Which media player is better. Which media player is best for your TV.

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 boxes have replaced VCRs and DVD / CD players. Today they:

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

Specific functionality may vary depending on the model.

In appearance it is small devices with different ports and control panel. Latest Versions can have lcd display, user touch working tool. Connection to the TV is made via HDMI cable, wireless connection or component jack.

Some devices fit and to old CRT TV types... In this case, information transfer occurs via S-Video or 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 options.

Composite video output RCA and S-Video

Should you buy a media player for your 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 a widescreen LED TV will do, especially in high definition HD and FullHD, as well as Blue Ray.

You can or system unit via HDMI cable, but this is not always convenient. In addition, you often have to smash your head over setting up device synchronization, especially for streaming video playback or recording TV broadcasts on HDD computer.

Another plus in favor of a separate set-top box - silent work... Since the computer is equipped with a cooling device, it generates a certain 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 carriers 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 presence of ports and connectors that are available on television equipment. This information is important for choosing the method of connecting the set-top box. The most optimal and popular option today isHDMI-cable, such a connection will provide high quality video and multi-channel audio transmission. This digital connector allows you to reproduce HD and FullHD resolutions available for modern LED TV models from LG, Samsung, Sony and other manufacturers.

In the case of earlier TV models, the set-top box may need to support the following types of connectors.

Component output... Many well-known "tulips" are used for synchronization. A feature of such a connection is the transmission of individual video signal components through several cables, at the end of which there are three RCA connectors. In this case, only the image is transmitted, sound in stereo 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 in some models it is still present. The design feature and the quality of video signal transmission are slightly better than composite. It is based on two dividing lines that are used to transmit the luminance and chrominance signals of an image.

In addition to ports for connecting a media player to a TV, it must support and additional set interfaces... Modern models, in addition to the obligatory 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 do (two USB connectors are required for high-quality work).

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

Possible playback formats

It is no exaggeration to say that modern multimedia TV-boxes reproduce almost all video and audio formats, as well as open any images. Even the most budget devices will play popular AVI, MKV, MP4. Therefore, through most consoles, you can watch movies in BDRip (-AVC) or DVDRip standards.

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

But many inexperienced users are mistaken when evaluating the device according to the list of supported formats, without considering the concept media containers and codecs 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 play well. 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 3 formatD, it is worth choosing extended reading formats. For example, films with three-dimensional graphics have the ISO extension or several folders with files of different formats. And support for the ISO BD3D extension is not present in all models.

3D Media Player 3Q F370HW

Control system

In addition to supporting standard multimedia formats and optimal loading times, the media player should 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 set-top box both from the device itself and from the remote control or through a mobile gadget. There are also models that support QWERTY keyboard and computer wireless mouse... These accessories will come in handy when working with social media or an Internet browser via the TV screen. For convenience, you can use that 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 size of the media will be important. A plus built hard disk - All multimedia content is stored in one place and is available at any time.
A portable storage device (USB flash drive, external hard drive) connected via a USB connector.
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 disks of devices connected to Wi-Fi (if there is a wireless connection).
Online services such as You Tube, IVI, Google Video, Apple Trailers, Meta Cafe, etc. (if connected to the Internet).

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

Media Player Zappiti Player 4K

Additional functionality

More advanced devices provide users with 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 connecting to home network (via wireless connection or Ethernet cable);
Internet access to be able to use popular online services, social networks, IPTV;
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 picture and multi-channel sound. In addition, such a device can turn a simple TV into a Smart, and significantly expand its capabilities. After all, even an expensive home theater may not have all the necessary functionality, and a properly selected multimedia TV set-top box can solve these problems.

The image is displayed on the screen using various sources: antenna, computer, laptop, media player. There are a lot of options for the latter today, so it is very important to figure out which media player to choose for your TV, so that viewing photos, modern video and music file formats will bring a lot of pleasure.

The computer is considered the most versatile means of playing any content. If you have high-speed internet at home, it won't be difficult to find any video file quickly. Connecting a PC to a TV usually comes with some inconvenience. In addition, the computer can make annoying noise while watching, and self-playback is not always of high quality.

The BlueRayDisk player is designed to play CDs. This device has the required number of connectors and is easy to set up and operate.

Connoisseurs of simplicity and ease of use are better off choosing a Full HD media player. Most of the models are connected to the network, thanks to a USB cable or Wi-Fi. These devices, using special connectors, can be easily connected to outdated TVs, home theaters and modern TV sets. This technique copes well with displaying various films, other videos, made in high and standard low definition. With it, you can arrange a slide show when viewing photos.

Principle of operation, advantages of the device

Thus, a media player for a TV is a source of signal playback, in other words, it is a mini system unit designed to play various media files. The TV for this device acts as a normal monitor. This technique has replaced old VCRs and outdated DVD players. It will easily transform an outdated TV model into a modern entertainment center. Some models of LCD and plasma TVs have built-in media players, which, despite the lower functionality, are still suitable for watching movies.

The media player is equipped with an ethernet port for connecting the device to the Internet and USB slots that allow reading information from flash drives. More advanced devices are used to view various files without first downloading, that is, online. Select models boast Wi-Fi for TVs. If this function is not available for signal transmission, use USB adapter ohm.

The main carriers of information are:

hard drives located directly in the body;
flash cards;
external hard drives connected via USB;
memory cards of phones, camcorders, cameras, other devices connected via a built-in or external card reader.

The main advantages of modern media players:

compact dimensions;
support modern formats well;
the presence of a large number of applications;
connectivity external hard disk, various peripheral devices that allow you to input and output information;
reliable storage of files;
minimum of wires;
clear interface;
rarely freeze, unlike a computer;
acceptable prices.

Choosing a good player for the TV

From year to year, the electronic market is becoming more diverse. Modern models are more multifunctional, compact, comfortable to operate. Although the technique for playing different files is very similar in performance, there are significant differences in functionality.

To choose a media player for your TV, it is important to be guided by the following criteria:

omnivorous or the ability to work with different formats ( good player boasts not only high definition video transmission, but also excellent sound);
memory, that is, the presence of a hard disk, allows you to store a certain amount of information;
availability of necessary connectors;
support for Internet services (provided by the appropriate software);
a cooling system that regulates the intensity of the player (it is better to give preference to the active version, inexpensive models are usually equipped with a passive system);
comfortable control;
ease of navigation through the menu;
the presence of a Russian-language menu.

The best media player models

It would seem that the emergence of television sets that reproduce various kinds of information should have reduced the popularity of media players. However, for certain reasons, this did not happen. Until advanced TV models appear in all homes, this technique will remain in demand.

PopcornHour Xtreamer is considered to be the leader among the manufacturers of media players. The products of these trade marks it is distinguished by its versatility, the highest build quality, the latest software. The German company Loewe is a leader in the production of expensive luxury equipment.

What is a media player for TV, nowadays almost everyone has at least a distant idea. And if someone asks after hearing the phrase "multimedia player", then the memory will surely give out what you have come across.

Multimedia has always been and will be associated with watching movies and listening to music. But progress does not stand still, and if in the last century it was tape recorders, both audio and video, then the age of computer technology brought more modern and diverse models.

In the role of information carriers, you can find not only CDs and removable disks, using the example of flash drives from which the device plays movies or music, but also with Internet access via Wi-Fi and the ability to watch movies on large plasma TVs.

Nowadays, the TV media player allows you to enjoy high-quality picture thanks to modern technology such as Personal Computer, Full HD player, hardware Blu-ray Disc player.

And if earlier versions from well-known manufacturers and a limited number of models and functions of players and players were offered for selection, then in today's abundance it is very easy to get confused.

DVD has become not the only high-quality media, playback from which is possible through a home TV.

Although it was the connection to the TV that became decisive for many: the TV screen is usually large and with the desired resolution, you always want to watch movies or broadcasts on it, while a separate computer itself can have a small screen and perform functions for searching the Internet or work in separate programs.

Not everyone bought a computer to watch movies, but the ability to connect one to the other is the essence of modern technology.

What are the criteria for choosing a media player

Several factors affect which media player is more needed and more convenient to use:

The most advanced plasma TV models have built-in players, but its functionality will be lower than that purchased separately.
If the TV has high definition and picture quality, then you can think about buying an external Full HD player that supports Full HD files, which means that you can watch movies with a resolution of 1080p.
If you have the Internet at home, and even better - not only wired, but also Wi-Fi, then it will be logical to choose a model with the function of access to network storage.

What you need to pay attention to first of all:

Russian language menu.
Convenient control, menu navigation.
Support for Internet services (it is better to have this function, because the Internet is now in every home, and rarely anyone can do without it).

How can I connect a media player to a TV

How do I connect my media player to my TV?

Different models of players may have different sets of connectors, and in order to connect a media player to a TV, you need to figure out, according to the instructions, through which connector you can do this.

Besides the fact that the USB player is equipped with an HDMI connector, most modern models are equipped with HDMI.

If the HDMI connector is present both on the TV panel and on the media player, then the connection is made only in this way. By the way, if only HDMI is used on both panels of devices, then the connection of the media player to the TV is provided with only one cable with an HDMI connector. In most cases, this cable will have to be purchased separately, although some come with it.

The list of the most common and demanded types of Full HD media players will help answer the question of how to choose a media player. This type of player can be classified as relatively new.

This model has access to the Internet via WiFi or via cable, there are a variety of connectors, from HDMI and the ability to watch high quality video on plasma TVs and home theaters to outdated connectors for connecting to CRT TVs via S-Video.

This player is popular because it is easy to use, understandable, can be connected to a very different devices playback, while having the quality that our time demands.

In addition to playing movies and videos, with the Full HD media player, you can view photos or slideshows in high resolution and good quality While available to the video page Low quality captured with a phone or just downloaded from a camera or from the Internet.

This media player supports almost all formats, and the mandatory USB output makes it comfortable and convenient to use with all devices. Simplicity and versatility - this is what this player can provide in the first place, if the user first of all needs just such qualities, then the choice is obvious.

Blu-ray Disc player. This media player looks very much like a DVD player, which has almost sunk into oblivion. The difference is the presence of all kinds of connectors (USB in the first place, which greatly facilitates the use and application of other gadgets) and playback of Blu-ray CDs. Many models have Internet access via Wi-Fi or cable.

A computer. Speaking of the existence of players connected to a TV, it is somehow strange not to mention a computer. It is clear that viewing of all file formats can be organized on the computer itself, without connecting to a TV, but most computers have a small monitor, not adapted for the purpose of home theaters.

Despite the fact that the computer is undoubtedly the most convenient and versatile as a player, not all modern PCs play Blu-ray CDs, system units are always equipped with cooling devices that create additional noise when watching movies. But the indisputable advantage is that any content becomes easily accessible for viewing through a PC and that you can do without discs at all.

Western Digital TV Live. What functions does this device? This network player has the function of access to the Internet, a convenient Russian menu, a compact body that will take up little space on the TV. Everything to a minimum and everything you need. For those who adhere to the motto "nothing more", fit best the way LG ST600.

The player comes with the LG Apps store, with which you can download required programs, and has a built-in LG browser with Flash support (by the way, it differs from other players by its presence). You can control the device with a remote control or a mouse from a PC via a USB port. The presence of the Smart Share function makes it possible to throw media content directly from tablets and smartphones.

IconBIT Toucan Nano XS is a media player for Android. What is this device model? The iconBIT Toucan Nano SX multimedia player runs on the Android 4.0.4 operating system, which is familiar to many. The price for it is low, but the buyer will not be limited in the number of functions by watching videos and photos and listening to audio files.

Compact media center Raspberry Pi. It is an inexpensive mini-computer, indispensable for those who like to independently study the settings and generally work with computers. Relatively inexpensive.

Recently, the TV has evolved from a simple "box" for watching analogue TV programs into a high-tech device that can be compared with a computer in its functionality. Current models can be incorporated into a home local network... Some people use them to surf the net, chat with friends on Skype, and play games. Of course, the "hardware" of the TV will not pull powerful 3D-shooters, but you are leaving Angry Birds for sure.

But here's the catch: only SmartTVs have all of the above functionality, the price of which often exceeds the cost of a conventional TV and powerful computer put together. Of course, many consumers have very serious doubts about the need for such a purchase. It is correct, since a media player for a TV will turn an old LCD model into a good analogue of a “smart”, and for all the pleasures you are unlikely to pay more than five to six thousand rubles.

What it is?

It would be foolish to continue talking about this kind of device without digressing and not describing the concept itself in a little more detail. So what is a TV media player?

If you are a user of gadgets on the Android mobile OS, then you can imagine a kind of mini-computer under its control. Ever heard of the Raspberry Pi? So, the media player is the same "Blackberry" based on an ARM processor. Unlike the aforementioned mini-computers, it already has a proprietary shell from the manufacturer, usually based on "Android" with the addition of some specific services and programs.

Roughly speaking, this is such a tiny one for which your TV acts as a monitor.

Advantages

In principle, you can easily guess about the positive aspects of this kind of technique yourself. Having bought a media player for your TV for only four to five thousand rubles, you will even make a modern entertainment center out of outdated technology.

Considering the speed of development of "Android", you don't have to worry about the absence of any applications: players for video and audio files, browsers, programs for We have already said that there is even Skype! Of course, in this case, you will need to purchase an additional webcam, but it is also not very expensive.

In addition, portable devices can be connected to such devices with the ability to run torrent clients, which makes any media player for TV a real treasure for connoisseurs of watching movies.

Easy setup and security

If you somehow follow the news of IT technologies, then you have probably heard about the scandal that erupted around LG's SmartTV. Recall that then users caught an overly clever technique in espionage. Not only was it very difficult to refuse targeted advertising in the settings (the option was hidden far away), but also after the corresponding checkbox was removed, user information continued to be sent to the company's servers.

Of course, Android OS is far from perfect in this regard. There are hundreds of thousands for her now. malware that could pose a risk to your personal data. But there are also important differences.

Firstly, for Android there are many effective antivirus software... Secondly, if you have not so deep knowledge of the topic, you can install not only another firmware on stationary media players, but even a new one operating system! In any case, there are instructions for installing special ARM-assemblies of Debian and Ubunu on the network without any problems.

As you can understand, not a single such fundamental feature is provided in SmartTV. Moreover, even with updating its firmware, problems may arise, since not everyone has a normal wired Internet, and a USB modem is simply not able to recognize such a technique.

Where can the content be played from?

Unlike a Smart TV or some Blu-ray player, a media player can easily "pick up" a movie or music composition from your home local network, from an external hard drive or NAS server, which are now insanely popular. Some of them have a built-in hard drive to which you can upload music and videos, and nobody canceled playback from a flash drive.

Keep in mind that a portable media player with a stock of movies will fit into your pocket, becoming a faithful and indispensable companion on a business trip or travel.

LAN settings

Unlike the aforementioned “smart TVs”, you are unlikely to encounter problems. Most commonly used Wi-Fi network... As a rule, the device immediately "clings" to the home wireless network by requiring only the login password.

If you need to connect a gadget via a wired connection, there may be more difficulties. So, you will probably need to enter the IP address of the set-top box itself, and other attributes. When setting up a digital media player, you will have to contact the manufacturer and study the procedure for setting up connected devices on its website.

Formats and other "goodies"

As for the number of supported photos and videos, then in this case these devices are beyond any competition. In addition, the media player will be indispensable for those who have an HD camcorder at home. Why? Judge for yourself:

Burn to disc? Expensive, tedious, and the optical drives themselves are gradually becoming a thing of the past.
It is simply inconvenient to watch from the small display of the camera itself.
Of course, you can use a computer monitor for the same purposes, but professional videos will look much more colorful on a widescreen TV.
In the end, you can connect a system unit or laptop to a TV, but not everyone can handle the settings.

Media players are different ...

In order to choose the best media player, it is highly advisable to follow some of the guidelines below. At first, appearance and the size of the device should be in harmony with the appearance of all your equipment. It may sound absurd, but if the gadget stands out against the background of your plasma panel, it will be conspicuous even when watching a movie.

However, much more important specifications player, which must include the following parameters:

The more formats supported, the better. MKV codec is required in their list. The ideal for imitation is the "classic" software media player.
It is highly desirable to use only the highest performing chips (like Sigma Designs 8634/8642).
It would be nice if the player supports playing Blu-ray disc images.
If you're a beginner, you should be interested in the option to automatically scan your home network for public folders.
Is it possible to watch IPTV? It is perfectly!
For those newbies, it will be much better if the technician adjusts the display mode on the TV screen by himself.
In the case when the buyer considers himself to be a connoisseur of music, it is highly desirable to have HD-audio (DD TrueHD / Master Audio) decoders.

Some disadvantages

Of course, nothing is perfect in the world. Media players are no exception. What are the disadvantages of the technology we are considering? How serious are they and interfere with watching movies and listening to music?

To begin with, the Android platform is of little use without a stable and fast Internet. Of course, you can try to watch the movie on the device you just bought, but no one can guarantee that there will be the necessary codec or a sufficiently "omnivorous" player.

Everything needs to be uploaded from the network, so proud owners of a GPRS / EDGE channel cannot be envied in this situation. In their case, nevertheless the best solution there will be a connection of a laptop or computer to a TV, since they will probably be able to cope with setting up an image output, but they are unlikely to do without a normal Internet. In a word, network media player, which completely depends on the availability of an Internet connection, is definitely not suitable for us.

The convenience of use

If possible, be sure to turn on the device while still in the store, try to cope with its control. Often there are times when the media player itself is quite good, but its menu and navigation are so terrible that it is impossible to use the device normally.

To the same point is the size and ergonomics of the remote control. Today, on the shelves, you can find many such devices, in which the remotes are more like a horseshoe for a flea in size. It is not known what the designers are guided by, but in the dark you definitely do not get to the right button.

Avoid remotes that have only a couple of buttons: they look nice, but it's much more convenient to launch many functions with a single press, and not circle through several menus. If possible, it is worth purchasing a universal control device that includes the functions of a mouse and keyboard.

Please note that the keyboard, mouse and webcam will have to be purchased separately in most cases. The cost of specialized devices (a special camera for the player) is often much higher than that of their conventional counterparts.

Don't forget about the platform as well. ARM processors are not very powerful devices, so movies in maximum resolution can slow down noticeably. However, this statement is not true for all devices: almost any Sony media player is almost certainly devoid of this drawback.

Any image that you can see on your screen is just a displayed signal. The signal source can be an antenna, a computer or a media player for a TV. The latter is used for viewing photos or videos, as well as playing music files. There are a lot of variations of media players for TVs, how to choose the right one for your specific situation? Let's try to figure it out.

Principle of operation

The media player itself is a kind of computer, the assembly of which is focused on playing media files of various formats. Many of the media players have USB slots as well as ethernet ports. The USB slots in TV media players are used to read flash memory media. This function allows you to quickly play files saved on flash cards. The Ethernet input is used to connect the media player to the Internet. Advanced models allow you to watch movies directly from the web, without downloading. Media players with Wi-Fi for TVs are extremely rare. However, nothing prevents you from using a USB adapter with Wi-Fi for wireless transmission signal. But this function turns out to be not always useful, because the data transfer speed, especially when watching high quality video, is not enough. Modern models of plasma and LCD panels have built-in media players in the TV. The functionality of such a device will be somewhat lower, but for watching movies it will do quite well.

Features of choice

If your TV has high definition, then you can choose an external media player that supports Full HD files. This means that you can view videos in 1080p. If your home has Internet access, then you can choose a model that has online access to the most popular web media storages.

The media player is connected to the TV via S / PDIF, HDMI, RCA, eSATA, USB 2.0 connectors. Before buying a media player, be sure to make sure that it has outputs that are suitable for your particular TV model. Unlucky users manage to buy devices without the necessary outputs and struggle to figure out how to connect a media player to a TV. Therefore, in order not to get into a mess, make sure that your TV supports the device of your choice before buying. External media players for TV can also have their own hard drive, which can accommodate about 200 movies in Full HD image quality.

It is worth paying attention to the device's ability to read the most popular audio and video file formats. It is desirable that the list of playable formats contain OGG, MKA, TIFF. A media player that reads the listed file extensions works great for. Happy owners of TVs capable of fully conveying the atmosphere of a cinema (with 3D function), we advise you to make sure that the selected media player is capable of reading Blu-ray format. After all, watching movies with 3D effects in Blu-ray format is something!

Be sure to base your choice of your future media player on the video and audio equipment you have already purchased. Be careful about hardware compatibility issues, which can be found out simply by looking at the device manuals. Be careful when buying, and you do not have to ask the question why the TV does not see the media player or does not play the selected movie for viewing.

To summarize, this device is a useful purchase for a family, where they like to watch movies and listen to music in high quality.