Why do you need a media player for your TV?

Modern TV models are significantly superior in functionality to their predecessors. They can play video and audio from external media, access the Internet, and record programs. All this thanks to the media center. It can be either factory installed or purchased separately. Moreover, a self-purchased device can turn even the simplest TV into an entertainment center.

What is a media player and what is it for?

More recently, everyone used first VCRs and then DVD players. But technological progress does not stand still, and multimedia centers have replaced outdated set-top boxes. They still play and record files just like their predecessors. However, they have many more functions. These include:

1. Ability to play video and audio files of almost all existing formats.
2. Read images of any format.
3. Playback information from various media: USB, external hard drives, smartphones and tablets and other devices.
4. The ability to access the Internet, which provides access to all available information and various entertainment portals. This feature is implemented using the built-in browser.
5. Supports various functions: 3D, Wi-fi, game services.
6. Ability to save existing information.

REFERENCE! Each model of multimedia set-top box has its own set of capabilities, which is described in detail in the accompanying instructions.

Externally, they look like a small box; some models can be equipped with a liquid crystal display. Connecting to a TV set-top box can be done in three ways: using a Wi-fi wireless network, via an HDMI cable or via a component output.

REFERENCE! Some models of media players are suitable for older CRT TVs. However, due to the design limitations of the TV receiver itself, not all functions will be available. For example, viewing video files in Full HD or 3D format will not be available.

Is it worth buying a media player?

It would seem that if you have a computer or laptop, a multimedia console becomes an unnecessary waste of money. After all, they have the same functions for transferring files. However, not all computers or laptops are capable of transmitting high quality video and audio. And connecting a laptop or computer is not always convenient, and sometimes various problems arise with synchronizing devices, which requires additional setup and takes a lot of time. Also, the multimedia console has a number of undeniable advantages. These include:

1. Almost silent operation. Cooling of a personal computer and laptop is provided by coolers that cannot operate completely silently.
2. The console takes up very little space.
3. Boots much faster than a computer or laptop.
4. A small number of wires are needed to connect to the TV.
5. They are very convenient and easy to use, which allows pensioners or children to use them without any problems.And watching movies and other content is much more familiar and comfortable on a large TV screen while sitting in a chair.
6. All control is carried out from one remote control.
7. Freezes on the multimedia console are extremely rare.

Thanks to the existing advantages, the answer to the purchase question is “Yes”.

There are several types of media players:

1. The simplest and most inexpensive options without the ability to connect to a wireless network and without a hard drive.
2. Without internet connection, but with built-in hard drive.
3. Media players connecting via local network to a computer or laptop. This allows you to play files on your computer using your home network.
4. The most expensive models with a built-in hard drive, connection to a local network and Internet access. These are modern models that have the largest range of functions compared to simpler players.

ATTENTION! Some users think that multimedia devices and satellite receivers are the same thing. However, a significant difference between media set-top boxes and receivers is that players allow you to view the necessary files, IPTV and access the Internet. While receivers broadcast satellite television channels and record.

What to look for when choosing a media player

For a few more years, the range of media consoles was not very wide, since they were not very popular. However, quite a bit of time passed and consoles became in demand, which means the choice became much larger. In order not to get confused when purchasing the desired model of multimedia set-top box, you need to pay attention to the following parameters:

1. Interface.When purchasing, you need to study what outputs the set-top box has for connecting to a TV. The most popular option is an HDMI cable, as it is capable of transmitting a high-definition signal.
2. Supported formats. Modern models can reproduce almost all currently existing video and audio signal standards. However, before purchasing, it is still worth studying the technical characteristics of a particular model.
3. Control. The player must have a convenient menu in Russian.
4. Service support. You need to pay attention to what media the player can read information from, and whether it has Internet access.

Modern models have all available functions, a user-friendly interface, user-friendly menus, and an updated operating system. This allows them to significantly complement and expand the capabilities of the TV.