I was jumping with excitement when offered the chance to review the Kodak Theatre HD Player.  I have never considered myself an expert when it comes to tech gadgets but hey, someone values my opinion. How cool is that! Proves that mommy power rocks! Ok, I am digressing….let’s get back on track. Check out my review below:

The Kodak Theatre HD Player, powered by Hillcrest Labs‘ HOME software system and Freespace® motion-control technology, is amazingly compact, almost fooling a first-time user at the first glance with its deceptively simple appearance. The unit is compatible with a variety of input formats such as USB, SD, SF and also has the usual outputs such as RBG and USB. Here is what I used to test this device:

• LG 52” Plasma 1080i TV
• Wireless router
• Laptop

Setting up is quite easy. I elected to use wireless (secured – encrypted network) because that is the most convenient way to connect this device to any computer that is connected to the router. Setting up wirelessly requires some knowledge on your internet connection. It is not much different than setting up you laptop to the router. After the device is set up, you can view basically anything from anything connected to the router.

Before you can view the contents on the big screen, you have to go through another set up process in your PC/laptop where the contents reside. Putting your movies, pictures and music that you want is not difficult but it may be a little time consuming. The drag and drop function makes it more manageable. The software needs to be installed in each computer where you want to view contents from.

There is a selection “All Pictures & Videos” which will search your hard drive for all pictures and video contents. Contents can be transferred to the folder that has been created under your C drive during the software installations.

This device allows you to send and receive photos via the EASYSHARE software under Kodak Gallery. The menu mentioned the ability to connect to online web channels but for the few days I have to play with it, I could not find the function that was stated in the menu. It would be nice to have that feature because users would be able to watch online flicks with it.

Using the pointing device needs a little getting used to. Having said that, it is actually a very simple point and click application. From selecting photos to music stations, it provides a wide range of functionality and flexibility to the user. Since the device is wireless enabled, it allows connection to Internet radio stations and Skype.

Pros :

• Sleek and compact
• Wireless connection enabled
• Multiple inputs and outputs option
• Self explanatory device set up
• Point and click feature
• Images are very clear
• Fast response time
• Provide a point of connection for all your devices instead of dragging out your wires and connectors

Cons :

• No wireless set up instructions provided
• Had to install software and set up on each PC/laptop to share the contents
• HDMI cable was not provided

Conclusion:

The advantages of using the Kodak Theatre HD Player are many and wonderful, and easily balance out its few weaknesses. I strongly felt that when using such a device, the quality of the image is of the utmost importance. This expectation is completely upheld when using the Kodak Theatre HD Player. The pictures are perfectly displayed with no blurring or disruption.

Many thanks to Hillcrest Labs for this review opportunity. If you’re interested to WIN A KODAK THEATRE HD PLAYER, be on the lookout for this opportunity when we announce our Best Review Blog Award 2009 Contest.

Did you enjoy this post?  Subscribe to receive reviews & giveaways updates!