Barb Gonzalez

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Other Source Component ReviewsStreaming Device Reviews
Sony NSZ-GU1 Bravia Smart Stick
Barb Gonzalez  |  Jun 13, 2014

Performance
Features
Ergonomics
Value
PRICE $150

AT A GLANCE
Plus
Adds Google TV apps to a Sony Bravia TV
Compact dongle form factor
Integrates cable/satellite programming with streaming apps
Integrates some apps typically not available on Google TV

Minus
Google TV remote was sometimes unresponsive
Only works with specific 2013 (or newer) Bravia TVs

THE VERDICT
A solid Google TV add-on for owners of compatible Bravia TVs.

When the Sony Bravia Smart Stick was first announced, it was thought to be competition for Google’s Chromecast. But this complete Google TV-on-a-dongle is not for everyone. It is an add-on option for recent Bravia TV owners who want more than the streaming apps available on the Bravia TV platform. The Bravia stick integrates seamlessly with the TV, combining the app menu from the Bravia TV with the Google TV home screen for quick access.
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SmartStream
How to Find the Movie You Want to Stream
Barb Gonzalez  |  Jun 11, 2014
Here's how to find any movie or TV show to stream to your TV. Global search and search websites search across multiple apps to save time and make it easy to go straight to the movie you've been wanting to see.
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SmartStream
Share Your Vudu Movies
Barb Gonzalez  |  Jun 04, 2014
With Vudu's Share My Movies you can share movies you "own" with up to five friends or family members without having to share your Vudu credentials.
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Media Server ReviewsOther Source Component Reviews
Microsoft Xbox One as Content Hub
Barb Gonzalez  |  May 27, 2014

Performance
Features
Ergonomics
Value
PRICE $499

AT A GLANCE
Plus
Integrates with cable or satellite set-top box with advanced One Guide
Improved Kinect camera for voice and gesture control
Blu-ray player works with voice and gesture control
Minus
Requires Xbox Gold membership to stream from some services
Some streaming services available on Xbox 360 not yet on Xbox One
Can stop playback to say “hi” to a new user that has stepped into the room

THE VERDICT
For gamers who want a streaming all-in-one entertainment device, this is the console to buy.

The Xbox One was released in November 2013, exactly eight years after the release of Microsoft's last game console, the Xbox 360. In those eight years, the Xbox 360 was updated and upgraded, including the addition of the Kinect camera for voice and gesture control. In the past couple of years, a number of streaming services were also added, making the Xbox 360 a viable whole-family entertainment device. Now, the Xbox One has “improved” on the 360’s features. The Kinect has been upgraded. TV integration and a Blu-ray player have been added. The result: the Xbox One may be poised to fulfill Microsoft’s hope to make it the only component you’ll need to add to your home theater.

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Streaming Device Reviews
PlayStation 4 as Media Streamer
Barb Gonzalez  |  May 23, 2014

Performance
Features
Ergonomics
Value
PRICE $400

AT A GLANCE
Plus
Offers most major apps
Excellent picture and sound quality
No additional subscriptions required to access streaming services
Netflix Max helps find recommendations geared to your taste
Minus
No remote or QWERTY keyboard outside of game controller
Limited number of apps—no social networks or photo apps
No DLNA or other streaming from home network media libraries

THE VERDICT
Excellent for gaming and on the whole, but not the best choice for streaming alone.

With PlayStation 4, Sony has upped the video game ante with incredible graphics and the ability to share gameplay with the touch of a “share” button on its redesigned game controller. But how is it as a media streamer? I took a look at Sony's latest to check out its entertainment offerings and its ergonomics as an entertainment (non-gaming) device.

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SmartStream
FCC Net Neutrality Rules: Can Internet Slowdowns Be Avoided?
Barb Gonzalez  |  May 22, 2014
Don't Let Images Like this Become Commonplace

The FCC has presented its ideas for how to maintain net neutrality and an Open Internet. It's more than slowing down the Internet for some websites while allowing others to pay for a fast lane. It's time for you to comment on how you imagine an open internet and help save net neutrality.

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SmartStream
Hulu App to Offer Free TV Episodes and Remote Casting
Barb Gonzalez  |  May 14, 2014
Hulu has announced that this summer they will offer streaming of full TV episodes to the mobile app without requiring a Hulu Plus subscription. The Hulu app now has remote casting capabilities that extend to more devices.
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SmartStream
Amazon Instant Video's X-Ray Nails the Second-Screen Experience
Barb Gonzalez  |  May 07, 2014
Many Amazon streaming movies and TV shows include the X-ray feature that dynamically lists actors and other information on the Amazon's Kindle Fire. It's a must for any IMDB addict.
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SmartStream
Amazon Prime to Offer Unlimited Streaming of Many HBO Shows
Barb Gonzalez  |  May 02, 2014
Many HBO shows will be available for unlimited streaming on Amazon Prime Instant Video, but not all shows will be included in the May 21st launch. While this breakthrough licensing agreement grants exclusivity to Amazon for free streaming, shows will still be available on other streaming services.
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Media Server Reviews
Google Chromecast Streaming Media Player
Barb Gonzalez  |  May 01, 2014

Performance
Features
Ergonomics
Value
PRICE $35

AT A GLANCE
Plus
Streams full-screen videos from Netflix and YouTube
Mirrors Websites
Control videos from computer or mobile device
Minus
Must go to Chromecast Website to learn when new apps become compatible
No central control panel or app
Clumsy to pause video streaming from a phone when a call comes in

THE VERDICT
For $35 and a little practice, this is the best streaming solution available to date.

The Google Chromecast was an instant hit when it came on the tech scene, selling out before its release date last August. At $35, it’s the least expensive way to stream movies and music to your TV and view photos from online. Unique in its approach to streaming media, the Chromecast dongle can stream from a Chrome Web browser (PC or Mac) and from certain apps on iPhones, iPads, and Android phones and tablets.

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