- Average user rating: 3.5 stars out of 59 reviews Back to product review
- My rating: 0 stars
Full user review
-
7 out of 7 people found this review helpful
4.5 stars
"Astonishing must-have piece of technology for the music lover"
Pros: Internet Radio & Rhapsody Radio compatibility
Cons: Almost a '10' - All operations via Remote ? somewhat confusing interface
Summary: Simply one of the most impressive pieces of technology push I have ever encountered. It might just turn your PC into a very expensive jukebox, but hey, if music is important in your life, the Roku SoundBridge's affordable price, sleek design, functional firmware, and ease of operation should turn the SoundBridge (SB) into a must-have piece of technology pull for every music lover. Yes, the SB works with my music files and playlists in Windows Media Player, but the real bonus is it flawless integration with My Stations in the free Comcast Rhapsody Radio and the Internet Radio (18 presets in software Ver. 2.5). Real big plus is that my router and Internet connection is always on; therefore, the PC does not need to be on to access any of the Internet Radio Presets. Briefly -- I am simply impressed and thrilled at the versatility of the SB -- better sound through my main stereo and I can even listen to my outside speakers by the pool. [grin]
CONNECTIONS -- What could be easier? However, I was somewhat confused by the documentation. That is, the "newer" SB M1001 already has the Wi-Fi card installed -- it took a while to realize the end cap did not need to be removed to install the Wi-Fi card.
Note: Prior to purchase, I contacted Crutchfield's excellent Tech Support and found out in a chat session that my aging Sony receiver had a MD/DAT optical input that could be used. That is, I wanted to verify my receiver had an input for the SB. I had a spare optical cable that I used.
SETUP -- Somewhat confusing -- I needed to call Linksys (not because of SB but because the network stopped working) and needed to change channels and setup a WEP secure network. The subsequent confusion was determining what type of password I had; finding the HEX password key; then fumbling around the SB network setup figuring out how to enter the Key correctly. [Note: my sons said they did not muck with the SB during my vacation; but, I discovered I lost my music server (Windows Media Connect) connection and had to reenter my WEP password.]
CONFIGURATION -- My stereo system is in the same room as the PC. However, I cannot see the stereo from the PC and I use a Linksys WRT54G Broadband Router to network other PCs and the SB.
OPERATION -- I encountered a couple of days of problems and delays waiting for Roku Tech Support feedback via e-mail that was associated with changing the Internet Radio Presets on the M1001 using software Version 2.4.4. I STRONGLY suggest that everyone go to the Roku Forums and download the Ver. 2.5 Beta; link -- http://rokulabs.com/forums/viewtopic.php?t=7363 -- It has several bug fixes and expanded capabilities. NOTE: The Ver. 2.5 Beta is NOT presently available by using the "standard" "built-in" software update function. P.S. Don't forget to download the Ver. 2.5 User Manual [38 page pdf] also linked from the above Forum.
"Individual results may vary". I am retired and teach some online college courses and spend most the normal working hours in front of the PC where I cannot see the SB nor operate its remote. Therefore, I created a shortcut to the SB Now Playing Web Page (http://192.168.1.109/SoundBridge.html) and keep it open so I have access to the basic remote operations (e.g., pause) and I can see what's playing on Rhapsody Radio or the Internet Radio Stations for example. You can also play any of the Presets from the Web Page. That is, open My Documents, go to My Network Places, and click on SoundBridge under Local Network. This procedure also opens up many avenues to access Internet Radio settings, User Guides, FAQs, and so on.
Enjoy -- I know I am. Happy Trails, Duane
Where to buy
Roku SoundBridge M1001:
$149.99 - $164.14
| store | price | in stock? | rating |
|---|---|---|---|
|
$164.14 | Yes |
|
|
Amazon.com Marketplace
|
$149.99 | Yes |
|
