A

Device weight
* 1kg. (without hard drive)

Device dimensions:
* 214 x 163 x 52.5mm

Modern TV models are significantly superior in their functionality to their predecessors. They can play video and audio from external media, surf the Internet, record programs. All this thanks to the media center. It can be either factory installed or purchased separately. Moreover, a self-purchased device, even from the simplest TV, can make an entertainment center.

More recently, everyone used VCRs first, and then DVD players. But technological progress does not stand still and outdated set-top boxes have been replaced by multimedia centers. They still play and record files just like their predecessors. However, they have many more features. These include:

1. The ability to play video and audio files in almost all existing formats.
2. Reading images of any format.
3. Reproduction of information from various media: USB, external hard drives, smartphones and tablets and other devices.
4. The ability to access the Internet, which provides access to all available information and various entertainment portals. This feature is implemented using the built-in browser.
5. Support for various functions: 3D, Wi-fi, game services.
6. The ability to save existing information.

REFERENCE! Each model of a multimedia set-top box has its own set of features, which is described in detail in the attached instructions.

Outwardly, they are a small box, some models can be equipped with a liquid crystal display. Connecting to a TV set-top box can be done in three ways: using a Wi-fi wireless network, via an HDMI cable, or via a component output.

REFERENCE! Some models of media players are suitable for old kinescope TVs. However, due to the design limitations of the TV receiver itself, not all functions will be available. For example, viewing video files in Full HD or 3D will not be available.

Is it worth buying a media player

It would seem that if you have a computer or laptop, a multimedia set-top box becomes an unnecessary waste of money. After all, they have the same functions for transferring files. However, not all computers or laptops are capable of transmitting high quality video and sound. Yes, and connecting a laptop or computer is not always convenient, and sometimes there are various problems with synchronizing devices, which requires additional configuration and takes a lot of time. Also, the multimedia prefix has a number of undeniable advantages. These include:

1. Virtually silent operation. Cooling personal computer and laptops provide coolers that can't run completely silently.
2. The attachment takes up very little space.
3. Loads much faster than a PC or laptop.
4. A small amount of wires needed to connect to the TV.
5. They are very convenient and easy to use, which allows pensioners or children to use them without any problems. Yes, and watching movies and other content is much more familiar and comfortable on a large TV screen, sitting in an armchair.
6. All control is carried out from one remote control.
7. Hang-ups at the multimedia set-top box are extremely rare.

Due to the existing advantages, the answer to the question of buying is “Yes”.

There are several types of media players:

1. The most simple and inexpensive options without the ability to connect to a wireless network and without a hard drive.
2. Without internet connection, but with built-in hard drive.
3. Media players that connect via local network to a computer or laptop. This allows you to play files on your computer using your home network.
4. The most expensive models with a built-in hard drive, LAN connection and Internet access. These are modern models with the largest set of functions compared to simpler players.

ATTENTION! Some users think that multimedia devices and satellite receivers are one and the same. However, a significant difference between set-top boxes and receivers is that the players allow you to view the necessary files, IPTV and access the Internet. Whereas the receivers broadcast satellite television channels and record.

What to look for when choosing a media player

For a few more years, the range of media consoles was not very wide, as they were not very popular. However, quite a bit of time has passed and consoles have become in demand, which means that the choice has become much larger. In order not to get confused when buying the right model of a multimedia set-top box, you need to pay attention to the following parameters:

1. Interface. When buying, you need to study which set-top boxes have outputs for connecting to a TV. The most popular option is an HDMI cable, as it is capable of transmitting a high-definition signal.
2. Supported formats. Modern models can reproduce almost all currently existing video and audio signal standards. However, before buying it is still worth studying the technical characteristics of a particular model.
3. Control. The player must have convenient menu in Russian.
4. Service support. You need to pay attention to what media the player can read information from, and whether it has Internet access.

Modern models have all the available functions, a user-friendly interface, a user-friendly menu, and an updatable operating system. This allows them to significantly complement and expand the capabilities of the TV.