QUOTE(cosmicmeadow @ Sep 20 2009, 12:26 AM)
The new media player from DLink (DSM-350), selling for Rm439 at All-IT, has LAN connectivity and can play nearly all the formats (including MKV and RMVB), but only at 720p. Anyone bought it? Can it play from NAS? Any reviews?
What about other brands?
Yes, it is able to play RMVB.
I have not tried MKV yet.
I just got it yesterday, was a bit skeptical if it would run without installing the 2.5" HDD.
Bottomline:
- Does not need to have 2.5" HDD to operate. Can run shows off the NAS direct.
- Poor Interface. The remote control layout is also not ideal.
- Having said that, remote control quality is good. Not cheap plastic.
- Plays RMVB / AVI from Samba and from installed HDD / USB
- BT client built in, but very poor configuration options. I dont know which ports to forward, neither can I set it. Cant set upload (share) ratio. HDD required for this function. Not sure if USB storage will work
- Downloads BT even when DSM350 is in standby mode.
- Built in MyChannels is useful. Its like watching TiVo. You can skip shows and it'll continue where the last show left off. Requires HDD to be installed for this feature.
- Video quality is 7/10, Sound quality also 7/10 compared to my XBMC
- HDMI (Video + Sound)
- No Wifi, only 10/100 LAN
- Made of Aluminium / Brushed Metal Top and bottom. Feels solid and heavy.
- Can feel a bit hot after leaving it on
I'm using HDMI and there's a slight problem whenever I bring the DSM350 out of standby. The color on my Tosh LCD is all purple. Need to restart the DSM350 again for the proper colors to come on. Maybe firmware problem, or maybe my Tosh is a bit old.
So far the most cost effective solution for people who wants a player that will play shows off the NAS. Overall I'd give it 7.5/10.
It will never replace my XMBC for now.
If anyone has other similar suggestions for another set top box that plays media off the NAS, please share your experience.
Cheers.