Channelpro | Product Reviews

With the variety of products and vendors you have to choose from, doing your homework is critical in today's global marketplace. Check out the top rated reviews before you make your next technology purchase.

Home Video

Vudu digital multimedia receiver
Steering clear of many of the pitfalls that sapped past video-on-demand broadband solutions, Vudu delivers the closest thing to "Netflix in a box" that we've seen to date.
Toshiba HD-A20
The Toshiba HD-A20 is a perfectly competent HD DVD player, but it's not worth the extra money when compared to the budget Toshiba HD-A2.
RCA DTA800
Good reception, respectable video quality, and a basic EPG make the RCA DTA800 an excellent DTV converter box, despite some slightly tricky setup snags.
Microsoft Xbox 360 w/ Forza Motorsport 2 and Marvel: Ultimate Alliance (20GB, HDMI)
With its extensive digital media features, a superior online service, and an excellent game library, the Xbox 360 remains the game console to beat.
TiVo HD (20 HD hours)
While it's not compatible with your cable company's interactive and video-on-demand services, the TiVo HD's excellent onscreen interface and long list of network and Internet features puts it in a class above the generic high-def DVRs offered by most cable providers.
Philips DVDR3575H
The Philips DVDR3575H is pretty much your only choice if you want a DVD recorder with a hard drive these days, but it's not as good as it could be.
Oppo DV-980H DVD player
If you're not ready to get a high-def player, the Oppo DV-980H DVD player delivers excellent performance and an unparalleled feature set for the price.
Netflix Player by Roku
While it's still a work in progress--and currently lean on quality content--the Netflix Player's simple operation, overall convenience, and cheap price makes it a compelling option for Netflix subscribers looking for instant gratification.
Toshiba HD-A30
The Toshiba HD-A30 is a solid third-generation HD DVD player, but for most people it's not worth the extra dough.
Panasonic DMP-BD10A
If you're set on a standalone Blu-ray player, the Panasonic DMP-BD10A should definitely be on your short list.

Home Audio

Onkyo TX-SR805 (silver)
The Onkyo TX-SR805 is an all-around excellent AV receiver with plenty of audiophile appeal, but its less-than-ideal video performance may give HDTV aficionados a reason to hold out for higher-end alternatives.
Grace ITC-IR1000B Wireless Internet Radio (black)
While it lacks even some basic extras, the Grace Wireless Internet Radio delivers smooth Internet radio via Wi-Fi at a relatively affordable price.
Panasonic CQ-C8305U
The Panasonic CQ-C8305U performs the basic functions of a digital-age car stereo well with great audio-tweaking options, intuitive file and folder navigation, and a worthwhile iPod interface. The stereo's full-motion color display adds little to its usability or attractiveness and its Bluetooth is disappointing.
iHome iH12BR (black)
While its sound isn't so impressive, the iHome iH12's simple and attractive design gives it an appeal as a budget iPod clock radio.
JVC KD-PDR30 CD Receiver
The JVC KD-PDR30 looks and sounds good, and its standard iPod connectivity will endear it to those looking to take their iTunes on the road. However, its lack of a decent search mechanism for navigating large iPod lists means that it fails one of its primary usability functions.
Sony ICF-C1iP (white)
The Sony ICF-C1iP radio alarm clock for the iPod isn't the smallest or most stylish in the category, but decent audio quality, great radio reception, and a reasonable price point make it a fine option.
Denon AVR-3808CI
The Denon AVR-3808CI AV receiver is absolutely packed with functionality and sounds great, but you'll need to be an AV geek to unlock all its potential.
Ion TTUSB10 USB Turntable
If you're looking for an attractive, affordable way to digitize your collection of vinyl recordings, the Ion TTUSB10 is the best-looking budget USB turntable we've seen. Serious audio archivists should invest in a turntable with a beefier construction and more features, however.
Audiovox XpressR XM Radio
If you can spend the extra money for a professional installation, the Audiovox XpressR offers one of the best-looking, fully loaded XM radio receivers on the market.
Tangent Quattro (Red)
The Tangent Quattro is a fun gadget with great sound, but its premium price tag will scare off all but the most serious radio enthusiasts.