GoVideo D 2730 Networked Progressive-Scan DVD Player
Wow... all I can say is wow...
After reading all of the reviews for this product I was a little trepid about buying it.  I decided that the bulk of the problems users have is due to lack of computer experience.  To test this theory I tried to examine the product thoroughly before coming to any conclusion. <br /> <br />I wanted to test the product out of the box and then upgrade to the latest software versions and test it again...  here is what I found... <br /> <br />Out of the box the product set itself up very well.  It found the network and the server (my PC).  It could play most of the files that I tried but had trouble with a few.  The main interface was a little cumbersome and the program had an overall buggy and unintuitive feel.  I would have rated the product a three at this point.  In fact I would have agreed with most of the negative reviews written here. <br /> <br />Now... here is where the fun started. <br /> <br />Upgrading the product was soooooo easy that my pet monkey (If I had one) could have pulled it off flawlessly.  It was as easy as going to Govideo's site and downloading two files.  One of the files is an ISO image (burnable to cd) and one is a zip file containing the new software for your server (PC).   <br /> <br />Once I downloaded the ISO it burned to a cd in about 38 seconds (at 48x).  I placed the cd into the DVD drive and it immediately came up with a menu prompting me to confirm that I would like to upgrade.  It finished upgrading in about a minute and prompted me to restart the system. <br /> <br />The upgrade for my PC was rather large (68MB or so).  This took me about 15 minutes to download.  I recommend downloading it in advance if you buy this product, especially if you have a slow connection.  Though the file is large it is critical that you download it.  Setting it up was as easy as clicking next, next, next and finish.   <br /> <br />The software is very, very easy to use.  On the PC you simply click the folders you would like to share and click scan.  Theprogram will find all of the Video, audio and image files in these folders.  You can set it up to scan on a timer as well.  I have a large collection of MP3's and all-in-all it took about 10 minutes to scan my entire collection.  Once you finish scanning the PC can be left alone (especially if you set a timed scan).  One final thing on the software is the ability to create play lists.  Very easy to do and minimal on time.  Software is perfect for the device. <br /> <br />Overall setup was easy even for basic computer users.  The updates come in ISO's that are ready to be burned to cd instantly.  all you have to do is pop the new CD in and hit enter...  Setup (minus downloading) took less than 15 minutes.  That included the time it took to figure out how to share files without the manual.  If you do not install the updates this product will not function properly, period. <br /> <br /> <br />The DVD player is very, very easy to use.  It separates your video files into categories for easy searching.  It is basically the same thing as the file system in your shared folder with a different skin.  Very easy to search, organize and play all of your files.  I was extremely satisfied with the diversity of files played.  In fact I have files on my PC that I have been unable to find a good codec for that play flawlessly on this DVD player.  I cannot say enough about the simplicity and quality of this player.  The diversity of files played is shocking and flawless. <br /> <br />One thing that you need to make sure of is this... the player only takes certain wireless cards.  If you open the product manual (above) on page 13 you will find a list of acceptable cards.  It is probably best to order the card at the same time as the player... otherwise you may end up with a fancy DVD only player for a while...  I was under the impression that it had built in wireless.  It does however come with a Ethernet PC card that works great.   <br />  <br />For a first Generation product that isbreaking new ground you cannot beat this player.  I cannot see myself replacing it until the format of media on the internet changes.  If you cant afford to build a PC for the media room... or simply want something perfectly capable of filling that role you cannot go wrong with this product.  It has my stamp of approval!