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SkipJam iMedia Center

SkipJam iMedia Center

review

The folks at SkipJam want their iMedia Center to be the Swiss Army knife of digital media receivers. As with other media hubs before it, one small set-top box provides audio, video, and photo streaming from your PC to your stereo and TV. But unlike previous entries, the iMedia Center integrates radio and TV tuners. It can also switch among AV signals, act as a digital video recorder (DVR) if paired with a hard drive residing on your network, and share any of its content or programming with any other SkipJam device on that network. (This includes DVDs, a trick even full-blown Microsoft Windows Media Center Edition PCs coupled with Media Center Extenders can't accomplish.) But wait, there's more. Set aside the infrared remote, pick up the RF remote (you get both), hold it to your ear, and it's a cordless phone.

red arrow Read the SkipJam iMedia Center full review

Company

SkipJam Corporation

http://www.skipjam.com

Spec Data
  • Price as Tested: $799.00 Direct
  • Ethernet Interface: Yes
  • Hard Drive: No
  • Supports MP3: Yes
  • Supports WMA: Yes
  • Shows Photos: Yes
  • Plays Internet Radio: Yes
  • Shows Video: Yes
  • Has On-screen TV Display: Yes
  • Rips CDs: No

Bottom Line

The SkipJam iMedia Center plays and distributes media content—music, photos, TV, video, and even DVDs—throughout the house without a PC. It has incredible potential, but a few teething pains means you'll want a professional to install it.

Pros

Plays and streams just about any digital content. Integrates FM and (standard-definition) TV tuners. DVR function (if a PC is attached). Comes with IR and RF universal remotes. Sends video and audio to other SkipJam devices. Can store files on almost any storage device, not just a PC. RF remote doubles as cordless phone.

Cons

Wealth of features may confuse new users. Complex setup best left to AV technician. Case doesn't look as polished as other high-end AV gear. CDs must be ripped using a PC.

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