Tuesday, July 12, 2011

Roku SD Player Review

Roku SD Player
Average Reviews:

(More customer reviews)

The Roku SD does exactly what it's supposed to do: stream Netflix offerings to your television in standard definition. This is the 'no frills model' and the cheapest Roku offering. There are three: Roku SD, Roku HD and Roku HD-XR. (See my reviews to read about all 3.)

Being the 'low end' Roku offering, it only provides standard RCA (red/yellow/white) composite video hook-ups. NO HDMI hook-up here! For that you need either the Roku HD Player or Roku HD-XR Player. Both can provide HD streaming and stereo sound. The HD-XR can also stream over a 'n' network and has a usb port (although no known use for that port as of yet).

This device will allow you to enjoy Netfix wirelessly or via a wired connection on your home network. It will work at b or g network speeds, but not 'n'. It will not stream content in high definition, but would be perfect for someone with an older television and no plans to upgrade. It also saves you a bit of cash (about 20%) from the price you'd pay for the HD version.

This unit will not give you the best audio and video, but it was never made to do so. There is no optical audio input, nor is there an HDMI connection on this unit. It will give you Netflix content on your television (provided you have a Netflix account) and allow you to enjoy over 17,000 movies, documentaries and television programs. Roku's are great, but you do need to find the one that's right for you!

NOTE: None of the Roku devices are currently DVR's, have built in modems or diversified mass media players or storage units. Also, THIS UNIT WILL NOT STREAM AMAZON ON DEMAND, but the Roku HD and Roku HD-XR will!

1/11/09: The Amazon On Demand (SD) store opened in December 2009 according to the Roku website. On-Demand content in SD from Amazon for the Roku SD should be available now. I've updated this review per an Amazon customer's comments regarding this issue.

Roku SD Player Specifications per the ROKU website:

Networking
Wi-Fi (802.11B/G) with WEP, WPA, and WPA2 support
10/100 Ethernet (RJ-45)
Video Outputs
Composite video (480i)
Video Modes
16:9 anamorphic
4:3 standard
Audio Output
Stereo (L/R RCA)
Remote Control
NEC protocol, supported by various universal remotes
Power Input
5V, 1.5A provided by included AC adapter
Power Consumption
5 watts peak, 4 watts in standby
Size
5 x 5 x 1.75 inches (130 x 130 x 41 mm)
Weight
11 oz (300 grams)

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Product Description

With built-in Wi-Fi, Roku SD Player is the easiest way to stream instant movies and shows from Netflix and Amazon Instant Video directly to your TV. Now at our most affordable price ever, the SD Player comes with everything you need to access a world of great entertainment on your terms including the FREE Roku Channel Store to access even more shows, music, and more instantly to your TV.  No wonder Roku is Netflix members' top rated streaming player.


Product Details

  • Brand: Roku
  • Model: N1050
  • Released on: 2009-12-04
  • Dimensions: 1.75" h x 5.00" w x 5.00" l, 1.00 pounds

Features

  • Start watching movies on your TV in seconds using your high-speed Internet connection
  • Instantly plays the entire Netflix Instant Watch library with your Netflix membership - no additional subscription cost required
  • Plays DVD-quality video on any TV
  • Built-in wireless (Wi-Fi) as well as wired internet connectivity
  • Sets up in 5 minutes


Buy Now

Click here for more information about Roku SD Player

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