SMP-N100
3
5
93
93
Lots to like...a keeper for sure
I bought this product from Sony as a refurb (I buy lots of refurbs here...the best deal going). I also have a PS3 and a Roku2XS. I have to say that the Sony N100 is a keeper. I must say first that nothing out there, including this N100, is as good as the PS3 for streaming (the Netflix app is an amazing thing on the PS3). However, the N100 is well-built, full-featured, and has really good video quality (almost like the PS3). An amazing deal for the price! I like lots of little things about it which mean I will keep using it along side my other streaming boxes. In no particular order, here are the neat little things: 1) full HDMI CEC support; 2) multi-output on HDMI and component/composite at the same time, 3) consistent, familiar XMB interface, 4) good support for Amazon (not on the PS3), and 5) consistent look and feel to most apps. As for some things I think could be changed/better: 1) MORE channels added by Sony or addable by user (to compete with Roku), 2) more colorful user interface with option for larger icons in the apps, 3) better SEARCH function in all apps, and 4) clear commitment by Sony to continue to update/upgrade the software over time (no more orphans like their "LocationFree" box which I also own).
All in all, I recommend picking up one of these little boxes as a refurb (or buy the N200 new, but it has some differences that make the N100 better in my opinion). I'm a Sony fan in general, but also hope for/expect more from this giant company. I'd like to see them jump in with both feet, so to speak, with evolving software updates for their Media Players like they've done with the PS3.
Oh, and speaking of the PS3, if you don't have one, get one. Put the money you'd spend on a streamer into a PS3. The only service not supported by PS3 is Amazon (not a big loss considering all its competition). Even if you don't play a single game on the PS3 it makes for wonderful Blu-ray player and streaming box. After 4 years of owning one (I now have 2 more in other rooms) I am amazed at the longevity and versatility of the PS3. Why mention the PS3? Well, its little brother, so to speak, in terms of streaming quality is the N100. It's a keeper. I'm proud to have them sitting right next to each other under my beloved Sony KDS-60A3000 SXRD projection TV. By the way, I still have people ask me what kind of TV I have because the image is so clear, so smooth, and so bright it's amazing, particularly in Blu-Ray. I explain why a projection image is more film-like than even the best LCD TVs. Of course, I will then mention that my sister just bought a KDL-55HX820 which is really stunning...it almost (but not quite!) makes me want to get one to replace my faithful SXRD set!
I hope this review is helpful to someone. Good luck.
November 16, 2011
Not Cool
It just doesn't stream Netflix very well at all. My 3.0M DSL connection doesn't seem to be fast enough to use this device to stream Netflix successfully. Our Wii has no problem, but this device constantly fails us.
September 29, 2012
Now Obsolete - But NOT great - Some Good
It does a lot more than I would ever use it for. Got it from outlet mainly to stream from Laptop. CAN'T on VISTA (nice if said so first - not DNLA).
Cheap price is still worth it. Does have sony quality compared to some chinese no-name usb media players I've picked up for the same price.
Like the sony menu system (ok - psp I think)
September 4, 2012
Awesome Player
I've had several media players and I love this unit. I have tons of media on a server and this unit streams it all; pictures, music, and videos. I did have to load a DLNA server app on my server, but no problem. Sony even offers some content on free channels.
I also have the newer N-200 and find little difference between the two. I did connect these devices using a wired connection. You might be able stream over WiFi, but save yourself some headaches and get wired.
June 23, 2012
