Roku 2 an enhanced alternative to broadcast tv

By:  Steve Lee
Editor

Since its roots with ReplayTV, I have always been a fan of the Roku media device.  Streaming of Internet based media is nothing new. However, when the experience can be delivered to your television instead of your computer, it’s an experience of delight. With the release of the new Roku 2, this heavy hitter of content delivery has taken the original Roku even further. Though the User Interface (UI) has not changed, an issue plaguing the original Roku was it sluggishness while navigating while often rebooting to correct for lockups. With the new Roku 2 XD model in this case, theses are issues of the past. Roku 2 is spunky, quicker in navigation and yet has there been reason to reboot. Besides updates to the core electronics, the Roku 2 has a new overall body style. The previous model was 4.9 x 4.9 x 1.2 inches while the new latest rendition has the size of 3.3 x 3.3 x .9 inches. The remote control is one of the biggest improvements. The new remote is more ergonomic and keys have a softer feel. Learning the new remote without having to look down is a testament to its design.

Okay…if you are looking for specifications, the following are for the Roku XD:

Connection Types
480i (over composite video)
480p (over HDMI)
720p (over HDMI)
1080p (over HDMI)

Video Resolution
1080p High Definition (HD)
720p High Definition (HD)
16:9 anamorphic / 4:3 standard

Audio
Analog stereo (mini-jack to left/right/composite video RCA)
Digital over HDMI (5.1 surround sound pass-through and stereo)

Connectivity
The XD model is wireless only.  802.11n Wi-Fi (b/g/n compatible) with WEP, WPA and WPA2 support

The Roku 2 is now in a competitive class with Boxee Box and Apple TV. Who knows, you just might cancel your cable service and bring the technology into your home or business.

Starting at only $59.00 the Roku 2 is a perfect solution for anyone desiring a streaming device to complement his or her media experience.

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