- Average user rating:
- My rating: 0 stars
Full user review
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5 out of 5 people found this review helpful
4.5 stars
"Great Device!"
Pros: Everthing in one place, sleek look, easy connect
Cons: remote not great (no learn feature), need to keep it cool, occasional need for reboot
Summary: Fit the bill for me as a perfect compliment to my stereo equipment and allowed simple conversion of all my CD's and videos to an electronic library plus is great for music control while entertaining.
I have my z555 connected to two TV's (one outside) and with some additional hardware (IR extender) I have a pretty slick set-up that I can run my Z555 and stereo amp from either location. The integration of MCE to Napster is a real asset to me as well since you can easily set-up an endless stream of music. For my outside/poolside entertaining it is great. The song playlists from any digital music you have local on the machine and on Napster integrate seamlessly. The first time one of my friends or neighbors sees me changing the music from my lounge chair outside via my outside TV and an IR extender to the Z555 which is running Napster or a local digital playlist, I always get a "how'd you do that" look. Neighbors agree this is a great gadget and are very impressed when you ask them what do you want to hear and with a few clicks you can stream any Napster song. All as you continue to sip your cold one.
I do strongly recommend that you get a different remote. The included one does not have a learn feature so you will add to the remote pile if you do not make a change. I found the that the Logitec Harmony 680 remote works perfectly with MCE (even has the green button). This remote is an awesome device. It has a USB connection that you attached to PC/laptop to access the remote and Logitecs online programming site. You select the devices you have from the online database (cable box, TVs, reciever, etc) and the USB interface is use to upload to the remote. The best thing is that it has basically unlimited custom programming options and soft keys on the remote to use them easily. The remote has a LCD screen to make it easy to use as well. I have "one touch" program buttons that for example turn on the outside TV, switch the TV input to Video 1, turns on stereo, switch the speakers outputs to "B", and has the Z555 go to My TV output. It is the only remote you will need for your entire stereo package. I know that it is a lot of info about a remote but trust me it is a must and no I do not work for Logitec!
Some "not so goods":
Need to keep it cool. The instructions say do not put in an enclosed cabinet and they are not kidding. The z555 in combination with a good amp/reciever generates HEAT! You need an open cabinet or powered venting (my only choice) to keep they z555 cool.
The unit needs the occasional reboot...it is running windows afterall
So it can be a problem if you have everything running throught the z555. To get around this run an output from your cable box direct to your TV and another to the z555 so you always do not need to have the z555 just to watch TV.
Overall I recommend the z555. It is not perfect but it is the best option out there if you looking for a great integrated look with your stereo equipment and all in one digital media control.
