The Zensonic Z500 has finally been released in the US and can be purchased at MediaWest Distributions (http://www.mediawestdistribution.com)

I was wondering if you anyone has placed an order or has already received one to test. I am dying to hear how this player handles with the rest of the group.

I broke down and ordered one last week. It shipped yesterday, so with any luck I will have it by the end of the week. Once I have it, I will try to answer any questions you have.

can't wait to hear a hands on report, just wish it didn't have a dvd player in it.
oh well.

for $399.00 it better do everything I want it to.

480i over hdmi? dvd and or from harddrive

# HDMI output with HDCP support
World's first Network DVD Media Player to support HDMI output with HDCP.

# Windows File Sharing (SMB)
World's first Network DVD Media Player to support Windows File sharing (SMB).
No server software needed on the PC!

# FLAC Support
World's first Network DVD Media Player to support FLAC (Free Lossless Audio Codec).

# NTFS Support for USB Devices
World's first Network DVD Media Player to provide NTFS support for USB 2.0 drives.

# Unique Remote Control
World's first remote control with EL backlight and joystick function for easy navigation.

# Incremental Pan and Zoom
World's first Network DVD Media Player to support incremental Pan and Zoom during file playback (fine grained control of zoom in .05 increments).

# Skinnable GUI
World's first Network DVD Media Player with fully skinnable firmware allowing for customised appearance.

# Easy Navigation with Front Panel Display
TV doesn't need to be turned on to play MP3 files. All files and info (ID3 Tag) are available for viewing on the front panel display.

# Emergency Firmware Recovery
No need to send the unit back for repairs in the event of an interrupted firmware update -- power failure, etc. Firmware can be restored to factory defaults with the Emergency Firmware Recovery disc.

1. Audio Formats Supported
* MPEG 1 Layers I,II and III
* WAV
* CD Audio (With FreeDB Support)
* OGG Vorbis
* FLAC
* WMA
* AAC
2. Video Formats Supported
* MPEG-1, MPEG-2 MP@HL, MPEG-4
* ASP@L5 (720p), WMV9 MP@ML (720p)
* XviD
* Nero Digital™
* QuickTime with MPEG4 encoding. .MP4 extension
3. Picture Formats Supported
* JPG/JPEG2000
* BMP
* GIF
* PNG
* TIFF *
4. Playlist Supported
* M3U
* PLS
* ASX
5. Network Support
* Ethernet 10/100 Mbps
* Wireless 802.11b/g
* SMB support -- access Windows shares directly
6. USB 2 device Support
(Only if the device appears as a mass storage device)
* USB Thumb Drives
* USB HDD Drives
7. Internet Radio Support
* Integrated Internet Radio Player with preinstalled library of stations
* Only stations streaming MP3 or ASX are supported
8. Media Streaming Software
* TwonkyVision 2.9 (Full Version)**, Windows Media Connect
* TwonkyVision supports Windows, MacOS X & Linux
* Share Pictures, Audio and Video Files
* UPnP enabled
9. DVD Player
* DVD-Video, SVCD, VCD 1.x and 2.0
* DVD-R/-RW/+R/+RW
* CD/-R/-RW
10. Extras
* Subtitle support
* Online Weather Panel
* HDCP support
* Digital Rights Management: Windows Media DRM 10 *
* EL backlit remote
* Multi-purpose joystick for quick and easy navigation
* ID3 Tag and display on VFD panel on player
* Incremental Pan and Zoom (fine grained control of zoom in .1 increments)
* Firmware updates from OSD. Check for new updates.
* WEP encryption support on Wireless 802.11g
11. I/O
* SCART output
* HDMI output
* S-Video output
* Composite Video output
* Component outputs
12. Audio
* Stereo output
* Coaxial output
* Optical output
* Analog 5.1 outputs
13. Connectors
* 10/100 Ethernet
* USB 2.0
* Wireless 802.11g
14. TV Types
* NTSC (480i / 480p)
* PAL (576i / 576p)
* HDTV (720p50 / 720p60 / 1080i50 / 1080i60)

* These features will be available in a firmware update.
** The bundled Twonkyvision software does not include free upgrades.
A discount voucher for upgrades is available.

can't wait to hear a hands on report, just wish it didn't have a dvd player in it.
oh well.
Doesnt have DivX support but does have XviD - too bad since I have a lot of DivX videos on my computer.

peter

Doesnt have DivX support but does have XviD - too bad since I have a lot of DivX videos on my computer.

peter
I wonder if firmware can add that.
or a dvix to xvid converter?

I wonder if firmware can add that.
or a dvix to xvid converter?

The z500 plays both xvid and divx.

http://www.z500series.com/forum/index.php?showtopic=1480

Yes I can comfirm the player plays Divx and really well. it is only because of licencing that the term divx cant be used.

Yes I can comfirm the player plays Divx and really well. it is only because of licencing that the term divx cant be used.
I was wondering about that when I seen this in the video overview paragraphand other formats.



another thing, it lists Video Formats Supported:
DVD ISO/IFO as an Experimental feature

is that feature working well?

Doesnt have DivX support but does have XviD - too bad since I have a lot of DivX videos on my computer.DivX, XviD, 3vix, HDX4 all conform to MPEG-4 Part2.... Meaning your DivX encoded files will play fine.


Cheers

another thing, it lists

Quote:
Video Formats Supported:
DVD ISO/IFO

as an

Quote:
Experimental feature

is that feature working well?Yes it works very well ;)

The description given above says that "no server software is needed" for smb sharing. Does that mean that I can have my raw files on a NAS and it will still play them without the need for UPnP and transcoding software? It mentions twonky and ms media connect, am I required to use one of these? I currently have a roku hd1000 and do not require ANY software on a pc to use, will I have the same abilities with the z500? Can the z500 play 24Mbps HD files smoothly?

mlknez,
Yes thats right, you dont need any media server software on your PC. If you have a NAS device the Z500 should see it and play all the files directly. However since SMB has some overheads high bit rate HD files are best played back through a UPnP server software. SMB are good for SD files as well as lower bit rate Hi def files. We have tested TS streams up to 26Mbit to play fine through UPnP. Anything more and it starts to chug.

Any idea how much noise or heat this thing will generate?

mlknez,
We have tested TS streams up to 26Mbit to play fine through UPnP. Anything more and it starts to chug.

I suppose this then will not allow the playback of blu-ray files that work at between 30 and 32Mbps.

My HD1000 can playback 24Mbps over SMB without problems, does the z500 have that capability?

The DVD .iso capability is in beta? Are betas easy to come by and install?
Does the z500 allow navigation of movies by coverart files? Music by coverart?

Are photos displayed in actual resolution with zoom in and out abilities?

Is there a scaler built into the z500 and can it be bypassed or disabled?

Can the z500 play back files encoded in MLP? Such as DVD-Audio 24bit /96khz or 192khz files?

Sorry for the questions, but I have not been able to get someone to answer me. thanks in advance for your help.

Any more input from anyone that has a z500... Looks interesting. May order one.

I suppose this then will not allow the playback of blu-ray files that work at between 30 and 32Mbps.

My HD1000 can playback 24Mbps over SMB without problems, does the z500 have that capability?

The DVD .iso capability is in beta? Are betas easy to come by and install?
Does the z500 allow navigation of movies by coverart files? Music by coverart?

Are photos displayed in actual resolution with zoom in and out abilities?

Is there a scaler built into the z500 and can it be bypassed or disabled?

Can the z500 play back files encoded in MLP? Such as DVD-Audio 24bit /96khz or 192khz files?

Sorry for the questions, but I have not been able to get someone to answer me. thanks in advance for your help.
phew, so many questions....
No it does not support blu-ray.
Not sure of the upper limit on SMB, but it is fairly high, however very high bitrate will need UPnP software.
The .iso playback works *mostly*, it is experimental at this stage, but is built into the official firmwares.
No it does not support coverart (at the moment, don't know about in the future)
Photos are displayed to fit the screen, and can be zoomed in and out (up to 4x at .05 increments, and panned while zoomed)
You cannot disable or bypass the video output. It will output video to fill the screen (unless you zoom in/out) at the resolution you set.
I haven't used MLP myself, so don't know. SMD is an expert on all things audio, he could probably tell you.

mlknez,
Yes thats right, you dont need any media server software on your PC. If you have a NAS device the Z500 should see it and play all the files directly. However since SMB has some overheads high bit rate HD files are best played back through a UPnP server software. SMB are good for SD files as well as lower bit rate Hi def files. We have tested TS streams up to 26Mbit to play fine through UPnP. Anything more and it starts to chug.

Hi chuna!

mlknez,

I've tested up to 32 Mbps MPEG-2 TS 1080i streams on the Z500 over UPnP and it works fine.

Cheers,
Kermee

I just received mine today....it is awesome!

It has played all of my TS files (18-24mbit), and XviD (up to 1280x720p 4.5Mbit/sec), divx files, etc. I absoluttely love this thing.

The DVD Image support has worked flawlessly so far (albeit I've only tried 3 images).

A few minor gripes:
1) Playback of MP3s cannot be played back in track order (it doesn't read the tag information for track numbers).
2) Photos that need to be scaled down (i.e. almost any photo you'd take with a digital camera) require a long time to display (> 5 seconds)....however, this is not the fault of Zensonic, and merely a consequence of the chipset.

These are things that I can deal with, as I bought this thing mostly for the video playback functionality. The setup was even easier than I could have hoped for, and the interface is very intuitive. I did not have to install anything on my computer, and everything is being accessed via my wired in home network.

I might also add that the distributor (Media West Distribution) is very good at responding to any and all questions. (I pre-ordered back in May and had been getting ansy up to the date they shipped it, so I had emailed them a few times). The shipped it promptly as promised, and it made it here in just 2 days.

I would highly recommend this player to anyone considering something in this class. From the research I did, there is no player better, and the thing that's great about Zensonic is their support forums, and the fact that they have multiple firmware updates to fix any bugs (mostly related to the chipset SDK).

still trying to find out if it can out put 480i over hdmi from dvd's ans dvd's ripped to hard drive.

and how is flac playback?

clicking on cover art to open a cd folder or play a dvd would be a great option.

a slide show while playing music....also cool.


my usb hard drive will spin 24/7 if the power is on, is that typical?

I just received mine today....it is awesome!

<snip>
2) Photos that need to be scaled down (i.e. almost any photo you'd take with a digital camera) require a long time to display (> 5 seconds)....however, this is not the fault of Zensonic, and merely a consequence of the chipset.

T).
How big a jpg were you trying to display that took > 5 seconds? I was hoping that I could use this box to display my largfe photo display on my HDTV. The pictures are about 2.5 - 3 MB each.

I wonder if a firmware upgrade could improve this aspect of performance or is this a limitation of the hardware?

thanks

peter

How big a jpg were you trying to display that took > 5 seconds? I was hoping that I could use this box to display my largfe photo display on my HDTV. The pictures are about 2.5 - 3 MB each.

I wonder if a firmware upgrade could improve this aspect of performance or is this a limitation of the hardware?

thanks

peter

yeah, what's your camera, 2MP,4MP,8MP resolution?

still trying to find out if it can out put 480i over hdmi from dvd's ans dvd's ripped to hard drive.

and how is flac playback?

clicking on cover art to open a cd folder or play a dvd would be a great option.

a slide show while playing music....also cool.


my usb hard drive will spin 24/7 if the power is on, is that typical?

Sorry, my TV doesn't have HDMI (too old, still using component).

Flac playback worked fine.

You can play music while browsing pictures at the same time....yes, that is a cool function.

yeah, what's your camera, 2MP,4MP,8MP resolution?

I have tried photos from 10 Mbyte in size to less than 1 Mb (resolutions from 4xxx X 3xxx all the way down to 1024x768) and they all seem to take the same amount of time to load.

Can someone confirm if the processor is capable of handling DivX HD content? thanks

Can someone confirm if the processor is capable of handling DivX HD content? thanks

Yes cFoo, the Z500 plays DivX HD content quite well.

Can someone confirm if the processor is capable of handling DivX HD content? thanks

Handles it quite well!

If you can't select video or audio by cover art, do you just see a list? Is it listed by subdirectory if you are using an SMB source?

If you can't select video or audio by cover art, do you just see a list? Is it listed by subdirectory if you are using an SMB source?

That is correct. Same goes for accessing content by basic UPnP servers unless the UPnP server you are using is a bit fancier.

thanks for the replies :cool:

I have tried photos from 10 Mbyte in size to less than 1 Mb (resolutions from 4xxx X 3xxx all the way down to 1024x768) and they all seem to take the same amount of time to load.
Interesting thread here, on the company sponsored BB
http://www.z500series.com/forum/index.php?showtopic=1317&pid=11510&mode=threaded&show=&st=&#entry11510

Basically photo performance will not be improved anytime soon and is a known limitation. The guy who posted the original question is quoting 10 seconds per picture to load with a 1MB picture... now that is slow ;-(

How come I can plug my camera into TV s-video input and get pix instantaneously - I lose resolution, but can live with that.

Is this problem common with all media player? I had never heard of it being such an issue.

thanks

peter

....The guy who posted the original question is quoting 10 seconds per picture to load with a 1MB picture... now that is slow ;-(
...
peter
Hi peter, the poster in the Z500 forums does not sound like he has one...

I'm seriously considering to get the Z500 through mpcclub here in Europe.
I have one "blocking" issue to get answered first though.
I have read here and elsewhere that it seems like the time it takes to load a JPEG picture is really long.
A typical picture for me is approximately 1 MB and from a 5 MP camera. I've read here and tested on a different player that both from USB stick and network it takes around 10 seconds to load and display the picture.
I think up to about 5 seconds here over SMB. Nice if it was quicker though, but not as long as 10 seconds that I am aware of.

Hi peter, the poster in the Z500 forums does not sound like he has one...
<snip>.
Could be a "she" you know! ;-)

"I've read here and tested on a different player that both from USB stick and network it takes around 10 seconds to load and display the picture."

Yes - you're right.. I should get my facts straight!

thanks

peter
ps. 5 secs makes for a sloooow slideshow. I wonder if I there is some program I can run on my PC to reduce the picture in real time as needed... Probably need to batch process the whole show first

hmm this thing looks good I might have to check it out as a replacement for my HD1000. Sure wish they had a version without the DVD player and the wireless for less $$$. Black would be a bonus. Is this MediaWest place the only retailer currently carrying the unit in the US?

- Mike

Well my ordered shipped yesterday with expected delivery by early next week. The real funny thing is that I had to call MediaWest for a small change and as soon as I said my name she said are you the one that created the thread over at AVS. They thanked me for helping out their business and all. I just thought it was funny that they are reading the boards. I thought it was cool.

hmm this thing looks good I might have to check it out as a replacement for my HD1000. Sure wish they had a version without the DVD player and the wireless for less $$$. Black would be a bonus. Is this MediaWest place the only retailer currently carrying the unit in the US?

- Mike

There are several units like that - no DVD, no WiFi - from mfrs like D-Link, Snazio etc.

Well my ordered shipped yesterday with expected delivery by early next week. The real funny thing is that I had to call MediaWest for a small change and as soon as I said my name she said are you the one that created the thread over at AVS. They thanked me for helping out their business and all. I just thought it was funny that they are reading the boards. I thought it was cool.

Hi Greg,

Excellent! I finally got off my bottom and ordered my 2nd unit. Hopefully it'll arrive late next week!

That is correct. Same goes for accessing content by basic UPnP servers unless the UPnP server you are using is a bit fancier.

My old Roku HD1000 can show coverart from an SMB source and let me choose. I want to get rid of it, but it sounds like the z500 would not necessarily be a step forward.

slow picture processing, not showing pics in full res, not using coverart, no quoted bitrate for mpeg-2 files over smb, no cover art for audio, no addressability to the scaler, no sdk...

There are several units like that - no DVD, no WiFi - from mfrs like D-Link, Snazio etc.
I've looked at the D-link it doesn't do other stuff that the z500 does....stuff I want it to do.
and the Snazio has a dvd player and a wi/fi connection.

the dvd and wi/fi are rather pricey components to have in a media player, when you already have a dvd player and plan on having a cat.5 connected to it.

My old Roku HD1000 can show coverart from an SMB source and let me choose. I want to get rid of it, but it sounds like the z500 would not necessarily be a step forward.

slow picture processing, not showing pics in full res, not using coverart, no quoted bitrate for mpeg-2 files over smb, no cover art for audio, no addressability to the scaler, no sdk...

I don' think you have your facts quite straight.

The slow picture processing is a direct result of the chipset being used, not the player....most of the players use the same chipset. I'm not sure what you mean about not having an SDK....the SDK that the chipset provides is what enables companies like Zensonic, D-Link, etc to customize the players.

And is coverart really that big of a deal? I definitely care much more about how many different types of media it plays, and how stable it is more than being able to see pictures of items before you choose to play them.

Also, while there is no quoted bitrate, as it has been showing, bitrates of 24mbps have been shown to play without problems (and that's over SMB).

I don' think you have your facts quite straight.

The slow picture processing is a direct result of the chipset being used, not the player....most of the players use the same chipset. I'm not sure what you mean about not having an SDK....the SDK that the chipset provides is what enables companies like Zensonic, D-Link, etc to customize the players.

And is coverart really that big of a deal? I definitely care much more about how many different types of media it plays, and how stable it is more than being able to see pictures of items before you choose to play them.

Also, while there is no quoted bitrate, as it has been showing, bitrates of 24mbps have been shown to play without problems (and that's over SMB).

The Roku HD1000 uses an ATI chipset not the Sigma chipset you find in the current crop of media streamers. The ATI chip is faster than the Sigma.

Roku shares their SDK to everyone for third party app developments, not just for their in-house applications. This has worked well for Roku and its customers.

Use of cover art to select movies greatly inhances non-techies use of the device.

You're right that stability and media versatility is more important than cover art, but a device will have limited acceptance in the marketplace if its not easy for everyone to use.

The issues with the Roku have mainly been the ATI chipset's limitations (no dvd iso/ifo playback, etc) and a power supply problem. Stability took a awhile to get where its at, but it wasn't an easy path.

My 2 cents.

I am mainly interested in audio storage and playback of CDs in lossless form. I would like something that can load files to an external HDD, and of course play them back with digital (PCM) output to ane external DAC, with an easy menu and search function, both on-screen and on the display. Will this thing do that through its USB port without connecting to a PC? Also, does it have a fan, and if so how noisy is it?

Playing back "lossless" FLAC (or WAV) files stored on an external HDD is 100% possible.... In-fact I'm doing right now ;)

And to confirm, there is no requirement to have a PC connected....

The Z500 does not have a fan, so the only noise you'll hear will be from your external HDD. Apart from your music that is!

Also, the Z500 is fitted electrical and optical S/PDIF digital output connections (as well as full 6Ch analogue output connections).


Cheers

Playing back "lossless" FLAC (or WAV) files stored on an external HDD is 100% possible.... In-fact I'm doing right now ;)

And to confirm, there is no requirement to have a PC connected....

The Z500 does not have a fan, so the only noise you'll hear will be from your external HDD. Apart from your music that is!

Also, the Z500 is fitted electrical and optical S/PDIF digital output connections (as well as full 6Ch analogue output connections).


Cheers

Thanks, good to know. I presume you used a PC to rip the files to the HDD? Or will the Zenzonic do that also?

Thanks, good to know. I presume you used a PC to rip the files to the HDD? Or will the Zenzonic do that also?

Former is correct. You will still need a PC to do the backup of the files to HDD but only for that process.

Cheers,
Kermee

Former is correct. You will still need a PC to do the backup of the files to HDD but only for that process.

Cheers,
Kermee

Thanks. In that case I see no need for the DVD player - is there a similar device out there that will do the same thing as the Zensonic (directly access a HDD) without the DVD player, and presumably at a much lower price?

Also, does the Zensonic have digital output for using an external DAC?

I've been doing some research into the Z500 and really like what it has to offer so far. Unfortunately, I haven't been able to find answers to a couple of questions.

1) Does the Z500 support Nero 5.1 sound?
2) Which profile does it support (It's not at Nero's site)?
3) Does the HDMI pass audio or is 6ch analog out the only choice for non-AC3, DTS, or 2ch PCM?

Thanks.

Thanks. In that case I see no need for the DVD player - is there a similar device out there that will do the same thing as the Zensonic (directly access a HDD) without the DVD player, and presumably at a much lower price?Hmmm...

I think that's an bit of an unfair question to ask within this thread... That said, the DVD drive makes very little difference to the overall cost of the player.


Also, does the Zensonic have digital output for using an external DAC?As I mentioned earlier: -

"Also, the Z500 is fitted with electrical and optical S/PDIF digital output connections (as well as full 6Ch analogue output connections)".


Cheers

1) Does the Z500 support Nero 5.1 sound?Yes via the players 6Ch analogue outputs

2) Which profile does it support (It's not at Nero's site)?Officially Nero's Cinema Profile (offering a max resolution of 1280x720 pixels) is supported. Unofficially however, the player also supports Nero's High-Definition Profile (offering a max resolution of 1920x1080 pixels).

3) Does the HDMI pass audio or is 6ch analog out the only choice for non-AC3, DTS, or 2ch PCM?The HDMI output is able to pass 2ch and multi-channel "digital" bit-streams, such as AC3, DTS and PCM - all in accordance with the official HDMI connection protocal.


Cheers

Hmmm...

I think that's an bit of an unfair question to ask within this thread... That said, the DVD drive makes very little difference to the overall cost of the player.


As I mentioned earlier: -

"Also, the Z500 is fitted with electrical and optical S/PDIF digital output connections (as well as full 6Ch analogue output connections)".


Cheers

Sorry, didn't mean to hijack the thread. True about the DVD player, but in my opinon the Zenzonic price is too high for what it does (and what it does not do, such as rip CDs) and especially since it has no HDD storage of its own (if I understand correctly).

Any comments on the quality of DVD playback (scaling, deinterlacing, etc.)? Is it the same regardless of the media format (DVD, .iso file, etc.)? Also, does it do 4:3 pillarbox?

Any comments on the quality of DVD playback (scaling, deinterlacing, etc.)? Is it the same regardless of the media format (DVD, .iso file, etc.)? Also, does it do 4:3 pillarbox?Unlike other devices fitted with Sigma's EM8620L chip-set the Z500 runs it's own specially designed GUI software/interface (other devices use Syabas designed GUI's).

As a consequence, the GUI provides the user with far more user friendly set-up options, including DVD 4:3/16:9 output options.


Cheers

hi,
when watching an anamorphic DVD (or other content with black bars),

can the z500 vertically stretch the picture to remove the black bars (and thus let me use my anamorphic lens to horizontally strech the image)?

IOW, do I need a scalar to use the Z500 in a constant height setup?
thanks!

when watching an anamorphic DVD (or other content with black bars)... Where are the black bars. Above and below the image or left and right of the image?

can the z500 vertically stretch the picture to remove the black bars (and thus let me use my anamorphic lens to horizontally strech the image)?The Z500 does have a zoom function which might help with set-ups such as yours...

I am however mystified why people elect to remove remove the black bars above and below the image. As this practice (more often than not), removes/hides parts of the image to the left and right of the frame... Unless you squish up the image, which in-turn makes everybody look anorexic.


Cheers

Where are the black bars. Above and below the image or left and right of the image?

The Z500 does have a zoom function which might help with set-ups such as yours...

I am however mystified why people elect to remove remove the black bars above and below the image. As this practice (more often than not), removes/hides parts of the image to the left and right of the frame... Unless you squish up the image, which in-turn makes everybody look anorexic.


Cheers

SMD,

Some folks have 2.35:1 screens and using anamorphic (Panamorph) lenses to "squish" the picture even more. Removing the black bars from the top and the bottom of 2.35:1 sourced materials on an anamorphic DVD and using the entire resolution of the display device of a 16:9 front projection system is preferred rather than not using the upper and lower parts of the PJ.

http://www.panamorph.com/Ultimate235.html

Cheers,
Kermee

Thanks Kermee,

I was not aware there were such things as 2.35:1 projection screens!

I wonder if we could get such a mode added to the Z500's video output settings?


Cheers

Thanks Kermee,

I was not aware there were such things as 2.35:1 projection screens!

I wonder if we could get such a mode added to the Z500's video output settings?


Cheers

SMD,

We should check with chuna. People with 2.35:1 PJ screens are some pretty "hardcore" purists. Many of the new projectors support anamorphic lens natively with a scaling mode done within the projector. For folks without being able to do the scaling within the projector, adding this mode would be a killer application.

Cheers,
Kermee

SMD,

We should check with chuna. People with 2.35:1 PJ screens are some pretty "hardcore" purists. Many of the new projectors support anamorphic lens natively with a scaling mode done within the projector. For folks without being able to do the scaling within the projector, adding this mode would be a killer application.

Cheers,
Kermee
I guess the market for this is still very small when you compare it with 16:9 screens and more mainstream technology. The company has to priortize the huge list of feature requests it probably gets and work on what can make the biggest difference (bang-for-the-buck) for them mass base of users.

peter

Hi All

I am VERY interested in parting with my money and getting one of these. My streaming needs are almost solely for video as I use a SqueezeBox for audio. A slick all-in-one solution cuts down on remotes cabling etc.

Candidly, I just want a device to play the DivX / XviD files like T*p G**r via ********** that are sadly unavailble in the USA as well as act as a DVD player.

I will be using this with a SONY BRAVIA (720p) LCD TV and my concerns are:
- How good is the DVD player and has the maker skimped on quality?
- What are the viewing ratio options like as I'm REALLY anal about this? I can't watch a 4:3 image stretched to fit a 16:9 screen. I have to have the side bars - hence LCD and not plasma.

Thanks again for the great thread!

Hi All

I am VERY interested in parting with my money and getting one of these. My streaming needs are almost solely for video as I use a SqueezeBox for audio. A slick all-in-one solution cuts down on remotes cabling etc.

Candidly, I just want a device to play the DivX / XviD files like T*p G**r via ********** that are sadly unavailble in the USA as well as act as a DVD player.

I will be using this with a SONY BRAVIA (720p) LCD TV and my concerns are:
- How good is the DVD player and has the maker skimped on quality?
- What are the viewing ratio options like as I'm REALLY anal about this? I can't watch a 4:3 image stretched to fit a 16:9 screen. I have to have the side bars - hence LCD and not plasma.

Thanks again for the great thread!
If the divx/xvid is 4:3 and the display output is set to 16:9, it will pillar box the picture to maintain the correct aspect ratio.

I have a couple of quick questions if any of you could help me out. I have a Linkplayer2 at this time and have been like many of you down the firmware update road to hell. Does this player support IFO playback with full menus over the network? Does this player handle HD ms-dvr files from MCE? Finally is the built in DVD player actually usable with no problems? Sorry for questions but IODATA player has made me cautious of the fix in firmware features. Thanks for any guidance you can provide. I've seen many of you at the linkplayer and IODATA forums so I hope this player is on the right track.

Does this player support IFO playback with full menus over the network? Yes - using the SMB connection protocol

Does this player handle HD ms-dvr files from MCE? I have not tried these.... Can you provide a sample?

Finally is the built in DVD player actually usable with no problems? Well... it works as a DVD player. I'm using it right now!

Thanks, I did see at the z500 forums quite a bit of traffic about DVD player problems which of course is a big Linkplayer2 issue as well. I am hesitant to just trade problems so to speak if I go with this player rather than my Linkplayer2. I could upload a short MCE non DRM HD file but even a minute or 2 is 255 Meg.

I could upload a short MCE non DRM HD file but even a minute or 2 is 255 Meg.Are you able to point me to any web sites hosting test samples instead?


Cheers

Thanks, I did see at the z500 forums quite a bit of traffic about DVD player problems which of course is a big Linkplayer2 issue as well. I am hesitant to just trade problems so to speak if I go with this player rather than my Linkplayer2. I could upload a short MCE non DRM HD file but even a minute or 2 is 255 Meg.

No the Z500 does not support MCE type files DVR-MS etc. You may need ot use a UPnP software and trancode these files.

is there a Canadian distributor?

I have the purple HDMI issue on the Optoma HD72 (1280x768p) so right now it's over components. No HDMI issue on the Vizio GV42L (42" LCD, 1366x768 panel) though. The screen being used on the Optoma HD72 is a 92" (2.34 metre) Da-Lite HCCV screen.

Optoma HD72
----------------
The Optoma HD72 itself mounted on the ceiling. (http://img111.imageshack.us/img111/2626/img2143em0.jpg)
Can you find the Zensonic Z500? (http://img480.imageshack.us/img480/9025/img2150xf8.jpg)
Zensonic Z500 Main Menu (Default Skin) on Optoma HD72 (http://img480.imageshack.us/img480/9681/img2152lp9.jpg)
Um. HDNet demo material playback on Z500. #1 (http://img367.imageshack.us/img367/2739/img2155gc0.jpg)
Um. HDNet demo material playback on Z500. #2 (http://img367.imageshack.us/img367/5776/img2156qz0.jpg)

Vizio GV42L
----------------
Zensonic Z500 Main Menu (Default Skin) on Vizio (http://img380.imageshack.us/img380/5094/img2147cp9.jpg)
Um. HDNet demo material playback on Z500. (http://img529.imageshack.us/img529/8417/img2158dx4.jpg)

is there a Canadian distributor?

Not to my knowledge but I would e-mail MWD to see if they would ship it to you.

Hi

Very simply, is this good enough to act as a media streamer AND DVD device or does it work best complementing a really good DVD player?

Hi

Very simply, is this good enough to act as a media streamer AND DVD device or does it work best complementing a really good DVD player?
Tell is what you consider is a "really good DVD player" and then people may be able to compare. What is really good for you is probably something different for me...

peter

Tell is what you consider is a "really good DVD player" and then people may be able to compare. What is really good for you is probably something different for me...

peter

Hi

You are completely correct and I do tend to get somewhat ahead of myself. Given the range of people frequenting this forum and the diversity of both budgets and tastes.

Let me set the bar at something like the Denon 2910.

Again my apologies for being a bit vague.

Hi

You are completely correct and I do tend to get somewhat ahead of myself. Given the range of people frequenting this forum and the diversity of both budgets and tastes.

Let me set the bar at something like the Denon 2910.

Again my apologies for being a bit vague.
I tried the DVD player today for the first time and was surprised and disappointed at how noisy the motor was when the DVD was playing - a constant high pitch whirring which would make it unusable for me. I will be contacting Zensonic about this since it is not at all what I had been expecting. Even my el-cheapo DVD player plays quietly...

peter
p.s. waiting for a DVI cable (none supplied) before I comment on picture quality (PQ)

I tried the DVD player today fo the first time and was surpirsed and disappointed at how noisy the motor was when the DVD was playing - a constant high pitch whirring which would make it unusable for me. I will be contacting Zensonic about this since it is not at all what I had been expecting. Even my el-cheapo DVD player plays quietly...

peter
p.s. waiting for a DVI cable (none supplied) before I comment on picture quality (PQ)
looks like the noisy drive is a known issue, with no obvious fix other than replacing the whole unit ;-(
http://www.z500series.com/forum/index.php?showtopic=1139

Peter

Sorry to here you are suffering noise related issues from your drive. I'd like to assure you this is not normal...

Indeed my Z500 is no noisier than my Pioneer DV-575A (both devices are next to each other) when playing commercial/store-bought DVD's or when spinning MPEG-4/MP3 files burned to 700MB/800MB CD-R's.


Regards

is there a Canadian distributor?


Yes, z500s will be available in Canada. Will post shortly on where you can get one from.

EPO (the makers of the DVD drive) have released a new firmware for the drive itself which improves the operation and noise level of the drive when reading some media. The firmware along with instruction to flash the drive is available for download from the z500 club

http://www.z500series.com/club.php


Kind regards

I just applied that firmware here.
Although I never thought mine was overly loud, I did always think it was louder than other players....
Now it is extremely quiet.
Very good.

Hi

I've read that this is limited to Zone 1 DVDs. Has anyone been able to get multizone working?

You might want to try performing a player search over at: -

http://www.videohelp.com/dvdplayers

EPO (the makers of the DVD drive) have released a new firmware for the drive itself which improves the operation and noise level of the drive when reading some media. The firmware along with instruction to flash the drive is available for download from the z500 club

http://www.z500series.com/club.php


Kind regards
You can also talk with MediaWest (US distributor) and they can help you with this. They helped me out and now my DVD player is as quiet as I would have expected. No more annoying high-pitch whirring sounds..

Peter
p.s. Thanks guys for posting your info on this topic

.... It's a pleasure to help ;)

How does this compare with the Squeezebox 3 for audio, assuming I would encode my files with FLAC? Has anyone compared the two? Also, does anyone have screen shots of the display/UI? Thanks.

How does this compare with the Squeezebox 3 for audio, assuming I would encode my files with FLAC? Has anyone compared the two? Also, does anyone have screen shots of the display/UI? Thanks.
I've never used a Squeezebox, so can't comment.
SeeMoreDigital uses FLAC afaik, I will leave him (or others to comment).
Screen shots, here is some I whipped up earlier ...

Hmm, had to do more than 5 posts before it will let me post the url.
So, try again http://www.wisexv.com/Z500/z500_screens.htm
(oh, and by the way, the interface is skinnable, that is the default skin)

The Zensonic Z500 is now available in Canada at OnlyBestRated (I would post a link, but I'm still under 5 posts).

How does the fast forward/rewind functionality perform on the Z500 in comparison with the LinkPlayer2? I use wizd to squeeze that extra bit of functionality out the device since the Avel software doesn't even come close. However, the possibility of not using a client to serve up media is very enticing.

Someone asked earlier, so I'll re-ask.. how is this in comparison to the LinkPlayer2? Has anyone (using wizd) made the switch and, if so, are you happy with that decision? The LinkPlayer2 is not bad, but it is not all that I hoped it would be. Just trying to make sure that the Z500 is the right replacement.

Any information would be appreciated. Thanks.

You might want to try performing a player search over at: -



Cool!!! Thanks!

Hi

Looks like one question lead to another. Reading the link posted by andw, does anyone know if the Zensonic DVD video upscaling via HDMI will work on a Sony BRAVIA? I don't see any reference to HDCP on the Sony site.

The Zensonic Z500 is now available in Canada at OnlyBestRated (I would post a link, but I'm still under 5 posts). Here's the link: -

http://www.onlybestrated.com/zensonic-z500-high-definition-network-media-player-p-89.html?osCsid=1f0b8b684028e12084ade3cefa30fae5


Cheers

Looks like one question lead to another. Reading the link posted by andw, does anyone know if the Zensonic DVD video upscaling via HDMI will work on a Sony BRAVIA? I don't see any reference to HDCP on the Sony site.If the BRAVIA TV is fitted with an HDMI input, support for HDCP is mandatory!


Cheers

How does the fast forward/rewind functionality perform on the Z500 in comparison with the LinkPlayer2? I use wizd to squeeze that extra bit of functionality out the device since the Avel software doesn't even come close. However, the possibility of not using a client to serve up media is very enticing.

Someone asked earlier, so I'll re-ask.. how is this in comparison to the LinkPlayer2? Has anyone (using wizd) made the switch and, if so, are you happy with that decision? The LinkPlayer2 is not bad, but it is not all that I hoped it would be. Just trying to make sure that the Z500 is the right replacement. From what I understand, Wizd is used to play MPEG-2 DVD/VOB's "seamlessly" on the AVLP2 - yes?

Given that the Z500 offers native (but albeit experimental) ISO and IFO parsing, there's no need to install second party software such as Wizd to navigate/play such files.

Provided you use tools such as DVDShrink to generate suitable IFO, BUP, VOB file sets. Or DVD Decrypter to generate "full" ISO DVD back-up's. The Z500 can be used to navigate and play such files just as if you had the original DVD in the drive tray :D

PS: By-the-way, Kermee has both players ;)

EPO (the makers of the DVD drive) have released a new firmware for the drive itself which improves the operation and noise level of the drive when reading some media. The firmware along with instruction to flash the drive is available for download from the z500 club

http://www.z500series.com/club.php


Kind regards

SMD,
Do you know if the Z500 uses the same drive as the LinkPlayer, and if so will this firmware upgrade work on it?

JRad

SMD,
Do you know if the Z500 uses the same drive as the LinkPlayer, and if so will this firmware upgrade work on it?It is indeed the same drive model.....

From what I understand EPO have already released a firmware upgrade for their DP-306D loader. It should be available on EPO's website and/or on I-O DATA's web site.

As a word of caution, I would not risk using any Z500 firmwares on another Sigma EM8620L chip-set based player/device. The Z500 is quite different, as it offers more memory and runs a totally different GUI software engine. This is why the Z500 can do things other "competing" players can't ;)

Thanks SMD!

Cheers,
Jrad

I got my z500 yesterday and was tickled pink with how well it worked.

But I did a web update , and now its set to region 4, And I couldn't find a way to change the region.

The firmware I had was 1.4.2 ( June 30 2006) , but after the update it was 1.4.2 ( June 26 2006).

I got my z500 yesterday and was tickled pink with how well it worked.

But I did a web update , and now its set to region 4, And I couldn't find a way to change the region.

The firmware I had was 1.4.2 ( June 30 2006) , but after the update it was 1.4.2 ( June 26 2006).


You have the latest firmware (1.4.2). To get back to Region 1, set your player to factory default.

I got my z500 yesterday and was tickled pink with how well it worked.

But I did a web update , and now its set to region 4, And I couldn't find a way to change the region.

The firmware I had was 1.4.2 ( June 30 2006) , but after the update it was 1.4.2 ( June 26 2006).
Do a player search on www.videohelp.com ;)
The firmwares should be the same, the build date difference is probably due to the Australian settings vs the US settings. (not sure why it would have given you the Aus settings)

You have the latest firmware (1.4.2). To get back to Region 1, set your player to factory default.

Doh, that fixed it.

I read through the thread and I dont think the question of whether this flawlessly plays HD (.ts, xvid, wmvhd...) 19Mbs or even upto 24Mbs was answered. So if those who have it would put it up to a test like this with a 802.11g router and with an RJ-45, I would really appreciate it.

supes

Using TwonkyVision UPnP media serving software I personally don't have any major issues playing high-def 1920x1080 MPEG-2 at 25Mbps (nothing that HDTV-to-MPEG or MPEG2Repair can't sort out). And no problems playing 1440x1080 (anamorphic) WMV9 at 19Mbps!

The SMB connection can handle high-def 1280x720 MPEG-4 sources (like the ones you can find on DivX's HD web site) at up-to 6Mbps, so no problems there...

I use a "hard-wired" connection thru' a small 5-port 100Mbps switch/hub, which keeps data collisions down to a minimum.

I don't (and never will) connect any high-def capable device via "wireless". As I can't see how any wireless connection can offer anything like the speed, stability and security of a wired connection.... Too much data error correction is required. Even more-so if you elect to encrypt the data connection too!


Cheers

bummer the z500 can't vertically stretch the picture. that's the one feature that keeps me tied to my HTPC. There are a few DVD players that have the stretch feature built in, but I need something that can play HD .TS files.
thanks.

Hi MoG,

I'm interested why you need to vertically stretch the image. What A/V set-up do you have?

Hi MoG,

I'm interested why you need to vertically stretch the image. What A/V set-up do you have?

Hi,
I have an anamorphic lens and a 2.35 AR screen. When watching letterboxed material I used my HTPC to vertically stretch it (thus removing the black bars). I then use the anamorphic lens to stretch the image horiz. and fill the 2.35 screen.

See the "2.35:1 Constant Image Height Chat" forum for tons of great info. Some vendors have projectors with the anamorphic lens built in, but most people buy a 3rd party anamorphic lens. Mine is from Prismasonic.

As far as performing the vertical stretch, some projectors do it (but not my Sony HS51A), some dvd players do it, and scalars and HTPC's do it.

I use an HTPC and would need what ever dvd player and/or media player I use to offer this feature.

i'm hoping zensonic will add this feature to a future firmware.

thanks.

Hi,
I have an anamorphic lens and a 2.35 AR screen. When watching letterboxed material I used my HTPC to vertically stretch it (thus removing the black bars). I then use the anamorphic lens to stretch the image horiz. and fill the 2.35 screen.Ahhh... another one of those guys :D

Once we have the 1.5 firmware up and running, I'll ask about getting this implementation added as a feature request ;)

By-the-way, do you see "narrow" black mattes when viewing 2.40:1 sources on these screens? Or do people prefer to knock these out somehow too?


Cheers

An AR beyond 2.35 would give black bars. The black bars on 2.4 AR movies are so thin on my system I can't really distinguish them from the black frame of the screen.

Thanks for the confirmation.... I'll see what I can do ;)

anyone know if the zensonic z500 allows for this? if so, how?!

I have the Snazzio 1350 and have been waiting for a player with the Sigma chip that plays H264 and VC1. I still haven't seen anything coming out yet except an old press release from KISS and Nero from September 2005 and I am ready to get a second Snazzi or similiar product, Zensonic, Helios, Buffalo, IO Data. I like the HDMI as the Snazzi only has DVI. My wife and kid love the Snazzi and I have to keep moving it from my Den to my decicated theater since a lot of files are now Divx or Xvid and are only on the hard drive.

Any thoughts Zensonic v Snazzi? I would guess both units would respond to Twonky or the Net Cinema so that would give me a choice. Only thing is I am using Component and need upconversion on DVD discs.

Thanks

I am extremely interested in this. Some questions that I have:

1. Does the unit play VOBs. I have several movies that are in VOB file format (one file) and would like to know if these can be streamed to this device.

2. Will it pick up a stream media from my NAS without having to have software installed on my PC and my PC constantly running?

3. How's the wireless pickup? My wireless router will be in the opposite end of the house fomr the unit.

Thanks.

I am extremely interested in this. Some questions that I have:

1. Does the unit play VOBs. I have several movies that are in VOB file format (one file) and would like to know if these can be streamed to this device.

2. Will it pick up a stream media from my NAS without having to have software installed on my PC and my PC constantly running?

3. How's the wireless pickup? My wireless router will be in the opposite end of the house fomr the unit.

Thanks.

I've owned the Z500 for the last month so I can help you out in your questions.

1. Yes, playback of VOBs work perfectly. I have had no problems whatsoever with VOBs. Playback is smooth with no stutter at all. Fast forwarding and rewinding also works like a charm. Now XviDs are little choppy with fast forwarding but the search works great. I rip all my movies in IFO mode using DVD Decryptor.

2. Using SMB no PC software is required. Just create your shares on your NAS and the Z500 will see them and playback the files.

3. Never used the wireless, just using a wired connection. But I've heard for DVD playback you should be fine. You would only run into some trouble if you started playing back high bitrate HDTV material.

Hope this helps. I love my Z500. I use it everyday.

Greg - I backup my DVD's with DVD Decrypter using ISO mode and store them on my Readnas NV. I've only had the ReadyNas NV and Z500 for about a week. While I agree with your post, I would like to ask if you've come across any DVD ISO's that don't work correctly on the Z500?

I've only tested two so far and while one works great the other just plays the studio splash screen (perfectly I must add) and just "sits" there on the 13 second mark. It is worth mentioning that the length of the splash screen (pressing Display on the Z500 remote) is shown as14 seconds (but it never gets to 14). I cannot ff to get it to 14 either.

Update: I've now got 5 backed-up as ISO files on the ReadyNAS NV and 4 of the 5 work (so all new one's work).

This is looking more and more like I always wanted. This would be a permanent replacement for a HTPC with PowerDVD to play recorded .ts files. I've been reading the manual and this thread and still have a couple of questions.

1. The manual says that using SMB, the HD files are limited to 2 Gig. All my .ts files are over 6G for those 1 hr programs I recorded. Do I really need to install server software? Is there any workaround? I've using PowerDVD 6 to play large .ts files over ethernet without problems.

2. When playing .ts, am I able to fast forward and rewind? The problem with PowerDVD is that it can only FF at 2X and cannot rewind at all.

3. Server software installation and configuration is not part of the manual, is the info in the software disk provided?

4. I backup DVD using file mode with DVDShrink. The Zensonic should have no problem playing them, right?

thanks

This is looking more and more like I always wanted. This would be a permanent replacement for a HTPC with PowerDVD to play recorded .ts files. I've been reading the manual and this thread and still have a couple of questions.

1. The manual says that using SMB, the HD files are limited to 2 Gig. All my .ts files are over 6G for those 1 hr programs I recorded. Do I really need to install server software? Is there any workaround? I've using PowerDVD 6 to play large .ts files over ethernet without problems.

I am currently playing a 5.8 Gig DVD ISO file via SMB. I am streaming directly from my Infrant ReadyNAS NV 2 TB network attached storage. This limitation was fixed in version 1.4.0 "Linux kernel patched to support 4gb+ files in SMB". Do you have the latest version of the manual (should be Z 500 Manual Version 1.4.1 and the file should be Z500_Manual-1_41.pdf)?

2. When playing .ts, am I able to fast forward and rewind? The problem with PowerDVD is that it can only FF at 2X and cannot rewind at all.

I just tried a .ts and it fast forwards from 2x to 32x. It is not as smooth as fast forwarding an ISO DVD file but it works just fine.

3. Server software installation and configuration is not part of the manual, is the info in the software disk provided?

My Infrant ReadyNAS NV is enabled for SMB (it's that simple).

4. I backup DVD using file mode with DVDShrink. The Zensonic should have no problem playing them, right?

I use DVDShrink and it works fine.

thanks

Hope this helped

Hope this helped

Yes! Thanks a lot.

I just saw this yesterday.

They are also introducing to new models: http://www.ziova.com/products.php

The supportlist are huge. ISO, IFO, Flac etc... upnp as well.

Looks promising, they all do on paper ;)

Suppose to be introduced into Europe soon.

Cheers,

M.

I saw a review of this over at DL.TV, they said some good things about the player.

They made no mention of Ziova though.

I saw a review of this over at DL.TV, they said some good things about the player.

They made no mention of Ziova though.Here's a link to an official announcement by Zensonic (Ziova): -

http://www.ziova.com/news.php


Cheers

Thanks for the link.

Does anyone know for a fact if the Zensonic is able to output Nero Digital 5.1 audio via coax, if the video was encoded using Nero Cinema profile? I know somone asked this question before but the answer said something about the player could only output via 6.1 analog.
Which doesn't make much sense.

Thanks

Does anyone know for a fact if the Zensonic is able to output Nero Digital 5.1 audio via coax, if the video was encoded using Nero Cinema profile? I know somone asked this question before but the answer said something about the player could only output via 6.1 analog.
Which doesn't make much sense.

ThanksNeroDigital supports the AAC audio format.

Passing 6Ch AAC audio "bit-streams" via SPDIF (optical and/or coaxial) is pretty pointless at the present time because nobody manufactures an digital surround sound amplifier with chip-sets capable of "decoding" AAC bit-streams. Currently, manufactures only build amps with chip-sets capable of decoding Dolby Digital and DTS audio bit-steams (with the exception of Pioneer who tinkered at supporting WMA Pro bit-streams).

The only way you can fully decode 6Ch (5.1) AAC audio streams is by using the players 6Ch analogue outputs and connecting them to a suitably equipped surround sound amplifier with 6Ch analogue inputs....

It's the same for all player/devices offering NeroDigital support.

By-the-way. If you had a SACD and/or DVD-Audio player you would have to connect via analogue too ;)


Hope it now makes sense.... Cheers

NeroDigital supports the AAC audio format.

Passing AAC audio "bit-streams" via SPDIF (optical and/or coaxial) is pointless because nobody manufactures an digital surround sound amplifier with chip-sets capable of "decoding" AAC bit-streams. Currently, manufactures only build amps with chip-sets capable of decoding Dolby Digital and DTS audio bit-steams (with the exception of Pioneer who tinkered at supporting WMA Pro bit-streams).

The only way you can fully decode 6Ch (5.1) AAC audio streams is by using the players 6Ch analogue outputs and connecting them to a suitably equipped surround sound amplifier with 6Ch analogue inputs....[/QUOTE]

It's the same for all player/devices offering NeroDigital support.

Thanks SeeMoreDigital
This makes sense now.

I got my Z500 yesterday. Hooked it up, played some DVDs over SMB and it worked. It also worked with radio, weather and music (except songs with foriegn language titles). However, HD files (recorded using Fusion @ between 10 to 13 mbps) stuttered badly. I suppose I need to install one of the UPnP servers.

I am curious because I can play these files over the network using PowerDVD and Fusion software and it never stuttered. The through put of my network is fine as I can transfer about > 50 gig in less than an hour. I can understand why a 54 mbps wireless network would not work, but why wouldn't Z500 work with SMB in a wired 100 mbps network while I don't have any problem streaming with a PC.

I've never installed any UPnP servers, do I need to install on the PC with the Shared folders or I can install it on any networked PC?

The Z500 does not seem to recognize the file extension .tp over SMB. Would a UPnP server remedy this problem? I hate to manually change to extension of the recorded HD files.

Another question. Why is this thread so quiet?

A final question...how to add more radio stations to the Z500?

Another question. Why is this thread so quiet?

A final question...how to add more radio stations to the Z500?

There is far more activity and answers to your questions on the Zensonic site forums here: http://www.z500series.com/forum/

There is far more activity and answers to your questions on the Zensonic site forums here: http://www.z500series.com/forum/

Thanks, I've been visiting that forum also. There really aren't a whole lot more activities over there except complaints....for instance, there are zero active threads under Window Media Connect... I suppose everybody is waiting for Firmware 1.5 to show up...

Anyway, I'll try WMC tonite and see what happens. I only had it for one day and it's definitely too early for regrets....

The Z500 does not seem to recognize the file extension .tp over SMB. Would a UPnP server remedy this problem? I hate to manually change to extension of the recorded HD files. During beta testing the upcoming 1.5 firmware will see the addition of the .TP file extension along with the ability to play HD sources of upto 19Mbps over SMB too ;)


Cheers

During beta testing the upcoming 1.5 firmware will see the addition of the .TP file extension along with the ability to play HD sources of upto 19Mbps over SMB too ;)


Cheers

Thanks. :cool:

Thanks, I've been visiting that forum also. There really aren't a whole lot more activities over there except complaints....for instance, there are zero active threads under Window Media Connect... I suppose everybody is waiting for Firmware 1.5 to show up...

Anyway, I'll try WMC tonite and see what happens. I only had it for one day and it's definitely too early for regrets....

WMC is very easy to set up and works well for HD content. Just make sure that all 3 services you need to run under Windows are actually running. When I installed it I had to manually configure. See the very useful article for details
http://blogs.msdn.com/alan_ludwig/archive/2006/01/20/515333.aspx

You can add radio stations via text editing an XML file which is stored in the LInux OS. It's seems reasonably straightforward but error prone. Details on the Ziova web site's Z500 Forums but I can't easily locate link just now. Alternatively wait for 1.5 Firmware upgrade and Ziova (Zensonic) say they are adding an easier way.


peter

WMC is very easy to set up and works well for HD content. Just make sure that all 3 services you need to run under Windows are actually running. When I installed it I had to manually configure. See the very useful article for details
http://blogs.msdn.com/alan_ludwig/archive/2006/01/20/515333.aspx

You can add radio stations via text editing an XML file which is stored in the LInux OS. It's seems reasonably straightforward but error prone. Details on the Ziova web site's Z500 Forums but I can't easily locate link just now. Alternatively wait for 1.5 Firmware upgrade and Ziova (Zensonic) say they are adding an easier way.


peter

Thanks. This info could potentially flatten the learning curve. :)

Looks like there's some good news for anybody who's thinking about purchasing a Z500 over in the US.

Media West Distribution (www.mediawestdistribution.com) have just revealed a "holiday special" price on their latest batch of players. And are now offering it for $299.00....

Just thought some of you might like to know ;)

Thanks SMD. I'm considering ordering another one for use with the bedroom TV.

Looks like its time to clear the inventory because the "ziova" models are coming out. Looks like z500 will use same firmware as the new models, so not a lot of risk in getting the "old" model.

I just started looking at these type of players, and this one seems the "least hated".

Playing ts files from the dvd drive- I assume that works? If so, works good? With DL DVD's? And large file sizes?

I like the media players with a dvd drive, so I can archive ts recordings to dvd and just pop in dvd when needed. A lot of recordings probably don't get played very much, so they would go on dvd (blank dvd's are cheap). Frequently played recordings would stay on hard drive, so player has quick access.

DVD drive, smb networking, external usb2.0 hdd + ntfs support, hdmi, all nice features I like. Any reason to wait for newer players? (I don't care about h264)

Playing ts files from the dvd drive- I assume that works? If so, works good? With DL DVD's? And large file sizes?

No answer needed. I just ordered one, so I will find out. I'm reverting to the 'shoot first, ask questions later' mode. :)

No answer needed. I just ordered one, so I will find out. I'm reverting to the 'shoot first, ask questions later' mode. :)
Well, it plays ts files from dvd just fine. It does not seem to like hd mpg files (ts files stripped to just mpg). Playing ts files over smb doesn't work, too slow. Windows Media Connect- ts files don't show up. TwonkyVision works ok, ts files over network ok. Remote could have been better (high force,low travel buttons).

Worked for about 6 hours, then started 'green screen', then 'snowy screen', then normal display. It would keep cycling through this sequence. Upgrading to the beta firmware may have fixed this, but I don't want to get into the continuous firmware upgrading routine. So I returned it. The search continues.

mlknez,
Yes thats right, you dont need any media server software on your PC. If you have a NAS device the Z500 should see it and play all the files directly. However since SMB has some overheads high bit rate HD files are best played back through a UPnP server software. SMB are good for SD files as well as lower bit rate Hi def files. We have tested TS streams up to 26Mbit to play fine through UPnP. Anything more and it starts to chug.


Are there any other media boxes out there that can support a pc-less mode?

AVellink or the dilink? (thinking cheaper)

Thanks!

Personally speaking I don't suffer from any of the issues Curtvm mentions!

If Curtvm had visited the official Z500 forum he would have known that the playing of high-bit-rate .TS sources via SMB has been discussed many times. And has to be performed with the aid of UPnP media serving software (such as the supplied TwonkyVision).

That said, the release of firmware 1.5B4 brought significant improvements to SMB speeds, meaning sources of up-to 19Mbps can now be played.....

Personally speaking I don't suffer from any of the issues Curtvm mentions!
The only issue I had was the problem with the hdmi 'green','snowy',normal screen cycling- I would hope no one else has this issue. (It was the only hdmi device connected to the tv. Other hdmi devices I have work ok)

If Curtvm had visited the official Z500 forum he would have known that the playing of high-bit-rate .TS sources via SMB has been discussed many times. And has to be performed with the aid of UPnP media serving software (such as the supplied TwonkyVision).
I read most of the z500 forum- I knew about the smb limitation, I was just confirming it, thats all. TwonkyVision works fine, and surprisingly is a nice little lean program. Playing ts files from a usb 2.0 hard drive (ntfs) worked fine also.

The only issue I had was the problem with the hdmi 'green','snowy',normal screen cycling- I would hope no one else has this issue. (It was the only hdmi device connected to the tv. Other hdmi devices I have work ok)HDMI and HDMI repeater issues are much improved with firmware 1.5B4...

That said, I guess I'm one of the lucky ones... as HDMI has always worked for me!

any places that delivery to canada?

Try OnlyBestRated in Canada

To anyone reading this thread my advice is "Don't buy it"

I have had one for two weeks and the summary is-

it's DVD player is clunky and loud
it does not de-interlace well
it does not play DVD-R (sony, memorex, or verbatim)
it sometimes crashes on normal DVD menus requiring a unpluging

I've been to the web site and the standard support line is "upgrade your system firmware" in a few places. OK, so first you need to join the forum, then you need to register the product, which entails giving over your phone number, address, email, and system Ethernet MAC address and wireless MAC addresses and serial number.

So you have to write out three UPC style codes off your box, ( I got pissed off and pulled it out my rack, drug it over to the computer and double checked/re-entered the codes) and send that off to Australia before you can even look at the firmware. I can only think of one reason to need all that information and it's not good for personal privacy.

If not for the HDMI this thing would going right back, if you looking at this unit as a media center playback box, don't. Wait for another to come out with HDMI. I still just may return it and wait.

My take on this whole process would have been somewhat better if they just posted the firmware for download minus all the register crap. Once you get pissed off you start looking at other things like build quality and then you see it for what it is, cheap china OEM hardware.

What a load of tosh...

I'm not going to say the Z500 doesn't have its flaws. Indeed I don't know of any Sigma EM8620L chip-set based player that doesn't..... But I've had this player for over a year, I (and the wife) use it every day, and it's nothing like as dire as your making it out to be!

Personally I don't have any problems playing Verbatum or Sony DVD-R's (burned using Nero, DVD Decrypter or ImgBurn).

I really can't be bothered to respond any further to your trolls....

What a load of tosh...

I'm not going to say the Z500 doesn't have its flaws. Indeed I don't know of any Sigma EM8620L chip-set based player that doesn't..... But I've had this player for over a year, I (and the wife) use it every day, and it's nothing like as dire as your making it out to be!

Personally I don't have any problems playing Verbatum or Sony DVD-R's (burned using Nero, DVD Decrypter or ImgBurn).

I really can't be bothered to respond any further to your trolls....

SeeMoreDigital-

You're pretty transparent in your love for this unit and I honestly don't think you're objective about these players anymore. You're a z500 fan, plain and simple, so don't get PO'ed when someone says you might be wrong, this forum reads "all the great reasons to by a Zensonic" with you responding to the issues posted issues like they are all trolls/lying/idiots/etc. Too bad if you don't like this, that is what these forums are for, talking about products and our experiences with them. In this case mine is very bad, I did not even get into how crappy it is to have static noise during a crash blasted out to the receiver after the family "just got to sleep".

To all I out there, I actually bought this unit based on SeeMoreDigital's input in the doom9 forum, and I now completely regret it. As much as I wanted this to be the real deal, it's turing into a let down, it is not plug and play out of the box. I already have a HTPC and the whole point of this was to simplify the process.

My videos (using the tools mentioned above plus autogk) do not play, and after the beta firmware the DVD menu lockup seems better (have not had enough time to say for sure 100% gone.). However, the worst part is now the main menu screen is constantly "rolling" over like the scan rate is ever so slightly out of sync on my Pioneer HDTV. Which did not happen in the old firmware, and of course the new firmware is beta so there is no support.

My process here is to take a autogk re-code or home video re-code (both to xvid) and drag them into a nero data DVD ISO and burn it to a DVD-R. That type of dvd in the z500 causes a high pitched squeal and does not read.

(edited as I was in a rush to get out of the house, added more information on issues)

My take on this whole process would have been somewhat better if they just posted the firmware for download minus all the register crap. Once you get pissed off you start looking at other things like build quality and then you see it for what it is, cheap china OEM hardware.

Just to clarify,
The Z500 is not OEM and the build quality has been stated as being extremely good especially compared to others out there.
You are obviously annoyed with your unit, that is plain to see, but other people arent having half the dramas you are having and other people are getting help on issues that they face, but you are intitled to your opinion of course.
Regards

Just to clarify,
The Z500 is not OEM and the build quality has been stated as being extremely good especially compared to others out there.
You are obviously annoyed with your unit, that is plain to see, but other people arent having half the dramas you are having and other people are getting help on issues that they face, but you are intitled to your opinion of course.
Regards


Well, I am keeping the unit. I fixed my rolling menu with my projector and, I'm hopeful for the new firmware, I view it as a gamble and not good value for the 300 bucks. The network support is working and how I get around the DVD-R issues. Pioneer DVD-r media with "DVD shrinks" are now also on the "not working or even loading" list.

The build itself is heavy, which I guess some equate to good. It is made in china and has a rather inexpensive looking dvd loader with a silver front glued on, and yes I can see the gobs of glue. When I load -R media it spins up, and it never stops, so getting it back out is a bit of a pain.

I think the post linked below is an excellent review of these units. None of these products are ready for prime time and no person should have to upgrade firmware out of the box to get basic functionality. Who does that not annoy? Along with all the registration junk to even get the firmware I can't see anyone being "HAPPY" with the process. After going to Z500 club I see people not getting the support they would like, but the player skinning is cool (another reason I'm keeping it).

I would not buy it again, but I have it racked and almost working so I'll wait for the new firmware. As always YMMV, some guys here have two or three of these things and love them. I was ready to pull the trigger on Infrant Ready NAS NV and ditch the HTPC, but I'm glad I did not.

http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?p=8533342&&#post8533342

Along with all the registration junk to even get the firmware I can't see anyone being "HAPPY" with the processI'd like to make something clear.... You don't have to register the player with the Z500 Club to install the latest approved firmware!

All anybody with a Z500 has to do is connect their player to their network. And go to Settings -> Firmware -> Upgrade from Web...... Indeed, this system has never failed me!

You only need to register the player with the Z500 Club if you want to download and keep previous firmware versions... Or download Zensonic's part of the SDK. Which in-turn, gives you the ability to create your own skins.... Which you create and install at your own risk. Hence the requirement to register your acceptance!


Cheers

You only need to register the player with the Z500 Club if you want to download and keep previous firmware versions... Or download Zensonic's part of the SDK.


Or to get the features from the beta which you have so openly promoted in these forums, as they make the Z500 more attractive. If not for those "beta" features this unit would have surely gone back in my case. You must have forgot that part.

A EULA does not require a registration, really if you want to enhance the experience, have them just post the code for download on the main z500 web page. I myself already have enough passwords and cookies.

Or to get the features from the beta which you have so openly promoted in these forums, as they make the Z500 more attractive. If not for those "beta" features this unit would have surely gone back in my case. You must have forgot that part.

A EULA does not require a registration, really if you want to enhance the experience, have them just post the code for download on the main z500 web page. I myself already have enough passwords and cookies.As stated on the forum, the "beta" was a one off unsupported build. Which was to be installed at your own risk. Hence the requirement to register your acceptance!

It's all about maintaining a basic level of quality control for people willing to experiment with their players.... Nothing more!

what resolution does it support thru the component outlput?...both the DVD encrypted movie...and for other files...dvix, mpeg...etc...
Because of the MPAA restriction, some player limits the output on the component to 480

what resolution does it support thru the component outlput?...both the DVD encrypted movie...and for other files...dvix, mpeg...etc...
Because of the MPAA restriction, some player limits the output on the component to 480Officially the Z500 will not up-scale "copy-protected" (NTSC 480/PAL 576) DVD sources via the component video outputs. Although up-scaling of copy-protected DVD sources is permissible via the HDMI video output.

However, it would seem the players "region-free and CSS-free" code and has posted it over on VideoHelp.com. Thus making up-scaling (right upto 1920x1080) via component possible too!

I would really like to get a unit like this. It seems to do everything. The only problem is the GUI. Are there any units out there that do cover art? I know it's skinable but I'm not the artistic type and don't have the time to do it.

I would really like to get a unit like this. It seems to do everything. The only problem is the GUI. Are there any units out there that do cover art? I know it's skinable but I'm not the artistic type and don't have the time to do it.

Cover Art is something we are planning on for a late 1st Q release next year.

Cover Art is something we are planning on for a late 1st Q release next year.

I would caution against buying base on a 'future' feature. The Z500 does most of the things I want it to do, like streaming ts and vob files, etc., without using server software... most of the time. At this time, issues like random rebooting and remote control failure, are something I'd like to see solved, not cover art.

But then again, the perfect player is not out there yet, and I've actually moved the HTPC out of my family room and have been using the Z500 exclusively for the last couple weeks, now that I pretty much know how to get around the limitations. Can't wait to see more improvements in version 1.6 firmware.

I have a PDA with Window Mobile 2003. Can i control the Zensonic from my pocket pc?

It seem like i should be able to remotely control WMP or Twonky with a PPC. Then that in turn would control the Z500. I hate to turn on the TV set just to browse music.

:confused: I am skeptical of this. I've done the region free hack (thanks!), but the manual says this player can only do 480p over component. I was hoping that this would allow high def material to come out as 1080i over component, but it does not (much to my embarrassment on a friends Barco 808s.)
I have a US model. The US distributor has been recommending component over HDMI for those who are having trouble with the super buggy hdmi connection from this unit. I was shocked that the unit would not do high def over component. If you got this for high def, this is a joke of a recommendation. I love this player and have learned to work with it on my own setup. Its just embarrasing when you try to show off on another hdmi tv and the thing lays an egg. I just played in on a Westinghouse 720p lcd and it went nuts playing 1080i material. New firmware is coming out (v1.6), but I am not holding my breath.

:confused: I am skeptical of this. I've done the region free hack (thanks!), but the manual says this player can only do 480p over component. I was hoping that this would allow high def material to come out as 1080i over component, but it does not (much to my embarrassment on a friends Barco 808s.)
I have a US model. The US distributor has been recommending component over HDMI for those who are having trouble with the super buggy hdmi connection from this unit. I was shocked that the unit would not do high def over component. If you got this for high def, this is a joke of a recommendation. I love this player and have learned to work with it on my own setup. Its just embarrasing when you try to show off on another hdmi tv and the thing lays an egg. I just played in on a Westinghouse 720p lcd and it went nuts playing 1080i material. New firmware is coming out (v1.6), but I am not holding my breath. Actually, the Z500 can output 480i and 480p via component. It can't however output 480i via HDMI due to limitations in Sigma's chip-set/reference design board.

Provided the "region-free" hack has been implemented there's no issues with up-scaling "pure interlaced" 480i or 480i with "progressive flags" (ie: 3-2). Indeed, I don't see any such up-scaling issues when viewing on my high-def capable 42" plasma....

Please bear in mind however, up-scaling 720x480 sources to say, 1280x720 or 1920x1080 can't match in visual quality what a "true" high-def 1280x720 or 1920x1080 source would look like!

Cover Art is something we are planning on for a late 1st Q release next year.

Could I just check what is meant by this?

Can you view and select Music Albums by Album Cover Art?

Cheers

Alan

Can you view and select Music Albums by Album Cover Art?No not at the moment Alan...

It's a feature that has been requested by many Z500 owners and is planned to be implemented... Hopefully before the end of March 2007.

By-the-way, due to European ROHS regulations, two new devices will be released in Europe under the "Ziova" brand name.

Here's a link: http://www.ziova.com/products.php


Cheers

...By-the-way, due to European ROHS regulations, two new devices will be released in Europe under the "Ziova" brand name....

Thanks, will these be driven by the same software user interfaces? Is there a planned release date?

Thanks, Alan

Thanks, will these be driven by the same software user interfaces? Yes... that is the current intension.

Is there a planned release date?I'll check and report back...

I have a question for owners of this device... would I be able to do the following:
COnnect an external USB HD to the device
Copy content from my PC to the external hard drive for viewing (rather than stream from my computer) without hooking the external drive up to my computer? I.E is there some method through the GUI to copy files remotely to the attached external storage? Or is there an ftp server built in to the device? (I'm basically looking to replace my xbox w/ XBMC with something that can play HD stuffs)

No.... you can't transfer files from a PC to an external USB2 HDD directly connected to the Z500.

Just to confirm though.... Once the files have been stored on an external USB2 HDD, it is possible to directly connect the external USB2 HDD to the Z500 and play them.... Without having your PC switched on and/or connected to the Z500.

I have a 250GB Western Digital external USB2 HDD, full of .ISO DVD back-ups which I connect directly to the Z500 and play ;)

Right, well I was hoping I wouldn't have to be carting my external hdd back & forth :( I wonder how hard it would be for them to implement a basic ftp server in the firmware (ala xecuter's slick solution)

Right, well I was hoping I wouldn't have to be carting my external hdd back & forth :( I wonder how hard it would be for them to implement a basic ftp server in the firmware (ala xecuter's slick solution)
Harder than carting an external hdd back and forth.... ;-)

sorry couldn't resist

peter

Harder than carting an external hdd back and forth.... ;-)

sorry couldn't resist

peter

hehe zing! It's more an issue of getting behind my entertainment center stuffs... it's a pain in my ass whenever I have to plug anything in back there

hehe zing! It's more an issue of getting behind my entertainment center stuffs... it's a pain in my ass whenever I have to plug anything in back thereNo problem.... The USB2 connection is located at the front of the Z500 ;)

I have this unit since December. There are a lot of bug of this unit.

The HDMI flicker in and out with a grainy white screen. I have try all of the different resolution....nothing has solve this problem.

Subtile on DVD sometime does not show on the screen. I email TEch support...but they always refer to the forum. Tech support sucks big time...compare to people like Oppo. They would never try to solve the problem.

The units would locks up and reboot on a lot of occasion.

DVD picture quality is no where close.... comapre to the Oppo. I have both unit side by side and on the same display for comparison.....720p through HDMI

I got it mainly for streaming HD content...which work very well over the wireless G network.

Remote control is very crappy. You have to push very hard on the buttons. A lot of failure has been reported on the Z500 forum. My remote is defected after only 1 month. Some of the "number" button doesnt work anymore. I contact Zensonic to send me a new remote...they wouldnt...they ask me to get it from the purchase place. The unit is useless without a remote control since eveything is done by navigation. So i can not use the unit while i send off my defected remote.

I have this unit since December. There are a lot of bug of this unit.

The HDMI flicker in and out with a grainy white screen. I have try all of the different resolution....nothing has solve this problem.

Subtile on DVD sometime does not show on the screen. I email TEch support...but they always refer to the forum. Tech support sucks big time...compare to people like Oppo. They would never try to solve the problem.

The units would locks up and reboot on a lot of occasion.

DVD picture quality is no where close.... comapre to the Oppo. I have both unit side by side and on the same display for comparison.....720p through HDMI

I got it mainly for streaming HD content...which work very well over the wireless G network.

Remote control is very crappy. You have to push very hard on the buttons. A lot of failure has been reported on the Z500 forum. My remote is defected after only 1 month. Some of the "number" button doesnt work anymore. I contact Zensonic to send me a new remote...they wouldnt...they ask me to get it from the purchase place. The unit is useless without a remote control since eveything is done by navigation. So i can not use the unit while i send off my defected remote.

I don't disagree with you except I've never been able to stream .ts files over wireless G without stuttering.

Anyway, it would be pretty boring to have a device that works 100% of the time.

I bought the Z500 for streaming DVD and .ts files over SMB, as I hate server softwares. As for DVD streaming, it can't open my IFO files half of the time and I have to play the VOBs directly. For .ts streaming, it works most of the time but it has problems with files created by HDTVtoMPEG2 at commercial cut locations. I got around that by having HDTVtoMPEG2 creating multiple .ts files. :(

However, its advantage over my HTPC includes, smaller size, no fan noise, relative fast boot (not fast, but faster than my HTPC), rewind .ts files faster and more reliably than my Fusion apps, less maintenance, remote control (not the original, which is the worst I've had and seen in the last 20 years, already RMA and replaced, now using a MX-500 and keeping the original for teaching purpose). :)

I still believe this the best machine for my use. Hopefully firmware 1.6 would help. :rolleyes:

I've actually completely replaced the HTPC in my family room with the Z500. If 1.6 is as good as promised (I only use it for DVD and .ts files), I would consider buying another for my bedroom, believe it or not. :eek:

Just took delivery of a Z500. I like the unit quite a bit, but it doesn't do DRM protected content at all, and some of my other video was hit or miss as to wether it would play as well.

I can get around DRM by stripping it out using Tunebite, but that's an awful lot of extra real time processing on top of making the recordings in the first place.

I really don't care wether or not my recordings have DRM, I usually watch them one time and delete them. But I DO care about being able to easily watch them on whatever device I want!

So I'm probably going to send the Z back and instead try a Helios X3000.

Just took delivery of a Z500. I like the unit quite a bit, but it doesn't do DRM protected content at all, and some of my other video was hit or miss as to wether it would play as well.

I can get around DRM by stripping it out using Tunebite, but that's an awful lot of extra real time processing on top of making the recordings in the first place.

I really don't care wether or not my recordings have DRM, I usually watch them one time and delete them. But I DO care about being able to easily watch them on whatever device I want!

So I'm probably going to send the Z back and instead try a Helios X3000.
Cross post. Answered in the other thread.

So I'm probably going to send the Z back and instead try a Helios X3000.


I bought a Helios and am going to send the Z back.

Since I'm going to get dinged with a 15% return fee, if anyone here would like to try the Z for $45 less than the retail price (the amount of the ding), and can get me a PayPal by Tuesday of next week, I'll send it on to you instead of getting a RMA. Email me...mwalsh@smad.com

Michael...
let us know how the Helios work?. My next unit wont be the Zensonic. I hope the Zen people are reading this forum....and fix their product. The Z500 only looks good on paper.

For those of you with the Z500, the eagerly anticipated 1.6 Firmware has just been released
http://www.z500series.com/forum/index.php?showtopic=2421&hl=

petr

Does the Z500 with FW 1.6 still require that the Guest account be enabled on the server (for SMB)?

5 quick questions before I spend my hard earned money on this unit :

1) any problem with PAL/NTSC DVD playback ?
2) any issue with SMB shared folders (no UPnP nor DLNA here) ?
3) WM9 decoding limited to 720p, no 1080i/p ? (that's according to Zensonic's site)
4) component output for Xvid, TS, WMV9 limited to 480i/p or can be scaled to 1080i ?
5) 5.1 WMA Pro sound decoded and available on the 5.1 analog outputs ?

Now crossing my fingers to get mostly positive answers to these 5 questions. :)

Does the Z500 with FW 1.6 still require that the Guest account be enabled on the server (for SMB)?This may depend on how convoluted your network set-up is!

Personally speaking I don't have to do this.... I run a 24/7 PC server...

5 quick questions before I spend my hard earned money on this unit :

1) any problem with PAL/NTSC DVD playback ?
2) any issue with SMB shared folders (no UPnP nor DLNA here) ?
3) WM9 decoding limited to 720p, no 1080i/p ? (that's according to Zensonic's site)
4) component output for Xvid, TS, WMV9 limited to 480i/p or can be scaled to 1080i ?
5) 5.1 WMA Pro sound decoded and available on the 5.1 analog outputs ?1) No problems
2) No problems... I serve all my files via SMB. Even high-def MPEG-2 .TS sources up-to 19Mbps
3) All 1080p sources available on Microsoft's WMV HD Content Showcase can be played
4) All sources (including .ISO DVD back-up's) can be up-scaled to 1080i via component
5) Yes, 5.1 (6Ch) WMA Pro audio (as well as 6Ch AAC audio), can be passed via the analogue audio outputs.

In a few weeks time the new Ziova (http://www.ziova.com/products.php) products will be released... So you may want to wait a bit ;)

....In a few weeks time the new Ziova (http://www.ziova.com/products.php) products will be released... So you may want to wait a bit ;)
Indications are that the Ziova cs505 is a new cabinet only with the same internal circuit board as the Zensonic Z500. The firmware on the Ziova will start at 1.0 but will be the same firmware as version 1.6 on the Zensonic. Maybe not the best choice for numbering. Anyway, there are some other features on this media player that were of interest to me - mainly the ability to handle Nero Digital subtitles and chapters. The only way to really find out is to see for myself, and DC discounted the box a little more today so I decided to not wait and placed my order a few hours ago.

This may depend on how convoluted your network set-up is!

Personally speaking I don't have to do this.... I run a 24/7 PC server...
So do I; that's why I asked. It's secured. Is that a back-handed "Yes," or do you use UPnP, rather than SMB?

Michael...
let us know how the Helios work?. My next unit wont be the Zensonic. I hope the Zen people are reading this forum....and fix their product. The Z500 only looks good on paper.


The Helios was a complete waste of time. No DRM support (contrary to the user manual); jittery playback of DVDs and a fairly noisy DVD drive; intermittent response from the remote and it only worked properly when in very close proximity to the unit; also has poor remote button design - they would frequently get caught in the frame and "stick".

I could have just gotten a bad unit, but since lack of DRM suppport is a real deal breaker, I'm currently waiting on a RMA to send this one back as well.

Anyway, there are some other features on this media player that were of interest to me - mainly the ability to handle Nero Digital subtitles and chapters.Firmware 1.6 added full support for NeroDigital (MPEG-4 Part-2) files generated using Recode 2 with chapters and (VOBsub) subtitles.

It's also possible to mux DivX or XviD MPEG-4 video (with AAC audio) streams into the .MP4 container, using YAMB/MP4Box and play these too....

So do I; that's why I asked. It's secured. Is that a back-handed "Yes," or do you use UPnP, rather than SMB?I serve files to the Z500 via SMB 99.9% of the time.

If you're interested. Here's my network set-up: -

http://img141.imageshack.us/img141/9697/smdnetworksetupxe6.png


Cheers

I wouldn't say that there is "no problem" with DVD playback on the Z500 even with the 1.6 firmware, at least when it comes to IFO/ISO files of ripped DVDs. I still have discs that won't play. It is an improvement, but still falls short of the 100% success rate you can get from a HTPC.

I wouldn't say that there is "no problem" with DVD playback on the Z500 even with the 1.6 firmware, at least when it comes to IFO/ISO files of ripped DVDs. I still have discs that won't play. It is an improvement, but still falls short of the 100% success rate you can get from a HTPC.My personal recommendation is to always back-up DVD's to .ISO files and not folder sets with .IFO, .BUP and .VOB files, as these can become fragmented.

I now use the most current version of DVDFab Decrypter to save full disc's directly to ISO.

For generating "main movie only" back-up's I input the required elementary MPEG-2 and AC3 streams into DVDPlannerBASIC (set to wizard mode), create a basic menu and let DVDPlannerBASIC do its thing... After it's created a folder set with all the essential .IFO, .BUP and .VOB files in it, I run the whole lot thru' ImgBurn and create an .ISO file....

Using both methods I've achieved a 100% success rate...

I serve files to the Z500 via SMB 99.9% of the time.

If you're interested. Here's my network set-up:

Cheers
No, I'm not interested in your network topology, but in your system of authentication, if any. You seem to be dodging the question.

I use SMB.
My 24/7 servers (7TB) are secured under Windows by user/password unique to each account (Xbox, AudioTrons, PhotoBridge, 7 PCs).
There is no Everyone account; Guest is disabled.

I believe Chuna once said that the Z500 would never support such a setup (without UPnP). Did I misunderstand or has something changed?

Isarver, I really don't much care for your tone and subsequent attitude....

If you had taken the time to read post 173, answer 2 correctly you would have known I use SMB (and not UPnP). Thus rendering part of your question in post 175, redundant!

Also, your question in post 175 would have been clearer if you had asked, "Is it secured" rather than, "It's secured".... As the use of "it's" as a contraction means "it is" and not "is it"!

But in answer to your "direct" question regarding "password protection"...... No, the Z500 does not provide password protection of your "in-house" shared folders via SMB.... And (as far as I know) this wont change.


Regards

Clarity, at last! Thank you.

Sorry you feel that way. I did read your response and understood that you use SMB. I felt that you had not fully understood the question and simply wanted to make it as specific as possible, closing as many loopholes as possible. It had the desired result.

In fact, "It's secured" in my post was a positive statement about to my network, not a question about the Z500. (Hence, no question mark.) The referent was "network" in your previous post, which I even quoted. (Perhaps you should take the time to read? Or perhaps you're juggling too many threads simultaneously?)

Not to be rude, but what you think of me is completely irrelevant. That said, can we be civil?

But in answer to your "direct" question regarding "password protection"...... No, the Z500 does not provide password protection of your "in-house" shared folders via SMB.... And (as far as I know) this wont change.


this has always been a complaint of mine.

why will the z not support a password protected connection? is there an inherent limitation in the hardware, or are the programmers just not interested in implementing a feture that has been requested by many over a long period of time?

security is very important. all the more so in light of the fact that the z doesn't support wpa. wep is not secure, and therefore if the z is connected via wireless, the network is not secure.

seems that the least they could do is support a password protected connection.

this has always been a complaint of mine.Yes it has, hasn't it....... In-fact, just about every one of your 144 posts over on the Z500 forum has been a complaint about something!

You've made it quite clear the Z500 is not for you and you're on the hunt for another device.

I sincerely hope you find what you are looking for.... And I wish you the best of luck.

Yes it has, hasn't it....... In-fact, just about every one of your 144 posts over on the Z500 forum has been a complaint about something!

You've made it quite clear the Z500 is not for you and you're on the hunt for another device.

I sincerely hope you find what you are looking for.... And I wish you the best of luck.

it would be more helpful if you could answer my question rather than attack me personally.

I don't know what you expect to be said on this forum, that has not already been said over on the Z500 forum.... especially from me!

I'm not a Zensonic employee, I don't receive any payment from them, I'm not privy to any insider information, I'm just a keen enthusiast who was selected by Zensonic to test their player and volunteer help to people over on their forum.

It's become quite clear to me however, that I'm unable to help everyone.... And some people can't be helped.

As I said, I sincerely hope you find what you are looking for.... And I wish you the best of luck.

I don't know what you expect to be said on this forum, that has not already been said over on the Z500 forum.... especially from me!



i was just wondering if the lack of password support is an inherent limitation or just something they refuse to impliment.

i don't believe i ever read an answer to that over at the z500 forum.

but, if you don't know, so be it.

however, if there is someone who knows the answer, a reply would be appreciated.

thanks.

Does anyone know when the Ziova unit will be available for purchase in the US?

Does anyone know when the Ziova unit will be available for purchase in the US?

Probably looking at April 2007

Hi,

I am considering a purchase of this device and am a newbie on this topic, so sorry if asking lame questions, but what I want to do is capture High Def tv content most likely via a PC with ATSC tuner card and capture the files to a USB hard drive attached to the Z500 or on the PC's hard drive for further file transfer to the Z500.

What I am asking is the following:

1. If using this device what would be the most successful means of playing back the files of the HDTV broadcast (I am assuming that the file format is .ts or .tp I am not sure if there is other video format that can be derived or converted from the HDTV files). How well can this device handle the .ts files? Is there a better file format that should be used?

2. As this is a networked device, can I upload from the PC thru the wireless connection on the Z500 to an attached USB Hard Drive for playback later? I am not planning on realtime playback from the PC or anything just transfer files and all. Can this be done? Or will I need to download to the USB harddrive attached to the PC and then sneaker net the hard drive to the Z500?

3. Based on the answer in question 1 above, if the HDTV content is played back I do understand that there is HDMI and also component output on the Z500, can I expect true Hi Def playback in 1080 from these files via either HDMI or component and if so is one output more robust in this machine than the other?

4. How capable is the TwonkyVision for realtime serving via the network of the stored .ts files (or whatever format) and also assuming hardwired network connection will be more robust than wireless?

Thank you

I'm new to media servers and about to buy my first. Would those here reccomend the Z500 over the Helios X3000/5000 and the JVC SRDVD-100U?


Also what is SMB and UPnP server software?


Thanks

1. If using this device what would be the most successful means of playing back the files of the HDTV broadcast (I am assuming that the file format is .ts or .tp I am not sure if there is other video format that can be derived or converted from the HDTV files). How well can this device handle the .ts files? Is there a better file format that should be used?Capturing HDTV as an .TS file will be fine

2. As this is a networked device, can I upload from the PC thru the wireless connection on the Z500 to an attached USB Hard Drive for playback later? I am not planning on realtime playback from the PC or anything just transfer files and all. Can this be done? Or will I need to download to the USB harddrive attached to the PC and then sneaker net the hard drive to the Z500?The Z500 is simply a player, so no you can't use it as a hub to pass files to a directly connected USB HDD. All files will have to be transfered to an external USB HDD before connecting to the Z500.

Please bear in mind though that the USB connection does not appear to be fast enough play HDTV MPEG-2 .TS streams (over 11Mpps). Indeed, this seems to be an issues with all similar players based around Sigma's EM8620L chip-set and reference board design.

3. Based on the answer in question 1 above, if the HDTV content is played back I do understand that there is HDMI and also component output on the Z500, can I expect true Hi Def playback in 1080 from these files via either HDMI or component and if so is one output more robust in this machine than the other?Both the HDMI (digital) and component (analogue) video outputs are capable of passing full 1920x1080 resolution images, to a suitably equipped display

4. How capable is the TwonkyVision for realtime serving via the network of the stored .ts files (or whatever format) and also assuming hardwired network connection will be more robust than wireless?I find it to be very capable. Via UPnP I'm able to play 1920x1080 MPEG-2 in TS sources running at upto 35Mbps via a hardwired network. The SMB network connection supports 1920x1080 MPEG-2 in TS sources running at upto 19Mbps

I'm new to media servers and about to buy my first. Would those here reccomend the Z500 over the Helios X3000/5000 and the JVC SRDVD-100U?From what I understand the Helios and JVC players run on Syabas middle-ware, so both manufacturers players offer similar GUI's and features. The Z500's GUI and feature set has been custom built. It is far more flexible than any Syabas based player.


Also what is SMB and UPnP server software?SMB = Server Message Block (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Server_Message_Block) and UPnP = Universal Plug and Play (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/UPnP). Both provide ways of serving files from your PC to your player. The Z500 was the first device in its class to offer SMB connectivity. Indeed, since its launch this connection has got better and better. And with the help of customer feed-back and testing has become extremely reliable and stable.


Cheers

I have both the Helios X3000 and the Zensonic Z500.

The Helios is very reliable at what it does, and although the UI isn't quite as slick in appearance as the Z500, it is much more fast and efficient to navigate through. You need a server with UPNP support or to run a UPNP software app on a PC for it to access your media. I use an Infrant Readynas which has built in UPNP software which works great with the Helios.

What the Helios doesn't have that the Z500 does is support for SMB (so you don't need to run any software on a PC to access your media), and "experimental" support for IFO/ISO DVD files. It seems there is a wide variance in success rates different people have with this experimental feature, and much is title-dependent. My experience is it is something you absolutely can't count on working.

The Z500 routinely locks up on playing some files, and I find I can't just leave it on for over a few hours or I will have to power-cycle it.

Note that my use of both of these is just for playing video. I don't use any of the audio or photo viewing features.

I own the Helios X3000 and was irritated to discover after purchase that the unit does not support DD 5.1 audio over HDMI. I asked Neodigits about this and their response was to use the separate digital audio output of the player for that.

This complicates my whole-house switching arrangement and I'd like to replace the Helios with a media player that can properly pass digital video and audio, including DD5.1, over HDMI.

Can anyone here confirm for me whether the Z500 behaves properly in this regard?

I own the Helios X3000 and was irritated to discover after purchase that the unit does not support DD 5.1 audio over HDMI. I asked Neodigits about this and their response was to use the separate digital audio output of the player for that.

This complicates my whole-house switching arrangement and I'd like to replace the Helios with a media player that can properly pass digital video and audio, including DD5.1, over HDMI.

Can anyone here confirm for me whether the Z500 behaves properly in this regard?


Works for me! So does DTS.

I just got mine: Having problems getting the center channel audio to play DVD media?

The set up:
AV Reciever: ONKYO TX-SR 674

HDMI cable into the reciever - ok works fine transfering the video, no sound through it... So I hooked up the audio coax out into line 2 on the reciever. I switched the reciver to use audio from coax 2 with video 1 set to HDMI. I get all the surrounds, fronts, backs, sub, ok but, no center signal comming through. Pretty weird feeling, no voices/dialog but things falling down around you.

I am running my cable box into component video 1, using coax 1 and it works fine no problems, so it does not seem to be an issue with the reciever.

Have any solution ideas, why am I not getting the center channel?

Thanks,
Captn

As mentioned over in the other Zensonic thread....

Why not come visit us on our dedicated forum and discuss your issue? We'll be happy to help you: -

http://www.ziova.com/forum/index.php?


Cheers

As mentioned over in the other Zensonic thread....
Cheers


It will not let me in? can you fix that?

It will not let me in? can you fix that?
Opps fixed now, junk filter hassle.

It works...

Not really sure why (just change settings back and fourth a couple of times), it could be just a re-boot or two after installing the firmware, but everythings seems ok now.

If your still reading over here...

I had a couple questions...

From what ive seen it looks like the CS505 is pretty much the same as the Z500
but i have noticed a couple extras on the CS505
for one:
DVB/ATSC Transport Stream Support is listed on the CS505 and not the z500

is that just because website's spec lists have not been updated on the z500, but that it does indeed do that? or is there something different in the CS505??

If there are difference, what else would they be, I cant seem to find them listed.. i noticed that the CS505 didnt have an SCART port... no big deal to me though.

also when will the CS505 be available in the US? what about the CS510?
Could you also give the MSRP of both? Im guessing they would be a bit cheaper then CS505 than the Z500 since its missing some of the hardware?

Thanks

If your still reading over here...

also when will the CS505 be available in the US? what about the CS510?
Could you also give the MSRP of both? Im guessing they would be a bit cheaper then CS505 than the Z500 since its missing some of the hardware?

Thanks

The CS505 and CS510 will be available in the US end of April/early May. CS505 suggested retail is $299.00 and the CS510 is $249.00

Does anyone know if the the CS505 will do any better than the Z500 in regards to jpg slide shows? It's not a deal breaker but it would be nice.

From what ive seen it looks like the CS505 is pretty much the same as the Z500
but i have noticed a couple extras on the CS505
for one:
DVB/ATSC Transport Stream Support is listed on the CS505 and not the z500

is that just because website's spec lists have not been updated on the z500, but that it does indeed do that? or is there something different in the CS505?? To confirm. Yes, the CS505, CS510 and the Z500 all support DVB and ATSC Transport Streams.


Cheers

Does anyone know if the the CS505 will do any better than the Z500 in regards to jpg slide shows? It's not a deal breaker but it would be nice.
It doubt it very much due to hardware limitations (but you can turn your pix in to a HD movie which works).. however someone just posted on the Ziova forum to say that with the new UPnP TVersity server he was getting 1 second picture change with 2272x1704 pixel 24BPP images. If so, that makes it very usable.

I'll give it a shot next time I need to show some pictures.

peter

I am very pleased with this unit. On hdmi I will on occaision see the green screen of death, snow, etc. If you don't know how to deal with this it can be a pain once it happens. This is just par for the course in the rough and tumble world of HD content (though it likes to blow out on dvds.) New firmware (v1.6) helps (I'm on v1.4.2), but at the cost of near 10 second pauses when going to the main screen (I'd contend analogue audio takes a hit with the new firmware, which I did not like since the unit sounds great and you can achieve improvements in video/audio by upgrading the power cable, old Marigo resolution seems to work welll with video.) That 10 second pause leads me to the first work around:
1. If in a tail spin, try to exit the video/dvd and go all the way back to the main menu and wait about ten seconds. Go back in and quickly select a file that is easily played to get it back on track.
Option 2 is to unplug the cable or turn your tv on and off. Once you have a green screen you are heading this way.
Option 3, power down which is a pain and also shut off the tv. Be persistent eventually you will get the unit to calm down. Keep in mind your tv is shaking hands in away with the Z500 over hdmi. I've had pretty good luck with other tvs, but previous post on Westinghouse was an exception.
2. If you are jittering or losing it on a video, pause and frame advance a couple times. I've got some high bit rate transfer star wars movies and after dumbing them down a little bit with videoredoplus (20-22 mbit) they are watchable with this trick (playing of USB NTFS 320 GB WD, SATA). Just got to be quick on the draw. Interestingly, I dodged these out to HD DVD at the original 24-25 mbit rate and a friends Toshiba HD-XA1 (A1 would be same) stutters just a bit at one point and the same trick worked with those units. You can nurse through some really high rez stuff this way. I should do a networked setup based on reading here, but not much in the way of movies is over 18 mbit, so nagh.
3. The original hated remote is great in my book. I can goob it up with food and wipe it right off. Great when showing off HD pron to the natives. Killer little joystick in the original (love it so much I balking at htpc since I've yet to see remote with this, not to mention setup pain and noise of htpc.) I've got a couple buttons that I have to push hard. My really froze up and got search hit that said to take batteries out and hit all the buttons with them out a bunch of times. Even suggested leaving them out a few days. Worked great ever since. Try this if your remote starts manifesting any issues. A hunch tells me nipping remote issues in the bud with this workaround may extend the life of the remote. Oh and Media West is now blowing these out for $269 and they probably have the original remote. New remote easily gotten for the cost of shipping, but requires upgrade of firmware to 1.6.
4. Coming out of DVDs often the unit will have a distorted view of regular HD files from the hard drive. Power tv on and off and pray things don't start whigging out requiring step 1. You can also try correcting with zoom mode on your tv (and I've had a few files likes Lemony Snickets that must be stretched taller using this no matter what, but this is rare so don't not buy if your tv has limited zooming options, you might try setup in this case and change between 16:9 and 4:3 if determined.)
5. Don't keep playing a file you know to be bad. Take note of types that are an issue (not many, but some 1080i pron on wmv seems to be a no go and I've not tried to track down since its only pron.)

Maybe others can add on to the workarounds. With the above you should be able to shake loose of problems without too much of a fight.

This unit rules on 1080i mpg/ts. Which despite all the morons converting to 720p h264 or even worse 1080p, is the format of the future. Almost all HD camera footage is at 1080p24. This is converted without loss to 1080i. When your Z500 outputs this a proper 1080p HDTV (does motion adaptive de-interlacing) will transform this without loss back to 1080p24 and then the final step to 1080p60 of the display. There is no difference between 1080p60 output and 1080i since the 1080i contains the original 1080p24 that everthing is filmed in. Don't worry about any low bit rate 1080p hd file playback (it usually is lower bitrate otherwise the file would have to be twice the size of the 1080i version.) Get a 1080p tv. Get 1080i ts files (h264 not the same video quality as mpeg2 so don't worry about it) and play them with this unit. Kick out some of the favorites on to dvd and DL HD DVD authored discs for those with HD DVD players to show them all the neat stuff they are missing. For those burning blueray out to h264 and mpeg, we've got to learn how to get these down to 1080i. 1080i mpeg2 is half the size and can easily reauthored to HD DVD and burned to cheap old DVDs and DL DVDs. Please everyone wake up and spread the word on this. I'm really getting sick of all the 720p crap and the 1080p juggarnaut downloads. Get a real tv (1080p with proper 1080i deinterlacing smokes 720p) and get the real story and stop wasting time with these formats. 1080p is a waste of space since 1080i contains the original 1080p24 within it. Search and learn if you don't believe my diatribe/synopsis:
hometheaterhi and hometheatremag have nice write ups

Hi Meles,

May I recommend you give firmware v1.7 (http://www.ziova.com/forum/index.php?showtopic=2965) a try ;)

By-the-way, beta testing for firmware 2.0 is going well. And will offer a totally re-designed GUI.


Cheers

I am very pleased with this unit. On hdmi I will on occaision see the green screen of death, snow, etc. If you don't know how to deal with this it can be a pain once it happens. This is just par for the course in the rough and tumble world of HD content (though it likes to blow out on dvds.) New firmware (v1.6) helps (I'm on v1.4.2), but at the cost of near 10 second pauses when going to the main screen (I'd contend analogue audio takes a hit with the new firmware, which I did not like since the unit sounds great and you can achieve improvements in video/audio by upgrading the power cable, old Marigo resolution seems to work welll with video.) That 10 second pause leads me to the first work around:
1. If in a tail spin, try to exit the video/dvd and go all the way back to the main menu and wait about ten seconds. Go back in and quickly select a file that is easily played to get it back on track.
Option 2 is to unplug the cable or turn your tv on and off. Once you have a green screen you are heading this way.
Option 3, power down which is a pain and also shut off the tv. Be persistent eventually you will get the unit to calm down. Keep in mind your tv is shaking hands in away with the Z500 over hdmi. I've had pretty good luck with other tvs, but previous post on Westinghouse was an exception.
2. If you are jittering or losing it on a video, pause and frame advance a couple times. I've got some high bit rate transfer star wars movies and after dumbing them down a little bit with videoredoplus (20-22 mbit) they are watchable with this trick (playing of USB NTFS 320 GB WD, SATA). Just got to be quick on the draw. Interestingly, I dodged these out to HD DVD at the original 24-25 mbit rate and a friends Toshiba HD-XA1 (A1 would be same) stutters just a bit at one point and the same trick worked with those units. You can nurse through some really high rez stuff this way. I should do a networked setup based on reading here, but not much in the way of movies is over 18 mbit, so nagh.
3. The original hated remote is great in my book. I can goob it up with food and wipe it right off. Great when showing off HD pron to the natives. Killer little joystick in the original (love it so much I balking at htpc since I've yet to see remote with this, not to mention setup pain and noise of htpc.) I've got a couple buttons that I have to push hard. My really froze up and got search hit that said to take batteries out and hit all the buttons with them out a bunch of times. Even suggested leaving them out a few days. Worked great ever since. Try this if your remote starts manifesting any issues. A hunch tells me nipping remote issues in the bud with this workaround may extend the life of the remote. Oh and Media West is now blowing these out for $269 and they probably have the original remote. New remote easily gotten for the cost of shipping, but requires upgrade of firmware to 1.6.
4. Coming out of DVDs often the unit will have a distorted view of regular HD files from the hard drive. Power tv on and off and pray things don't start whigging out requiring step 1. You can also try correcting with zoom mode on your tv (and I've had a few files likes Lemony Snickets that must be stretched taller using this no matter what, but this is rare so don't not buy if your tv has limited zooming options, you might try setup in this case and change between 16:9 and 4:3 if determined.)
5. Don't keep playing a file you know to be bad. Take note of types that are an issue (not many, but some 1080i pron on wmv seems to be a no go and I've not tried to track down since its only pron.)

Maybe others can add on to the workarounds. With the above you should be able to shake loose of problems without too much of a fight.

This unit rules on 1080i mpg/ts. Which despite all the morons converting to 720p h264 or even worse 1080p, is the format of the future. Almost all HD camera footage is at 1080p24. This is converted without loss to 1080i. When your Z500 outputs this a proper 1080p HDTV (does motion adaptive de-interlacing) will transform this without loss back to 1080p24 and then the final step to 1080p60 of the display. There is no difference between 1080p60 output and 1080i since the 1080i contains the original 1080p24 that everthing is filmed in. Don't worry about any low bit rate 1080p hd file playback (it usually is lower bitrate otherwise the file would have to be twice the size of the 1080i version.) Get a 1080p tv. Get 1080i ts files (h264 not the same video quality as mpeg2 so don't worry about it) and play them with this unit. Kick out some of the favorites on to dvd and DL HD DVD authored discs for those with HD DVD players to show them all the neat stuff they are missing. For those burning blueray out to h264 and mpeg, we've got to learn how to get these down to 1080i. 1080i mpeg2 is half the size and can easily reauthored to HD DVD and burned to cheap old DVDs and DL DVDs. Please everyone wake up and spread the word on this. I'm really getting sick of all the 720p crap and the 1080p juggarnaut downloads. Get a real tv (1080p with proper 1080i deinterlacing smokes 720p) and get the real story and stop wasting time with these formats. 1080p is a waste of space since 1080i contains the original 1080p24 within it. Search and learn if you don't believe my diatribe/synopsis:
hometheaterhi and hometheatremag have nice write ups


I own a z500 also and find it awesome just like you do, however I strongly disagree on your "mpg/ts" statement that it's "the format of the future" : it's actually bound to disappear in favor of H264 and VC1 for HD...

The z500 should be able to handle some flavors of these 2 codecs (it does WMV9 just fine, which is pretty much the same as VC1), however Ziova doesn't have the greatest track record when it comes to update the firmware. I'm still waiting for them to fix the .iso reading : a good 75% of my ISOs will hang the unit one way or another...

Ziova/Zensonic have been very open with the fact that .ISO/.IFO file parsing is "experimental" (http://www.ziova.com/forum/index.php?showtopic=3162), ever since this feature was introduced with firmware 1.4

By-the-way, this particular issue is being looked into. However, there's no firm date when it will be addressed to suit "movie only" DVD back-ups (without a viable menu).


Cheers

Ziova/Zensonic have been very open with the fact that .ISO/.IFO file parsing is "experimental" (http://www.ziova.com/forum/index.php?showtopic=3162), ever since this feature was introduced with firmware 1.4

By-the-way, this particular issue is being looked into. However, there's no firm date when it will be addressed to suit "movie only" DVD back-ups (without a viable menu).


Cheers

None of my .ISO files are "movie only", they're straight ISO images from the original DVD with everything intact.

Any hope regarding the 2 codecs brought up ?

Any hope regarding the 2 codecs brought up ?Do you mean adding support for MPEG-4 Part-10 and VC-1?

If so, then the answer is no. As Sigma's EM8620L chip-set does not support them and can't be upgraded to do so...

SeeMore,
Will my old remote work with v1.7. I'll give it go right away if that's the case. Thanks. (I'll have to cough up for the new remote and wait for its arrival otherwise.)

Euro,
Your probably right. Hopefully transcoding gets better (not many tvs do it right) so we have some smaller 1080i H264 (half the size). H264 is a beast. I just looked up Intel's new Clear Video technology which looks like it properly deinterlaces 1080i to your monitor for substantially better picture. If true this would be 1080p24 effectively, and might look better on 720p monitors and would certainly on higher resolutions. Guess what it does not work with? H264. Probably just not enough juice to do both things on a pc. H264 is smaller for a given rez, but MPEG2 would have marginally better video quality. H264 is wrong for the medium term, but good for the short and long run (vq excepted.) I just hate that people are burning out stuff you can buy on blue ray/hd dvd in these massive files. Nonreleased 1080i content is drying up. Its bad for high quality viewing and bad for these media players too. Hopefully proper deinterlacing on pcs will be come prevalent and then the ts will make a nice comeback. My 1080i stuff is not as good on my 720p laptop (720p better there.)

SeeMore,
Can't find, do you know if Zen can handle higher bitrates off of dvd over usb? I just assumed not. I don't think I've tried cutting something to DVD that was close to playing via USB. I think about networked storage, and then I think about an htpc, and then I think about a Barco 808 or 1208, ... or maybe a proper deinterlacing lcd. .... What do you think of networked storage? Or better a full blown HTPC? Or a dedicated pc for downloading and network storage, but not an htpc? Z500 is silent. Sound of external hard drive with z500 can bug a little bit. Would an ultrafast usb drive be of any use?

SeeMore,
Will my old remote work with v1.7. I'll give it go right away if that's the case. Thanks. (I'll have to cough up for the new remote and wait for its arrival otherwise.)The old remote will still work. However, the new remote provides direct access to the new functions, such as "favourites".



SeeMore,
Can't find, do you know if Zen can handle higher bitrates off of dvd over usb? I just assumed not. I don't think I've tried cutting something to DVD that was close to playing via USB. In my own tests I have found the Z500's front USB connection can sources of up-to 12Mbps.

I think about networked storage, and then I think about an htpc, and then I think about a Barco 808 or 1208, ... or maybe a proper deinterlacing lcd. .... What do you think of networked storage? Or better a full blown HTPC? Or a dedicated pc for downloading and network storage, but not an htpc? Z500 is silent. Sound of external hard drive with z500 can bug a little bit. Would an ultrafast usb drive be of any use?Passing files to the Z500 via a hard-wired ethernet network connection offers sources of up-to 35Mbps to be played.

I store all my media files on an dedicated home server PC (located in my cellar/basement), which runs 24/7 and provides internet access to other PC's in my house (as well as holding my website). I connect extra storage to the server PC via external USB2 HDD's (I have three connected at the moment) ;)


Cheers

So the Ziova CS505 shares the same internals as the Zensonic Z500, right?

Will they share the same remote after Ziova updates the Zensonic remote?

Any retailers shipping the new remote along with Z500 yet?

Trying to justify why I should spend the extra $ over at D C for the CS505.

Thanks in advance for your input.

TIM

So the Ziova CS505 shares the same internals as the Zensonic Z500, right?

Will they share the same remote after Ziova updates the Zensonic remote?
Not quite.... The CS505 has a different PSU, more memory (which among other things significantly improves firmware upgrade speeds) , an up-rated wireless module supporting WEP and WAP, the latest release of Sigma's EM8620L chip-set, conforms to Rohs and comes with the new-style remote control.

Any retailers shipping the new remote along with Z500 yet?Not as far as I know. The new-style remote is available separately.


Cheers

Thanks SeeMoreDigital,

That made things much clearer. I've been a happy owner of Iodata's Linkplayer. (I know I'm one of a small minority) But with the addition of a new TV with plenty of HDMI connectors and few component connectors I'm now looking to upgrade.

One more question, though...

What did you mean "conforms to Rohs"?

Thanks again.

TIM

One more question, though...

What did you mean "conforms to Rohs"?Here you go: -

http://www.rohs.gov.uk/

Any retailers shipping the new remote along with Z500 yet?

TIM

Media West Dist ships the old and new remote with the z500

New firmware in the form of a Public Beta 2.0 was released today for the Zensonic z500 and the Ziova CS505

Upgraded to v1.7 and I am pleased with it. Sounds good. Someone at Zensonic has been messing with the analogue outs. Took a big hit with v1.6. Back to former glory in v1.7 and a bit better (I had to switch back.) In v1.4.2 analogue outs and hdmi to analogue outs on my tv were identical level. With v1.7 its about 6 db lower in volume out of the Z. Sounds a bit better, so I am very pleased. Also pleased to hear the 6 db difference since its an objective difference that proves they've been at work (and I am not insane.) Kudos.
While on the audio front, I just hooked up LAN access to play some higher bit rate files. I was impressed with the quality of audio from some nrop videos. Tryed some CDs and they weren't as good. Stumpled into shoutcast next. Before there were 12 radios stations and they were goofy and sounded bad. Now,............ well its amazing. There are 200 genres. Under classical 97 stations, Jazz almost 200. Bitrates seem to go up in 24kbps increments up to 128 kpbs which sounds pretty good for some reason... I must have some old CDs that are poorly mastered. Mainly listen to vinyl. Well this really isn't for high end listening, but for radio piped through an in home system or stereo, its ungodly. Just pick your genre to hone in on the mood and then select a station. Music for anytime. Its mind boggling. This feature alone is worth the price of admission in my book. A year ago I thought it was a joke. Things change fast in tech, eh?

Blah, blah..... on to the video front. How's the Z doing with LCDs these days? I am 1 for 3. I actually had to do the firmware upgrade. The Z got into an endless boot cycle after tangling with a Philips philips 47pfl7422d. Before dying it was having major 3:2 pulldown issues with the Philips (slow pan, jerk, jerk.) Unwatchable. I've got my eyes on an Olevia 747i with its Silicon Optix Realta processor. I am hoping for a match made in heaven with the Z outputing some nice 1080i (Wars, Rings, Treks, etc.) for the Realta to make heavenly 1080p with. (It'll be sweet too with the shoutcast radio since its got to 25 watt per channel detachable speakers and sub out. I can use it instead of firing of the 48 tube salute big rig.) ....So back from dreamland, has anyone used the Z or like Sigma based media player with the 747i. Is it passable or the horror show I had with the Philips (Westinghouse with built in DVD was even worse, though it didn't get as far in trying to kill the Z.) I have hopes since it played nice with a Sony 1080p 46" lcd recently (xbr2 or something, not the 3, or now there is a 4 too.) This Sony had been tested with Silicon Optix tests and failed in some magazine review, but it was doing well for me. The Philips looked great, but even when working it was always screwing something up. If no intel on 747i, how's Z with LCDs in general. (There out to be a list on the Ziova site or something?)

And thanks much SeeMoreD.
P.S. Doing high bit rate video over LAN with Twonkyvision, but not getting enough improvement (pooping out at 24-25 mbps range.) Unfortunately, the media serve is a low level compaq that does not have a speedy drive. I've got sata2 or whatever in a 320 gig usb connected hard drive. Do you think this is the cause? If so, any recomendatons on NAS device that'll work with Twonky. I've searched and don't have confidence in anything I've seen for a sane price. Saw a 500 gig jobby for under $200 with a form of twonky. Not sure if briar rigging advisable. I've got the ultimate benq dw1640 drive on hand, but have not been able to hot rod it for use in the Z since I don't have a desktop to hook it up with (stupid thing does not work in usb connect case.) I am hoping that this things top tweaked out read rate will jive with the Z and get me a boost off of data DVDs. I'll report back. I am thinking it will fail. I've only got 3 star wars movies that are crushing me on bitrate. Not sure its worth dropping big bucks on NAS or media server for this alone, so I'll take a final stab at the hot rod job (will talk tech god at work into assisting.)

P.P.S. I am getting 18 mbps on usb with above drive (22 gig file to boot.) Definitely pushing it. I've got some around 21-22 that will play with a little play pause frame frame coaxing to get them back on track.

Is there some place I can find a review of the newer Ziova player?

Thanks in advance.

You can find a review at Gizmodo (http://gizmodo.com/gadgets/review/ziova-cs505-upscaling-divxdvd-network-streamer-hands+on-our-favorite-player-yet-255947.php).

They also have a brief look at the new GUI (http://gizmodo.com/gadgets/upscaling-dvd-player/ziova-streaming-dvddivx-player-gets-firmware-update-315734.php).

Update: Upgrading drive to BenQ was not beneficial. Just got 61 inch JVC fn97 rear projection. It works well with the Z. I was too afraid of LCD. Above Philips works over component to some extent, but cannot handle as high a bit rate even with hdmi out of the picture. 3:2 pulldown issue was likely from the Z not handling the 1080p file correctly (ROTK 33 gig.)