Roku 2 xs 1080p Streaming Media Player

 

What I want from my home network system is no hassle, and network security. Roku have a firm reputation for always being solidly built, if free of frills (not always a bad thing in my book!)

Roku 2 XS 1080p Streaming Player

The size of the device is the first thing that drew me, it’s really compact. This version (the XS) comes with an Ethernet port, a wireless remote, a free game (Angry Birds) a USB port and micro SD card.

Roku say it uses less power that than its predecessors (6W). That and the fact that I’ve been able to cut down on TV subscriptions since buying it means I like this on a financial as well as operative level.

Setup was fairly straightforward, all done in fewer than 20 minutes, with the Roku guiding me through it, downloading the software and updates. Adding channels was easy enough too. The picture quality is excellent.

Supported formats

With Netfix as part of the kit, the Roku 2 XD Streaming Player 1080p supports 1080p Dolby Digital Plus. Staying on supported formats, MP3 and AAC are the audio and JPG and PNG are the imaging ones. It only works in the 2.4 GHz range, and not dual band wireless. I found that the loading and buffering times were acceptable.

The user interface is straightforward, and not much changed from previously to be honest, which was a little disappointing, but then Roku has a well-earned reputation for keeping it simple. Like the older version, this machine is meant to stream video, and does it very well in my opinion. I’ve read of problems that others have, but to be honest, they could be related to other areas. I had no problems.

Remote control

The Roku 2 XD Streaming Player 1080p comes with a nice to handle remote control. It feels great, the buttons are set nicely within the casing, and are comfortable. I‘ve only played Angry Birds, more games are promised, and it worked perfectly. It uses Bluetooth so you don’t have to point at the base unit when gesturing. Roku have released an API so you can expect the apps and games selection to widen a lot.

Cons

The memory on the Roku 2 XS 1080p Streaming Player is not really enough, but an external SD card does the trick nicely, and at around $5, is a solution that certainly won’t break the bank.

This is a pocket marvel that competes with Apple TV, Google TV, Boxee, etc. The main providers such as Hulu, Netflix, Amazon, etc. all work with no problems, and surfing the myriad of free channels was no problem at all. The system is simple, bulletproof and Roku are to be commended for again scoring in this area.

The 1080p HD video quality is excellent, and this tiny little box is adaptable enough to connect to a less than ultra-modern television set.

Reviews

What do people think of this? Here are a few comments from actual buyers:

• “…this is the best streaming device on the market today…”
• “…I’m absolutely amazed!!! I was THIS close to breaking down and getting cable. So glad I decided to wait until after I got my Roku 2 to make my decision. From my front door to laying on my bed watching a movie took about 1 hour. INCREDIBLE!!!…”
• “…I love my Roku….”
• “…This is a great internet streaming device. Netflix and Amazon access is perfect. Best device I’ve used with those services…”
• “…I loved my earlier Roku XDS so I bought this for my daughter. She loves it! Netflix and Hulu stream great!…”

At this price, you can’t stream video for better value. My family finds it very easy to use, and even my technologically-challenged older relatives were able to use it.

The Roku 2 XS 1080p Streaming Player is a small, near invisible device in my home, but it is a big hit.

 

Click here to buy the Roku 2 XS 1080p Streaming Player

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		Roku 2 XS 1080p Streaming Player With over 350 entertainment channels and counting, Roku 2 has something for virtually everyone, including: Over 150,000 movies and TV shows at your	Too Low to Display used from: 159.00	CLICK HERE
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		Roku HD Player With Wi-Fi and High Definition playback capability built-in, Roku HD Player is the easiest way to stream top-quality instant movies and shows	Too Low to Display used from: 83.79	CLICK HERE
		Roku SD Player With built-in Wi-Fi, the Roku SD Player is the easiest way to stream instant movies and shows from Netflix and Amazon Video On Demand directly to	Too Low to Display used from: 569.35	CLICK HERE
		Roku 3100AB 1080p 2 XS Angry Birds Limited Edition Streaming Player - Red Hands-down the best experience in 1080p HD streaming to your TV-plus motion-based gaming for an extra dose of great entertainment. Enjoy 300+	$107.98 used from: $142.00	CLICK HERE