Which TV has the best media player. Media players - how they are convenient and how to choose the best model.

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Instead of an introduction, we would like to draw the attention of buyers to the reduction in cost and progress of Smart TV systems for last 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.

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".

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 suggest that you familiarize yourself with the world of nettops in numerous 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 recent years: Familiar and ready-to-use applications, OS adaptation to high-resolution display and inexpensive processors have 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 a powerful operating system.

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 household than computer equipment, this class of devices rarely allows the installation of third-party applications and services. The efforts of the developers lie in the plane of ease of management and picture quality.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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 up to ubiquity broadcasting in this standard is still far away. The presence of a digital signal in a particular locality should first be checked with the operator of the all-Russian digital television broadcasting or with 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 playing files from the local network will be faster and more efficient. In the case of an Android mini PC, an additional argument for such 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.

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 updated to the latest 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 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.

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 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 the 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.

CPU	Rockchip RK3188 (Cortex-A9), 1.6GHz x 4 cores

RAM
HD support
operating system	Android 4.2.2 Jelly Bean
	1x USB 2.0 1x HDMI 1.4 1x micro USB card reader (SDHC)
Video format support	MKV, AVI, WMV, MOV, FLV, RM, RMVB (MPEG4, H.264, VC1 codecs)
Support for audio formats	MP3, WMA, AAC, Ogg, WAV, FLAC, APE
Network connections	Wi-Fi IEEE 802.11 (b/g/n)
Additionally	App Store Google Play, compatible with standard USB keyboards and mice
Estimated cost
	Quote request: 380110 1

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.

CPU	HiSilicon Hi3716C (Cortex-A9), 1 GHz

RAM
HD support
operating system	Android 4.0.3 Ice Cream Sandwich
	3x USB 2.0 1x HDMI 1.4 S/PDIF (optical) composite output SCART RFIN RF OUT card reader (SDHC)
Video format support	MKV, AVI, WMV, MOV, TP, TS, TRP, M2T, M2TS, MP4, DAT, MPG, FLV, RM, RMVB, (MPEG1, MPEG2, MPEG4, XviD, H.264, VC1 codecs)
Support for audio formats	MP3, WMA, AAC, Ogg, M4A, WAV, FLAC, APE, AC3, DTS
Network connections	Ethernet LAN 100M, Wi-Fi IEEE 802.11 (b/g/n)
Additionally	TVZor media shell (IPTV, OTT, WEB TV), Multiscreen function (iOS / Android), YouTube service support, compatibility with standard USB keyboards and mice
Estimated cost
	Quote request: 380110 1

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. You can find more details in our review.

CPU	Allwinner A20 (Cortex-A7), 1 GHz x 2 cores

RAM
HD support
operating system
	2x USB 2.0 1x HDMI 1.4 S/PDIF (coaxial, optical)
Video format support	ISO BD3D, MKV, AVI, WMV, MOV, FLV, RM, RMVB (MPEG1, MPEG2, MPEG4, XviD, H.264, WMV9, VC1 codecs)
Support for audio formats	MP3, WMA, Ogg, WAV, FLAC, APE
Network connections
Additionally	Media shell iconBIT (IPTV, OTT, WEB TV), Google Play store, USB webcam support
Estimated cost
	Quote request: 380110 1

"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 find more details in our review.

CPU	Realtek RTD1185, 500 MHz
RAM
HD support
operating system
	1x USB 2.0 1x HDMI 1.3 1x eSATA/USB 2.0 combo S/PDIF (optical) composite output card reader (SDHC/MS/xD)
Video format support	MKV, AVI, WMV, ISO, VOB, MOV, ASF, TS, TRP, M2TS, MP4, DAT, MPG, FLV, RM, RMVB (MPEG1, MPEG2, MPEG4, H.264, VC1 codecs)
Support for audio formats
Network connections
Additionally	YouTube, Flickr, Muzee Internet Radio + TV, etc.
Estimated cost
	Quote request: 380110 1

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.

CPU	Intel Atom, 1800 MHz x 4 cores
RAM
HD support
operating system
	1x micro USB 2.0 1x HDMI 1.4
Video format support
Support for audio formats	MP3, WMA, WAV, FLAC, APE
Network connections	802.11ac 2x2 (MIMO), Bluetooth 4.1
Additionally	Google Play Store
Estimated cost
	Quote request: 380110 1

Google presented its vision on what should be a set-top box based on operating system Android. 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 in accordance with 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 based on the quad-core Intel Atom platform, clocked at 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.

CPU	Allwinner A31 (Cortex-A7), 1.2GHz x 4 cores
	PowerVR SGX544MP2
RAM
HD support
operating system
	1x USB 2.0 1xHDMI 1x micro USB
Video format support	MKV, AVI, WMV, MOV, FLV (MPEG1, MPEG2, MPEG4, H.264, VC1 codecs)
Support for audio formats	MP3, WMA, WAV, FLAC, APE
Network connections	Wi-Fi IEEE 802.11 (b/g/n)
Additionally	iconBIT media shell (IPTV, OTT, WEB TV), Google Play Store
Estimated cost
	Quote request: 380110 1

"Iron" level samsung galaxy S3 in the format of a large USB-drive will be in demand for a long time. The Toucan Stick 4K is not a budget model, but until RK3288-based successors become commonplace, IconBIT's flagship mini PC will be among the most coveted Android mini PCs on the Russian market.

The media player supports image reception via AirPlay and Miracast technologies, and the extensive hardware acceleration capabilities in the GPU allow you to play Ultra HD video recordings without prior conversion. The operating system includes the IconBIT media shell, which means that the search for online content for an undemanding user fades into the background. You can find more details in our review.

CPU	Sigma Designs 8674, 700 MHz
RAM
HD support
operating system
	1x USB 2.0 1x HDMI 1.3 S/PDIF (optical) composite output)
Video format support	MKV, AVI, WMV, ISO, VOB, MOV, ASF, TS, M2TS, MP4 (MPEG2, MPEG4, XviD, H.264, WMV9, VC1 codecs)
Support for audio formats	MP3, WMA, AAC, Ogg, PCM, M4A, WAV, FLAC, APE, AC3
Network connections	Ethernet LAN 10/100 M, Wi-Fi IEEE 802.11 (b/g/n)
Additionally	Remote control with mobile devices(iOS, Android), browser, support for ivi.ru, megogo.net, YouTube, etc., plugins for working in social networks.
Estimated cost
	Quote request: 380110 1

Being a pioneer in the market of digital media players, the Dune brand is rightfully popular with both Russian and foreign users. Traditionally, high speed and stability of work can be traced even in the younger model of the company - TV-102W. The Sigma Designs 8674 processor supports current audio and video formats, and attention to detail and streaming services in demand in Russia add practicality to the set-top box. In addition to a web browser, free online cinemas and an extensible OS, the media player boasts support for social networking web clients and efficient work with files in the local space. Among the annoying shortcomings of the model include the lack of support for 3D video and sound in DTS format, low Wi-Fi transmitter power and functionally limited (no license for the AC3 codec) versions in the gray market.

CPU	Realtek RTD1186DD, 750 MHz
RAM
HD support
operating system
	2x USB 2.0 1x USB 3.0 type B 1x HDMI 1.4 component output composite output stereo output (RCA) card reader (SDHC) HDD SATA I/II 3.5"
Video format support	ISO BD3D, MKV, AVI, WMV, MOV, ASF, TP, TS, TRP, M2TS, MP4, MPG, FLV, RM, RMVB (MPEG1, MPEG2, MPEG4, XviD, DivX, H.264, WMV9, AVCHD, VC1)
Support for audio formats	MP3, WMA, AAC, Ogg, PCM, M4A, WAV, FLAC, AC3, DTS
Network connections	Ethernet LAN 10/100/1000 M, Wi-Fi IEEE 802.11 (b/g/n)
Additionally	iconBIT media shell (IPTV, OTT, WEB TV), compatible with standard USB keyboards and mice
Estimated cost
	Quote request: 380110 1

The representative of the "middle class" of media players has acquired a Wi-Fi module and, as a result, the W index in the title. By the standards of mobile devices, the third year on the pipeline for the RTD1186DD looks wild, but the successful architecture and (once) flagship characteristics of the multimedia processor remain relevant to this day. Behind the moderate price tag of the XDS1003DW are solid features: gigabit Ethernet, a variety of interfaces for connecting to TVs and drives, a slot for installing standard 3.5-inch hard drives and support for numerous content formats. The IconBIT unified media shell allows you to work with streaming services and "provider" IPTV, and the widespread use of the Realtek RTD1186DD platform makes this media player a desirable device for enthusiasts - the number of third-party firmware and the ease of upgrading the software of this chipset are commendable.

CPU	Sigma Designs 8673, 800 MHz
RAM
HD support
operating system
	3x USB 2.0 1x USB 3.0 type B 1x HDMI 1.4 component output composite output S/PDIF (coaxial, optical) stereo output (RCA) card reader (SDHC) HDD SATA I/II 3.5"
Video format support	ISO BD3D, MKV, AVI, WMV, IFO, VOB, MOV, ASF, TS, M2T, M2TS, MP4 (MPEG2, MPEG4, XviD, H.264, WMV9, VC1 codecs)
Support for audio formats	MP3, WMA, AAC, Ogg, PCM, M4A, WAV, FLAC, APE, AC3, DTS
Network connections	Ethernet LAN 10/100/1000 M, Wi-Fi IEEE 802.11 (b/g/n)
Additionally	Remote control from mobile devices (iOS, Android), browser, support for ivi.ru, megogo.net, YouTube, etc., plug-ins for social networks, HD Audio support up to 24 bit/192 kHz
Estimated cost
	Quote request: 380110 1

Dune's flagship media player is the face of the industry and sits somewhere between the outrageously expensive hi-fis and mainstream media centers from competing brands.

The characteristics of the model look ordinary and cannot justify the high cost of Base 3D. And this is not surprising, because this model differs from competitors not in quantitative, but in qualitative indicators. The advantages of the media player lie not only in the image plane. Base 3D is able to offer hot-swap support for internal storage, an exhaustive number of slots for speakers and TV drives, accurate picture calibration, support for USB tuners, access point mode and TV-adapted torrent clients. An efficient upscaling algorithm improves the display of videos below 720p, and HD Audio playback quality makes it easy to forget about buying a specialized music center.

Among the shortcomings of the model, it should be noted the lack of support for the H.264 Hi10P profile and the invariably absent support for the full Blu-ray menu specification. To unlock the potential of Base 3D, you will need a high-quality TV and acoustics of the appropriate level.

The TV media player is a source of high-quality video playback on your screen, which in our time has replaced DVD players, which once replaced VCRs. This function can be performed by a FullHD player, your personal computer, a hardware Blue Ray Disk player.

The variety of manufacturers represented on this market is already quite large and is not limited to venerable brands such as Samsung and LG. Both the shelves of megamarkets and the pages of online stores generously dazzle with a variety of media players for TV. This diversity is explained by the fact that the novelty is quickly gaining wide popularity. It is not so easy to choose the best of them. Especially if you need to choose within a modest budget.

This is a relatively new type of media content playback device. Most models can be connected to the Internet via WiFi or cable. It is convenient, easy to use, versatile. Equipped with a wide variety of connection connectors, it is usually easy to connect it to modern plasma TVs, as well as home theaters via an HDMI or component connector, and to older CRT models via S-Video or composite connectors.

Using FullHD media player, in addition to high-resolution movies and videos, you can enjoy high-quality picture when viewing photos on your TV in various formats and resolutions as a slideshow with accompanying playback of audio files in various formats.

Also, with the help of FullHD player, you can view standard and low definition movies and videos, even if they have just been downloaded to your mobile phone's camcorder. In addition, it always has a built-in USB. The fact that the device has this output makes its operation more comfortable. Also, some models can access the Internet via cable.

If you appreciate simplicity and versatility, you should choose the Full HD player.

Outwardly, it can very much resemble DVD-shniks already fading into the past. However, unlike the latter, it is capable of playing Blue Ray CDs.

This type of TV media player is easy to use and does not require any major settings. It can also have Internet access via WiFi or cable. Absolutely every model of this type has a standard set of connectors, including a USB output. So, if you are not one of those who cannot afford Blue Ray discs, you can safely choose this device.

Computer

But the most universal means of reproducing media content is precisely the computer - this technological friend, which has become an indispensable household item for a modern person. You understand, here is USB, and in general, anything. True, the computer, at the same time, is extremely capricious. If you decide to connect it to a TV or plasma panel, you will have to think hard about the settings. Moreover, the computer system unit is always equipped with cooling devices that create a certain noise during operation. And, it should be noted that not every modern PC can play high-quality Blue Ray video.

Of course, all these disadvantages are not an obstacle for you if you can afford to buy a super-powerful PC monoblock.

There is one more advantage to using a PC for viewing multimedia content - saving on disks and easy access to the content you need.

It's not so easy to find everything that suddenly interested you on CD Blue Ray. While using a computer, in the presence of high-speed Internet, get hold of any movie in best quality- a matter of a few minutes.

Sources and media of content

The media player is capable of playing content from hard drive, which is inserted directly into its body. Also, a USB flash drive or an external HDD connected via USB. It is also easy to connect through the built-in or external card reader to the media player memory cards from cameras, as well as mobile phones, camcorders and other devices. By the way, all these devices can be connected to the player directly, for example, via a USB cable.

If you have any type of network connection, it will not be difficult for you to play with the player on the big screen any content stored on the hard drives of devices connected to the network. If you connect the media player to the Internet, you can view video content from such Internet hosting sites without any obstacles, such as:

Youtube;
Google Video Podfinder UK;
Meta Cafe;
Apple Trailers and many more.

As for photos and pictures, here you will also see reliable Internet services such as:

By the way, you can listen to any of the countless Internet radio stations on your cinema sound system or TV speakers.

The media player can access the Internet also when WiFi assistance. This is especially convenient if you decide to go to a country house or live in a rural area and it is more convenient for you to use WiFi than cable Internet.

The list of Internet hostings supported by media players is constantly updated. With the help of the player, you can already check your mail, find out the weather forecast, play online games. And all this on your TV screen. By the way, downloading movies in high quality using a media player consumes significantly less traffic and electricity than a similar process performed personal computer. A computer can be safely chosen by those who are not afraid of trouble, but prefer to have at hand all the imaginable completeness of gadget functions.

How to connect a media player to a TV

HDMI connection

The easiest and most reliable way. You should choose it if there is a technical possibility. The convenience is that you will need to connect only one single HDMI cable, because it carries out the simultaneous supply of both sound and image.

The vast majority of media player models are now equipped with connectors of this type. However, such a cable, most likely, you will have to purchase separately. Although, some manufacturers provide an HDMI cable with the player. For such a connection, first of all you need to make sure that the correct connector is available on your TV, and then connect the corresponding connectors on the media player and TV with a cable.

Do not be alarmed if the player does not load immediately after switching on - the device loading speed can be from several seconds to two or three minutes - it depends on the manufacturer and model of the device.

If after connecting or when playing some movies there is no sound, in the audio settings you need to select the sound output in Dual Channel format, that is, two-channel. Please note that if your TV does not support the resolutions in which the player sends a signal, the image will most likely be distorted.

Such a connection is used extremely rarely, since very few player models are equipped with such a connector. In terms of signal quality, this connection is inferior to both HDMI and component signal.

Component video output

You will need an ordinary "tulip" cable, at each end of which there are three RCA connectors. Connect each of the connectors to the connectors of the corresponding color on the player and TV and - you're done! The disadvantage of this connection is that only the video signal is transmitted with it, and the sound has to be connected separately.

Commonly used four-pin connectors of this type. S-Video connector - not very common in media players, however, it is found. With this connection, only the image is also transmitted, so the sound transmission, as in the component connection, is carried out by a separate cable.

If your TV only has an S-Video connector and your player has a SCART output, don't despair, it's even better. When purchasing an S-Video-2RCA-SCART adapter, you will not only connect your player without any problems, but also get rid of the need for a separate sound connection, since the stereo sound signal will go to the TV.

Composite output

Gives a signal of extremely poor quality. But, in the absence of something else, it is also an option. So, you can choose it, if, of course, there is nothing to choose from.

And finally, sound transmission. If you are not using SCART or HDMI connection, giving a combined video-audio signal, then you will have to connect the sound separately.

Market leaders

IN Lately miniature devices developed using the latest technologies are gaining more and more popularity. They can be called differently - an android-based media center, TVbox, miniPC. Such a media player can be a little larger than a flash drive, but at the same time have the widest functionality, working with the operating system. Android system, providing access to the Internet via WiFi or via a USB adapter.

The most popular manufacturers in the field of audio-video equipment are Samsung and LG.

For example, LG ST600 was introduced by LG back in 2011, but it still holds a strong position in the market. This is a small-sized model (110x110x29, weight 300 grams), which has all the necessary connectors.

Specialists from LG did their best to provide their creation with a wide arsenal of reading audio and video files - AVI, MP4, MPG, MKV, MP3, WMA, AAC DTS, AC3. The developers at LG have also equipped the LGST600 with WiFi and DLNA support, as well as a SmartTV package, which sets this media player apart from many others.

Against the background of this brainchild of LG, the GX-SM530CF player from Samsung also looks very confident. Of course, this model also has all the necessary connectors, from USB to Enternet and, like the LG set-top box, is able to use WiFi. Meanwhile, the Samsung product also has a number of advantages compared to LG's new products: more than one hundred installed useful applications, S-Recommendation service and Cable Card support, which allows you to use this device instead of set-top boxes designed for viewing digital television, which previously had to be rented from operators for a fee.

In any case, whether to give preference to the GX-SM530CF or choose a media player from a wide range of LG products is up to you.

The main thing when choosing a player is to carefully compare its technical requirements and characteristics with the price, the capabilities of your TV and, of course, the family budget. And then, having carefully weighed all the pros and cons, purchase the product you like and enjoy the new generation of super-quality television.

Many modern TV models already have built-in devices for playing multimedia content, but their functionality may be lower than that of a separately installed media player for a TV. By connecting additional equipment, you can significantly expand the capabilities of your TV, get access to social networks and various Internet services, even from the screens of the simplest models. Therefore, many users are thinking about buying an additional TV set-top box.

What is a media player and what features does it have

Modern multimedia TV set-top boxes have replaced VCRs and DVD/CD players. Today they are:

read almost any video and audio formats;
able to open any image;
reproduce information from a variety of sources (portable portable storage devices, mobile gadgets, etc.);
broadcast streaming video;
enable users to access the Internet through a browser, use a large number of entertainment services;
support uTorrent, 3D, Wi-Fi and gaming features.

Specific functionality may vary by model.

By appearance they are small devices with different ports and a control panel. Latest Versions Can have LCD display, user touch operation tool. Connection to the TV is made via an HDMI cable, wireless connection or component jack.

Some devices fit and to old kinescope types of TV. In this case, information is transmitted via S-Video or a composite slot. It should be understood that the functionality of such a pair will be limited. Since if the media player has any capabilities, then such a TV will not be able to reproduce, for example, the FullHD or 3D format. Of course, users of modern models have more opportunities.

Composite RCA and S-Video output

Is it worth buying a media player for a TV if you have a computer

At first glance, it may seem that such a device is a waste of money when you have a PC or laptop. After all, the computer just performs these functions. But not every electronic computing device is capable of transmitting high quality picture and sound as widescreen LED TV will do, especially in high definition HD and FullHD, as well as Blue Ray.

You can either use the system unit via an HDMI cable, but this is not always convenient. In addition, you often have to rack your brains over setting up device synchronization, especially for playing streaming video or recording TV broadcasts on your computer's hard drive.

Another plus in favor of a separate TV set-top box - silent operation. Since the computer is equipped with a cooling device, it creates a certain amount of noise during operation. The advantages are obvious, so for connoisseurs of excellent video playback quality, you should think about how to choose a media player for your TV.

Connecting the computer system unit to the TV

What criteria should you pay attention to when choosing a modern TV set-top box

Today the market is represented by a wide model range digital players for TVs. To determine the choice of the most suitable device model for yourself, you should pay attention to the following criteria:

media player interface;
possible playback formats;
control system;
sources and media of content (support for Internet services);
additional functionality.

Media player interface

Even before sending to the store for a new device for your TV, you need to find out the availability of ports and connectors that television equipment has. This information is important for choosing how to connect the set-top box. The most optimal and popular option today -HDMI-cable, such a connection will provide high quality video transmission and multi-channel audio. This digital connector allows you to play HD and FullHD resolutions available for modern LED TV models from LG, Samsung, Sony and other manufacturers.

For older TVs, the set-top box may need to support the following connector types.

Component output. For synchronization, many well-known "tulips" are used. A feature of this connection is the transmission of individual components of the video signal over several cables, at the end of which there are three RCA connectors. In this case, only the image is transmitted, the sound in stereo format is connected separately.

Composite output. The principle of video signal transmission is similar to the previous one, but the image quality is worse. If possible, it is better to use an analog interface.
S- video. Such a connector is rarely found even on CRT TVs, but it is still present in some models. Design feature and the quality of the video signal transmission is somewhat better than the composite one. It is based on two dividing lines, which are used to transmit luminance and chrominance signals in an image.

In addition to the ports for connecting the media player to the TV, it must support and additional set of interfaces. Modern models, in addition to the mandatory HDMI and USB, may have an optical or card reader for connecting other storage media. Not all devices provide for a built-in HDD, but most of them allow (two USB connectors are required for high-quality work).

It is important not only to think about how to connect the set-top box to the TV, but also to synchronization with other devices. All required connectors must be present in technical specifications devices. Also, if necessary, you should take care of purchasing additional adapters that are not included with the media player.

Possible playback formats

Without exaggeration, we can say that modern multimedia TV boxes play almost all video and audio formats, and also open any images. Even the most budget devices will play popular AVI, MKV, MP4. Therefore, through most set-top boxes, you can watch movies in the BDRip (-AVC) or DVDRip standards.

The entire list of readable formats is indicated in the technical specifications.

But many inexperienced users are mistaken, evaluating the device according to the list of supported formats, not taking into account the concept media containers and codecs by equating them. Simply put, if the set-top box supports playback of the mp4 container, this does not mean that all files with this extension will be played in high quality. They can open, for example, without sound or with noise, if the audio track is not supported. Since the concepts of media container and codec have different definitions. In the first case, this is the file format, in the second, the stream format in it.

For those who want to watch movies on their home theater in high quality or format 3D, you should choose advanced reading formats. For example, it is not uncommon for 3D movies to have an ISO extension or several folders with files of various formats. And support for the ISO BD3D extension is not present in all models.

3Q F370HW 3D Media Player

Control system

In addition to supporting standard media formats and optimal loading times, a media player must have Russian-language menu with convenient control and navigation are fundamental factors in the analysis of this criterion. Users have the ability to control the media set-top box both from the device itself and from the remote control or through a mobile gadget. There are also models that provide support for a QWERTY keyboard and a computer wireless mouse. These accessories will come in handy when working with social networks or an Internet browser through a TV screen. For convenience, you can use, which allows you to control both the set-top box and the TV at the same time.

Sources and carriers of content (support for Internet services)

The set-top box can play media content from various media.

Built-in HDD. In this case, the media size will be important. Plus built-in hard drive– all multimedia content is stored in one place and is available at any time.
portable storage device (flash drive, external hard drive) connected via USB.
Memory cards for cameras, camcorders, mobile gadgets. Their connection is made either through a built-in or external card reader, or through a cable.
Hard drives of devices connected to Wi-Fi (if wireless connectivity is available).
Online services such as You Tube, IVI, Google Video, Apple Trailers, Meta Cafe, etc. (if connected to the Internet).

The possibilities of media players are constantly expanding. Modern models allow you to read letters received by e-mail, play online games, find out news and weather forecasts, view new films that are just appearing in wide distribution, etc.

Media player Zappiti Player 4K

Additional functionality

More advanced devices give users more options. Therefore, if the purpose of the purchase is to make Samsung TV or LG - Smart TV, it is better to give preference to set-top boxes with:

opportunity connection to home network (via wireless connection or Ethernet cable);
Internet access to be able to use popular online services, social networks, IP-TV;
modern operating system to be able to update it and install additional software.

The choice and purchase of a media player, even for modern TV models, will be very helpful. Especially for those users who appreciate high-quality images and multi-channel sound. In addition, such a device can turn a simple TV into a Smart TV, and significantly expand its capabilities. After all, even an expensive home theater may not have all the necessary functionality, and the right multimedia TV set-top box can solve these problems.

Blu-ray video, torrent clients and various social media can "live" on the screens of the oldest models thanks to set-top boxes. But which media player should you choose for your TV? What are the characteristics and what are the significant differences? Let's dive headlong into the nuances of choosing the perfect device so that the picture, sound and all other video transmission parameters on your TV meet your expectations.

What is worth choosing?

We classify media players by class:

Nettop. A mini computer that is very compact in size. The stability of work and the quality of the components from which it is made will please any user. This little box can show all the delights of modern Internet surfing and exploitation. useful programs, which are designed to view a variety of content.

Important! The disadvantage of this class is the difficulty of choosing a model that would ideally fit the TV. If you choose this path, then be patient and be prepared to waste your personal time.

Devices based on the Android operating system. The functionality of a smartphone on a TV is the trend of our time. Devices are even more compact, have the size of a flash drive and a small price.

Important! The disadvantage is the controls, since you have to take into account the lack of touch input. This technique is equipped digital tuners and HDMI output. Manufacturers do not expand the list of applications, but monitor the quality of the picture.

What is the device?

There are technologies that allow you to play movies, music, surf the Internet on your TV. Media players have flooded the market in a variety of variations, now DVDs are not the only media. Comfortable quality with limitless possibilities can literally fit in the palm of your hand.

Characteristics

Buying a media player, first of all, should satisfy subjective preferences. You can be guided by the price, but the most budget models are unlikely to satisfy your needs, so it's worth talking about the characteristics in more detail. So, what to focus on to choose a media player for your TV:

Form factor and network communications. Here it is worth looking towards media players that are equipped with an Enternet connector or wifi module. The use of hard drives is no longer relevant.
interfaces. Since we are talking about the best media players for TVs, the choice should immediately be stopped by HDMI, since the other connectors no longer have such relevance and image quality with sound. But be prepared to shell out.

Important! “Tulips”, familiar to everyone since childhood, cost several times less, but the quality leaves much to be desired, such species are relics of the past, which should soon disappear from the market.

playback formats. There should be no questions here. All modern models work with almost all known video and sound formats. The subtleties of choice may only appear if you need to view 3D formats.
Governing bodies. Things are not going well here. Although most devices have keyboard and mouse connectors, the same old remote control is best. With devices based on Android OS, it's still a little more complicated, since you need a remote control that is equipped with a QWERTY keyboard.
performance and hardware platform. There are Sigma and Realtec chipsets. If earlier everything was so-so regarding quality assurance, today the competition between the two manufacturers is on completely equal grounds.

Criteria

There are several factors that are necessary when choosing a device for your TV:

Internal and external attachments. There is an opinion that the functionality of the former is small compared to the latter, but it is not always justified. It all depends on the model and manufacturer.
playback quality. Over time, the need to pay attention to quality disappears, almost all devices reproduce Full HD.
It is best to choose a model with an Internet connection, preferably via wi-fi.

Important! There are things to pay attention to right away:

Menu language.

Management and navigation through the interface.

Internet support. Although almost all models already have support for accessing the network.

The best media players for TV

Google Chromecast 2015

Advantages:

Small size of the device.
Connect via USB cable from TV.
Stable good reception signal anywhere in your apartment.
Working with Android and IOS devices.
Play videos from different sites by installing third-party software.
Full support for various streaming services.
Relatively low price.
A lot of available applications in the Play Market.

Flaws:

Many users complain about the poor sound quality when using the device.
Be prepared to fork out for a memory card, since the set-top box does not have an internal one.
Lack of additional connectors for USB cables.

Important! Good feedback users about this device speak for themselves. Google Chromecast 2015 is a good choice for your TV.

Apple TV Gen4

Advantages:

Apple TV Gen4 also have a small body size.
The quality of sound and video, as always with Apple, is on top.
Primitive setup and easy connection to an output device.
Capabilities of the company's proprietary operating system.
It is obvious that work with all devices from the company is supported.
Convenient management.
Access to iTunes.

Flaws:

The presence of only HDMI, if that is a minus.
Works with Apple devices only.
The voice assistant will not “talk” to you in Russian.
Lack of free apps.

Important! The quality of execution, as you have already understood, is at its best, but here you should be prepared for large financial costs.

Dune HD Solo Lite

Advantages:

Work with all existing formats.
Saved content can be “arranged” into categories.
Watch digital television using IP TV.
Simple and clear interface.
The device is equipped with almost all known external interfaces.

Flaws:

Not the most convenient remote control.
Users have noticed periodic “freezes” on older versions.
Doesn't work well in 4K.
Prolonged use leads to heating of the surface of the instrument case.

IconBIT XDS94K

Advantages:

Compactness.
High performance.
Support for a large number of formats.
Support and work with equipment based on the IOS operating system.
Good implementation everyone Google services play.
A complete set of all external interfaces is provided.
Availability of IPTV.
Convenient remote control.
The cost can be attributed to the budget.

Flaws:

The work of the old versions was accompanied by “lags”.
The set-top box is not equipped with USB 3.0.
Large discs cannot be connected to the media player.

Important! The versatility, price, and 4K video playback make this a smart buy.

This article has shown you all the nuances of choice modern consoles. Make your choice based on personal preference. If you follow everything simple rules and know some information, the purchase will definitely make you happy.