Related
Thought this might interest owners and potential owners:
Incidentally, tried Splashtop after the video over 3G whilst out and about today - amazing! Watched a video with sound - playback was smooth. Hardly any lag via 3G in a reasonable coverage area. Also installed an antivirus to my laptop and did some other useful stuff while I was having a coffee at Bunnings - RDP on a 1280x800 screen is awesome.
I should be receiving a USB DAC in the coming week too, so will update as to whether that works or not...
UPDATE: USB DACs do NOT work with the USB OTG feature (as expected). Shame, because the cheapy one I got today sounds amazing compared to my laptop and desktops sound cards! The one I have is a HiFiMAN Express available from here for only $40. Not really for audiophiles, but for those who can appreciate better quality at a fraction of the price these are very good (I think Gizmodo linked to an audiophile review of them where he said they were 70% as good as the sound put out my a $400 sound card, not bad for what the HiFiMAN costs).
NZtechfreak said:
Thought this might interest owners and potential owners:
Incidentally, tried Splashtop after the video over 3G whilst out and about today - amazing! Watched a video with sound - playback was smooth. Hardly any lag via 3G in a reasonable coverage area. Also installed an antivirus to my laptop and did some other useful stuff while I was having a coffee at Bunnings - RDP on a 1280x800 screen is awesome.
I should be receiving a USB DAC in the coming week too, so will update as to whether that works or not...
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
sorry,
can you tell me what is the model of the gamepad you use?
Thanks.
Thank you very much for this post. This pretty much seals the deal for me. I will be grabbing one soon.
After watching your video, it looks like I need to find me a nice 20"-23" LED HDMI monitor to go with my Note.
Thank you for this awesome video.
Disappointed to the fact that USB hubs don't work, specially because someone in the forum answered me to this same question saying "yes"
In fact my question was if a SB keyboard and a USB mouse can work together using a USB hub.
Could you please confirm this case?
Thnks!
Pere said:
Thank you for this awesome video.
Disappointed to the fact that USB hubs don't work, specially because someone in the forum answered me to this same question saying "yes"
In fact my question was if a SB keyboard and a USB mouse can work together using a USB hub.
Could you please confirm this case?
Thnks!
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Hey there, sorry if it wasn't clear in the video - the hub itself works fine, its just that using the hubs external power source to power portable HDDs that the Note can't supply enough power to on its own doesn't work (it does in the SGSII). I presume that KB and Mouse would work together with a hub, but unfortunately I can't confirm as I don't own models that are compatible with the Note (or the SGSII).
If anyone in Auckland has some that are compatible I'd love to try this out for people.
NZtechfreak said:
Hey there, sorry if it wasn't clear in the video - the hub itself works fine, its just that using the hubs external power source to power portable HDDs that the Note can't supply enough power to on its own doesn't work (it does in the SGSII). I presume that KB and Mouse would work together with a hub, but unfortunately I can't confirm as I don't own models that are compatible with the Note (or the SGSII).
If anyone in Auckland has some that are compatible I'd love to try this out for people.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I can confirm that Keyboard and Mouse together work well on SGS2 using powered USB hubs, however its very unstable and sometimes freezes the phone. Hope it becomes better with ICS.
Do you mean that external HDD's can be powered by SGS2? I never thought its possible, seems I need to test that again as my HDD is NTFS formatted so wasn't recognized the last time I tried.
Prankey said:
I can confirm that Keyboard and Mouse together work well on SGS2 using powered USB hubs, however its very unstable and sometimes freezes the phone. Hope it becomes better with ICS.
Do you mean that external HDD's can be powered by SGS2? I never thought its possible, seems I need to test that again as my HDD is NTFS formatted so wasn't recognized the last time I tried.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
No, the SGSII can't supply external HDDs - I was saying that they do work with the SGSII when connected to a hub that has it's own power supply (that doesn't seem to work in the Note however...).
I don't own a hub but I was able to use a 120 gb external 2.5" USB hdd on the note with external power.
The hdd came with a y cable for additional power supply. I just used the note charger to supply power.
I had to format the hdd with fat32 of course. Win7 wouldn't do it, not with GUI and not on command line.
A app did it http://www.ridgecrop.demon.co.uk/index.htm?guiformat.htm.
Another thing was to make 1080p movies playable from the fat32 hdd. I used mkvtoolnix to split the movie into 4gb files.
https://www.bunkus.org/videotools/mkvtoolnix/
With diceplayer I was able to play them without any problems.
What resolution does your laptop run at? When I installed splashtop (phone version), I get set to 1024x720 resolution (looks crappy), while my home PC is 1600x1200. I wonder if splashtop HD would allow me to use the native resolution of my PC (1600x1200)? Any way to install HD apps on the Note?
I set my laptop to run at the same resolution as Splashtop when I'm not at home (otherwise it runs in 1080p).
Don't worry, Splashtop are working on a release version for HD phones (probably just an update to the phone Splashtop) and it'll be available soon - I've been in contact with them recently.
NZtechfreak said:
I set my laptop to run at the same resolution as Splashtop when I'm not at home (otherwise it runs in 1080p).
Don't worry, Splashtop are working on a release version for HD phones (probably just an update to the phone Splashtop) and it'll be available soon - I've been in contact with them recently.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Thanks for the info, Ill hold off on purchasing. Do you know if there is a way to install HD apps on the Note when the market states they are incompatible?
VTEChump said:
Thanks for the info, Ill hold off on purchasing. Do you know if there is a way to install HD apps on the Note when the market states they are incompatible?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Not that I'm aware of as yet, some talented dev here needs to work it out for us!
UPDATE: USB DACs do NOT work with the USB OTG feature (as expected). Shame, because the cheapy one I got today sounds amazing compared to my laptop and desktops sound cards! The one I have is a HiFiMAN Express available from here for only $40. Not really for audiophiles, but for those who can appreciate better quality at a fraction of the price these are very good (I think Gizmodo linked to an audiophile review of them where he said they were 70% as good as the sound put out my a $400 sound card, not bad for what the HiFiMAN costs).
Thanks for this thread. Very good information.
But I think it's a bit annoying that it's not 'real' upscaled HD, but just the resolution of the Note (1280x800) being outputted to the screen.
I think Splashtop technically looks very good. But I don't like the security - it seems there is not any encryption in the software, not even the passwords!
What bandwidth does Splashtop require over a 3G connection to be stable? And how intelligent is the streamer to figure out which quality to stream in, in order to get the optimal dynamic stream without lag/pauses ?
drelle said:
Thanks for this thread. Very good information.
But I think it's a bit annoying that it's not 'real' upscaled HD, but just the resolution of the Note (1280x800) being outputted to the screen.
I think Splashtop technically looks very good. But I don't like the security - it seems there is not any encryption in the software, not even the passwords!
What bandwidth does Splashtop require over a 3G connection to be stable? And how intelligent is the streamer to figure out which quality to stream in, in order to get the optimal dynamic stream without lag/pauses ?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Not sure what bandwidth it requires over 3G for stability, I was in a reasonable reception area at the times I've used it over 3G - may have been the amount of bandwidth on offer but the experience was really great with minimal lag (bad upload for my PC at home is the rate limiting step here).
Must be some other Splashtop users here who can chime in?
Great video.
Does an ordinary usb keyboard work directly on the Note?
oronte said:
Great video.
Does an ordinary usb keyboard work directly on the Note?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
+1
And if keyboard layout is other than the English version, all the special signs (%&Ç@#) works correctly?
VTEChump said:
. Do you know if there is a way to install HD apps on the Note when the market states they are incompatible?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
yes, just use an older version of Market - pull it from an old ROM. And freeze "market updater" in Tibu.
/system/app/Vending.apk
oronte said:
Great video.
Does an ordinary usb keyboard work directly on the Note?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Yes, they do, tried one today. Some USB mice also work, will try and connect both with the hub when I get home and see how that goes.
Will also revisit HDD connectivity too, as I have a second note Rooted with CF Root - possible that the drives weren't working because of Netchips kernel (in the same way that WiFi tether was broken).
Great video
Iwas surfing around for a page that ensures this device has definitely tv-out feature. I could not be sure for it, cause at most of the pages promoting galaxy note, it is not being said exactly..
Anyway, found here, and watched your video. now I want a galaxy note even 10 times more..
Thanks man, great job..
"Splashtop" send my PC screen to my android. I have been unable to find an app that sends my android screen to my PC. Can anyone help?
I'm trying to use my Note 8.0 for teaching.
Ideally I would like to walk around with my Note 8.0, take pictures of students work and annotate on them.
I would somehow have to transmit whats happening on my Note to a PC that is connected to the projector so the rest of the class is able to see. Please advice
singaporehunter said:
"Splashtop" send my PC screen to my android. I have been unable to find an app that sends my android screen to my PC. Can anyone help?
I'm trying to use my Note 8.0 for teaching.
Ideally I would like to walk around with my Note 8.0, take pictures of students work and annotate on them.
I would somehow have to transmit whats happening on my Note to a PC that is connected to the projector so the rest of the class is able to see. Please advice
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Try this: BBQScreen
Another: Droid @ Screen
http://www.samsung.com/us/mobile/cell-phones-accessories/EAD-T10JDEGSTA
You would have to connect this directly to the projector. If it does not have HDMI input you would need an adapter.
Another option might be to try and get SideSync working on your tablet: http://www.samsung.com/us/sidesync/
You will have to be on 4.4.2 and sideload the apk. I have found SideSync to be unreliable on both my Note 8 and S5 but others find it to work ok. Might be because Win 8.1 doesn't play as well with it as Win 7? Don't know.
CCallahan said:
http://www.samsung.com/us/mobile/cell-phones-accessories/EAD-T10JDEGSTA
You would have to connect this directly to the projector. If it does not have HDMI input you would need an adapter.
Another option might be to try and get SideSync working on your tablet: http://www.samsung.com/us/sidesync/
You will have to be on 4.4.2 and sideload the apk. I have found SideSync to be unreliable on both my Note 8 and S5 but others find it to work ok. Might be because Win 8.1 doesn't play as well with it as Win 7? Don't know.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I use a $20.00 Chinese dongle that is smaller and more portable. It is both DLNA, Airplay and Miracast compatible and has an adjustable antenna. I tested the latency on my dongle and is about 50ms on average, which is very fast. There are two backs. One is the limit of distance you can go from the dongle. Since this one has an antenna, the distance can be up to 3 meters, as it helps when placed in line of sight. The second is that it uses 5 volts, and the wee USB cable for power may need an extension from your computer. Since this dongle has its HDMI connector built in, no need for an HDMI cable to connect in between.
Once you set it up on your tv or projector, you can put it in your pocket and take it anywhere to be used and connect with any HDMI input device.
If your display has DB-15 connector, you will need a HDMI to Analog out converter. They are about the same size and cost of the Samsung Miracast unit. You can leave the dongle in the converter, but the stick will protrude a bit.
Good VNC Server
I've used one Android VNC server that really works with usable response times over WiFi and that's VMLite VNC Server. It supports multiple VNC clients on the PC (my favorite is WinVNC) and you can use it with or without root.
It's not an inexpensive app but is less than a hardware solution and one less thing to carry.
ramjet73
If you have a chrome cast you can cast your phone screen to the TV
Thanks to all your suggestions. I have successfully use MirrorOP for sending android screen to PC. Would love to try out the miracast dongle once I get my hands on one.
mankand007 said:
If you have a chrome cast you can cast your phone screen to the TV
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Just a thought... I wonder how many Samsung note users use Chrome cast... It is so inferior and costly over a good Chinese DLNA / Miracast dongle. Its range is limited by the lack of external antenna as well.
Oh, I forgot... peeps running modded firmware have broken Miracast and other special Samsung functions. They should have gotten a Kindle Fire HDX or a Venue Pro 8.0 instead, if they don't like Samsung's robust feature set.
singaporehunter said:
Thanks to all your suggestions. I have successfully use MirrorOP for sending android screen to PC. Would love to try out the miracast dongle once I get my hands on one.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I might give MirrorOP a try to see how it compares to the Vmlite VNC server, even though it only has a 3.4 rating in the Play Store. It seems like it has a lot of proprietary pieces versus Vmlite's server using free VNC clients for almost any platform, including Android, so the features and performance would have to be a lot better for me to consider a switch. It also requires root for the Android sender, which is not a problem for me, but Vmlite VNC server does provide a method to operate without root.
gooberdude said:
Just a thought... I wonder how many Samsung note users use Chrome cast... It is so inferior and costly over a good Chinese DLNA / Miracast dongle. Its range is limited by the lack of external antenna as well.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Would you provide a link to the dongle you are using? I've looked at them on Aliexpress and eBay before but it's always good to know that someone has used a specific model successfully with a Note device.
ramjet73
ramjet73 said:
I might give MirrorOP a try to see how it compares to the Vmlite VNC server, even though it only has a 3.4 rating in the Play Store. It seems like it has a lot of proprietary pieces versus Vmlite's server using free VNC clients for almost any platform, including Android, so the features and performance would have to be a lot better for me to consider a switch. It also requires root for the Android sender, which is not a problem for me, but Vmlite VNC server does provide a method to operate without root.
Would you provide a link to the dongle you are using? I've looked at them on Aliexpress and eBay before but it's always good to know that someone has used a specific model successfully with a Note device.
ramjet73
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Here is a newer model of what I have... http://www.ebay.com/itm/Miracast-Wifi-Display-TV-Dongle-Receiver-1080P-HDMI-Wireless-AirPlay-DLNA-IPUSH-/271502182188?pt=US_Internet_Media_Streamers&hash=item3f36ca872c
The specs on my 1 year old device are:
256MB DDR3
1.6Ghz ARM Cortex 9
Linux
HDMI 1.4a
1080p
gooberdude said:
Here is a newer model of what I have...
The specs on my 1 year old device are:
256MB DDR3
1.6Ghz ARM Cortex 9
Linux
HDMI 1.4a
1080p
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
This looks like the same thing for a few dollars less on AliExpress.
Thanks.
ramjet73
gooberdude said:
Here is a newer model of what I have...
The specs on my 1 year old device are:
256MB DDR3
1.6Ghz ARM Cortex 9
Linux
HDMI 1.4a
1080p
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
How's the latency on this one? Heard some dongles can be as slow as 1 sec delay. I'm concern as I do not want my pen stroke to appear on screen 1 sec after I write.
Also, is the dongle able to use for a few hours without overheating and malfunctioning?
singaporehunter said:
How's the latency on this one? Heard some dongles can be as slow as 1 sec delay. I'm concern as I do not want my pen stroke to appear on screen 1 sec after I write.
Also, is the dongle able to use for a few hours without overheating and malfunctioning?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Mine is a year old and has been tested to stay below 60ms on delays. I Mirrorcast a lot with it, so side by side and the TV is a blink of eye faster but not like many I have seen gamers complain about.
I have played 2 movies back to back for 4 hours without heat and lockup issues. The device is worth the $17.00 or so I paid for it.
The only drawback is that it has no apps like Chromecast, but I got my Wii U to stream videos just fine if needed.
There are many more now with external antenna... there was a company that had a dual antenna version which is nice for lectures and large rooms. But I was not in need for such a device, plus it was 2x the price I was paying for mine.
I want another player - for Kodi and occasional simple games.
I have the FTV and although I'm happy with the performance, I don't like the inability to root (inc. custom recovery etc) and to use external storage.
Any alternative suggestion at a nearby price? Or is FTV the only way to go at that price mark?
Id wait now, unless you're desperate.
There may be some android tv boxes coming out soon which may be better than the fire tv or amazon might have a sale.
Amazon might cut a tenner out of the price of FTV, but I really want to have the ability to root and not to be afraid that my box will one day be locked forever.
The minix X8 looks tempting
papars said:
Amazon might cut a tenner out of the price of FTV, but I really want to have the ability to root and not to be afraid that my box will one day be locked forever.
The minix X8 looks tempting
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
do this. search on ebay for new sealed firetv's. ask the sellers to send you the serial number. Pick up a rooted one. Once rooted you are golden. I essentially got an extra rooted new one in my bunker for future use or I may hook it up in the bedroom in future. I'm glad I picked up an extra rooted one when I could.
The biggest thing you will loose when getting out of an architecture from amazon is the native apps like Netflix, bbc etc. I would stick with amazon ftv and find a rooted one. I'm sure if you look hard you will find yourself a rooted one If you disable the updates you should be fine.
Your suggestion is valid but I'm in europe and not really in need for netflix.
The price for sealed older FTVs seems somewhat high and by reading articles I see that even the SN wont warranty a rootable box.
In the meantime I will try to h/w root my box and see what comes out of this.
I recently shelfed my Fire Tv for the same reason. I have to many streaming boxes kind of a habit of mine (Fire Tv, Google Adt1, Ouya, Madcatz Mojo, Tronsmart Draco). Fire Tv still has the best commercial content but the hardware is getting outdated for games and the OS is way to restrictive. AndroidTV devices are still open to root and side loading but the commercial content is lacking has a great interface. On the opposite end is the Mojo and Draco with raw Android out of the box. They allow root without risk to warranty. I have gone with the Draco for now as it is very fast, Antutu test out at almost 60,000 with Power VR graphics. Madcatz has great quality and controller.
There are allot of consoles coming in the next few months, Razer Forge, Snail Games Obox, Nvidia Shied, Roku 4, Apple TV, others. You will be able to take your pick. My opinion for what its worth
Pure xbmc, get a rasp pi 2. Fast, cheap and simple with openelec And no amazon os to deal with. My living room fire tv has been relegated to the drawer since getting one.
I have raspberry pi first gen. It works ok and decoding is great but is sloooooow as death.
I've replaced it with AFT and I don't want to go back.
pi 2 could be faster but the cost of getting it operational (case, psu, remote etc) is near the cost of a commercial box. I will check out the options listed in above posts.
papars said:
I have raspberry pi first gen. It works ok and decoding is great but is sloooooow as death.
I've replaced it with AFT and I don't want to go back.
pi 2 could be faster but the cost of getting it operational (case, psu, remote etc) is near the cost of a commercial box. I will check out the options listed in above posts.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
i've moved my fire TV to a bedroom and have been running 2 s802 m8n china boxes and if you dont care about android and games.. openelec is flawless on it for me, full CEC control, refresh rate changing, etc etc.. best 75$ i've spent so far.. after using these for a while you really notice how much better openelec runs than kodi on android.
nhumber said:
i've moved my fire TV to a bedroom and have been running 2 s802 m8n china boxes and if you dont care about android and games.. openelec is flawless on it for me, full CEC control, refresh rate changing, etc etc.. best 75$ i've spent so far.. after using these for a while you really notice how much better openelec runs than kodi on android.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Openelec is an operating system which runs the XBMC/Kodi program the same way that Android is an operating system that runs XBMC/Kodi. The only difference is that Openelec is a minimal operating system that uses just enough to run XBMC/Kodi, while Android is a full operating system able to run several programs. A couple years ago when XBMC came to Android it sucked and I quit using it after about a week, but it has came along way since and my Openelec system running Kodi cannot compare to my Fire TV running Kodi.
papars said:
I have raspberry pi first gen. It works ok and decoding is great but is sloooooow as death.
I've replaced it with AFT and I don't want to go back.
pi 2 could be faster but the cost of getting it operational (case, psu, remote etc) is near the cost of a commercial box. I will check out the options listed in above posts.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I have to chime in here. With some smart shopping ill bet you could get all you need for 60 or less. My rpi is still the most consistent , reliable kodi device but like you, i thought it was too slow (even running off usb 3.0)
But ive heard good things about rpi 2 just running it on a class 4 sd card. My advice--dont use a case, its not needed unless theres reason to think itll get damaged. My tv remote works fine with it and this might not matter cuz if you have b+ you should have a lot of the stuff u want or need. I heard you might want to upgrade the power supply. I bought one for the b+ that worked great for 8 bucks on ebay. If i didnt care about netflix thatd be the way imight go. Of course that could change in the upcoming months.
porkenhimer said:
Openelec is an operating system which runs the XBMC/Kodi program the same way that Android is an operating system that runs XBMC/Kodi. The only difference is that Openelec is a minimal operating system that uses just enough to run XBMC/Kodi, while Android is a full operating system able to run several programs. A couple years ago when XBMC came to Android it sucked and I quit using it after about a week, but it has came along way since and my Openelec system running Kodi cannot compare to my Fire TV running Kodi.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
thanks, im aware of the setups, had a firetv since day one.. had fedora installed on it at one point even, what im saying is that Kodi for linux (openelec in my case) is much more stable than kodi for android or maybe its just linux stability vs android stability.. i dunno. but you dont get hangs or freezes like you can sometimes get with the android boxes, i also said the main things that are better with openelec than with kodi on the fireTV are fulling working CEC control, refresh rate changing since im kind of an videophile and watching any movie on the fireTV results in less than perfect playback, and HD audio support is also another nice feature you cant get on a fireTV.
porkenhimer said:
Openelec is an operating system which runs the XBMC/Kodi program the same way that Android is an operating system that runs XBMC/Kodi. The only difference is that Openelec is a minimal operating system that uses just enough to run XBMC/Kodi, while Android is a full operating system able to run several programs. A couple years ago when XBMC came to Android it sucked and I quit using it after about a week, but it has came along way since and my Openelec system running Kodi cannot compare to my Fire TV running Kodi.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Depend on the hw that your OE is running on, got myself an Asus Chromebox that costs slightly more than the Fire TV when it was on sale last Black Friday, it runs like a dream.
As for running Kodi/XBMC on FireTV vs generic Android box vs OpenElec/Xbmcbuntu/Linux + XBMC I'd say it doesn't matter any longer. I've run all 3 ways, and it used to make a difference. A cheap booksize miniPC running OpenElec or Xbmcbuntu was much better than any Android based solution for a variety of reasons. That just isn't the case any longer. Of course if you have better hardware things like menus or the time it takes to start streaming a show will be a bit quicker, but otherwise you can get a solid stable Kodi/XBMC environment on any of these.
Back to the original question, personally I'd hold out until some of the Google Android TV boxes (not generic Android boxes) start shipping. Not because I think they will be better than GATV boxes, but because there should be a better selection of options and one might be a better fit than your two AFTV choices. Either way, it's hard to beat AFTV and I expect similar results from GATV boxes. Side-loading isn't as easy as just installing from the app store, but there are options that have all the plug-ins ready to go. Unlike other setups, you don't have to figure out which remote to use or how to get it configured (yes, I know some generic Android boxes come setup for XBMC and even have their own customized XBMC, I have one).
In short, I used to have a mix of generic Android boxes and mini HTPCs running OpenElec/XBMCbuntu. Now I have AFTV boxes in daily use and two Rokus that are almost never used. For the price point, ease of use, stability and extra functionality above and beyond Kodi the AFTV and presumably GATV boxes just make more sense.
One last thing I almost forgot - the space limitation on the AFTV is a huge drawback. Until (unless) Amazon releases an update to let us use USB drives for apps and data this could be a big issue. If for some reason you absolutely require plenty of disk space, perhaps you don't have network storage and need all your media on the device itself, then AFTV may not be an option.
GATV might have the same lock as amazon regarding custom updates / root.
I would like to escape the proprietary ecosystem opposed by amazon and google if possible to avoid possible lockouts in the near future.
I like the amazon box, is fast and easy to use with its remote. I use a NAS for my media but I would like to have root and extra storage option on it.
The mojo looks like a good option, I might go for this.
I've been using a Fire TV Stick for about a week now, after you sideload Kodi (and then use your Amazon account to install Kodi on another device, so you trick the FireTV into showing Kodi in your Recent apps on the home screen) I don't think you can beat the bang for the buck.
I'm about to order the Minix X8-H Plus. This thing seems a lot better than the AFTV! I have a 256gb SD card lying around, so I can't wait to throw it in this thing. It has 2gb RAM, 2.0ghz Quad-Core Processor, SD slot, three USB 2.0 ports, gigabit ethernet, 16gb eMMC, 4K2K UHD video playback, Octo-Core Mali-450 GPU, Dual-Band Wi-Fi 802.11ac and 4K H.265 / HEVC Hardware Decoding Support.
It looks like they're going for around $150-$160. Check it out:
http://www.minix.com.hk/Products/NEO-X8-H-Plus-Android-TV.html
papars said:
Your suggestion is valid but I'm in europe and not really in need for netflix.
The price for sealed older FTVs seems somewhat high and by reading articles I see that even the SN wont warranty a rootable box.
In the meantime I will try to h/w root my box and see what comes out of this.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I just got a firetv from ebay and its rootable. I've done about 28 mods and haven't seen one with series 305 which are the incorrect ones.
shutterslaps said:
I'm about to order the Minix X8-H Plus. This thing seems a lot better than the AFTV! I have a 256gb SD card lying around, so I can't wait to throw it in this thing. It has 2gb RAM, 2.0ghz Quad-Core Processor, SD slot, three USB 2.0 ports, gigabit ethernet, 16gb eMMC, 4K2K UHD video playback, Octo-Core Mali-450 GPU, Dual-Band Wi-Fi 802.11ac and 4K H.265 / HEVC Hardware Decoding Support.
It looks like they're going for around $150-$160. Check it out:
http://www.minix.com.hk/Products/NEO-X8-H-Plus-Android-TV.html
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Thats a sweet box for sure.. I am not too sure its a fair comparison though.. My AFTV cost me $80 and came with a remote. The $145 standalone box is more than twice as much if you get a controller. My Android MiniPC's (older) have been disappointing when trying to run Kodi etc.. which led me to the snappy performance of AFTV.. This box looks to have all the power you could need. Should be fun to have
This note on the webpage should be noted as well - The NEO X8-H Plus only supports standard definition Netflix. Netflix 1080p HD and 4K UHD resolution are not available on any MINIX NEO Series devices
I have been watching the Razer Forge TV box as well it looks to be a beast for $99
Before anyone says game streaming I wanted to know if there was any other features that I should consider when deciding over a cheap android box and the shield. I owned a cheap android box for 2 years and it was really good but it was slow and never got updates but kodi worked perfectly until 17 update, but it's hard justifying a $300 price tag for the 16gb over $50 for the cheap one.
1. CPU performance, much faster then any s912, especially it have active cooling make it can keep in full speed, if you use any old amlogic box you will know you just can't decode any 1080 hi10p due to either the HW decoder not support or CPU not fast enough for SW decode. The shield can do it by CPU with 50-70%cpu usage max. Also although newer amlogic such as S912 support h265 but it is very buggy, the shield TV on the other hand is very stable.
2. For Android gaming I don't think you can find any android box in this size/price can better then it. Sure you can get a x86 box but that will much more expensive and larger.
3. Support 1080 ycbcr 422 12bit , I don't have 4K so dunno what is support, but as I remember there are no other cheap android box will support this output. (Sure you will need to take care the HDMI version mismatch problem if you got AVR)
If you will not use Plex and don't need IR then I suggest you just get the 16GB version, by the way I attach a 128GB USB stick to store my mame rom, much faster then hdd version.
Previous I use mi box and some other android box, but I can say shield TV is the most problem free and the fastest one for me.
$50 android boxes are junk, period. These things should be illegal to sell in USA. The manufactures are horrible at support & you never get updates. The only time a cheap android box is worth buying is if there are active private developers. Here's where the price difference matters, your $50 box lasted you 2 years. I've had my shield tv for almost 2 years & my guess is it'll still be alive & kicking in 10 years & still be my main media center. The shield tv was released as a future proof device, meaning it has a long life span while the $50 junk boxes have a very short limited life span hardware & software wise, you'll be replacing these types of boxes every 2 years.
Since when was the 16GB version $300?!
What feature(s)?!
In One Word... Widevine L(evel)1 support. (Ok tht was Two Words, whatever...)
Why is this a big deal? In Two Words this time. Amazon, and Netflix. In full UHD, let alone FHD. Your ~50$ 'Droid Box most likely will never have it. The only exception to that rule would be the Xaiomi Mi Box. Which like the Shield TV is a licenced AndroidTV Box. Which is based on the well known AmLogic S905 SoC. I have no ideas on how, or if Amazon will ever be ported to it. For now I gather it's a bit of a Shield exclusive. But, Netflix should be fine, along with the other usual suspects.
There is also the Gaming, and Emulation side of the Device, that puts it well ahead of the competition. With its small but exclusive Titles under the nVIDIA Lightspeed Studios. But, that may not be enough to convince a mass take up of it considering the initial cost.
If all you need is a cheap Kodi Box than by all means. You could pick one up, and gamble that you get a working one. Note I got burnt TWICE with an AmLogic S912 SoC Device. The first One cooked itself, while using Chrome, and the Second came with a defective WiFi Chip. So you take your chances with an unknown when buying One of these Devices.
When it comes to Updates, you'd be lucky to see a few Bug fixes before whoever's in charge gets bored, and moves on. nVIDIA have been supporting the Shield TV since it came out in 2015, and they will probably still be supporting it for a while yet with the 2017 version.
One last thing you might like to know about Kodi, and these Cheapo Boxes. Unless those Manufactures get off their butts, and code their CODECs to Android spec. Kodi will only ever function in Software mode only. Which will have a major impact on Video performance. Alas I don't know if the Mi Box also has that problem. Given its a specialized AmLogic build, perhaps not? But, a native Netflix App does not a Kodi make.
Of course there is One other thing that separates both the Shield TV, and the Mi Box. (Which I hinted at earlier.)
They are both Licenced AndroidTV units. And, in case that isn't quite clear to you. Then a word of caution to you. AndroidTV ≠ Android (e.g. Some generic 'Droid Box.), You should expect to see virtually nothing in the (AndroidTV), PlayStore. Certainly nothing like what most People probably imagine, after getting off the PlayStore on their Samsung Phablet. And, you can thank Google for that!
se1000 said:
Since when was the 16GB version $300?!
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Probably since nVIDIA weren't able to meet the demand for the Device which drove Scalpers to scalp it along with the Pro for Upwards of 600€'s, and no I wish I was making that up. The only time the Shield came down to reasonable levels, was just before they announced the Shield 2 (a.k.a. The Shield TV Slim), which was rightly rejected by those who already had a Shield. Seeing that I was able to get a used '15 Pro for 'round 200€ back in January. Good luck finding one now, for that price. If I wanted to spend nearly 300€ on a used One. I would rather just buy the new '17 Model for a fraction more. (i.e. 329€).
Ichijoe said:
What feature(s)?!
One last thing you might like to know about Kodi, and these Cheapo Boxes. Unless those Manufactures get off their butts, and code their CODECs to Android spec. Kodi will only ever function in Software mode only. Which will have a major impact on Video performance. Alas I don't know if the Mi Box also has that problem. Given its a specialized AmLogic build, perhaps not? But, a native Netflix App does not a Kodi make.
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You are correct on this, most cheap android box had broken mediacodec support, as KODI remove the amcodec support so either 1. switch to old version/spmc which have amcode, 2. SW decode, but the cpu not fast enough most of the time.
the google version of mi box's mediacodec are ok, but it still cannot hw decode hi10p (main reason I switch from mi box to shield tv)
DummyPLUG said:
You are correct on this, most cheap android box had broken mediacodec support, as KODI remove the amcodec support so either 1. switch to old version/spmc which have amcode, 2. SW decode, but the cpu not fast enough most of the time.
the google version of mi box's mediacodec are ok, but it still cannot hw decode hi10p (main reason I switch from mi box to shield tv)
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Outside of actively getting off my [REDACTED] to search for some hi10p Materials, back when I was still knee deep in Linux VDR (i.e. HTPC). The chances of actually encountering anything actually encoded at 10bits is extremely rare. And I do likes me some KissAnime. So I would chalk it down as a nice to have feature, and not the Killer One, that Widevine Level 1 is. As only the Select TVs running ATV, or the MiBox, and Shield TV are capable of such high end DRMs, for legaly being able to watch Netflix in either FHD, or UHD.
Since those other Boxes only have Widevine Level 3. You'd be lucky to watch Netflix in 480p MAX!
So for me that's a bigger deal going forward. Mores the pitty that the MiBox is virtually useless outside of North America though.
Not going into hard core comparison as far as audio support and video support but just general laymen comparison.
As reference current devices I own a A95x cheap android box, Fire TV Sticks, Nexus Players and 2nd Gen Fire TV, Roku2, Shield TV Gen 1
1. Performance - I didn't think the difference would be that huge since I mainly just use streaming services and apps like Netflix and Kodi to name a few but it's noticeable even in just those two areas. My FTV2 was snappy I thought compared to my other devices but the Shield just Launches apps quicker and goes through local and internet streams a lot smoother. Not a gamer but I have used them and let kids use them to try games and again just performance is amazing.
2. Ease of use my gripe with the a95x cheapo is It was IR remote and the interface just sucked. FTV2 and FTV sticks had their own interface over Lollipop and this too I am not a big fan of. Nexus Player and Shield TV are very straightforward and use the Leanback Launcher IMO easier to use and get google play store unlike Amazons offerings.
3. You get what you pay for. It's an investment that hopefully it will last. Performance wise I'm not worried about having to get a new box for a while now. Also the build and the remotes just are more appealing with the metal finish and all and they are rechargeable (yes the drawback is it's not replaceable batteries). It's running official Android TV yes the Playstore is limited for TV devices but for average user that doesn't want to side load and just works great out of the box it's perfect.
If cost is an issue like it was for me just wait for a deal or find one used if you're willing to take the chance. I just got my 1st gen Shield 2 weeks ago because I bought it used for $120 and had I tested it beforehand I never would have bought my a95x, fire tv sticks. I am happy with the Nexus Players I scored those for $40 but it's discontinued and my FTV2 but the Shield TV kicked those devices out of the family room and now those are in mine and kids bedrooms.
If performance isn't a huge deal then I wouldn't upgrade. If it is but cost still too high there are alternatives Fire TV (Just ew Amazon interface) and Nexus Player (Discontinued) or Mi box (Owned for a month and returned it performance wasn't as good as Nexus Player).
I have 2 fire sticks, a firetv box, and the new version of the shield TV. The shield is fast and responsive, but I don't think its performance justifies the price. If you not going for game steaming... I would just use a firetv box. Kodi performance is on par.
Here is my problem with the shield TV. Ram. For its price point I would expect 4gb of ram. This was a huge mistake I feel when they released the new version.
Don't get me wrong, I love my shield but if I didn't get mine for 175 with a deal, I would have not got it.
I couldn't disagree more with the majority of what's been said. It is true that the shield is an investment. It's worth it in the long run to get a shield. Talks of "4gb of ram" are comical at best. You want 4gb of ram buy a jetson tx1 for $500+ The point is, 4gb of ram isn't required when you have a constant power source. Take the Nintendo switch for example, yea sure it's basically a jetson tx1 (4gb ram) but clocked at a much lower speed to run on battery.
I would say it depends greatly upon how you want to come to the Shield TV. If your looking at it as just another in a long line of 'Droid Boxen, then that is how you will see it. If your like me, and your coming in from the huge running costs of an HTPC, with VDR Recording capabilities. Then the Shield becomes self-evident. As it can do those same jobs in a much tighter Footprint, and use just a microfraction of the Electricity to do it. Everything else is just a nice bonus. e.g. The Games, Emulations, Android itself.
So no Op is correct the Shield TV isn't the right answer for everyone. If for example Op wanted just the cheapest Box to do the most basic streaming (Amazon, Hulu, Netflix HBO Go, etc....), Then the Amazon Fire TV, would be right up his street. But IIRC, that only had 2GB of RAM, not that you would need it.
Also, if you want extra storage, you're better off getting the 16GB model and adding an external HDD. The way Nvidia set up the Pro model is kinda dumb - everything (including the system ROM) runs on the HDD, not flash, so it's really slow. It's also not user-replaceable without voiding the warranty and a lot of hassle. 4 TB portable drives are a bit over $100, so you can get a lot more storage for almost the same price.
Mogster2K said:
Also, if you want extra storage, you're better off getting the 16GB model and adding an external HDD. The way Nvidia set up the Pro model is kinda dumb - everything (including the system ROM) runs on the HDD, not flash, so it's really slow. It's also not user-replaceable without voiding the warranty and a lot of hassle. 4 TB portable drives are a bit over $100, so you can get a lot more storage for almost the same price.
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That might be true... But it's not like you couldn't just clone the contents of the Original SSHD, and then write that to the heavier, faster SSD. There are at least Two Threads on that subject, that I'm personally aware of. As to it being slower? That only applies when doing things like unlocking the Bootloader (a precursor to rooting), or factory resetting it where in both cases it'll take the best part of 2h to complete. Under day to day use However, I greatly doubt there is any major difference in the overall speed.
Also the newer Slim (and, light) Shield TV, also lack a few things, like the IR Port (for Harmony Remotes), and the OTG MicroUSB Port, and worse of all the MicroSD Slot.
Also one thing about Adopted Storage, e.g. adding external Storage. Just because you could add a 4TB SS/H/DD, doesn't give you licence to go 'round installing everything to your heart's content as not everything will be installed to External (Adopted), Storage and you will most likely be scratching your head about not having enough Space to install some Game even if you have the best part of 4+ GBs left inside in your External Storage. Just the way it is on my Phablet alas Adopted Storage is kind of a lie. As I see it.
If you replace the Pro HDD with an SSD, you're paying $100 just for the hard drive bay. (Edit: I did not realize the Pro hardware was basically unchanged.) Also, I would not recommend using an HDD as adopted storage anyway. Better to leave it as NTFS since Android network transfers are so slow.
Finally, it is possible to boot the Shield TV from an external SSD. You need a special boot image (MM only unfortunately) and an SSD in a USB enclosure. It's a bit tricky to set up but works pretty well. A Nougat version is in the works.
Ichijoe said:
That might be true... But it's not like you couldn't just clone the contents of the Original SSHD, and then write that to the heavier, faster SSD. There are at least Two Threads on that subject, that I'm personally aware of. As to it being slower? That only applies when doing things like unlocking the Bootloader (a precursor to rooting), or factory resetting it where in both cases it'll take the best part of 2h to complete. Under day to day use However, I greatly doubt there is any major difference in the overall speed.
Also the newer Slim (and, light) Shield TV, also lack a few things, like the IR Port (for Harmony Remotes), and the OTG MicroUSB Port, and worse of all the MicroSD Slot.
Also one thing about Adopted Storage, e.g. adding external Storage. Just because you could add a 4TB SS/H/DD, doesn't give you licence to go 'round installing everything to your heart's content as not everything will be installed to External (Adopted), Storage and you will most likely be scratching your head about not having enough Space to install some Game even if you have the best part of 4+ GBs left inside in your External Storage. Just the way it is on my Phablet alas Adopted Storage is kind of a lie. As I see it.
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Try enable force app install on external in developer options, I had no problem to save everything to my USB.
So i had this idea right, im sitting here in my apartment playing the shield, eating a burrito and then it hits me, with the release of google stadia coming quickly, a new shield with new hardware, and looking more and more likely that the shield might just go into abandonment, and i mean why not just do what all us tech guys do; take something slow/broken/outdated and make it fast/smooth/new, SOOOOOOO i need some thought and opinions on how i should go about this, the idea is too crack open and do a careful teardown of the hadware and case that currently makes up the latetest shield gaming edition, set it aside and fine a small case like a mini ITX, although im thinking i might go a lil smaller, wire the whole deal up using and I/O that comes already on the face of the case, 2+ TB hard disk, (External gpu??) then possibly configuring some kind of water cooling as i FULLY intend too then root the device and use SUperuser too overclock the cpu, and then I KNOWW this is a strech but i was looking into actually running a different OS on the sheild possibly?? WoA (windows on ARM) IS POSSIBLE and fully avalible too developers although the only issue being absolutely no driver support but any NATIVE x86 programs WILL RUN FINE, or possibly running steamOS and making her a steam machine but as newer distrobutions of linux looking like a pretty viable option for gaming nowadays.
aaaaaanyways lemme know what yall think and throw me some of your thoughts my way as any feedback is good feedback
A different Case might be nice, but I don't get the point of running a different OS on it. There are better (and cheaper) Options hardwarewise for other OSes.
jetson board cheaper
At the moment I also use Nvidia Shield. I am planning to add a hard drive to this build to keep my favorite movies in 4k. My library will expand in the future.
Why not get a Network Attached Storage and be able to access it from all the devices in your home?
Fill it with movies from your computer and watch them on your Shield TV (or any other device with a screen for that matter) .