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User: SDM197 (profile)
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Date Posted: 7 March 2008
Review: I would just like to add, that I own this product, and correct a few inaccuracies to Stuarts review:

1: The interface, the interface is the same as the portable media players that Archos sell, these have one multiple awards, even Pocket Lint! Why change a simple winning formula. Its clean and easy to understand, what more do you want?

2:"go through a laborious set-up procedure with your PC. The case is the same for widgets."

This is not correct, you can download the widgets direct to the unit.

3:"As for the Content Portal the content is pretty lacklustre and with no major studio currently offering content you shouldn't rely on getting anything to watch from here."

It has got more downloadable content (Movies) than Apple TV which is presently zero.

4:"Want to surf the Internet? That's an extra £20."

Yes the web browser is additional money, but it will allow you a very rich entertainment option on your TV in your lounge not in front of your PC, such as youtube, daily motion plus others.

5: "Want to have an EPG so you can record TV without having to press the button at the right moment? That's even more money."

Erm no actually, The EPG is not extra money, its included for the first year, then if you dont want it after you dont have to have it. You can schedule recordings without it.

"Want to watch content in MPEG2? That's more money again."

Mpeg 2, yes if you want that ,it will give you the ability to play videos on the unit in MPEG-2 format (.vob, .mpg and .ps extensions).

Also you are then able to listen to 5.1 sound on your home cinema system through the SPDIF output.

"Want widgets? Yep, more cash you've just spent."

Erm No wrong again! They are a free download.

DivX :Strangely enough Archos make no mention of support, yet I have played plenty of DivX files on mine!!

Hope you find this useful, the unit is not perfect, but it is very good in my opinion.

SDM197.
Pros: Ability to record from the TV/Sky/Cable/Freeview

Ability to stream many formats, not limited by the manufacturer (Apple)

Ability to stream Movies, Photo's, Music.

Ability to download movies direct to the unit

Can be used as a wireless server or wired
Cons: No inbuilt DVB (Freeview Tuner) but these can be picked up very inexpensively.
Score: 8/10
Rating: 6 people have rated this review helpful

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