I think these two new 3.0 models by HDI deserve a separate thread for discussion.
HDI finally officially announced these models only today.

Dune HD Base 3.0 (Sigma Designs 8642, with SATA HDD 3.5" compartment):
http://dune-hd.com/hd_players/110-dune-hd-base-3.0.html

Dune BD Prime 3.0 (Sigma Designs 8642, Blu-ray drive and 2.5" internal HDD option):
http://dune-hd.com/hd_players/111-dune-bd-prime-3.0.html

Note that the prices currently are specified only for the EU market. US ones are not clear yet.
Though it's possible to predict that it will be on the level of PCH C-200 or smaller
(as the specified intervals for EU are a bit smaller that the current announced prices
for C-200 in EU).

Note also that they are going to show the both models during the few coming days
at IFA 2009 (September 4-9, Berlin, Germany. Hall 7.2a, booth 108),
and CEDIA Expo 2009 (September 10-13, Atlanta, USA. Hall B, booth 5751).
There is even a kind of invitation to these exhibitions posted today at MPC Club:
http://www.mpcclub.com/temp/dune_ifa.jpg
--

As both players are rather similar, here is the combined citated description from Dune HD site, to save your time:

Main features:
● SATA HDD compartment for fast and easy HDD exchange (for HD Base 3.0)
● Playback of retail Blu-ray and DVD discs (for Dune BD Prime 3.0)
● Playback of full Blu-ray structures from HDD and network (with Bluray
menu, BD-J, BonusView, BD-Live)
● Playback of video, music, photos from any media source (HDD, PC,
NAS, etc)
● Optical disc formats (when using an external optical drive): data discs (CD/
DVD/BD) (MP3, JPEG, etc), Audio CD (PCM/DTS), DVD-Video (retail and
user-authored discs), Blu-ray (user-authored discs)
● Support for modern video file formats (MKV, H.264, VC1, etc) with very
high bitrate (up to 50+ Mbit/s)
● Dimensions: 420 mm (width) x 262 mm (depth) x 50 mm (height)

connectors: three USB 2.0 ports (one front, two back), eSATA port, Ethernet 1Gbit/s,
HDMI 1.3, S/PDIF (optical and coaxial), 7.1 analog audio,
2.0 analog audio, component video, composite video.

Common specification:
● Processor: Sigma Designs 8642
● Memory: RAM 512 MB, system Flash: 1 GB+, BD-Live: 1 GB+
● Media sources: internal HDD (SATA 3.5”), external HDD (eSATA, USB), external
optical drive (eSATA, USB), USB devices (USB flash drive, USB card
reader, etc), PC and NAS in local network (SMB, NFS, UPnP, HTTP)
● Video codecs: MPEG2, MPEG4, DivX, XVID, WMV9, VC1, H.264
● Video file formats: MKV, MPEG-TS, MPEG-PS, M2TS, VOB, AVI, MOV, MP4, QT,
ASF, WMV, Blu-Ray-ISO, BDMV, DVD-ISO, VIDEO_TS
● Video output modes: wide range of supported modes and resolutions,
including 23.976p, 24p, PAL, NTSC
● Audio codecs: AC3 (Dolby Digital), DTS, MPEG, AAC, LPCM, WMA,
WMAPro, EAC3 (Dolby Digital Plus), Dolby True HD, DTS HD High Resolution
Audio, DTS HD Master Audio, FLAC, multichannel FLAC
● Audio file formats: MP3, MPA, M4A, WMA, FLAC, WAV, DTS-WAV, DTS, AC3,
AAC
● Pass-through and decoding of HD audio formats, including Dolby TrueHD
and DTS HD Master Audio
● Picture file formats: JPEG, PNG, BMP, GIF
● Subtitle formats: SRT, SUB, text/SSA/ASS (MKV), VobSub (MP4), PGS (full
Blu-ray mode)
● Playlist file formats: M3U, PLS
● Filesystems: FAT16/FAT32 (read-write), EXT2/EXT3 (read-write), NTFS (readonly)

Other features:
● Upscaling: high-quality upscaling and deinterlacing of DVD and other SD
content to HD resolution (up to 1080p)
● Access to network: browser of network shares (SMB, UPnP), user-defined
shortcuts to network shares (SMB, NFS), links to HTTP media streams
● NAS function: SMB and FTP access from network to the player’s attached
storage devices
● IPTV: direct playback and recording of multicast IPTV streams (raw-UDP
and RTP-over-UDP, SD and HD)
● Internet radio: HTTP/MP3
● Powerful fi le manager (copy, move, delete, rename, etc), built-in FTP and
SMB file server (NAS function)
● Photo viewer: slide-show function, picture transition effects, picture rotation
● Playlists: music/photos/video, user-defined and automatically generated
playlists, repeat and shuffle
● FullHD-quality, fast, convenient, customizable interface (with covert-art
and icon browsing support)
● Future (free f/w upgrade): Flash Lite 3 support
● Future (free f/w upgrade): Netflix support (for the USA market)

Options:
● Wi-Fi 802.11n
● Internal 2.5” SATA HDD
● Future option (Autumn 2009): RF remote, based on Z-Wave technology, a
heart of an aff ordable Smart Home system

And here are some photos of these 3.0 models from HDI site:

Dune BD Prime 3.0:

http://dune-hd.com/uploads/posts/2009-09/1251816730_prime-right800x400.jpg

http://dune-hd.com/uploads/posts/2009-09/1251816710_prime-back800x400.jpg

http://dune-hd.com/uploads/posts/2009-09/1251816732_prime-left-800x400.jpg

Dune HD Base 3.0:

http://dune-hd.com/uploads/posts/2009-09/1251816562_base-left800x400.jpg

http://dune-hd.com/uploads/posts/2009-09/1251816468_base-back-800kh400.jpg

http://dune-hd.com/uploads/posts/2009-09/1251816494_base-rigt-800x400.jpg

And now the most interesting I've found: check the press release they published also today:
http://dune-hd.com/news/112-hdi-press-release-on-the-3.0-products.html

it contains not just a description of these models, but very interesting comparison with competitors.
Obviously. C-200 is meant. Some topics there are rather surprising (especially on the AACS keys problem and on the 8642/8643 comparison). Definitely worth reading!

Here is the text in case of any problems with the link:

HDI Dune company will show its new versions of hybrid Blu-ray/HD media players
during the 2 major exhibitions of Autumn 2009: IFA 2009 (September 4-9, Berlin, Germany. Hall 7.2a, booth 108),
and CEDIA Expo 2009 (September 10-13, Atlanta, USA. Hall B, booth 5751).

The new products are named Dune BD Prime 3.0 and Dune HD Base 3.0.
The BD Prime model includes Blu-ray drive and is capable of playing Blu-ray and
DVD discs as long as nearly any files from a diversity of storage types which can
be connected via USB, eSATA or Ethernet/Wi-Fi. The HD Base model doesn't contain
Blu-ray drive but has a compartment for easy changeable 3.5" DATA HDD.
The rest of the stuff is totally equivalent in these models, they have also the
same firmware.

Both 3.0 version products feature Sigma Designs 8642 chip, more than twice more
powerful than the previous 8634 chip model: 667 Mhz against 300 MHz.
It grants even faster GUI than before, allows much more fluent support of any "heavy"
applications including BD-J (Java), Flash Lite 3, Web browsers, etc.

1 Gb/s Ethernet now is included by default. Both in 100Mb/s and 1Gb/s modes
the network speed is now enough for watching any even most heavy contents
(like highest bitrate Blu-ray ISO), and of course it's much better now
for copying large quantities of data via players (to/from internal or connected
data storages)

Wi-Fi option can be added both inside as a mini-PCI-form board with MII interface
and with 3 antennas attached to the back side of the units, and also
outside as USB stick solution.

2.5" SATA HDD option can be installed inside of the case (opening the case is
needed, so recommended for distributors to help their customers and preinstall
the needed HDD before selling).

Here is a list of the major differences of our 3.0 models from the already announced
competitive solutions on 8642/3 chip (most of the differences are valid also
to any other competitive solutions based on other chips):

1. 8642 chip
Our 3.0 solutions are based on Sigma Designs 8642 chip, not on the 8643 one.
We'd like to remind that every odd version of Sigma chips is a functionally reduced
variant of the chip with the _previous_ even number (i.e. 8643-8642. 8635-8634, ...).
Odd versions inc. 8643 and 8635 are never meant for playing any copyright-protected
materials (like Blu-ray and DVD) and are mostly meant for cheap IPTV/VoD
set-top-boxes. For example, Macrovision support is enabled in 8642 chips and disabled
in 8643 ones. So only Dune players on 8642 chip have no limitations with output
of protected video through analog video interfaces.
Also 8643-based players can not be legally sold in any AV-stores as Blu-ray players
(for example, with some preinstalled Blu-ray drive), for Dune BD players there
is no such limitation and you'll be able to find them not only in Internet.

2. eSATA interface
eSATA interface now available in the basic configuration for the fastest
possible external HDD and other attached storages with SATA or eSATA interface.
Only when connecting equipment via this interface direct SATA operation mode
is possible. And of course, you don't need to open your player to be able
to connect any new SATA/eSATA equipment any time.

3. Plug-and-play
in general, any Dune player is fully Plug-and-play. You don't need to have
any special experience working with PC components and you can use your player
directly from store, w/o opening it and risking to damage anything inside.
If you need a player with Blu-ray drive you can buy Dune HD Prime 3.0
and start using it immediately. If you don't need Blu-ray drive inside just
buy Dune HD Base 3.0 with or w/o HDD and you are ready to go!

4. real Blu-ray player
(a) real Blu-ray players like Dune BD Prime 3.0 use specialized BD drives
(called "loaders"). BD loaders are substantially cheaper in production
than any PC Blu-ray drives. Of course, it means less expenses for end-users
of Dune players in the end...
(b) as a real Blu-ray player Dune BD Prime 3.0 contains factory-preinstalled
AACS keys (needed for decrypting any original Blu-ray discs) of type A.
These keys are fixed for this very type of the BD loader and they have
no time constraints.
In contrast, any player with PC BD-ROM drive must have AACS keys of
type C to be able to work with original Blu-ray discs.
The major problem with the keys of this type is that by definition they
expire after 1.5 year after the player is made. After this period the
manufacturer would need to buy new keys for all their users and install
them somehow (unique key for every player!), otherwise the ability to
playback original discs is lost.

5. Fanless operation
special cooling design for Sigma processors allows not to use any active cooling
systems (like fans) in Dune BD Prime 3.0.
It allows 100%-noise-free operation and absence of any parts which "wear out"
in time and may need changing from time to time in the future.
Cooler use can be also avoided in the Dune HD Base 3.0 player if using one of
the HDD recommended models (the list will be available later).
For HD Base 3.0 it will be possible to switch on/off using the cooler via Setup
(no need to open the cover).

6. IR remote by default with integrated receiver,
option: RF remote with Z-Wave

The basic package of the both models will include our standard IR remote.
Infrared receiver is integrated inside of the unit.
But if you want to control player with RF signals, this option will be
also available separately during Q4 2009. Our solution will be based on
Z-Wave RF standard (technology currently owned by Sigma Designs,
previously by Zensys), supported by some models of Logitech Harmony (890, 1000),
Philips Pronto and Nevo remotes. We'll also suggest a cheaper option of RF
remote under Dune brand.
With Z-Wave support any Dune 3.0 player will be able to serve as a center
of your very affordable Smart Home system.

7. Design
light and compact design will fit nearly any already existing equipment in
your home. Also it's easy to relocate players

8. Display
Information on our digital VFD display can be easily seen on much higher
distances under nearly any angle (in contrast, information on LCD displays
have VERY limited visibility)

9. Memory
higher system flash memory (at least 1GB) allows to include much more
features in the future with firmware upgrades.
Specialized BD-Live memory (at least 1GB) allows to use full function
of any Blu-ray disc w/o adding any aditional storage by user

10. fast and convenient GUI
as for the previous 8634-based models, our GUI implementation is based on
direct work with graphics primitives of Sigma processor and doesn't use
any heavy intermediate libraries/technologies (like Web-browsers).
It allows us to keep superiority in the speed of the players' GUI
over competitive solutions.
Also as before, our GUI is very simple and intuitive and so it is suitable
for anybody who can operate a standard DVD player. So our players are
"friendly" to children, elders and second halves. You will not need to
keep any special player for other family members...

11. F/w state in general
We'd like to remind that our company was the first one who presented hybrid
Blu-ray/HD media player solution nearly one year ago (at IFA 2008).
And of course, all the features of hybrid devices developed and
polished during this year on Prime/Base 1.0/2.0 products on 8634 chip are here
in our new 3.0 players, including full support of Blu-ray and DVD ISO images
and directory structures (inc. menu, subtitles, sound tracks, BD-J,
BD-Live features, etc), auto frame-rate feature, full support of MKV
(inc. high bit-rate), SMB/UPnP resources browser, so on (see the specs)

12. Netflix-ready
For the US market support of this well-known VoD service will be added via free
firmware upgrade during Q4 2009 - Q1 2010.

To be continued...
--

The only information we can currently disclose concerning the future
price of the new products and availability time is the following:
retail price of HD Base 3.0: in the interval of EUR 270-320 inc. VAT;
retail price of BD Prime 3.0: in the interval of EUR 350-399 inc. VAT;
availability: Q4 2009.

More concrete details will be published after our discussions with our current
and future distributors during the pointed exhibitions,
i.e. after the middle of September...

And now the most interesting I've found: check the press release they published also today:
http://dune-hd.com/news/112-hdi-press-release-on-the-3.0-products.html


The only information we can currently disclose concerning the future
price of the new products and availability time is the following:
retail price of HD Base 3.0: in the interval of EUR 270-320 inc. VAT;
retail price of BD Prime 3.0: in the interval of EUR 350-399 inc. VAT;
availability: Q4 2009.



Hi what is the price for USA if i exchange Euro by Dollar the price is very high.

HD Base 3.0: in the interval of US $ 384-455
BD Prime 3.0: in the interval of US $ 498-567

Anyone can confirm what is the price for HDI Base and Prime 1.0 or 2.0 at this moment in USA ?

Thanks

12. Netflix-ready
For the US market support of this well-known VoD service will be added via free
firmware upgrade during Q4 2009 - Q1 2010.

While not a super big deal, this is cool. I use a Xbox360 now, but this would probably make it more convenient for my wife. I'm definitely adding this to my list, making the C-200 a question now.

Anyone can confirm what is the price for HDI Base and Prime 1.0 or 2.0 at this moment in USA ?

Thanks

Pre-orders were in the neighborhood of $399-$575

Hi what is the price for USA if i exchange Euro by Dollar the price is very high.

HD Base 3.0: in the interval of US $ 384-455
BD Prime 3.0: in the interval of US $ 498-567

Anyone can confirm what is the price for HDI Base and Prime 1.0 or 2.0 at this moment in USA ?

Thanks

to be at or below the pch c200, the hd base 3.0 needs to be US $299 or less

HD Base 3.0: in the interval of US $ 384-455
BD Prime 3.0: in the interval of US $ 498-567

Anyone can confirm what is the price for HDI Base and Prime 1.0 or 2.0 at this moment in USA ?

Thanks

it doesn't work like this. EU has huge taxes and usually the value in dollars in the US is the same as value in EUR in EU (inc. all the taxes). It means:
HD Base 3.0: in the interval of US $ 270-320
BD Prime 3.0: in the interval of US $ 350-399

You can check also the situation with C-200. The price in the US is USD 300, the price in EU is EUR 350 and more. (EUR value even bigger here...)
Calculating from this, the prices for Dune can be even less in the USA...

So before their promised announcement on the final pricing after CEDIA Expo (i.e. after middle of September) I think the most realistic is to expect the following retail prices in the US:
HD Base 3.0: USD 270
BD Prime 3.0: USD 350

but let's wait for two weeks and see (or you can come to them during CEDIA Expo and check directly :) )...

it doesn't work like this. EU has huge taxes and usually the value in dollars in the US is the same as value in EUR in EU (inc. all the taxes). It means:
HD Base 3.0: in the interval of US $ 270-320
BD Prime 3.0: in the interval of US $ 350-399

You can check also the situation with C-200. The price in the US is USD 300, the price in EU is EUR 350 and more. (EUR value even bigger here...)
Calculating from this, the prices for Dune can be even less in the USA...

So before their promised announcement on the final pricing after CEDIA Expo (i.e. after middle of September) I think the most realistic is to expect the following retail prices in the US:
HD Base 3.0: USD 270
BD Prime 3.0: USD 350

but let's wait for two weeks and see (or you can come to them during CEDIA Expo and check directly :) )...

That isn't always the case though. Take a look at the Xtreamer, which sells for EUR 99 but in the US goes for $139.99. Also, looking online I found the Dune 2.0 for between $399-$499 in the US but in countries like Germany I found for EUR 339

it doesn't work like this. EU has huge taxes and usually the value in dollars in the US is the same as value in EUR in EU (inc. all the taxes). It means:
HD Base 3.0: in the interval of US $ 270-320
BD Prime 3.0: in the interval of US $ 350-399

You can check also the situation with C-200. The price in the US is USD 300, the price in EU is EUR 350 and more. (EUR value even bigger here...)
Calculating from this, the prices for Dune can be even less in the USA...

So before their promised announcement on the final pricing after CEDIA Expo (i.e. after middle of September) I think the most realistic is to expect the following retail prices in the US:
HD Base 3.0: USD 270
BD Prime 3.0: USD 350

but let's wait for two weeks and see (or you can come to them during CEDIA Expo and check directly :) )...

that would be very competitive..........the next step is to get those puppies into the US in quantity..............should be an interesting remainder of the year

And here are some photos of these 3.0 models from HDI site:

Dune HD Base 3.0:

http://dune-hd.com/uploads/posts/2009-09/1251816562_base-left800x400.jpg

http://dune-hd.com/uploads/posts/2009-09/1251816468_base-back-800kh400.jpg

http://dune-hd.com/uploads/posts/2009-09/1251816494_base-rigt-800x400.jpg

anyway look at the pictures for the HDI Base it looks like has two differents fronts :) the first pic doesnt have display the second one has.(almost the same that Prime)

anyway look at the pictures for the HDI Base it has two differents fronts :) Maybe Base 3.0 and 4.0 :):) the first pic doesnt have display the second one has.(almost the same that Prime)

If they are still being built by Panasonic then that is a behind the glass LED panel. The Panny BD players look identical to that.

HDI would like to inform all the enthusiasts of HD that it prepared new versions of its Dune players especially for European and US markets. First of all the new version of players named Dune HD Base 2.0 and Dune BD Prime 2.0 are coming to market in the middle of July 2009. For the moment no concrete information on HD Center 2.0 is provided. This new version of the 2 most affordable player models is made possible because HDI managed to come to agreement to make these players on the one of the biggest factories in China specialized on high quality audio-video equipment. The factory belongs to Panasonic Corporation and is managed by Japanese people. All Panasonic Blu-ray players are manufactured on the same factory. The manufacturer ensures not less quality standards than the own Israeli factory of HDI.
Panasonic doesnt make this player....

is it the picture about the panasonic players ?

http://blog.hometheatermag.com/ces2009/pannyBD60.jpg

Placeholder already up for the 3.0 up at DigitalConection: http://www.digitalconnection.com/Products/Video/prime3.asp

That isn't always the case though. Take a look at the Xtreamer, which sells for EUR 99 but in the US goes for $139.99. Also, looking online I found the Dune 2.0 for between $399-$499 in the US but in countries like Germany I found for EUR 339

no. the info on the Xtreamer is definitely incorrect. EUR99 is the price from China (then you pay delivery with DHL and customs, and the warranty is unclear). When any EU distributor gets it for selling locally and needs to give 2 years warranty (by EU laws) it's coming to EUR200 at least. Check more carefully the conditions!

And on Dune 2.0: try to buy it in the US and in the EU. You will see the difference. The EU prices are real. The US ones mean nothing as you can't really buy this model in the US (you can find just two places and both of them don't sell it indeed)...

anyway look at the pictures for the HDI Base it looks like has two differents fronts :) the first pic doesnt have display the second one has.(almost the same that Prime)

I already saw Base 2.0 and I can tell you that they are nearly identical by casing with Base 3.0. And the photos seem to be correct: just on one of them the display is switched on and you can see some text/digits there, another one is switched off...

Panasonic doesnt make this player....

is it the picture about the panasonic players ?]

also some confusion here. they (HDI) only declared they do it on Panasonic factory, they never told they use any standard Panasonic design. So the design seems to be owned by HDI, only the production done by that factory.

I might buy Base 3.0 finally, I would like to know the price plus screenshots of menu/gui If possible :)

I might buy Base 3.0 finally, I would like to know the price plus screenshots of menu/gui If possible :)

as they told in the citated docs, the prices will be after CEDIA Expo (i.e. after Sept 13th).
On the screenshots, I already gave some here before:
http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?p=17031012
and
http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?p=17031231
(of course, it was for the previous models, but they told they have the same GUI)

And what about functionality of front display? Does it allow to play music files, from attached HDD or network (and browsing folders/files) without switching on TV? The same question for BD Prime 1.0 too...

if the base is around $300 and come around october/november, that's going to be great but if they delay it until 2010.... not sure about it.

I called Digital Connection today and they said the pre-order price for the Prime 3.0 is $399. It does not look like their website is accepting pre-orders yet though.

~Josh

I called Digital Connection today and they said the pre-order price for the Prime 3.0 is $399. It does not look like their website is accepting pre-orders yet though.

~Josh

Same thing I saw. The buy now link is there and active but it does not add anything to the Shopping Cart. Says to call for price but I do not know how you could manually add the item to the cart and then set the price. Going to have to wait I guess...

Same thing I saw. The buy now link is there and active but it does not add anything to the Shopping Cart. Says to call for price but I do not know how you could manually add the item to the cart and then set the price. Going to have to wait I guess...

The link is now live, but the price and ETA are still undetermined as yet. All pre-orders customers will receive further details by e-mail before the product ships.

The link is now live, but the price and ETA are still undetermined as yet. All pre-orders customers will receive further details by e-mail before the product ships.

Thanks, just placed a pre-order :)

Thanks, just placed a pre-order :)

Just got mine in too. This looks like a really nice device.

~Josh

Does anyone know if the Prime 3.0 will stream HD-DVD content?

~Josh

Does anyone know if the Prime 3.0 will stream HD-DVD content?

~Josh

What is the expected benefit of the Prime 3.0 over the PCH C-200 or vice versa. Pricewise they are comparable. The PCH C-200 costs $299, but add in a BR drive and it probably comes out to around $399, right on par with the Prime 3.0.

I am part of the first batch for the C-200 but eventually I will be looking to get a second NMT w/ BR player for a family member and would consider the Prime 3.0.

lol thats not an comparision, this is only bs because they don't know the difference between 8643 and 8642

lol thats not an comparision, this is only bs because they don't know the difference between 8643 and 8642

who doesn't know the difference? the manufacturer?
if you know better please advise :)

Yeah. One and only difference between SMP 8643 and 8642 is lack of Macrovision. No commercial BD and DVD movies via composite out. What a waste!!! :D :p

Yeah. One and only difference between SMP 8643 and 8642 is lack of Macrovision. No commercial BD and DVD movies via composite out. What a waste!!! :D :p

... lack of Macrovision and CSS. Macrovision is used to output video to component too. So on 8643 you will not be fully able to use component output or PCH will have big legal problems with Macrovision company :) (if they hack the component output somehow)

As wiatrak said and thats the only truth

Yeah. One and only difference between SMP 8643 and 8642 is lack of Macrovision. No commercial BD and DVD movies via composite out. What a waste!!!

Full ******** :D they really should make there homework!! the only chips which are not made for BluRay are 865x and 862x this are chips for IPTV and DMA's maybe they should read the sigma sheets before they start to write bs.

http://www.sigmadesigns.com/Products/selection_guide/pdf_files/selection_guide.pdf

Odd versions inc. 8643 and 8635 are never meant for playing any copyright-protected
materials (like Blu-ray and DVD) and are mostly meant for cheap IPTV/VoD
set-top-boxes.

... lack of Macrovision and CSS. Macrovision is used to output video to component too. So on 8643 you will not be fully able to use component output or PCH will have big legal problems with Macrovision company :) (if they hack the component output somehow)

Macrovision is only used for SDTV component. So for your HDTV you should not be worried. There is no HDTV version of Macrovision.

... lack of Macrovision and CSS. Macrovision is used to output video to component too. So on 8643 you will not be fully able to use component output or PCH will have big legal problems with Macrovision company :) (if they hack the component output somehow)

This would mean no original-DVD over Component because of lack of CSS-support?

CSS is supported by firmware, not by SoC (chip).
There are commercial DVD over component. Only not over composite, because of non-Macrovision version of chip.
http://www.sigmadesigns.com/Products/SMP8640/pdf_files/SMP8640_br.pdf

And BTW, it is funny thing nowadays, secure DVD from copying over composite... Does anyone recording DVD on VHS tape? :D
And the best - you must pay for this kind protection, some license cost... :rolleyes:

I know there is commercial DVD via Component as this is what I use and used the last 5 years, as many million ohers with a Standalonplayer.

So the C-200 will be able to play commercial CSS-protected DVD via component and Kostyas posting is wrong or misunderstandable?

The NMT-forum clearly states retaill-DVD will play via Component
http://www.networkedmediatank.com/showthread.php?tid=23797

"There are...DVD over component..." I mean in C-200.
http://www.networkedmediatank.com/showthread.php?tid=26809

Yes, saw this posting too right now.
So I don`t care how they do it, most important it works.

...and Kostyas posting is wrong or misunderstandable?...

I think it is "competition" issue... ;)

clearly HDI is attacking PCH :P

clearly HDI is attacking PCH :P

it's again up to you what to think, but just as a matter of fact, a distributor in my country very clearly told me that because of the legal issues he can't sell C-200 in any off-line shops as BD/DVD players (otherwise his company will have legal problems, he already checked it).
and he doesn't care how PCH avoided those license limitations... there is a clear difference between the 8642 and 8643 chips concerning the licenses and the Macrovision guys are perfectly aware of that (because this difference between the chips is indeed created by their demand, so that they can very easily understand what's legal and what's not)...
Though it seems for selling through Internet should not be a big issue, while it's still possible to cross the border (customs) with such products somehow...

So in the end you are all correct, it looks mostly much more a potential problem of selling people than of end-users. If you managed to buy it and receive somehow, you shouldn't care anymore on any such chip differencres.

If you managed to buy it and receive somehow, you shouldn't care anymore on any such chip differencres.

What is the big deal here? - Your words imply ordering to be a problem "manage" .. "somehow"
I ordered it at my german local dealer and he will send it to me, as with every other stuff.

Q of interest: What makes a traditional dealer with shop, (Offline-dealer) different to an Online-shop in terms of being able to sell it as BR-player?

Besides - an Offline-dealer still would be able to sell it as "Mediaplayer" or soemthing like that? So why should a distrbutor abandon to sell the C-200 in case it looks like a good-selling product to him.

Don`t understand the difference between offline and online-dealer.

What is the big deal here? - Your words imply ordering to be a problem "manage" .. "somehow"
I ordered it at my german local dealer and he will send it to me, as with every other stuff.

I'd like to remind you that we are discussing here the press release at the HDI site. And it seems that this very info on the 8643 chip is mostly meant for resellers, not for end-users.
So maybe for us this discussion is more theoretical than practical. If you got your unit from your reseller, it's not your problem...

But frankly, I still don't understand a couple of things here:

1. many people use high quality video processors for SD-to-HD upscaling and they definitely preffer to make scaling not by Sigma but by their expensive staff instead. If they use an analog way, how do they get a non-upscaled SD signal for any protected material (DVD/Blu-ray)?

2. Also, I perfectly know that there is some trick on copy-protection for analog video. I personally have two devices (one HD STB for satellite and another one for old DVHS staff) where copy-protected (of course, with Macrovision) video can be output only in SD, but HD doesn't work (no problem with HDMI in all resolution at the same time).
So obviously there is some regulation also on HD output for a protected data via analog w/o protection.
My question: even if C-200 can remove Macrovision and put analog video in HD resolutions through the component output, doesn't it break any laws/licenses?
If so, even if they do it in the first f/w version, will they be forced to remove this possibility by authorities in the next f/w versions?

For example I use component connection to my projector, not HDMI (have problems with HDMI matrix all the time, tired to change it). So if buying C-200 and connecting this way, shouldn't I care that the future versions of f/w in this player will not allow me to watch any original DVDs and Blu-rays at all?
(indeed, how can you be sure?)

--

And concerning the dealers, obviously the "off-line" ones are much more exposed for checking by any kind of authorities. It's much easier to catch them if they do something wrong. For "online" (i.e. Internet shops) ones it's usually very hard to find them and check.
Why do you think it's almost impossible to find any streamers like PCH in any "real" shops, but one can buy such things only via Internet?
I checked it in Germany in MediaMarkt, for example (they sell _only_ WD, no other streamers at all). They told it's because of the license problems...

There is no difference as you said, really strange what Kostya is talking, online and offline are the same, also about license i know from an reseller who also sells the PCH's, that PCH is one of the companies who has all licenses and he couldn't sell the Dune in the past because they miss some licenses, i don't know how it is now.

What is the big deal here? - Your words imply ordering to be a problem "manage" .. "somehow"
I ordered it at my german local dealer and he will send it to me, as with every other stuff.

Q of interest: What makes a traditional dealer with shop, (Offline-dealer) different to an Online-shop in terms of being able to sell it as BR-player?

Besides - an Offline-dealer still would be able to sell it as "Mediaplayer" or soemthing like that? So why should a distrbutor abandon to sell the C-200 in case it looks like a good-selling product to him.

Don`t understand the difference between offline and online-dealer.

This tread seems to have taken a turn away from the topic - Dune HD Base 3.0 and Prime 3.0 on Sigma 8642 in Q4 2009. I for one would like see it get back on track. The unit comes with a Sigma 8642 chip. What the 8643 does or does not do or what it means to the C-200 maybe valid points in other threads but it would seem to be a off topic here.

Maybe we can get back to the pro's and con's of the HDI 3.0 units here...

Pros and Cons are always in comparison to a similar product, in this case a direct competitor C-200.
So I think this is right on track.

There is no difference as you said, really strange what Kostya is talking, online and offline are the same, also about license i know from an reseller who also sells the PCH's, that PCH is one of the companies who has all licenses and he couldn't sell the Dune in the past because they miss some licenses, i don't know how it is now.

I didn't mean just PCH or Dune. Nearly nothing like these is sold [yet] in such places like MediaMarkt because of some reasons...

i agree but that has nothing todo with license issues! this is because this devices are not simple as needed for normal customers, or can you say that network setup and such things are easy :D :D for normal users.

I didn't mean just PCH or Dune. Nearly nothing like these is sold [yet] in such places like MediaMarkt because of some reasons...

i agree but that has nothing todo with license issues! this is because this devices are not simple as needed for normal customers, or can you say that network setup and such things are easy :D :D for normal users.

you are right. in principle, this is more complicated staff. But with DHCP, SMB/UPnP browsing and very easy GUI quite many people can use it. I'm sure...

can't say that much about C-200 from this point of view (especially on the GUI, I never like it there), but Dune ones definitely look Ok with the latest f/w of August... (I use 1.0 of course, but it's announced that the same f/w features are available in all the versions: 1.0/2.0/3.0)

Fine fine, however I still do not catch this one

"My question: even if C-200 can remove Macrovision and put analog video in HD resolutions through the component output, doesn't it break any laws/licenses?
If so, even if they do it in the first f/w version, will they be forced to remove this possibility by authorities in the next f/w versions?"

Macrovision is a copy-protection for analog outputs as component.
Even when not removing Macrovision I still would be able to display via Component on my TV/Beamer.

You mean things change when the signal is getting upscaled within SIGMA-chip? - Upscaling would fail. Upscaling in TV/Beamer also would fail because of Macrovision and what would be left is a SD-signal via component.
Also HD-material over component getting downscaled to SD because of Macrovision?

Is that the message?

Macrovision is a copy-protection for analog outputs as component.
Even when not removing Macrovision I still would be able to display via Component on my TV/Beamer.

You mean things change when the signal is getting upscaled within SIGMA-chip? - Upscaling would fail. Upscaling in TV/Beamer also would fail because of Macrovision and what would be left is a SD-signal via component.
Also HD-material over component getting downscaled to SD because of Macrovision?

Is that the message?

I mean that 8643 chip doesn't work with Macrovision. So for any copy-protected staff (like DVD or Blu-ray) this chip can't output analog video:
1. w/o protection as it is illegal to remove it (for any signal, upscaled or not)
2. or with protection as this protection is Macrovision and Macrovision is not supported by the chip 8643 (again, for any signal, upscaled or not)

so I don't understand how legally it's possible to have _any_ kind of output from composite or component for legal DVDs or Blu-rays...

And if anything is done illegally, than it's just a matter of time when Macrovision will make problems to any such manufacturer like PCH. And then they will need to remove any analog video output at all for DVDs and Blu-ray in all the future versions of the firmware...

If see any problem with this logic, just tell me where exactly...

Okay, now I got it.
Thanks for your patience.

No macrovision supported by device --> no output on component of protected stuff (DVD as well as BR)

Right now macrovision-tweaking assumed in C-200, so component working for protected stuff.

In the future Tweak maybe has to be removed --> no protected material via Component.

Interesting.
And now someone please to confirm or to disprove. :-)

Still using Component for my beamer, this will stay as is for quite a while.

May it be this macrovision-crap is only valid for composite and not for component and so is no issue at all?

May it be this macrovision-crap is only valid for composite and not for component and so is no issue at all?

what would be the point to protect only composite video if the component one is unprotected in any way?

I dont know what all this fuss is about. Macrovision is only for composite and s-video outputs. It does not affect component at all. Component is analog, but it doesnt use the same standards that composite and s-video does. Its completely different.

what would be the point to protect only composite video if the component one is unprotected in any way?

Because (AFAIK) there is no recording devices with component input. Yes, except Hauppage... Macrovision protection was introduced more then 20 years ago, in VHS age... ;)

And back on track. Kostya, would you be kind and answer on my question from post #20? I didn't find the answer in manual (for 1.0)... TIA! :)
http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showpost.php?p=17122921&postcount=20

Does anybody have any information on the quality of the video processing (VP) produced by this 8642 chip?

I'm looking at the new Oppo BD-83 for a BR player, partly because it includes the Anchor Bay VRS chip for VP.

Consequently I'm thinking more along the lines of the Dune HD Base 3.0 model ... unless I it turns out that the VP in this box will be comparable.

BIG difference in overall cost. BIG difference in quality?

Thoughts?

Does anybody have any information on the quality of the video processing (VP) produced by this 8642 chip?

I'm looking at the new Oppo BD-83 for a BR player, partly because it includes the Anchor Bay VRS chip for VP.

Consequently I'm thinking more along the lines of the Dune HD Base 3.0 model ... unless I it turns out that the VP in this box will be comparable.

BIG difference in overall cost. BIG difference in quality?

Thoughts?

I've played with the Oppo. If network media playback (or file playback) is not a big draw for you then the Oppo wins hands down. The Oppo is just a beautiful piece of machine. The Dunes are great for file playback and for network playback but they will not compare to the look of the Oppo.

Thank you for all the replies.

So capability of macrovision is no Pro for Dune as it is completely irrelevant.

So the press release of HDI announcing its Dune 3.0 and its superior capability of Macrovision despite C-200 is clearly,..hm,... *****censored*****

I've played with the Oppo. If network media playback (or file playback) is not a big draw for you then the Oppo wins hands down. The Oppo is just a beautiful piece of machine. The Dunes are great for file playback and for network playback but they will not compare to the look of the Oppo.

Thanks. Yeah, the Oppo looks great, but actually both network media playback AND BR play are both important to me. My issue is whether to get:

Separates: [Dune HD Base 3.0 + Oppo BD 83]

or

All-in-One: [Dune HD Prime 3.0]


The key factor is how much better as a player the Oppo would be Vs. the Prime. Would it be enough better to pay an additional ~$400, basically?

I'm thinking that with BR alone, there might not be any difference. It would only be with all the old DVDs lying around that the Oppo's VP would shine (unless, that is, the Prime has at least decent VP capability.)

oppo with anchor bay video processing (same as in their dvdo products) will crush the processing in 864x chips for those who are fussy about video quality.

only you can decide if it matters to you or not

i know some people who claim that the existing 863x processing of video is perfectly fine for them.................it sure isn't for me.

Can logitech Harmony one remote be used to control dune players? (besides the learning option)
I haven't come across any dune devices that can be controlled by logitech harmony.

I dont know what all this fuss is about. Macrovision is only for composite and s-video outputs. It does not affect component at all. Component is analog, but it doesnt use the same standards that composite and s-video does. Its completely different.

he-he. is it told this way by PCH?
INCORRECT!

Check this:
http://www.dvddemystified.com/dvdfaq.html

Citation:
"Macrovision was not present on analog component video output of early players, but is now required on component output"

Any more questions?

Obviously, sooner or later PCH will have a conflict with Macrovision and will need to stop output of DVD/Blu-ray video to _all_ the analog output: composite/S-video and(!) component... as simple as that!

Can logitech Harmony one remote be used to control dune players? (besides the learning option)
I haven't come across any dune devices that can be controlled by logitech harmony.

according to the specs, Dune 3.0 (both Prime and Base) will support Z-Wave till the end of this year (the corresp. option will be available). It means, that yes, it should be possible to use some Logitech Harmony models (the ones which support Z-Wave, like 890, 895, 1000, 1100) to control Dune 3.0 players not only via IR, but also with RF signal (i.e. Z-Wave).

Interesting again :-)
Looks like Kostya got a point.

However, when reading the complete description on

http://books.google.de/books?id=ikxuL2aX9cAC&pg=PT186&lpg=PT186&dq=macrovision+on+component&source=bl&ots=XwIO4DaNQN&sig=lAlcW7p2nq64kYmUqYLJ2pPcaJA&hl=de&ei=9POlSs6oAo6SnAPNqe3nCA&sa=X&oi=book_result&ct=result&resnum=4#v=onepage&q=macrovision%20on%20component&f=false

page 5-15

this is valid and requested only for DVD-players.

I may be wrong, but the C-200 is not sold as a DVD-player but as network-device, and so does not need to provide macrovision on component-output.

----------------------
"You have the wrong code above it is deemed a network device and therefore 0%, another reason NOT to include a BD ROMWink

Dear Customer,

We do declare all the PCH products in International Trade Customs tariff
number : 8517620090 "Other apparatus for the transmission or reception of
voice, images or other data, including apparatus for communication in a
wired or wireless network (such as a local or wide area network)" "

Interesting again :-)
Looks like Kostya got a point.

However, when reading the complete description on
...

page 5-15

this is valid and requested only for DVD-players.

I may be wrong, but the C-200 is not sold as a DVD-player but as network-device, and so does not need to provide macrovision on component-output.
...


yea, Chinese manufacturers always think they are very clever and can bypass any regulations in some clever way.
I may be wrong, but I think that for the Macrovision guys it will be enough if this player is sold by _any_ reseller with a DVD or Blu-ray drive inside (i.e. this reseller does an upgrade) and that it will really output unprotected analog video from any protected DVD or Blu-ray disc...
Such a case could be enough for both the reseller and the manufacturer, I believe (as obviously the software supporting such cracking is not done by a reseller :) )

So I think this question won`t be answered here by us.

Whether it is tricking with "where and when Macrovision has to be or not" or tweaking (can`t see any cracking here) seems not to be answered as easily as I thought.

Kostya, you are very sure in`words, however I dont think there is reason for, but guessing why.

Let`s see whether some official statement on this will pop up.
Only then we will know

Surely I do not trust HDIs announcement, it is clearly "against competitor"-driven and no reliable souce.

So I think this question won`t be answered here by us.

Whether it is tricking with "where and when Macrovision has to be or not" or tweaking (can`t see any cracking here) seems not to be answered as easily as I thought.

Kostya, you are very sure in`words, however I dont think there is reason for, but guessing why.

Let`s see whether some official statement on this will pop up.
Only then we will know

Surely I do not trust HDIs announcement, it is clearly "against competitor"-driven and no reliable souce.

interest of HDI is obvious of course. What I'm telling here is just a logic based on facts everybody can find in Internet.
As I'm a mathematician, the conclusions are obvious for me,. But if anybody can see any problem in this logic, please tell me where I'm wrong...

I think anyway everybody already tired from this topic. Let's return back to Dune products here...

There may be things beyond logic :-)

Thanks. Yeah, the Oppo looks great, but actually both network media playback AND BR play are both important to me. My issue is whether to get:

Separates: [Dune HD Base 3.0 + Oppo BD 83]

or

All-in-One: [Dune HD Prime 3.0]


The key factor is how much better as a player the Oppo would be Vs. the Prime. Would it be enough better to pay an additional ~$400, basically?

I'm thinking that with BR alone, there might not be any difference. It would only be with all the old DVDs lying around that the Oppo's VP would shine (unless, that is, the Prime has at least decent VP capability.)

For me, if the picture quality of the BDs are equal (and they pretty much should be) and it does the things it advertises, then I’m going to relegate my Oppo BDP-83 to the bedroom. I don’t feel like adding another switch to my setup, so I can have 2 devices using the 5.1 Analogs on my receiver. I thought I’d like to have the SACD/DVD-A options, but it pales against the media player/Network options. I need a media player that can play my “backed up” BDs. I also have to dump my WD media player because it doesn’t work well with the BDs and it didn’t have component out. I was thinking of a Egreat EG-M34A, but now they said NetFlix streaming soon, I'll just stick with the Dune.

I just hope it load as fast as the BDP-83. That was a major plus.

My thoughts. 90% of PCH users use HDMI.

there is no logic buy 300USD device and use it for SD SIGNALS..


99% of PCH users just buy it for HD videos.. nothing else.


for SD users don't need to spend such huge amount of money. just buy DVD plays with USB DIVx etc. support for 60USD



Br.

Is there any sense watch Blu-ray on composite

Topic was not on composite alone, also on component, and that makes sense.

he-he. is it told this way by PCH?
INCORRECT!



PCH just announed their response on the NMT forums.

"Component uses CGMS copy protection."

http://www.networkedmediatank.com/showthread.php?tid=27298&pid=241496#pid241496

However, werners post, the one before that one, stated:

"i wont go into details now because this would help HDI Wink, our solution is carefully checked with legal department and for sure there wont be any issue with macrovision and so not with component as i said!"

which kind of worries me about how legitimate it is.

Topic was not on composite alone, also on component, and that makes sense.

The Talk is only about composite,
Component is working and protected with CGMS,
and there is no legal issue..


Br.

Why, oh why do we keep talking about the PCH C-200 on the Dune Prime 3.0 thread? They have a perfectly good working thread here (http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?t=1155820). Just asking....

@Killroy
Why talking about C-200 in a thread about Dune? - Hmm, thinking,..still thinking,... oh yes,... HDI claiming Macrovision being a superior feature compared to C-200.
Leads to discussion whether HDI makes a point here.
As easy, isn`t it?

Result: No, it isn`t. Commercial DVD over component is no issue for C-200, so supporting Macrovision by HDI gives no added value.
Isn`t it all about comparison between competitive devices to make a choice?

So let's talk about flash memory...

How come there is such a big difference between the 2?
C-200 has 256MB, and hdi 3.0 have 1GB+?

What does the '+' means by the way, it's upgradeable? :D
What can we expect from such a difference? Is it because flash lite 3 or netflix futur support is planned to take a lot of space?

Also what will flash lite support mean for us? A new interface, user apps?

How come there is such a big difference between the 2? C-200 has 256MB, and hdi 3.0 have 1GB+?You need 1GB for BD-Live support. So with the C-200, user has to add it.

Also what will flash lite support mean for us? A new interface, user apps?Nicer, faster user interfaces primarily. Helps with accessing some, but not all, websites.

Oh, so actually it's the same memory for both...
Reading HDi press release (http://dune-hd.com/news/112-hdi-press-release-on-the-3.0-products.html), it makes more sense now:
9. Memory
Higher system flash memory (at least 1GB) allows to include much more features in the future with firmware upgrades. Specialized BD-Live memory (at least 1GB) allows to use full function of any Blu-ray disc w/o adding any aditional storage by user.
Also i did not realize that current hdi players had already a web browser included, i see the interest for flash now.

Thanks kjack :] (pretty nice to have someone from Sigma here :D)

You need 1GB for BD-Live support. So with the C-200, user has to add it.

Nicer, faster user interfaces primarily. Helps with accessing some, but not all, websites.

Hi Kjack,

Do you know when will 8642 be mass produced?:)
Is 8642 A stable now or it will be Rev B for mass production?

I asked since China Hualu(Dune's supplier) is saying they are looking at the end of Oct to be the earliest for mass produce 8642 player.
Meanwhile Contel Shenzheng doesn't even have a plan for 42 yet.

Thanks.

According to Sigma Design brochure:

xxx.sigmadesigns.com/Products/SMP8640/pdf_files/bluray8642_btc_br.pdf
(I can't post link yet so, replace xxx with www)

"Macrovision copy protection on 480i, 576i, 480p and 576p analog outputs". While component is listed as "Analog YPbPr video". So to me that say Macrovision does not apply to component output.

Of course kjack from Sigma can give a definite answer.

Do you know when will 8642 be mass produced?:)
Is 8642 A stable now or it will be Rev B for mass production?It's in production.

I asked since China Hualu (Dune's supplier) is saying they are looking at the end of Oct to be the earliest for mass produce 8642 player.They are waiting for our final firmware. Getting it to pass BDA certification (which we do to ensure our customers can get BDA certification easily) is rather challenging for non-technical reasons. The 8642 player in our demo room has been running 24/7 rock solid for weeks now.

"Macrovision copy protection on 480i, 576i, 480p and 576p analog outputs". While component is listed as "Analog YPbPr video". So to me that say Macrovision does not apply to component output. Of course kjack from Sigma can give a definite answer.I wrote the brochure... :)

Macrovision applies to any 480i, 576i, 480p or 576p analog output -- composite, s-video, and component.

I wrote the brochure... :)

Macrovision applies to any 480i, 576i, 480p or 576p analog output -- composite, s-video, and component.

So, technically, if popcorn hour upscales all video to 720p or 1080p through component (assuming you have an HDTV) before its outputted, there is no need for macrovision? Its needed only for SDTVs?

So, technically, if popcorn hour upscales all video to 720p or 1080p through component (assuming you have an HDTV) before its outputted, there is no need for macrovision? Its needed only for SDTVs?

From what I understood it does not matter whether you are upscaling or not.
Whatever the guys at Syabas have done, they ensure there won`t be any drawback of lack of macrovision what belongs to component.
However they also clearly state on their webpage "no playback of protected (commercial) material over composite/S-Video.

Sure don't work on Component for me :)

Does anybody know if the dune hd base 3.0 will do true-hd and dts-hd ma to multichannel l-pcm ?

Does anybody know if the dune hd base 3.0 will do true-hd and dts-hd ma to multichannel l-pcm ?

1.0/2.0 did it. so I suppose that 3.0 should be able to do it too...

This may or may not be the right place to ask this...
Does anyone know, from experience, what the compatibility is between the Dune players and the Playon media server software? Is it possible that it functions as poorly with Dune as it does with PCH?

Digital connection finally placed an ETA on the prime 3.0...

11/4/09

Here's hoping to no more delays!!!

Digital connection finally placed an ETA on the prime 3.0...

11/4/09

Here's hoping to no more delays!!!

Ditto!

Anyone knows the Discount Code when ordering from Duneplayers.com?

Sort of a generic question: How does Dune compare, historically speaking, to it's competitors with regards to support, and specifically firmware updates?

Sort of a generic question: How does Dune compare, historically speaking, to it's competitors with regards to support, and specifically firmware updates?

I can't answer that (yet), but here's a link to MPC Club firmware thread on the HDi, user comments may give you an idea:

http://www.mpcclub.com/forum/showthread.php?t=20029

I can't answer that (yet), but here's a link to MPC Club firmware thread on the HDi, user comments may give you an idea:

http://www.mpcclub.com/forum/showthread.php?t=20029

Looks kinda like a mixed bag ...

BIG HUGE WHOPPER of a firmware upgrade ~2 months ago ... then nada

Looks like they are working on the fw for the new stuff ...

It is hard to tell about the various products out there. Which, if any, get their player's firmware more mature before they start selling them?

Vs.

Those that rush to get them sold and then work on fixing all the apparently many, many bugs.

The firmware updates and support will never be fast enough for everybody.

That last firmware update was 2 months ago. Look at the date on that thread.

That last firmware update was 2 months ago. Look at the date on that thread.

my bad ... fixed my post

I'm not used to the date format they use, and the post at the bottom of the page that I noticed was something like 01-08-09

Nobody could complain about waiting for a few, or even several, months between fw updates of that magnitude ...

unless that is ...

they complain that there were so many bugs ...

I don't know enough to say whether either the need for fixes or the number of fixes is atypical for this particular device when compared to others.

It does seem, however, that all brands end up getting/needing a lot of fixes compared to other products. Maybe it's the nature of the products ... I don't know

unless that is ...

they complain that there were so many bugs ...

I don't know enough to say whether either the need for fixes or the number of fixes is atypical for this particular device when compared to others.

It does seem, however, that all brands end up getting/needing a lot of fixes compared to other products. Maybe it's the nature of the products ... I don't know

That thread was a discussion about beta firmware, it would not have been suggested to end users. Many companies release multiple betas until they can finalize on a stable version. Unfortunately, the field test with variation of users is almost necessary to find the bugs in every feature available.

Gotcha.

Thanks.

An unrelated question:
Is the Dune the only player with the new Sigma 8642 chipset?

and ...

What is the thinking about the performance capabilities of the new Sigma chip vs the Realtek that so many nexgen players have gone with?

Does this unit allow 1080p24 rez playback of files/iso's with source material containing 24fps, or does it output them at 60 fps regardless?(as many other units do)
Thanks in advance!

Gotcha.

Thanks.

An unrelated question:
Is the Dune the only player with the new Sigma 8642 chipset?

and ...

What is the thinking about the performance capabilities of the new Sigma chip vs the Realtek that so many nexgen players have gone with?

As far as I know. The Popcorn Hour C200 uses a similar (non-Macrovision) version of the chip.

As far as I know. The Popcorn Hour C200 uses a similar (non-Macrovision) version of the chip.

Thanks.

On what type of material is the Macrovision capability of any importance?

Does this unit allow 1080p24 rez playback of files/iso's with source material containing 24fps, or does it output them at 60 fps regardless?(as many other units do)
Thanks in advance!

Wish I could answer that, but I don't have a sample for testing as yet. This question maybe best posed to users of the current Prime model.

Thanks.

On what type of material is the Macrovision capability of any importance?

Not certain theoretical or actual until products are available to compare.

Thanks.

On what type of material is the Macrovision capability of any importance?

Commercial DVDs.

And if you using analog video outputs, it's not important with HDMI connection.

but only for analog connections for hdmi it doesnt care

so these machines are coming in 2-3 weeks apparently.

Taken from the Digital Connection information on the Dune players, both the Base and Prime say this same thing. Link is for the Prime.

http://www.digitalconnection.com/Products/Video/prime3.asp

"Audio codecs: AC3 (DD), EAC3 (DD+), DTS, MPEG 1/2/3, AAC, LPCM, WMA, WMAPro, Dolby True HD, DTS HD HRA, DTS HD MA (HD-formats for Blu-Ray playback only)."

Does this mean that "HD-(audio) formats" are decoded and/or bitstreamed only from a commercial Blu-Ray disc? This would seem to limit this to the Prime version, if so.

Or is there a type of audio file that is created from Blu-Ray rips that the players will decode and/or bitstream?

I'm all new to this but have come across threads about other products where there is a confusing mix of functionality based on hardware capability, implementation, and/or licensing issues needed to enable HD audio format decoding/bitstreaming.

The Dune site doesn't make it clear, at least to me.
http://dune-hd.com/hd_players/111-dune-bd-prime-3.0.html

Taken from the Digital Connection information on the Dune players, both the Base and Prime say this same thing. Link is for the Prime.

http://www.digitalconnection.com/Products/Video/prime3.asp

"Audio codecs: AC3 (DD), EAC3 (DD+), DTS, MPEG 1/2/3, AAC, LPCM, WMA, WMAPro, Dolby True HD, DTS HD HRA, DTS HD MA (HD-formats for Blu-Ray playback only)."

Does this mean that "HD-(audio) formats" are decoded and/or bitstreamed only from a commercial Blu-Ray disc? This would seem to limit this to the Prime version, if so.

Or is there a type of audio file that is created from Blu-Ray rips that the players will decode and/or bitstream?

I'm all new to this but have come across threads about other products where there is a confusing mix of functionality based on hardware capability, implementation, and/or licensing issues needed to enable HD audio format decoding/bitstreaming.

The Dune site doesn't make it clear, at least to me.
http://dune-hd.com/hd_players/111-dune-bd-prime-3.0.html

Dune plays these formats from any type of Blu-ray structure: besides of the Blu-ray disc it can be also a directory or ISO file with Blu-ray structure. For directories and ISOs BD drive is not needed, so both Base and Prime models can do it.

Does anyone know if the Dune's 3.0 will downsample audio files (flacs, for example) that are 24/96 or 24/192? I wasn't able to find any reference to this issue on their website.

Thank you,
Cimerr@

Dune plays these formats from any type of Blu-ray structure: besides of the Blu-ray disc it can be also a directory or ISO file with Blu-ray structure. For directories and ISOs BD drive is not needed, so both Base and Prime models can do it.

Kostya, thank you.

Where can I learn more about ripping DVDs, BR discs, file structures, etc?

An unrelated question:
Is the Dune the only player with the new Sigma 8642 chipset?

A chinese slim Blu-ray player with SMP8642:

Hualu HL-BDP0913
http://img2.imageshack.us/img2/2250/bdslim.jpg
http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showpost.php?p=17182686&postcount=6

Roberto

Will an Harmony 555 be able to control this? It says IR remote just wanted to make sure.

Anyone knows the Discount Code when ordering from Duneplayers.com?

Kevenz,

Here is a free shipping code for DunePlayer.com Code: FREESHIPPING



Arthur

The specs for these new Dune players look good with one exception... I don't see any mention of AVCHD support. My Popcorn C-200 does, as does the PS3, as do many Blu-ray players.

+1 ^^^^^

Any news when to arrive?

I wonder there are not any samples for review out there, but divxplayer.nl writes "End of october" (info from 14.10.)
Would make me wonder to get true. .....

The specs for these new Dune players look good with one exception... I don't see any mention of AVCHD support. My Popcorn C-200 does, as does the PS3, as do many Blu-ray players.

AVCHD is supported even on the old Dune players based on Sigma Designs 8634, so obviously it will be supported on the new ones too...

Does anyone have any experience with a pre-release version of this, or maybe the previous versions w/r to trick play? I'm particular interested in the options and functionality of jump ahead/back and fast forward/rewind.

I watch all my OTA MPEG2-TS files via my Zensonic Z-500, which I'd like to replace with a Dune Prime 3.0 to add h.264, VC-1, and Blu-Ray. But the Z-500 doesn't jump at all for these streams. Fast-forward is sometimes limited to ~2x, and rewind sometimes doesn't work at all.

Zensonic/Ziova blamed the stream, but no matter what the stream timing data says, it's pretty simple to count bits. Besides, all of the streams that exhibit problems with trick play display a reasonable time on the display, so obviously there is some kind of accurate info in the stream.

Anyway, does the Dune suffer from the same symptoms? Or is the trick play nice, like a TiVo or other commercial DVR?

Xesdeeni

Does anyone have any experience with a pre-release version of this, or maybe the previous versions w/r to trick play? I'm particular interested in the options and functionality of jump ahead/back and fast forward/rewind.

I watch all my OTA MPEG2-TS files via my Zensonic Z-500, which I'd like to replace with a Dune Prime 3.0 to add h.264, VC-1, and Blu-Ray. But the Z-500 doesn't jump at all for these streams. Fast-forward is sometimes limited to ~2x, and rewind sometimes doesn't work at all.

Zensonic/Ziova blamed the stream, but no matter what the stream timing data says, it's pretty simple to count bits. Besides, all of the streams that exhibit problems with trick play display a reasonable time on the display, so obviously there is some kind of accurate info in the stream.

Anyway, does the Dune suffer from the same symptoms? Or is the trick play nice, like a TiVo or other commercial DVR?

Xesdeeni

I own Prime 1.0 at the moment (before 3.0 comes). As far as I can judge the "trick play" functions in Dune models are one of the best on the market. Particularly with TS files they did everything what maybe needed already years ago: had these functions in Dune HD Ultra too (I had it before). fast forward/rewind works from 2x to 32x for any streams.
Of course after HD Ultra even more features were added. For example, now it's possible to skip time back and forward by number of 10sec and 1min jumps with arrow buttons on the remote (left-right - 10sec, up-down - 1min). I use this function all the time.
And of course, old trusted Dune function: press digit button like 5 and go immediately to 50%. ("2" for 20%, so on). I also use it quite often...

Any news when to arrive?

I wonder there are not any samples for review out there, but divxplayer.nl writes "End of october" (info from 14.10.)
Would make me wonder to get true. .....

MPC Club has a buy-in for Europeans finishing end of October (supply seems to be very beginning of November):
http://www.mpcclub.com/forum/showthread.php?t=21569

They tell that the main supply is "several weeks" after. But I heard from distributors it's only 10-14 days after this buy-in, so about the middle of November. At least it's for EU. I don't know about the US timing. Should not be much later I think...

These are the players I'm waiting for. It isn't my style to jump in too soon, but with Dune's history, I just might.

I still can't decide whether to get the Base or the Prime, since I already have a couple of BR players and have my eye on the new Oppo BR. I AM running out of HDMI inputs on my Denon AVR, tho'.

As far as I can judge the "trick play" functions in Dune models are one of the best on the market. Particularly with TS files they did everything what maybe needed already years ago: had these functions in Dune HD Ultra too (I had it before). fast forward/rewind works from 2x to 32x for any streams.
Of course after HD Ultra even more features were added. For example, now it's possible to skip time back and forward by number of 10sec and 1min jumps with arrow buttons on the remote (left-right - 10sec, up-down - 1min). I use this function all the time.
And of course, old trusted Dune function: press digit button like 5 and go immediately to 50%. ("2" for 20%, so on). I also use it quite often...Fantastic information (and pleasing answer too ;-) )! Thanks!

* Does the trick play work via uPnP as well as SMB?

* The Z500 usually wants to "scan" the file (or at least sits there for a while the first time you trigger any type of trick play) for WMV, DivX, etc. files. Does the Dune do that?

* Have you ever had a TS that refused trick play? I've seen a lot of variance in both what the Z500 would do, as well as my old MyHD, including no trick play at all.

Again, thanks for the answers!
Xesdeeni

Fantastic information (and pleasing answer too ;-) )! Thanks!

* Does the trick play work via uPnP as well as SMB?


hmmm... is there any difference in other players if playback is done via uPnP or SMB or directly from a local HDD? I don't remember that I saw a difference on Dune... Though maybe didn't check all the possible usecases...


* The Z500 usually wants to "scan" the file (or at least sits there for a while the first time you trigger any type of trick play) for WMV, DivX, etc. files. Does the Dune do that?


I remember I saw something like this in Dune f/w a couple of year ago. But during the last year I don't think so. But frankly, WMV and DivX files are quite rare these days. Almost everybody prefers to do MKV...


* Have you ever had a TS that refused trick play? I've seen a lot of variance in both what the Z500 would do, as well as my old MyHD, including no trick play at all.
Xesdeeni

No. Don't remember problems with TS (if the file is not broken and has no problems everywhere inc. a PC), such files are still used.

I wish someone would make a promotional/testing video on youtube or something of the 3.0

It's like the Dune players have zero community.

I wish someone would make a promotional/testing video on youtube or something of the 3.0

It's like the Dune players have zero community.

check the MPC Club (http://www.mpcclub.com/forum/). Dune players have much more than a zero community in the EU. In the "Who should be Brand of the Year?" voting HDI (Dune) is the second after Dvico.

But:
1. the situation in the US and EU is very different (seems Dune was not supplied to the US market in any significant quantities before)
2. exactly 3.0 version of Dune is very new and you can't find any reviews on this version yet (I mean a real review, not just some photos from some exhibition).

(2) should be changed in 1-2 weeks as the first players are coming that time to the EU (buy-in at MPC Club) and we'll definitely see at least a review from Hi-Jack very soon.
(1) should be hopefully also changed in about 3 weeks (the time when distributors are telling that the new product should arrive in massive quantities) as it seems people here at AVS forum are already somehow aware of Dune players after all these discussions. And so I'm sure that at least some of the resellers mentioned at Dune site for the United States will be really selling these products (http://dune-hd.com/where_to_buy)

Alan Gouger has a Dune Player and he seems to like it quite a bit. :)

Date changed to 11/20. Oh, the agony of waiting!

Date changed to 11/20. Oh, the agony of waiting!

Agreed. Major bummer!!!

Fantastic information (and pleasing answer too ;-) )! Thanks!

* Does the trick play work via uPnP as well as SMB?

It certainly does. However, Subtitles do not work with upnp yet. Nor pictures.


* The Z500 usually wants to "scan" the file (or at least sits there for a while the first time you trigger any type of trick play) for WMV, DivX, etc. files. Does the Dune do that?


The LinkTheater did this too. The newer players do this before starting to play a movie, so there is a 2-3second delay before it starts to play, but trick play is instant. No percentage counting on the first jump.

hmmm... is there any difference in other players if playback is done via uPnP or SMB or directly from a local HDD? I don't remember that I saw a difference on Dune... Though maybe didn't check all the possible usecases...There seems to be for some files on the Z500. With SMB, I can skip, but not with uPnP.I remember I saw something like this in Dune f/w a couple of year ago. But during the last year I don't think so. But frankly, WMV and DivX files are quite rare these days. Almost everybody prefers to do MKV...What I'm generally watching is WMV or DivX, but more is moving to h.264. Unfortunately, the Z500 won't play h.264.No. Don't remember problems with TS (if the file is not broken and has no problems everywhere inc. a PC), such files are still used.Thanks!

One other complicated question:

Have you used the Dune with uPnP? What I find with the Z500 is one flaw and one annoyance:

1. Not all shows show up in all categories. Under "By Date" they all show up. But under "By Title," the program "directory" shows up, but one or more of the shows will be missing. Sometimes the directory is completely empty. Given the number of MythTV users who haven't complained about this, it seems this is a Z500, not a MythTV issue.

2. When the shows do show up in the "By Title," there is no way to know what order they were recorded.

So the question is whether the Dune works well enough with uPnP, and whether the order of the recordings can be set for any kind of chronological order?

Xesdeeni

The LinkTheater did this too. The newer players do this before starting to play a movie, so there is a 2-3second delay before it starts to play, but trick play is instant. No percentage counting on the first jump.I wish it was just 2-3 seconds. It sometimes takes 20-30 seconds. Of course, it's over a network, so that may explain it.

Xesdeeni

One other complicated question:

Have you used the Dune with uPnP? What I find with the Z500 is one flaw and one annoyance:

1. Not all shows show up in all categories. Under "By Date" they all show up. But under "By Title," the program "directory" shows up, but one or more of the shows will be missing. Sometimes the directory is completely empty. Given the number of MythTV users who haven't complained about this, it seems this is a Z500, not a MythTV issue.

2. When the shows do show up in the "By Title," there is no way to know what order they were recorded.

So the question is whether the Dune works well enough with uPnP, and whether the order of the recordings can be set for any kind of chronological order?

Xesdeeni

no experience in this area. sorry. not sure about sorting

Does anyone have any experience with a pre-release version of this, or maybe the previous versions w/r to trick play? I'm particular interested in the options and functionality of jump ahead/back and fast forward/rewind.

I watch all my OTA MPEG2-TS files via my Zensonic Z-500, which I'd like to replace with a Dune Prime 3.0 to add h.264, VC-1, and Blu-Ray. But the Z-500 doesn't jump at all for these streams. Fast-forward is sometimes limited to ~2x, and rewind sometimes doesn't work at all.

Zensonic/Ziova blamed the stream, but no matter what the stream timing data says, it's pretty simple to count bits. Besides, all of the streams that exhibit problems with trick play display a reasonable time on the display, so obviously there is some kind of accurate info in the stream.

Anyway, does the Dune suffer from the same symptoms? Or is the trick play nice, like a TiVo or other commercial DVR?

Xesdeeni

as a former owner of multiple zensonic/ziova units, i sympathize with the inability to do simple functions like skip ahead, FF, etc...........it has frustrated the heck out of me for a long time.

good to hear the hdi units have solved this..........another choice with rock solid 'trick play' is the sage hd200 which i've been using for the past year.
only major limitation for me is no hdmi1.3 (so no bitstream of HD audio off of streamed bluray backups)

check out the sage unit if hdmi1.3 is not important to you

upnp, sorting, all that stuff is solid

I dont have a Blu ray player as yet, so this is something i am really interested in. What are your thoughts on the Prime 3.0's pricing? I really like the idea of a complete media device, but the prohibitive price is driving me away.

It seems to me that a fair premium over a stand-alone blu-ray player can be assessed and should be paid for, but this product could be made more accessible to the masses.

I wish someone would make a promotional/testing video on youtube or something of the 3.0

It's like the Dune players have zero community.


I think since there are players out there for literally a couple hundred less consumers are buying them. You buy a media/DVD player and only can use it for a few years or less anyway. I'm still reading trying to figure out why these Dune models are so expensive compared to most out on the market. My media player doesn't have blu-ray support but it plays everything the Dune does at the same resolution and was $150. What gives?

I think since there are players out there for literally a couple hundred less consumers are buying them. You buy a media/DVD player and only can use it for a few years or less anyway. I'm still reading trying to figure out why these Dune models are so expensive compared to most out on the market. My media player doesn't have blu-ray support but it plays everything the Dune does at the same resolution and was $150. What gives?

Agreed...my (worthless) opinion is that $350 may be a 'good' price.

If the PCH 200 were a lot more stable, I would buy it now ($290 with a 1TB HDD included) and add a $70 BD drive from newegg.

I own Prime 1.0 at the moment (before 3.0 comes). As far as I can judge the "trick play" functions in Dune models are one of the best on the market. Particularly with TS files they did everything what maybe needed already years ago: had these functions in Dune HD Ultra too (I had it before). fast forward/rewind works from 2x to 32x for any streams.
Of course after HD Ultra even more features were added. For exampl

I have a Dune too, and fast rewind for TS streams is not supported, even with the latest beta firmware.

What you do have is 10s, 1m and 10m jumps which are very handy and precise, at least with files remuxed with VideoRedo (all my files are).

I agree that trick play is very good, but it's still missing fast rewind, except in Blu-ray playback mode.

I think since there are players out there for literally a couple hundred less consumers are buying them. You buy a media/DVD player and only can use it for a few years or less anyway. I'm still reading trying to figure out why these Dune models are so expensive compared to most out on the market. My media player doesn't have blu-ray support but it plays everything the Dune does at the same resolution and was $150. What gives?

Could it be HD Audio decoding and bitstreaming?

I use UPNP with llink so I can stream straight from RARs, but admittedly there is a bug in llink's upnp which means that llink disappears after some timeout, and you have to refresh to see it again.. eventually I'll fix that.

I think since there are players out there for literally a couple hundred less consumers are buying them. You buy a media/DVD player and only can use it for a few years or less anyway. I'm still reading trying to figure out why these Dune models are so expensive compared to most out on the market. My media player doesn't have blu-ray support but it plays everything the Dune does at the same resolution and was $150. What gives?

Please let me know which player can do full BD iso or BD folder streaming over network with full menus and features for $150 and I'll be 1st in line to buy one.

I think since there are players out there for literally a couple hundred less consumers are buying them. You buy a media/DVD player and only can use it for a few years or less anyway. I'm still reading trying to figure out why these Dune models are so expensive compared to most out on the market. My media player doesn't have blu-ray support but it plays everything the Dune does at the same resolution and was $150. What gives?

You kind of answered your own question there. "No BD support." I have a wdtv right now which I bought for $99 also a PS3 and it's pretty annoying that you can't have 1 solution for all your needs. My wdtv plays dvds and BD files fine, but you cannot navigate menus. So for a blu-ray, it means muxing the main movie out first which takes about 1 to 2hrs. My ps3 plays games and BD disk, but is worthless as media file player unless you're playing dvix. Both these machines can be tweaked to do this and that, but usually you're missing some sort of feature. You get something to work, you lose out on something else like subtitles. You get subtitles to work, you lose out on something else. It seems like there is always something missing.

For someone who doesn't care about blu-ray, and doesn't care about the ability to navigate menus, have perfect working audio and subtitle selections, etc. Then I guess you would pose the question "what gives?"

For others, this Dune system can be their main media station. I'm saying goodbye to my wdtv and possibly my ps3 too since I don't play games much. Looking forward to having one media station that does everything for me. It's going to be refreshing to have the ability to just rip a BD disk and don't have to waste time muxing and all that crap. Just play it on the Dune and have it function as if you're playing the real physical disk.

I'm download user manual of Prime 3.0, and one thing makes me curious. In Player Specifications is written: "Subtitle formats SRT, SUB, plain text/SSA/AAS (MKV), VobSub, PGS (Blu-ray playback only)". There is no BD subs from files, only from discs? Maybe it is mistake or (my) misunderstanding? Some clarification would be nice... :)

I'm download user manual of Prime 3.0, and one thing makes me curious. In Player Specifications is written: "Subtitle formats SRT, SUB, plain text/SSA/AAS (MKV), VobSub, PGS (Blu-ray playback only)". There is no BD subs from files, only from discs? Maybe it is mistake or (my) misunderstanding? Some clarification would be nice... :)

Maybe it's how you read it. If that's a direct quote, then the (bluray playback only) in brackets may just be referring to the PGS format.

Maybe? And one thing, "files" I mean BD rips, like ISO or .m2ts...

I'm download user manual of Prime 3.0, and one thing makes me curious. In Player Specifications is written: "Subtitle formats SRT, SUB, plain text/SSA/AAS (MKV), VobSub, PGS (Blu-ray playback only)". There is no BD subs from files, only from discs? Maybe it is mistake or (my) misunderstanding? Some clarification would be nice... :)

If you play a BD rip structure from disk, you do get the subs.

If you play the m2ts file directly, no subs.

You mean in Prime 1.0 and Base 2.0, or Prime 3.0 too? IIRC, in earlier models specs that restriction "PGS (Blu-ray playback only)" was not mentioned.

You kind of answered your own question there. "No BD support." I have a wdtv right now which I bought for $99 also a PS3 and it's pretty annoying that you can't have 1 solution for all your needs. My wdtv plays dvds and BD files fine, but you cannot navigate menus. So for a blu-ray, it means muxing the main movie out first which takes about 1 to 2hrs. My ps3 plays games and BD disk, but is worthless as media file player unless you're playing dvix. Both these machines can be tweaked to do this and that, but usually you're missing some sort of feature. You get something to work, you lose out on something else like subtitles. You get subtitles to work, you lose out on something else. It seems like there is always something missing.

For someone who doesn't care about blu-ray, and doesn't care about the ability to navigate menus, have perfect working audio and subtitle selections, etc. Then I guess you would pose the question "what gives?"

For others, this Dune system can be their main media station. I'm saying goodbye to my wdtv and possibly my ps3 too since I don't play games much. Looking forward to having one media station that does everything for me. It's going to be refreshing to have the ability to just rip a BD disk and don't have to waste time muxing and all that crap. Just play it on the Dune and have it function as if you're playing the real physical disk.

Same here if it works as it should, considering the chip and the co$t.

Theoretically, the PCH 200 should work pretty much as well, but it isn't there yet.

You mean in Prime 1.0 and Base 2.0, or Prime 3.0 too? IIRC, in earlier models specs that restriction "PGS (Blu-ray playback only)" was not mentioned.

Mon only experience is with 1.0, but 3.0 can only be better. Its firmware has the same core as the 1.0 one.

If you play a BD rip structure from disk, you do get the subs.

If you play the m2ts file directly, no subs.

Please clarify... When you say from "disk," do you mean the blu ray dvd, or do you mean the hard disk?

Because you use the words "rip structure" which indicates you mean ripped blu ray files. So I don't understand if you can get subtitles from blu ray ripped files, why not from the m2ts?

I'm download user manual of Prime 3.0, and one thing makes me curious. In Player Specifications is written: "Subtitle formats SRT, SUB, plain text/SSA/AAS (MKV), VobSub, PGS (Blu-ray playback only)". There is no BD subs from files, only from discs? Maybe it is mistake or (my) misunderstanding? Some clarification would be nice... :)

note that the functionality of playback of Blu-ray discs, ISO images and directories with BD structures is totally equal on all Dune Prime players (and the same as in Base, but only Base has not a BD drive). So in the specs "Blu-ray playback only" means playback of Blu-ray structure in any form (disc, ISO or directory from any media)
It's like this even in the old Dune Prime 1.0

And of course this Blu-ray note is only relevant for PGS.
(though I believe that VobSub should be only relevant for any DVD structure... the rest should be for files)

Maybe? And one thing, "files" I mean BD rips, like ISO or .m2ts...

so if you have a directory which is a full copy of a Blu-ray disc then it depends on how you play it:
1. if you play as a BD disc,you have all the functions inc. subtitles, menus, BD Live and so on.
2. if you navigate to the biggest m2ts file and play it then the functionality is rather limited (why would you do it if you can do 1.?)

Please clarify... When you say from "disk," do you mean the blu ray dvd, or do you mean the hard disk?

Hard disk.

Because you use the words "rip structure" which indicates you mean ripped blu ray files. So I don't understand if you can get subtitles from blu ray ripped files, why not from the m2ts?

When you remote-click on a directory (on a hard disk) which contains a BR structure, the Dune starts in a specific BR mode. You get the menus and all the bells and whistles, and the subs are displayed in exactly the same way as if you were playing an optical disk.

If you play directly a TS, MPEG or M2TS file by remote-clicking on the file itself, the Dune plays them in a different mode, and the subs imbedded in the M2TS file are not decoded.

While an integrated media player is a 'nice to have' convenience, to me, due its price, the Dune does not represent the solid value that I am looking for in this economy and for my money. It is not like I dont have any money, but these days I look a lot more carefully at what I'm getting.

so if you have a directory which is a full copy of a Blu-ray disc then it depends on how you play it:
1. if you play as a BD disc,you have all the functions inc. subtitles, menus, BD Live and so on.
2. if you navigate to the biggest m2ts file and play it then the functionality is rather limited (why would you do it if you can do 1.?)

I'm very new to all of this, but could the answer be to limit storage needs if all you want to do is watch the movie and don't need subs?

Am I correct in thinking that HD audio is imbedded in the main movie file?

..but 3.0 can only be better. Its firmware has the same core as the 1.0 one.
Yes, I'm also expected that 3.0 will be better, in that or other way. But what makes me little worry (about subs), is possibility of a new, more restrictive license from BDA - Prime is advertised as a real blu ray player. Maybe I'm too paranoid? ;)
...So in the specs "Blu-ray playback only" means playback of Blu-ray structure in any form...
One little off top question: if I do reauthoring (remuxing) of 1:1 BD rip and make BDMV folder with main movie only and the chosen audio and subs tracks, that gives me possibility of playing with PGS subs?
...why would you do it if you can do 1.?...
GBytes cost... ;) So maybe reauthoring is solution?
..if all you want to do is watch the movie and don't need subs?

Am I correct in thinking that HD audio is imbedded in the main movie file?
But I'm need subs. :)
You are correct, playing only .m2ts file (with main movie) you might switch between sound tracks, and if player allows to that, HD audio also.

Ok, who's waiting for their Dune!!?? Yea I know, it still is very early and several weeks away at least.

Does Dune have a support page or area where customer's can go to and get support? I did take the chance on ordering one of these, but seems there is very limited support if there is even is one. I'm glad I can tinker well, solder, write a little code....I hope I won't have to.

s
1. if you play as a BD disc,you have all the functions inc. subtitles, menus, BD Live and so on.
2. if you navigate to the biggest m2ts file and play it then the functionality is rather limited (why would you do it if you can do 1.?)

To skip Java loading, FBI warnings, trailers and go direct to the movie much much faster.

But you can also remux a simple BR structure to start that way, and still have the subs.

No excuse for the lack of .PGS subtitle support for .m2ts bluray rips.
Cheap Realtek based media players now support them...

I'm interested in the Dune base 3.0. Was wondering if I put a SATA 1TB HDD in the 3.5" bay, does the drive have to be formatted in ext2 partition? Or can I format the HDD as NTFS pass my movies over from my computer then put it in the dune player?

Trying to see how to transfer ripped blurays from computer to a HDD to put in the dune player HDD bay. Without having to use an extra HDD to plug into the eSATA or USB ports to copy over to the HDD thats in the 3.5" bay. The ripped blurays will be in either ISO, MKV, BDMV, or M2TS depending on what the player likes best.

Will the player decode the HD audio codecs from the MKV or M2TS files so that I can get HD audio on my HDMI 1.1 receiver? or is it just passthrough (bitstream)?

I'm interested in the Dune base 3.0. Was wondering if I put a SATA 1TB HDD in the 3.5" bay, does the drive have to be formatted in ext2 partition? Or can I format the HDD as NTFS pass my movies over from my computer then put it in the dune player?

Trying to see how to transfer ripped blurays from computer to a HDD to put in the dune player HDD bay. Without having to use an extra HDD to plug into the eSATA or USB ports to copy over to the HDD thats in the 3.5" bay. The ripped blurays will be in either ISO, MKV, BDMV, or M2TS depending on what the player likes best.

Will the player decode the HD audio codecs from the MKV or M2TS files so that I can get HD audio on my HDMI 1.1 receiver? or is it just passthrough (bitstream)?

Here all answers for You: http://www.digitalconnection.com/Products/Video/base3.asp

HDMI 1.1-not support Dolby True HD, DTS HD HRA, DTS HD MA-only HDMI 1.3.

HDMI 1.3

Blu-Ray discs (Profile 1.1/2.0)
DVD-Video discs
Files on Blu-Ray (BD-R, BD-RE), DVD (DVD-ROM, DVD+-R, DVD+-RW), CD (CD-ROM, CD-R, CD-RW) discs
Files on USB drives (USB HDD, USB flash, USB card readers etc)
Files in local network from PC or NAS (NFS and SMB)
IPTV (free channels UDP/RTP MPEG-TS, H.264/MPEG-2)
Internet radio (HTTP/MP3)

File formats: MKV, MPEG-TS, MPEG-PS, M2TS, VOB, AVI, MOV, MP4, QT, ASF, WMV, DVD-ISO, VIDEO_TS.
Video codecs: MPEG2, MPEG4, DivX, XVID, WMV9, VC1, H.264.
Audio codecs: AC3 (DD), EAC3 (DD+), DTS, MPEG 1/2/3, AAC, LPCM, WMA, WMAPro, Dolby True HD, DTS HD HRA, DTS HD MA (HD-formats for Blu-Ray playback only).
Subtitle formats: Plain text, SSA/AAS, SRT, VOB.

FAT16/32 (read-write) EXT2/EXT3 (read-write), NTFS (read-only)

posted 09-05-09, 09:15 AM

Thanks, just placed a pre-order :)

Crap, stopped back out to check on the status of my pre-oder only to find out my order history is now empty. Looks like they had a price drop since the original pre-order prices were posted. Maybe they killed the order cause of it... who knows. :confused:

Need to contact DC and see if I have one still on pre-order or not....

Here all answers for You: http://www.digitalconnection.com/Products/Video/base3.asp

HDMI 1.1-not support Dolby True HD, DTS HD HRA, DTS HD MA-only HDMI 1.3.

thanks those are specs, not the answers to my questions. reason i have these questions is because i read the specs and i wasn't clear on some things. hence the questions.

would like to know when it reads an mkv file or m2ts with an HD audio codec like dts master audio, does it just pass through hdmi or does it decode it to lpcm to the receiver?

Was wondering if I put a SATA 1TB HDD in the 3.5" bay, does the drive have to be formatted in ext2 partition? Or can I format the HDD as NTFS pass my movies over from my computer then put it in the dune player?

It sure is recommended to NOT use NTFS as it is quite terrible for embedded device, but that isn't always an option.

Right now, you can use NTFS in read/only and play movies etc without issues. From the retail 1.0 dune, and since they share firmwares (so far) most likely the 3.0 is the same

Right now, you can use my ntfs-3g hack for Dune, and re-mount it read/write if you want. And use smb/nfs/ftp/gui to change the NTFS volume. But quite slowly.

In future, perhaps they will include NTFS read/write, of this I know nothing, but it is very possible for them to add to firmware.

It sure is recommended to NOT use NTFS as it is quite terrible for embedded device, but that isn't always an option.

Right now, you can use NTFS in read/only and play movies etc without issues. From the retail 1.0 dune, and since they share firmwares (so far) most likely the 3.0 is the same

Right now, you can use my ntfs-3g hack for Dune, and re-mount it read/write if you want. And use smb/nfs/ftp/gui to change the NTFS volume. But quite slowly.

In future, perhaps they will include NTFS read/write, of this I know nothing, but it is very possible for them to add to firmware.

thanks that helps clear things. i guess i'll wait to see how well this player is supported with future firmwares and how well it performs from user feedback.

posted 09-05-09, 09:15 AM



Crap, stopped back out to check on the status of my pre-oder only to find out my order history is now empty. Looks like they had a price drop since the original pre-order prices were posted. Maybe they killed the order cause of it... who knows. :confused:

Need to contact DC and see if I have one still on pre-order or not....

Wow, you scared me. I logged in my DC account to check my preorder and it was still there. I pre-ordered back in August.

Hopefully that will not flag it to be deleted.

Sorry for jumping in on this thread, but have been following you guys for the last few days. I currently have a mac mini with a 4TB WD external formatted for mac(osx extended journaled). I have all my dvd collection (video-ts) in folders on the ext drive. i want to place an order for the base 3.0 on DC, but I have one question. if i plug the WD ext into the sata port, will the Dune see the drive> will I be able to play these without having to transfer them and reformat.?
Herbie

Sorry for jumping in on this thread, but have been following you guys for the last few days. I currently have a mac mini with a 4TB WD external formatted for mac(osx extended journaled). I have all my dvd collection (video-ts) in folders on the ext drive. i want to place an order for the base 3.0 on DC, but I have one question. if i plug the WD ext into the sata port, will the Dune see the drive> will I be able to play these without having to transfer them and reformat.?
Herbie

Not too sure about how different Mac OS X filesystem is different from the Linux filesystem, but it is probably proprietary (so you'll probably have to copy).

Here is the list of supported filesystems for the Dune:

File System:
FAT16/32 (read-write), EXT2/EXT3 (read-write), NTFS (read-only)

Wow, you scared me. I logged in my DC account to check my preorder and it was still there. I pre-ordered back in August.

Hopefully that will not flag it to be deleted.

We don't delete orders. :)

thanks those are specs, not the answers to my questions. reason i have these questions is because i read the specs and i wasn't clear on some things. hence the questions.

would like to know when it reads an mkv file or m2ts with an HD audio codec like dts master audio, does it just pass through hdmi or does it decode it to lpcm to the receiver?

I think i answer for You :

If you have HDMI 1.1- its not support Dolby True HD, DTS HD HRA, DTS HD MA-only HDMI 1.3.
In order have decode to lpcm you mast connect 7.1 analog audio-or change receiver to model with support HDMI 1.3.
I think if you read specs its very understandably.

We don't delete orders. :)


Nope, you don't but the site does seem to log you in even when you fat finger the user id without knowing it :) This would explain why my order history was empty...

I think i answer for You :

If you have HDMI 1.1- its not support Dolby True HD, DTS HD HRA, DTS HD MA-only HDMI 1.3.
In order have decode to lpcm you mast connect 7.1 analog audio-or change receiver to model with support HDMI 1.3.
I think if you read specs its very understandably.

i already know what hdmi 1.1 and 1.3 means. thats why i'm asking if the dune player decodes the hd audio codecs in (mkv, m2ts) containers or bdmv, bluray iso's so that i can hear hd audio through my receiver. i already know that my receiver doesnt decode the hd audio codecs.

also the specs just say pass through an decoding of hd audio codecs, doesnt say if its from media files or just from optical bluray discs.

i want to be sure the dune player plays these files correctly before i order the player. as in no stuttering, or just decoding the cores of the dts ma an true hd codecs. unlike the popcorn c-200 whos having all sorts of issues with bluray rips. which just reading specs wont help me.

Hi there ;-)

I'm really interested in buying an HD Prime 3.0, but I live in Europe and have tons of Region A Blu-rays... how easy is it to make it region free ?

Thx !

Nope, you don't but the site does seem to log you in even when you fat finger the user id without knowing it :) This would explain why my order history was empty...

General question for you. Is the final billing price set to the final pre-order price? I only ask because the current pre-order price is less than my order history is showing...

thanks

jrolmstd,

PM me with your order number, not sure why it would be priced higher than the current as the price now is higher than during the pre-order sale.

Ok, who's waiting for their Dune!!?? Yea I know, it still is very early and several weeks away at least.

Does Dune have a support page or area where customer's can go to and get support? I did take the chance on ordering one of these, but seems there is very limited support if there is even is one. I'm glad I can tinker well, solder, write a little code....I hope I won't have to.

Actually I am waiting for YOUR Dune. You go first.

Hi there ;-)

I'm really interested in buying an HD Prime 3.0, but I live in Europe and have tons of Region A Blu-rays... how easy is it to make it region free ?

Thx !

Its will be same like on Dune 1.0. Look for more info http://www.mpcclub.com/forum/

I don't see FLAC file support anywhere...

I don't see FLAC file support anywhere...


http://dune-hd.com/hd_players/110-dune-hd-base-3.0.html

Audio file formats: MP3, MPA, M4A, WMA, WAV, DTS-WAV, DTS, AC3, AAC, FLAC.

I don't see FLAC file support anywhere...

Multi channel flac as well as stereo is supported, inside mkv containers, not sure about what other containers.

The actual spec on the main page is out of date, check the firmware change logs here to find out whats available:

http://dune-hd.com/firmware/bdprime/

EDIT

.fla and .flac files are supported, over at mpcclub forums, it has been confirmed that multichannel flac does indeed work. I have opted in for the buy in on Prime 3.0 models, its had a slight facelift, and looks better IMO, MPCC say the first 30 users should have their units by the end of next week, or mid week W/C 16/11.

Once i receive mine, i will keep this post updated with findings, as the buy is not available to the US.

With regards to region free, there was a patch released for the 1.0 to make it region free....im guessing its only time before one is released for the new model.

Will these units support video library plugins similar to "mymovies" or
mediabrowser"?

Will these units support video library plugins similar to "mymovies" or
mediabrowser"?

Yes,on Dune player its- dune_folder.txt


more info: http://dune-hd.com/firmware/misc/

http://dune-hd.com/firmware/misc/

http://dune-hd.com/firmware/misc/InetRadio_and_IPTV_config_howto.txt


http://dune-hd.com/firmware/misc/dune_folder_howto.txt



http://dune-hd.com/firmware/misc/dune_folder_howto.txt

Does anyone have a Dune 3.0 yet, if so is it possible to confirm if the unit supports dolby Truehd and dtsma passthrough via hdmi?

Thanks

Does anyone have a Dune 3.0 yet, if so is it possible to confirm if the unit supports dolby Truehd and dtsma passthrough via hdmi?

Thanks

Don't see why they wouldn't, 1.0 units already do...

Dune 3.0 has a new chip, wait for the reviews...

C-200 looked great too, but Sigma's libs are incomplete with many bugs/missing features...

Dune 3.0 has a new chip, wait for the reviews...

C-200 looked great too, but Sigma's libs are incomplete with many bugs/missing features...

This why they(C-200) rash to be first,before Dune 3.0 :).

"Small first impression from a user". Base user I think...

http://www.mpcclub.com/forum/showthread.php?t=21766

If you buy the unit with the built in blu-ray player, can you rip blu-rays from this included blu-ray player to your hard drive?

Nope.

I know it says that it doesn't come with one, but can a Blu-ray drive be installed onto the Base model?
I'm thinking of getting one from Newegg.

I know it says that it doesn't come with one, but can a Blu-ray drive be installed onto the Base model?
I'm thinking of getting one from Newegg.

http://dune-hd.com/hd_players/110-dune-hd-base-3.0.html

- Compatibility of the player with a particular equipment (A/V equipment, network equipment, disk drives, etc) may depend on particular equipment model, specifics of equipment installation, specifics of the configuration of the player and equipment, and other factors; compatibility of the player with any equipment is not guaranteed.

Not sure how reproducing the generic disclaimer from the manufacturer should answer my question?
Can i hook up a BD drive to the base model? I do not see where in the link above it says that. It may also be that some language exists that implies it and that I do not know enough to interpret it so.
Thank you.

Not sure how reproducing the generic disclaimer from the manufacturer should answer my question?
Can i hook up a BD drive to the base model? I do not see where in the link above it says that. It may also be that some language exists that implies it and that I do not know enough to interpret it so.
Thank you.

Compatibility disk drives -its min-yes you can hook up a BD drive-nobody guaranty its will work,-you have to by BD drive from HDI- same have Dune prime.

MPC Club has their review up for the Dune Prime 3.0 (PDF link): http://www.mpcclub.com/download.php?f=review_hdi_bd_prime30.pdf

MPC Club has their review up for the Dune Prime 3.0 (PDF link): http://www.mpcclub.com/download.php?f=review_hdi_bd_prime30.pdf



Ok, where are the shipments! Been waiting for mine and of course my patience runs out!

Ok, where are the shipments! Been waiting for mine and of course my patience runs out!

Patience, grasshopper.....

I'm getting signs that it's very close.

Patience, grasshopper.....

I'm getting signs that it's very close.

:):):)

Patience, grasshopper.....

I'm getting signs that it's very close.



Yea, I know. I read a legit review on it and it is directly compared to the Popcorn 200. I'm glad the Dune has the 8642 chip in it, instead of the odd number set.

finished reading the review, sounds like a great machine, the only thing I don't like is the music player... it looks so cheap.

finished reading the review, sounds like a great machine, the only thing I don't like is the music player... it looks so cheap.

What the review says is ok...but a little odd since they never really mentioned about making it better via firmware update. They know these products can be updated and made better with new firmware...so the potential for being a "better" player is there. How come that wasn't mentioned.

finished reading the review, sounds like a great machine, the only thing I don't like is the music player... it looks so cheap.

Opinion like ass hole-everybody have one.

From the review this is the first player that I came across that can play Bluray ISO files without issues, but there is no mention of audio bitstreaming etc. - may be the earlier versions do hence not mentioned? I wish it was little easy on the wallet though!

SVM-this something min:

http://s57.radikal.ru/i158/0911/ad/916aed8cdba1.jpg (http://www.radikal.ru)

Patience, grasshopper.....

I'm getting signs that it's very close.

I hope they get the hardware issues worked out before they ship DC their units. MPC Club reporting numerous BD drives not working properly.

I don't think DC wants to test every unit before they go out.

I hope they get the hardware issues worked out before they ship DC their units. MPC Club reporting numerous BD drives not working properly.

I don't think DC wants to test every unit before they go out.

We could, but it would slow down shipping considerably.

We could, but it would slow down shipping considerably.

Out of the first 52 units shipped, so far there has been 6 reports of DOA or non-functioning BD drives and those are from the people that either picked them up in person or were close enough to get them in a day or two. One poor fellow got two units and BOTH were non-functioning.

We received a sample BD Prime 3.0 yesterday! It's everything we hoped for. A quality built media player that will play anything you throw at it. The current firmware seems completely stable. It's very responsive, fast loading, and looks great.

Arthur
DunePlayer.com

http://www.duneplayer.com/images/Prime_Sample.jpg

Can this play recorded files from Windows Media Center in Vista & Windows 7?

From the review this is the first player that I came across that can play Bluray ISO files without issues, but there is no mention of audio bitstreaming etc. - may be the earlier versions do hence not mentioned? I wish it was little easy on the wallet though!

He is a reseller or has an affiliation with HDi, even organized a buy-in, and has a sponsored ad for the Dune on his homepage. Not the most unbiased reviewer...

I know it says that it doesn't come with one, but can a Blu-ray drive be installed onto the Base model?
I'm thinking of getting one from Newegg.

"Optical disc formats (when using an external optical drive): data discs (CD/DVD/BD).... Blu-ray (user-authored discs)"

No retail BD, only retail DVD...

Even the Prime probably won't be able to play retail BD from a USB bluray drive (the C-200 also cannot, probably a licence thing)

We could, but it would slow down shipping considerably.

So it's a decision between haste and quality. Do you really think your customers are in such a hurry that they would rather risk getting a defective unit than wait for something that just plain works as advertised? This seems to be a recurring theme in this business.

It's the job of the manufacturer to test, not the distributor.

Can Dune Base/ Prime be used stand-alone, without a PC? I hear that a folder is required, but can that be stored on Dune's HDD, or on a NAS, or is a PC required? Not sure if a media server is required either?
That may require a PC as well, even though some crappier media servers work on NAS devices as well. Thanks.

Kei Clark is a reputable dealer and a major contributor to this forum. Focus on that.

So it's a decision between haste and quality. Do you really think your customers are in such a hurry that they would rather risk getting a defective unit than wait for something that just plain works as advertised? This seems to be a recurring theme in this business.


Not sure if this is criticism of how we operate, but I don't know of any business that opens and tests every box they sell. Certainly, sending a box previously opened is not a winning proposition. Maybe thinking out loud is not a good idea if it can be miscontrued.

Kei Clark is a reputable dealer and a major contributor to this forum. Focus on that.

Thanks Bob. Actually, I don't know the situation yet on why there are so many drive failures and if the inventory arriving is from the same production which may have been unique to the beta/sample batch.

I received the Prime today for testing that I have not yet opened, I've got my fingers crossed that won't be an issue.

(Update : Optical drive works just fine.)

Can Dune Base/ Prime be used stand-alone, without a PC? I hear that a folder is required, but can that be stored on Dune's HDD, or on a NAS, or is a PC required? Not sure if a media server is required either?
That may require a PC as well, even though some crappier media servers work on NAS devices as well. Thanks.

I use all of my IP devices (Sonos, TVIX, and other various media players) as standalone accessing my ReadyNAS, no PC is required in the mix.

Hmm I must admit I am interested in the 3.0. I still use my 1.0 the most as it is damn stable, compared to PCH C200. Does not have as many whistles perhaps.

But who knows. I can't afford a 3.0 at the moment, so I don't think I can carry on my development for it, but maybe sometime in the future.

I use all of my IP devices (Sonos, TVIX, and other various media players) as standalone accessing my ReadyNAS, no PC is required in the mix.

So Dune does NOT need a media server, right? I.e. it indexes the network folders that are defined for the media library and then the index is created for listing. And when using iDune you also get the DVD cover wall and the movie info, right?

Do you also get album covers and info when playing music?
Thank you

He is a reseller or has an affiliation with HDi, even organized a buy-in, and has a sponsored ad for the Dune on his homepage. Not the most unbiased reviewer...



"Optical disc formats (when using an external optical drive): data discs (CD/DVD/BD).... Blu-ray (user-authored discs)"

No retail BD, only retail DVD...

Even the Prime probably won't be able to play retail BD from a USB bluray drive (the C-200 also cannot, probably a licence thing)

Don't get it. The prime already has a Blu drive in it. Why would anyone hook up a Bu USB drive to it?

Hmm I must admit I am interested in the 3.0. I still use my 1.0 the most as it is damn stable, compared to PCH C200. Does not have as many whistles perhaps.

But who knows. I can't afford a 3.0 at the moment, so I don't think I can carry on my development for it, but maybe sometime in the future.

The Dune isn't even "out" yet. New firmware updates can handle and hopefully add bells and whistles. Although seeing the firmware page, they really don't provide many changes.

Yea, they are coming soon! I'm glad I have one with my name on it. Not even talking about the bad drive thing, oooops.

Don't get it. The prime already has a Blu drive in it. Why would anyone hook up a Bu USB drive to it?

Its about Dune base,look post #194.

So Dune does NOT need a media server, right? I.e. it indexes the network folders that are defined for the media library and then the index is created for listing. And when using iDune you also get the DVD cover wall and the movie info, right?

Do you also get album covers and info when playing music?
Thank you

Look post #186 its same for music.

Opinion like ass hole-everybody have one.

Yeah but I wasn't complaining or anything, still you got to admit that no ID3 tag supports is a bit cheap :)

Yeah but I wasn't complaining or anything, still you got to admit that no ID3 tag supports is a bit cheap :)

Opinion,opinion,opinion-аnd one more Opinion.

Anyone know if this unit supports internet browsing? Was hoping to be able to reach out to NetFlex, Hulu, etc with it...

Found this -- Web browser (based on the same engine as used in Mozilla Firefox) for browsing arbitrary Internet sites (with limited possibilities and performance).

but not sure what limited possibilities/performance means...

thanks

Anyone know if this unit supports internet browsing? Was hoping to be able to reach out to NetFlex, Hulu, etc with it...

Found this -- Web browser (based on the same engine as used in Mozilla Firefox) for browsing arbitrary Internet sites (with limited possibilities and performance).

but not sure what limited possibilities/performance means...

thanks

http://dune-hd.com/hd_players/111-dune-bd-prime-3.0.html

* Future (free f/w upgrade): Netflix support (for the USA market)

We received a sample BD Prime 3.0 yesterday! It's everything we hoped for. A quality built media player that will play anything you throw at it. The current firmware seems completely stable. It's very responsive, fast loading, and looks great.

Arthur
DunePlayer.com

http://www.duneplayer.com/images/Prime_Sample.jpg


Duneplayer.com has been keeping me notified on the shipping status through email and even a phone call. First time ordering something from them, but it seems I may have found a really reliable distributor of the Dune products. Along with some personal conversation and recommendations these guys are great!



NOW, keeping the patience at bay. First new prime to come in, let me know! Hahahaha.



Thanks,

Michael

Not sure if this is criticism of how we operate, but I don't know of any business that opens and tests every box they sell. Certainly, sending a box previously opened is not a winning proposition. Maybe thinking out loud is not a good idea if it can be miscontrued.

Kei, I pre-ordered one of these units. I would really appreciate it if you made sure that I do not receive a unit that has a drive that is unable to play DVD or BR disks, or has the annoying high-pitch noisy drive. There are so many reports on these two issues over at MPCclub.com. I'd rather have you put my order on hold until you can guarantee it has a drive that matches this high-end player instead of rushing it.

I think most pre-order customers would prefer an opened box over the hassle of having to send the unit back to you. Or just send out an e-mail asking who prefers to have it tested before shipping?

Thanks Bob. Actually, I don't know the situation yet on why there are so many drive failures and if the inventory arriving is from the same production which may have been unique to the beta/sample batch.

I received the Prime today for testing that I have not yet opened, I've got my fingers crossed that won't be an issue.

(Update : Optical drive works just fine.)

Hi Kei,

I preordered also and I am a bit concerned about the number of faulty drives and the reported noise issues.

Do you know if your inventory that will be shipped to customers will be from the same batch you received for testing and had no issues with?

I second that, the guys at Duneplayer.com were great, a lot of useful conversations/insights, not only about the Dune players but about audio and musicianship in general, plus they only carry the Dune, so I would think their knowledge and support of the product would be better.
And I agree that I would prefer to have a player that was verified as being in perfect working condition, versus being in a rush to receive it only to find some problem with it.

Cimerr@




Duneplayer.com has been keeping me notified on the shipping status through email and even a phone call. First time ordering something from them, but it seems I may have found a really reliable distributor of the Dune products. Along with some personal conversation and recommendations these guys are great!



NOW, keeping the patience at bay. First new prime to come in, let me know! Hahahaha.



Thanks,

Michael

Not sure if this is criticism of how we operate, but I don't know of any business that opens and tests every box they sell. Certainly, sending a box previously opened is not a winning proposition. Maybe thinking out loud is not a good idea if it can be miscontrued.

Ms. Clark, please accept my most sincere and humble apology. I didn't know who you are with (Digital Connection ... reseller). I thought you were with "Dune".

However, I still would say that it is a major, major disappointment that the company that makes/assembles these units do not test each and every one of them. PC makers do a "burn in" just to avoid problems like this, and after all these are basically computers.

But, again, I want to apologize to you. My criticism of these problems clearly were inappropriately aimed at you instead of where they should have been. I would not want to receive an open box item (I see people now requesting that. I doubt you have the workspace or personnel to do this requested testing anyway.)

Kei, I pre-ordered one of these units. I would really appreciate it if you made sure that I do not receive a unit that has a drive that is unable to play DVD or BR disks, or has the annoying high-pitch noisy drive. There are so many reports on these two issues over at MPCclub.com. I'd rather have you put my order on hold until you can guarantee it has a drive that matches this high-end player instead of rushing it.

I think most pre-order customers would prefer an opened box over the hassle of having to send the unit back to you. Or just send out an e-mail asking who prefers to have it tested before shipping?

I'm more worried about the dead drive then drive noise. Drive noise can be fix with a firmware update (I have a Oppo BDP-83 and I know that they did it for that unit). I do agree that maybe DC should ask people if they want them tested first as shipping back will be a pain, but they probably have alot of orders that it might not be feasible (I have a pre-order with DC too).

I doubt this can be fixed by FW.
Drive is making noise as it makes, what could FW do about that?

What surely can be fixed via FW-update is the drive not spinning down when stopping and navigating menu of Dune.

Ms. Clark, please accept my most sincere and humble apology. I didn't know who you are with (Digital Connection ... reseller). I thought you were with "Dune".

However, I still would say that it is a major, major disappointment that the company that makes/assembles these units do not test each and every one of them. PC makers do a "burn in" just to avoid problems like this, and after all these are basically computers.

But, again, I want to apologize to you. My criticism of these problems clearly were inappropriately aimed at you instead of where they should have been. I would not want to receive an open box item (I see people now requesting that. I doubt you have the workspace or personnel to do this requested testing anyway.)

Not a problem, like I said, I was thinking out loud in anticipation of what comes next. I should not have as I didn't know the full details. Just understand that no manufacturer wants this kind of problem out in the field and will work to mitigate having the problems go out the door. In hindsight, it was a wise move to assemble a test group.

As for the optical drive noise, its a drive pickup sound you hear when it initializes which I found is usual of most disc players I've used. It's not "noisier" but it has a tendency to spin even when the drive is not engaged, which does emphasize the noise.

I'm more worried about the dead drive then drive noise. Drive noise can be fix with a firmware update (I have a Oppo BDP-83 and I know that they did it for that unit). I do agree that maybe DC should ask people if they want them tested first as shipping back will be a pain, but they probably have alot of orders that it might not be feasible (I have a pre-order with DC too).

Depending on the odds (again, we'll get more information as all the reports come in), we may or may not opt to do the individual checks, but might instead work out an equitable exchange program that will keep anyone from being inconvenienced.

He is a reseller or has an affiliation with HDi, even organized a buy-in, and has a sponsored ad for the Dune on his homepage. Not the most unbiased reviewer...



"Optical disc formats (when using an external optical drive): data discs (CD/DVD/BD).... Blu-ray (user-authored discs)"

No retail BD, only retail DVD...

Even the Prime probably won't be able to play retail BD from a USB bluray drive (the C-200 also cannot, probably a licence thing)

Install one more BD -drive To the Prime-Or compere with C-200-its not even sale as BD or DVd player.

I second that, the guys at Duneplayer.com were great, a lot of useful conversations/insights, not only about the Dune players but about audio and musicianship in general, plus they only carry the Dune, so I would think their knowledge and support of the product would be better.
And I agree that I would prefer to have a player that was verified as being in perfect working condition, versus being in a rush to receive it only to find some problem with it.

Cimerr@


I agree. That's why I have a couple other players right now until I make the Dune the final last player and only player.

Duneplayer.com guys said their going to check every player before it leaves the door. Expensive price for an open box item is concerning, but it does show you they are willing to lessen the pain if some people get a bad drive. Two thumbs up for duneplayer.com for taking the time to do that. This has nothing to do with the distributor of course....and I really wish DUNE themselves would participate in online threads like this. Brite-View responds daily in their thread, which is pretty cool. Hence me going to try that player out also for the heck of it.

Our sample unit is quiet and plays any disk we put in the drive. Blu-ray, DVD, and CD's. All commercial Blu-ray and DVD movies we have play fine, with no issues at all. It has been rock solid stable. Regions codes you ask? Lets just say if you know how, it will play anything. "Regarding problems with units already out there", everyone needs to remember they are PRE-production players. All manufactured products have pre-production runs to find the bugs before making thousands of them. It's not unusual to find some problems. These early adopters who purchased these 'Pre-Production' sample units were well informed, they are essentially beta testers. There feedback is very helpful and appreciated by HDI. We are confident any issues will be resolved before they start shipping to dealers.

Being the nature of a new product like this our plan from the very beginning has been to test every unit before we ship them to our customers.


Arthur
DunePlayer.com

and I really wish DUNE themselves would participate in online threads like this.

HDi (Dune) has been responding on a daily basis on MPC Club. They have sent people to China to personally check the players and what is going on. They have said that the BD-ROM drive was changed from the 1.0 version and this may be a reason for the problems. They are trying to spot check at the factory for all future batches.

I doubt this can be fixed by FW.
Drive is making noise as it makes, what could FW do about that?

What surely can be fixed via FW-update is the drive not spinning down when stopping and navigating menu of Dune.

Don't believe me? Read the Oppo BDP-83 thread (I have one). They made changes to their firmware to make the drive quieter by slowing the rotation speed down. HDI could do the same.

does dune bd prime 3.0 support bit torrents?

does dune bd prime 3.0 support bit torrents?

It's in the menu although I've never tried it.

Hey Ms. Kei Clark... I was thinking about ordering the Dune HD base 3.0 since the WDTV live didn't support my needs... Far as DVD nagivation and so on...

I would like to know do yall have after christmas sells?

I've read through the thread and i'm in some what in a newbie confusion.

In idiot terms is there much difference for the end user that just wants to watch HD media between this and the Popcorn Hour C-200 as the whole discussion about the chip is confusing.

Thanks