D-Link DSM-520: Excellent Media Receiver
D-Link DSM-520 Media Receiver (D-link call it MediaLounge) is one the best among the available media receiver in the market. Not only it's much better than it's predecessor DSM-320, but with ton's of additional features it's affordable too. Having USB thumb drive support in the front gives option to the user to play video files directly from the external hard drive.
Pros: Stream music, photos, video from any UPnP AV compatible media server, stream online radio from radio@AOL, live365.com, direct USB thumb drive support, stream Windows Media DRM protected content using Windows Media Connect, HD interface, support most of the media format, above all affordable.
Cons: Photo thumbnail support is horrible, UI can be improved, no support for bread crumb, no music album art, video forward/rewind functionality can be improved.
Bottom Line: If you are in the market for Media Receiver/Hub then you may end up buying this. Direct connection to the USB drive open up lot of option for many users.
Photo Gallery: Before going ahead, I want to share some of the photos of DSM-520.
Front picture of DSM-520. You may notice power button on the left and USB drive in the middle.
Back side of DSM-520
Above photos give close look of back panel of the DSM-520
Remote Control of DSM-520
Looking at photos, you may have noticed that it will embed well in your living room entertainment center. You are out of luck, if you don't like blackish finish.
Media Server Compatibility: In general, this product can stream media from any UPnP (Universal Plug and Play) AV compliant Media Server. But, this product works well with some and doesn't work at all with others. So, I decided to test this product with various Media Server. First of all, it didn't work with the D-link Media Server provided in the CD, which comes with the product. After installing, I added my media directories and it took forever to complete it. When it finally started running, I couldn't find this server running on PC on my DSM-520. (I have UPnP domain knowledge, so out of curiosity, I started debuggin and found that PC server is sending alive message and immediately sending bye bye message.) So, please don't try to spend more time on this server. I hope D-link will provide better server software in future.
Product install guide has lot of reference to Windows Media Connect server, I guess it promotes it. So, I started setting up Windows media connect server and loaded it with contents. I can immediately see the server and can stream photos, music and video instantly. It is one of the microsoft product you may like. It is worth mentioning here that this is second generation of Windows Media Connect server, first version had auckward configuration in which you have to allow individual media receiver. In second version, you can check one box "Automatically allow new devices" in settings and forget it. If you want to play Windows Media DRM protected content then you have to stick to above server.
My experience with TwonkyVision Media Server was great. It was a snap to setup the server and share my files. TwonkyVision media server supports more video/audio format than windows media connect server. I was mainly interested in sharing DivX/xVid/VOB files. Any of the these format was not shared by Windows media connect server. This server also provide me functionality to stream shoutcast radios. If you are not looking for playing DRM protected content then you are going to love this server.
TVersity Media Server also works well with DSM-520 media receiver. This can also stream internet radio, plus it can stream internet video too. Again, if you are DivX video fan then you are out of luck.
I tried UPnP server provided with MusicMatch Player too. I was able to list the files on the receiver but it only plays first 4-5 seconds of the songs and keep repeating the same. I guess, their HTTP server is not good.
Media Streaming Functionality: Media support wise, this player can play all kinds of media you can think of. It is little bit weak in avi format support. As product manual mention that it only support AVI with mpeg-4.
In general, photo support was pretty good. But, if you want to see photo thumbnail rather than
the list then it takes forever to display thumbnails.
Music file support is also great. I mainly played around with mp3 and wav files. I didn't tried ogg vorbis format but I guess that should have been ok.
I was more interested in video streaming and initally was very skeptical about it. But, even VOB file streaming was great (I'm using 802.11g). I tried, mpeg-1, mpeg-2, mpeg-4, vob, avi, xvid and every format streamed well. Surprisingly, it played DivX format too, even though there was no mentioned about it in the product specs. Now, people can dump their DVD on hard drive in VOB format and directly stream it without further conversion.
Online Media: Besides radio@AOL and Live365.com support, for all other kinds of online media you have to stream from PC. I wish they could have provided support for shoutcast station, in that case I don't need to keep my PC running all the time.
USB Thumb Drive: You are going to love USB support if you have lot of contents on external hard drive. I tried connecting my digital camera and it works too (why not, it supports USB mass storage). It's like directory browsing.
PlaysForSure: It can play any music and videos, which has playsforvideo logo on it. This is one of the microsoft drive for media interoperability.
Competitors: Even though D-Link media reciever is one of the best in it's class but competitor's are also getting better. It has main competition with Roku PhotoBridge, which also provides HD support and many flash card support.
Wireless Connectivity: I heard that previous version DSM-320 only used to work well with D-link router, but DSM-520 works well with any router. I'm using netgear router and never had problem with internet connectivity. Good that it supports WPA securtiy too.
Firmware Upgrate: It's very easy to upgrade firmware of the device. It took me 5-6 mintues to upgrate from 1.0 version to next version.
Hidden Features: Very few people may know that this device comes with UPnP Media Renderer feature too. What this mean is, if you have UPnP based media controller then you can send media from media server to this renderer. In couple of years, you'll see these kind of av media controller in the market, which can direct your server to serve any file from server to renderer.
It supports DivX video format. Good news for DivX lover.
Detail Product Specifications: For detail product specifications, please visit D-Link website.
Wish List: Following are my wish list from future D-link or their competitors product.
Pros: Stream music, photos, video from any UPnP AV compatible media server, stream online radio from radio@AOL, live365.com, direct USB thumb drive support, stream Windows Media DRM protected content using Windows Media Connect, HD interface, support most of the media format, above all affordable.
Cons: Photo thumbnail support is horrible, UI can be improved, no support for bread crumb, no music album art, video forward/rewind functionality can be improved.
Bottom Line: If you are in the market for Media Receiver/Hub then you may end up buying this. Direct connection to the USB drive open up lot of option for many users.
Photo Gallery: Before going ahead, I want to share some of the photos of DSM-520.
Front picture of DSM-520. You may notice power button on the left and USB drive in the middle.
Back side of DSM-520
Above photos give close look of back panel of the DSM-520
Remote Control of DSM-520
Looking at photos, you may have noticed that it will embed well in your living room entertainment center. You are out of luck, if you don't like blackish finish.
Media Server Compatibility: In general, this product can stream media from any UPnP (Universal Plug and Play) AV compliant Media Server. But, this product works well with some and doesn't work at all with others. So, I decided to test this product with various Media Server. First of all, it didn't work with the D-link Media Server provided in the CD, which comes with the product. After installing, I added my media directories and it took forever to complete it. When it finally started running, I couldn't find this server running on PC on my DSM-520. (I have UPnP domain knowledge, so out of curiosity, I started debuggin and found that PC server is sending alive message and immediately sending bye bye message.) So, please don't try to spend more time on this server. I hope D-link will provide better server software in future.
Product install guide has lot of reference to Windows Media Connect server, I guess it promotes it. So, I started setting up Windows media connect server and loaded it with contents. I can immediately see the server and can stream photos, music and video instantly. It is one of the microsoft product you may like. It is worth mentioning here that this is second generation of Windows Media Connect server, first version had auckward configuration in which you have to allow individual media receiver. In second version, you can check one box "Automatically allow new devices" in settings and forget it. If you want to play Windows Media DRM protected content then you have to stick to above server.
My experience with TwonkyVision Media Server was great. It was a snap to setup the server and share my files. TwonkyVision media server supports more video/audio format than windows media connect server. I was mainly interested in sharing DivX/xVid/VOB files. Any of the these format was not shared by Windows media connect server. This server also provide me functionality to stream shoutcast radios. If you are not looking for playing DRM protected content then you are going to love this server.
TVersity Media Server also works well with DSM-520 media receiver. This can also stream internet radio, plus it can stream internet video too. Again, if you are DivX video fan then you are out of luck.
I tried UPnP server provided with MusicMatch Player too. I was able to list the files on the receiver but it only plays first 4-5 seconds of the songs and keep repeating the same. I guess, their HTTP server is not good.
Media Streaming Functionality: Media support wise, this player can play all kinds of media you can think of. It is little bit weak in avi format support. As product manual mention that it only support AVI with mpeg-4.
In general, photo support was pretty good. But, if you want to see photo thumbnail rather than
the list then it takes forever to display thumbnails.
Music file support is also great. I mainly played around with mp3 and wav files. I didn't tried ogg vorbis format but I guess that should have been ok.
I was more interested in video streaming and initally was very skeptical about it. But, even VOB file streaming was great (I'm using 802.11g). I tried, mpeg-1, mpeg-2, mpeg-4, vob, avi, xvid and every format streamed well. Surprisingly, it played DivX format too, even though there was no mentioned about it in the product specs. Now, people can dump their DVD on hard drive in VOB format and directly stream it without further conversion.
Online Media: Besides radio@AOL and Live365.com support, for all other kinds of online media you have to stream from PC. I wish they could have provided support for shoutcast station, in that case I don't need to keep my PC running all the time.
USB Thumb Drive: You are going to love USB support if you have lot of contents on external hard drive. I tried connecting my digital camera and it works too (why not, it supports USB mass storage). It's like directory browsing.
PlaysForSure: It can play any music and videos, which has playsforvideo logo on it. This is one of the microsoft drive for media interoperability.
Competitors: Even though D-Link media reciever is one of the best in it's class but competitor's are also getting better. It has main competition with Roku PhotoBridge, which also provides HD support and many flash card support.
- Roku PhotoBridge HD
- Phillips Streamium
- Netgear Media Player
- Sony VAIO RoomLink™ Network Media Receiver
- Sonos Zone Player (Music player/server only)
Wireless Connectivity: I heard that previous version DSM-320 only used to work well with D-link router, but DSM-520 works well with any router. I'm using netgear router and never had problem with internet connectivity. Good that it supports WPA securtiy too.
Firmware Upgrate: It's very easy to upgrade firmware of the device. It took me 5-6 mintues to upgrate from 1.0 version to next version.
Hidden Features: Very few people may know that this device comes with UPnP Media Renderer feature too. What this mean is, if you have UPnP based media controller then you can send media from media server to this renderer. In couple of years, you'll see these kind of av media controller in the market, which can direct your server to serve any file from server to renderer.
It supports DivX video format. Good news for DivX lover.
Detail Product Specifications: For detail product specifications, please visit D-Link website.
Wish List: Following are my wish list from future D-link or their competitors product.
- Provide Bread Crumb feature to know at what menu depth you are at. If displaying on the menu in annoying then info button on remote can provide this.
- Better photo thumbnail view.
- Shoutcast radio support.
- Music Album art support. I guess this should be supported by the Media Server.
- Internal HDD support for storing media through the USB interface. Basically, Media server feature.
- Support for more removable media like memory stick or compact flash card.
- Remember last position of video/audio played.
posted by Web Junkie at 12/04/2005 10:16:00 PM
118 Comments:
Thanks for review,
can you say if there any options for subtitle language selection? According to specs .srt subtitles are supported, but no word of supported languages...
I haven't tried the subtitle option yet. I don't know, whether they mentioned it in the user guide or not.
Sorry!!
I have the DSM-320 and it works great until you load it with lots of media content. Now when I try to find a song, it takes 10-15 sec to display the next page at 6 titles per page. How well does the DSM-520 allow you to find media? Does the search feature actual help you find anything?
Thanks,
Search feature of any Media Receiver depends upon the functionality implemented in the Media Server (which generally runs on PC). As a matter of fact, handling of lot of contents effectively also depends up the Media Server.
I tried with Windows Media Connect and TwonkyVision server and both server's response time was pretty good.
Good Luck!!
Thanks for your excellent review. Can you tell me where do you get the new firmware? I don't seem to find it at the D-Link website.
Thanks.
I didn't downloaded the firmware. You can go to the product upgrade menu and upgrade firmware from there. There is no other way to upgrade your firmware. Shipping version of firmware is 1.0 and upgrade version is 1.01. There is no major changes in new firmware.
Thanks for the review. Can you tell me if DSM-520 streams images (jpeg files) from PC in HD resolution or it downscales them to a lower resolution like NTSC/PAL? Roku HD1000 claims being the only photobridge that displays image files in HD resolution.
I wonder if DSM-520 does the same thing?
Thanks, Eamin
Thanks for the review. Can you tell me if DSM-520 streams images (jpeg files) from PC in HD resolution or it downscales them to a lower resolution like NTSC/PAL? Roku HD1000 claims being the only photobridge that displays image files in HD resolution.
I wonder if DSM-520 does the same thing?
Thanks.
If you are using 3rd party server on the PC then DSM-520 can't control the streaming of the photos. It will get the full resolution photo but after that it may be doing image scaling to fit to the screen or whatever is in your player settings.
I hope this help.
Thanks, Saket
Note: I don't have HDTV, so I can't test this feature.
Great review,
The DSM-320 is out of stock in Holland. This thing just might be what the doctor ordered. When you say it plays Vob files do you mean one at a time with pausing or continuously?
Does it stream a mounted DVD from virtual drive or a computer DVD-drive.
I am going to be purchasind one of these units. I know you menitioned hte competition a little, but right now, would you buy the D-link or the Roku?
I already have DSM-520 and never thought of buying Roku.
About the streaming VOB, it stream one by one. But, if you are keeping all the VOBs in one folder then just play folder and it will play all the VOBs sequentially.
It doesn't play from the mounted DVD drive, you have to copy VOBs to the hard drive, where media server can see it.
DSM-520 is UPnP based media player. So, it works with any UPnP based Media Server. When this unit try to find the media server at that time it will find any UPnP based Media Server.
You can use any UPnP based Media server. My favorite picks are TownkyVision, Windows Media Connect.
Thanks for the review. Useful information here.
One question I have is about online streaming video. Can I view streaming video clips, say, movie trailers from yahoo trailers or videodetective.com on my TV using DSM-520? Assuming using any one of good media server (Windows Media Connect and TownKyVision) you mentioned?
Thanks much.
I have the DSM-520 as well. I have been combining my vob files into 1 large file, and renaming to be the title, rather than use multiple folders. This really works well for viewing all videos. My problem I am running into is that the server (on the PC, just using the one that came with the unit) seems to lock up around an hour into the videos. Have you experienced this? Maybe I need to just use the multiple files. Maybe I need to try twonkey, but I would have to buy it to test this theory, as the trial only allows 30 min of streaming. Any advice would be helpful. Thanks
Azhar,
Currently, you can't watch IPTV stuff on the DSM-520 using either TwonkyVision or Windows Media Connect server. You may want to try TVersity server, who claim to support online TV like bloomber. But, I haven't tested.
John,
I haven't tried your method of combining VOB but in general, I didn't had problem playing multiple VOB back to back.
Saket, thanks for replying to my previous question. I got my unit today and after much troubleshooting was able to set it up to play music. It seems to me that if your home wireless netword is WEP password protected then setup is a snap but if it requires, say, 128-Hex key encryption then you're doomed to spend some time. I simply disabled my encryption after hour or so into troubleshooting thinking I can always come back to it but first I need to check if it works fine.
Now comes the deal breaker for me. It seems to me that I need to sit in front of my TV to play music. To look at the menu etc and then play my playlists. That was not really what I thought this product is. I thought this product would allow you to play music from your computer/laptop -- meaning using GUI/interface on the computer to browse through the menu and not through TV. So, for example, if I'm sitting in my patio working on my laptop which got most of my music on its hard drive, I want to be able to open Windows Media Player (or whatever other, don't really care) and select a song/album and just play it while my D-link is setup in the living room attached to my stereo. This way I won't have to get up and go and see the menu on the TV screen and scroll through the albums/artists and then come back to patio to resume work. I can already do that with my tradtional stereo. :-D
So is there a way around it or I would need to get some other product or wait till the put such functionality in a product like this?
Thank you very much in advance for your response.
Cheers!
Nevermind. I found my answer. I'm pasting what I submitted at amazon.com in case someone else needs help with it - Thanks Saket, you were a great help.
paste from amazon:
I'm reviewing this item based on my individual need which may no apply to someone else's.
My need was that I wanted to be able to play music on my laptop/computer using any one of the computer based programs like Windows Media Player, Winamp, JetAudio etc with on my home stereo system (a Sony receiver hooked up with 4 sattelite speakers + center + sub-woofer via cords). I wanted to be able to re-utilize my stereo system without running any wires and having to get up and go to living where stereo system is setup and browse through albums and start or shuffle. I wanted to use my laptop for all musing playing control + user interface at the same time.
This product does not do that for you. While it is true it plays music stored on your lapttop/computer harddisk or an external hard drive, you are still bound to use your TV to browse through different songs/albums/playlists etc to play them because the menu to play audio/video displays on your TV. Because of ONLY this reason I am returning my unit. Otherwise I would have kept it.
For my need, I am going to use Motorola's two bluetooth adapters, DC800 Home stereo adapter that goes into stereo, and USB PC stereo PC850 adapter that goes into laptop/computer USB port. That does the job wonderfully.
Using these two adapters, the sound quality is exactly what you're playing on your computer. Or at least I could not tell the difference. This also means that if you are using a good quality media player software like JetAudio to play your mp3 files then you can use various equilizer settings to enhance the sound even further. Of course, the biggest thing is that now you are not bound to save and play your music in a particular format (mp3, wma, aac, avi, mpc, whatever) because of regardless the file format, whatever you can play on laptop/computer, you can listen to on home stereo all without running any wires/cords!
D-link media player costs around $217 at amazon (cheepest among all) and it's best used with a 54 mb/sec wifi card which is about another $50 which makes a total of around $268. Both Motorola adapters cost me only $157!
Having taken this need out of the way, I do have couple of comments specific to D-link DSM-520:
1- The setup is not as much of a snap as many have mentioned if your wifi networks is protected by WEP enabled key. I am using 128bit-hex key at home and it was pain in the neck to manually enter a combination of numeric and alphabetical characters using remote control. 128bit-hex means 26 characters and you're bound to make a mistake while entering using remote control and looking at the TV screen. I made the mistakes about 3 times after which I gave up. You also have the option to use Window xp's Start -->accessorieds -->communication-->wireless netwok wizard (product manual has the steps, see it) and put config on flash drive and plug into d-link dsm-520 that automatically reads it and configures but somehow that did not work for at the end of the day. It read and used the configs but still I was not able to connect and have my media server recognized over the network. The final solution was that I disabled the WEP encryption in my routher and then it worked. I guess you'd have to spend some time to make it work using the WEP encryption. It's a bit of "thumbs down" as far as rating goes in that regard. But I still think it's not a deal breaker. You can make it work if you're a bit patient and get used to it's working arounds.
2- Functionality - Like I said in the earlies part. I you want to play music using menu/user interface on computer/laptop instead of TV then this is not the product you want.
3- Sound quality and playing - If above two points are not of much value to you then this product will definitely please you. I'm returning this product ONLY because I want to use my laptop to control which song/album I'm not TV. As little as I was able to set this up and play some music stored in the fomr of wma and mp3 file format, the quality was great. You can't tell the difference between playing on computer or d-link or CD in CD player.
So. If your need is more on the lines of the #3 above them I'd suggest ignore everything else I said before that and go ahead buy it. If however it's same as my need (#2 above) then don't buy this product. I'm going to return mine for the sheer reason.
Hi Azhar,
If you are returning your DSM-520 because it doesn't provide enought functionality for your need then please wait. There are some solution, which can exactly serve your need.
Basically, you need MediaController (UPnP Control Point) software on your Laptop to control the DSM-520 receiver. You may download it from http://www.cidero.com/ Cidero website. It's Java based controller and works great. Other solution is CyberGarage controller (http://www.cybergarage.org/net/cmgate/cc/index.html)
Both of the Controller will detect your DSM-520 receiver and your UPnP Server running on your Laptop. You can select songs from the server and play on the receiver.
I've mentioned this feature (Hidden renderer) in my product review. If you need further assistant then please let me know.
Saket, Thanks for the great review. One comment I have, is that though Dlink claims support for 802.11b, the B standard can't provide enough bandwidth to stream most video. I was forced to cable my DSM-520 to the switch. No big deal, but something to take note of.
Hey Poggemiller, I think you need to look at the Linksys Media Center Extender. It uses A Windows Media center 2005 to do the video recording for you. The DSM-520 only has playback capabilities.
Thanks. Rajat Banerjee
I'm using Linux and was thinking all was lost before coming across TwonkyMedia and your review.
I'm thinking of getting either the Buffalo LinkTheater PC-P3LWG/DVD or the
D-Link DSM-520 to work with TwonkyMedia.
I'm in the UK, and it's going to be March/early April before I can get my hands on the 520. Is it worth the wait, or is the LinkTheater as good, if not better? How do they compare?
Also, can you write a post about your experiences with TwonkyMedia. Did you use it with Linux? If so, how did it go? And were there any problems with setting it up that I should take note of?
BTW, a good start to your blog. Keep it up!
Hi Macerata,
I haven't used LinkTheater, so can't give you fair review about that. It's little pricy and doesn't support HDMI ineterface.
About the TwonkyMedia, it works well in both windows and Linux OS.
Thanks,
-Saket.
Nothing more to say other than this product is no more exiting than the other media servers on the market. Limited format, OS, resolution and with a 20gig external drive limitation... When will these companies stop being copycats? And think outside the box and be more innovative.
I would like to know if the 520 actually displays the JPG images in HD resolution. I have a 320 and it refuses to accept high res JPG files.. I know Saket has mentioned that he does not have a hdtv to test this.. I am looking to find this out from anyone else who may have tested or tried 520 with an HDTV.
Thanks,
Just picked up one of these and was a little disappointed. I thought that this device could interface between my WD Netcenter HardDrive and Stereo/TV, without needing a PC to liase as a media server...
Why is this? What can I do to remove the PC out of the equation?
Would the Linksys WRTSL54GS as a router obviate the need for a PC to host as a server?
Excellent review and someone touched on my question that D-Link tech support was unable to answer after spending 30 minutes explaining. I would like to convert my cd collection to becoming completely digital. What is the limit on the size of the external HD that can be connected to the DSM 520? Does it differ if you are directly connecting to the 520 rather than to your PC? So, could I burn all my cd's to a 400 GB hard drive connected to my PC and play from there?
Does this device support dvr-ms file directly ?
Thanks for the review. I have the 320 and barring it's limitations I've been happy with it.
The 320's main limitations have been: The ability to output 640x480 resolution for photo's, (which is just about useless on a big screen); Unable to play music files larger than 192 kbps, I would like to be able to play WMA Lossless directly, (a work around is Tversity).
Do you know what the specs. are for the 520 regarding these two items?
Thanks.
Microsoft Media Center Edition stores files using the DVR-MS format when recorded from live television using a TV tuner card. How can these files be played on the DSM-520?
Thanks for the review - always good to read users experience. One question I have - can it handle avi files with 5.1 sound?
Is there any software that comes with the DSM-520 that will enable you to convert your purchased dvd's to mp4.
If it dose come with software. Will the software support dvd's that have been mastered in DTS or DTS-ES audio.
I see that D-Link has partnered with nero. But nowhere that I can see nero supports DTS or DTS-ES audio only 5.1 Dolby Digital.
Can anyone make any sugestions
I'm into digital photography and have been searching for a way to produce high-quality/high res photos onto my large Mitsubishi RPTV off of my computer. I had experimented with a TIVO box which had a USB access point allowing me to access my hdd on my computer but the photo resolution was awful because TIVO was analog. Can anyone out there in blog land tell me that my photos will be higer res using the DSM520? It does have component connections and does support hd.
Rome
520 fails to find any of my usb devices (2gbstick, ext powered 320gb drive). Light on usb stick comes on after a few flashes. Blue light on 520 fascia comes on but always "No USB devices detected."
Any ideas anyone?
Just got the DSM520, plugged it to my AV Reveiver and wired network, downloaded the TVersity media server and in no time, I was table to use it for internet radio/tv streaming (from URLs), play all my music on my PC, view all my divx videos (with 5.1 support), or plugged in my Maxtor 250Gb USB drive to listen to all my music collection ! This is an AWESOME product!
The only think is that having a hosted webserver on the DSM520 keeping your own playlist would be the most useful feature as you wouldn't need to have a running PC/mediaserver... (maybe using an external USB drive could be used as an alternative to an internal drive)
Now I am looking as some NAS devices that would allow me to serve the device without having my PC host the server. Does anyone have some advice on which one would be the best for this and if it is even possible to get around having any remote media server software ?...
BTW, I was NOT able to get to any www.live365.com servers to get some alternative way of storing my playlists, as advertized...
Overall, I am really happy about this purchase and highly recommend it. Please DLINK, come up with a way to make my preferred Radio/TV URLs directly available from the device (or some attached USB device...) !
What about subz.. does it play the .srt files or not. If it does.. than the player is on my wish list! :-)
is there any media players out there like this that also record tv? i like the dsm 520 but im waiting to find one that has dvr capabilites and will just record tv to my hard drive. Anybody?
^*and will also record tv to my hard drive.
Thanks for the review.
This unit worked great for my needs. I too was mainly been searching for a unit that could play VOB files and this unit works very well. The video and audio quality are exceptional. I have a HDMI 1080p Sony TV and fiber to a 7.1 Sony receiver. Even though the DSM-520 only support 5.1 Digital, it still sounds great. Setup took me less then 3 hours and most the time was spent dealing with the right codec combinations.
I was able to us DVD Shrink 3.2 to backup several of my DVDs to my PCs hard disk. Then using TwonkyVision's product I could server it up to my DSM-520. The only really trick is when backing up your DVD ensuring that only 1 audio track is saved and remove all the sub picture content.
I have found a few quarks with the DSM-520 presenting errors displaying folders, but simply pressing the video button to refresh the folders fixed the problem. That is the only real problem I found.
For a $200 unit and $30 in TwonkyVision software, it is a very cost effective solution.
Thanks for the review.
This unit worked great for my needs. I too was mainly been searching for a unit that could play VOB files and this unit works very well. The video and audio quality are exceptional. I have a HDMI 1080p Sony TV and fiber to a 7.1 Sony receiver. Even though the DSM-520 only support 5.1 Digital, it still sounds great. Setup took me less then 3 hours and most the time was spent dealing with the right codec combinations.
I was able to us DVD Shrink 3.2 to backup several of my DVDs to my PCs hard disk. Then using TwonkyVision's product I could server it up to my DSM-520. The only really trick is when backing up your DVD ensuring that only 1 audio track is saved and remove all the sub picture content.
I have found a few quarks with the DSM-520 presenting errors displaying folders, but simply pressing the video button to refresh the folders fixed the problem. That is the only real problem I found.
For a $200 unit and $30 in TwonkyVision software, it is a very cost effective solution.
I am attempting to play .ts file extensions on the DSM-520. Twonkyvision lists it is supported, however, I am unable to get it to display audio or video. Any suggestions?
Great review. I was debating if I should get one of these units, and your review helped convince me it will be worth it. Thanks!
Forget about D-Links own Media Server software, provided. I've tried several and TwonkyMedia is the best.
http://jacksgadgets.blogspot.com/
I have 10 000 tracks of music + photos and videos on my server.
Regarding your blog - yahoo internet access. I have just signed up to talktalk broadband and is an absolutely superb deal. I get free telephone calls 24/7 plus free 8Mb/s broadband (which is lightening fast btw). I would definitely recommend talktalk broadband for anyone in the uk. Also available at www.bargainplace.co.uk
Thanks for your review,
Can you say if I will have access wirelessly from my laptop to the external drive plugged in the DSM-520 usb output?
Thanks.
Great review! Thx.
I just got my DSM-520 yesterday. While I'm very happy with it, two things that I think need vast improvement are:
* Ability to be able to bookmark--pick up where you left off. I think this is in your wish-list.
Imagine watching a 2.5 hour move, realizing half way through that you want to stop and watch the rest tomorrow.
There's no way to pick up where you left off other than fast-forwarding to the point, which leads me to my seconds wish-list item:
* ***MUCH FASTER*** Fast Forwarding. While there are three speeds now, neither is fast enough (I *think* the fastest is 4x).
Good and informative post on the media servers. Helped me to no end.
I have to say I'm pretty happy with my DSM 520, but there are at least two things that bug the hell out of me.
1. After the file has been played through, you get a prompt from the player telling you you've reached the end of the file. This is an amazingly stupid feature. Would be much better to move to the next file. To be able to have a setting switching between going to the next file and going back to the folder view would be even better.
2. You can have fast forward/reverse seek mode, and you can have input time mode. You can't have both options at the same time, and you have to stop the file to change it.
It plays pretty much everything I throw at it, so kudos there. It would be nice if they could implement a shuffle feature for the videos, can't seem to get that working.
I'll definitely test the other media servers. They might prove better than the one that came with the unit.
Thanks again.
Buy Viagra No Prescription
Buy Viagra No Prescription
Buy Viagra No Prescription
Buy Viagra No Prescription
Buy Cialis
Buy Cialis Online
Cialis
Buy Cialis
Buy Cialis Online
Buy Cheap Cialis
Buy Cheap Cialis
Buy Cialis Online
Buy Cialis
Buy Cialis Online
Buy Cialis no prescription Online
Buy Cialis Without prescription Online
Buy Cialis Without prescription Online
Buy Cialis Online
Buy Cialis Online
Buy Cialis Online
Buy Cialis Online
Buy Cialis Online
Buy Cialis Online
Buy Cialis Online
Buy Cialis no prescription Online
Buy Cheap Cialis Online
Buy Cialis no prescription Online
Buy Cheap Cialis Online
Buy Discount Cialis Online
Buy Cialis no prescription Online
Order Cialis Online
Buy Cialis Discount Online
Order Cialis Online
Order Cialis Online
Purchase Cialis Online
Buy Cialis Without prescription Online
Buy Cialis Without prescription Online
Buy Cialis No Prescription
Buy Cialis No Prescription
Buy Cialis No Prescription
Buy Cialis No Prescription
Buy Cialis No Prescription
Buy Cialis Online
buy advair diskus fluticasone-salmeterol allergy, respiratory
buy allegra fexofenadine hcl allergy
buy allegra-d fexofenadine-pseudophedrine allergy
buy atarax hydroxyzine allergy
buy clarinex desloratadine allergy
buy claritin loratadine allergy
buy periactin cyproheptadine allergy
buy singulair montelukast allergy, asthma, lung diseases
buy tavist clemastine allergy
buy zyrtec cetirizine allergy
buy zyrtec-d cetirizine-pseudoephedrine allergy
yah this is a good article which you are post here, this is good information for all who is interested in security system and 4 Channel DVR and Stand Alone DVR
I found your blog via google and it is exactly about my research topic i want some more interesting posts here hope you will keep me up to date.
term paper writing pf changs coupons
Hello, This is a great article, and I can agree with what was written here. I will be back to check out new comments soon. Thanks
spyder ski jackets spyder jackets spyder ski jackets [url=http://www.spyder--jackets.com/]spyder ski jackets[/url] www.spyder--jackets.com
ugg boots sale ugg boots sale ugg boots buying [url=http://www.ugg--bootssale.com/]genuine ugg boots[/url] www.ugg--bootssale.com
Gucci bags Gucci bags Gucci bags [url=http://www.gucci--bags.com/]Gucci bags[/url] www.gucci--bags.com
karen millen release karen millen dresses karen millen escape [url=http://www.karen--millen-outlet.com/]karen millen outlet[/url] www.karen--millen-outlet.com
burberry outlet sale burberry outlet burberry outlet sale [url=http://www.burberry--outlet-sale.com/]sale[/url] www.burberry--outlet-sale.com
6RmvVaq823
The simple yet sophisticated sheepskin motif makes these boot styles versatile to be the "in" things and their appeal has pasted the test of time.|Like all the fans will tell you, if you think that most likely this area - the love of basketball. To be more passionate in the approaching winter or to make your appearance fit the latest fashion sense, these shoes are absolutely wonderful choices.}
[url=http://www.jpbootugg.com]UGG[/url]
[url=http://www.bestnowmoncler.com]モンクレール[/url]
[url=http://www.monclercojp.com]モンクレール ダウン[/url]
[url=http://www.uggjpbest.com]アグ ブーツ[/url]
CMywbefL
オンラインカジノ 詐欺 VII business@pglaf.org. Email contact links and up to date contact http://xn--the-ti4b3ah5gqi5isdc.com オンラインカジノ ボーナス qualified worker eingearbeiteter Arbeiter オンラインカジノ 比較 [url=http://xn--the-ti4b3ah5gqi5isdc.com ]オンラインカジノ ブログ [/url]unexpected times in the night, when other things were quiet, clicked and オンラインカジノ ボーナス
When we finally look at the word the phrase really like, installing regards to a loving romantic relationship using a different, but as a experience that is engendered if you have miltchmonkey a much better relationship with yourself much too , as well as being a sensation of more significant oneness with the family or perhaps man - the idea develops into a lot more extraordinary that any person is looking to get in your everyday living is definitely adore.
gJ3K7u http://buyhandbagnet.webnode.fr dJ8W3j sac louis vuitton nU2E2a [url=http://buyhandbagnet.webnode.fr]sac louis vuitton pas cher[/url]
uK2A7i http://www.outletlvhandbagsus.info sH7C7o louis vuitton outlet bS5Z9s [url=http://www.outletlvhandbagsus.info]cheap louis vuitton[/url]
aT7C9m http://www.lvbagsoutlet2013.com sE8X8d cheap louis vuitton bags yI3D5p [url=http://www.lvbagsoutlet2013.com]louis vuitton outlet online[/url]
oG6N8g http://purseshops.webnode.com pR2H6q louis vuitton purses qH4M1p [url=http://purseshops.webnode.com]louis vuitton outlet store[/url] xJ1E1q
yP4Y9f http://www.lvsaconline.monwebeden.fr nK2Z9t louis vuitton paris jN8R9b [url=http://www.lvsaconline.monwebeden.fr]louis vuitton sac[/url]
uY2C8p http://www.francesaclouisvuittonn.info cN0R7i louis vuitton site officiel mS7R1y [url=http://www.francesaclouisvuittonn.info]louis vuitton sac[/url]
We are a gaggle of volunteers and starting a brand new scheme in our community.
Your site provided us with valuable information to work
on. You've performed a formidable task and our entire community will probably be grateful to you.
Feel free to visit my blog forex signal provider
fantastic post, very informative. I ponder why the other experts of
this sector do not understand this. You must continue your writing.
I'm sure, you've a huge readers' base already!
my web-site: Aperitif Wines
Thank you for the good writeup. It in fact was a amusement account it.
Look advanced to far added agreeable from you! However, how
can we communicate?
my web-site all inclusive vacations To Jamaica
Thiѕ рiece of wгitіng iѕ actually a fastidiοuѕ οnе it helps neω the ωeb peoρle, who аrе wіѕhing in favoг οf blοgging.
Also visit my ωebpagе; free discount coupon
Hi, i feel that i saw you visited my ωeblog ѕo i got heге to retuгn
the faνor?.I'm attempting to find things to improve my website!I assume its adequate to make use of some of your concepts!!
Also visit my page; silver prom shoes uk
What's up, always i used to check webpage posts here early in the morning, since i love to gain knowledge of more and more.
Feel free to visit my website; french frying
I'm now not positive the place you're gettіng your informаtion,
but good topіc. І must spenԁ a ωhіle ѕtuԁyіng mοre or figuring out moгe.
Тhank you for great informаtion I used tο bе lоoking for this
information foг my miѕsion.
Ϻy web-sіtе cheap steam cleaners
Іnсreԁiblе quest therе. Whаt happened aftеr?
Gοod luсk!
my ρage: best fryer
Do yοu hаve a sρam issue on thiѕ wеbsite; I
also am а bloggeг, and ӏ was wаnting to κnow youг
situatіon; mаnу of us have createԁ sοme nice ргacticeѕ and wе
are looking tο eхchange technіques with оther folκs, why not
shoot mе an еmаіl if intеresteԁ.
Feel free to visit my web site - bridesmaids shoes
Beсause thе admin of this web ѕite iѕ working, no doubt vеry shoгtly
it will be ωell-κnoωn, ԁuе to
іtѕ feature contеntѕ.
Feel free to visіt my blog; prolectrix Halogen oven
Сan I simply ѕаy ωhat а relief tο ԁiscovег somebody who genuinely knоωs what they're discussing online. You definitely realize how to bring a problem to light and make it important. A lot more people have to check this out and understand this side of the story. I was surprised you're
not moгe populaг givеn that уou
suгely pοsseѕs thе gіft.
Also νisit my homеpage - electric bread makers
Wοw, thаt's what I was exploring for, what a data! existing here at this web site, thanks admin of this website.
Here is my site; mcdonalds vouchers
Fіrst of аll I want to say superb blog!
I had a quicκ quеstion in whiсh I'd like to ask if you don't mind.
I was curіous to know hоw you cеnter youгѕelf and clear yоur minԁ
priοr tο ωrіting. I've had a difficult time clearing my thoughts in getting my thoughts out. I do enjoy writing but it just seems like the first 10 to 15 minutes tend to be wasted simply just trying to figure out how to begin. Any suggestions or hints? Cheers!
Also visit my web blog http://extremeshowoff.com/LuisaSchm
My partnеr аnd I stumbled oѵer
here ԁiffеrent web addrеss and thought I should check things оut.
I lіke whаt I see so now i am following you.
Look forωaгd to checking out yοur web page reρеatedly.
Feel free to visit my pagе - deep fryers for sale
I'd like to find out more? I'd care to find out somе additіonal
іnformation.
Also vіsit my web-site: bread makers consumer reports
Whаt a infоrmatіοn of un-ambiguity and ргеseгveness
of ѵaluablе know-how on the tοpіc of unprеdiсted feеlings.
Fееl frеe to suгf to my blοg .
.. home ice cream maker
It's really a nice and helpful piece of info. I am glad that you just shared this useful information with us. Please stay us informed like this. Thanks for sharing.
Stop by my weblog semi permanent eyelash extensions
Hmm is anyone else experiencіng problemѕ with the picturеs οn this blog loadіng?
І'm trying to determine if its a problem on my end or if it'ѕ the blog.
Any feeԁ-bаck wοuld be greatly appreсіаted.
Here is my weblog ... eye lashers
I do nоt even understаnd how I ѕtoppeԁ up гight here, but I thought this ρubliѕh waѕ grеat.
I do not underѕtand ωho уou might be however cеrtainlу you are going
to a wеll-knοwn bloggeг for those who arе nοt alreaԁy.
Ϲheers!
Feel freе to ѵіsit my wеb pаgе
thick eyelashes
Αt this time іt аppearѕ lіκe Wοrdрress is the best blogging platform aѵaіlable гіght now.
(from what I've read) Is that what you are using on your blog?
My website yogurt ice Cream maker
Αѕking queѕtіоns are really
nicе thіng if уou are not unԁerstanding anything
comρletely, hоwever this post offerѕ good undеrstanԁing yеt.
Тake а look at my sitе :: ice cream maker machine
Ηi, i thinκ that i ѕаw уou visited my ѕіtе so i camе to
“гeturn the favor”.I'm trying to find things to improve my site!I suppose its ok to use a few of your ideas!!
My weblog: oil in deep fryer
Fascinаting blog! Is youг theme custοm made or did yοu downloаԁ it from ѕomewhere?
A theme like yours with a few simple adϳustements would really make my
blog shine. Pleaѕе let me know wherе you got уour design.
Manу thankѕ
Нere is my ωeblog waring pro deep fryer
Hеy therе! I've been following your blog for a while now and finally got the bravery to go ahead and give you a shout out from Houston Tx! Just wanted to tell you keep up the great work!
Also visit my weblog - sharp steam mop
I enjoy, result in I found exaсtly what Ι was having a look for.
Υоu've ended my 4 day lengthy hunt! God Bless you man. Have a great day. Bye
Here is my weblog; gifts delivered
Usually I dο nоt learn article on blogs, however I
wish to say that this wгite-up ѵery pressured me to check
оut and dо it! Your writing taste has bеen surprised me.
Тhanκ you, quitе great pοѕt.
My blog: corner hamper
ӏ wοuld lіκe to thank yоu fοr
the effortѕ yоu've put in writing this site. I really hope to see the same high-grade content from you in the future as well. In fact, your creative writing abilities has inspired me to get my very own website now ;)
My web-site; slow cooker reviews
I was recоmmendeԁ thiѕ web site
by my cοuѕin. I am not sure whеthеr this post is wrіtten by him as no
onе elѕe knοw such ԁetailed about
mу troublе. You aгe amazing! Thanks!
my webpage ... slow cooker reviews
Hеllo to еνery boԁy, іt's my first go to see of this web site; this website includes amazing and really good data in support of readers.
my blog post; commercial deep fat fryer
Its like you reаd my mind! Υou aρpear to know а
lot about this, lіke you wrote the book in іt or something.
І think that you could ԁo with some pics to ԁrive the
message home a bit, but other thаn that, this is
excellent blog. An excellent read. I ωill certainly be
back.
Here is my blog ρost - buy slow cooker
Ӏt's awesome designed for me to have a website, which is good in support of my know-how. thanks admin
Also visit my page: restaurant deals
Please let me know if yοu're looking for a article author for your site. You have some really great posts and I feel I would be a good asset. If you ever want to take some of the load off, I'd really lіke to wrіte some material for your blοg
in exсhange for a link back to mine. Please send me аn е-mail if interеstеԁ.
Kudοѕ!
Check оut my blog - pizza express offers
Verу great ροѕt. I simplу stumblеԁ upon
youг weblog and wisheԁ to saу that Ι have reаlly еnjoyed brοwѕing yоur
blog poѕts. In аny case Ι'll be subscribing on your feed and I hope you write again soon!
Check out my blog; are halogen ovens good
Ρretty! This has been an еxtrеmеly wondeгful ρoѕt.
Μany thanks fοr suρplying thiѕ information.
Review my web blog - Free food vouchers
Nice blog here! Αlso уouг website loads up
very fast! What web host are you using? Cаn I get youг affiliаtе
link tо yоur host? I wish my web ѕite lοаdeԁ up aѕ quіckly as youгs lоl
Also visit my webρage; restaurants discounts
Thanks very interesting blog!
My web-ѕite :: deep fat fryers
Hi there, І found yоur wеb site by way of Google evеn
as sеarching for a cοmparablе mаtter, your
ωeb ѕite came up, іt aрρeaгs tο be like
great. Ι've bookmarked it in my google bookmarks.
Hi there, simply changed into aware of your blog via Google, and found that it is truly informative. I'm gоnna be careful for bгussels.
I wіll apрreciate in case yоu pгocееd thiѕ in future.
Numeгοus other pеople ѕhall be
benefitеԁ out of уour ωriting.
Chееrs!
my web ѕite - Soft Ice cream machine rental
Great рost. I used to bе checkіng continuοusly this blog
and I'm impressed! Very helpful information specifically the remaining section :) I take care of such information much. I used to be seeking this particular information for a long time. Thanks and good luck.
my web-site false eyelashes eylure
Gooԁ rеsponsе in return of thiѕ query with firm аrguments anԁ explаining the whοle thing on the topic of that.
Feеl freе to visit my pаge .
.. Top And Bottom False Eyelashes
Hey! Ι just wanteԁ to аsk if you eveг hаve
anу trouble wіth hackers? Μy last blоg (ωoгdprеѕs) was hacκеԁ and ӏ enԁed uρ lоsing a
fеw months of harԁ wοrk due to no bасκuρ.
Dо уou have any solutionѕ tο stop haсkers?
My web-site ... Eylure Eyelashes boots
Wοw, incredіble blοg lаyоut!
Нow long have you bеen blogging foг?
you makе bloggіng looκ easу.
The oѵеrall lοok of your wеbѕite
is excеllent, as well аs the сontent!
Tаkе a look at my webpage - best steam cleaners
I do nοt know whethег it's just me or if everybody else encountering issues with your website. It appears like some of the written text on your posts are running off the screen. Can someone else please comment and let me know if this is happening to them as well? This may be a issue with my web browser because I've had this
happen beforе. Мany thanks
Alѕo visit my blog; oil less fryer
For newest infоrmation you hаvе
to visit world-wide-web and on world-wіde-web I found
this web page as a most ехсellent wеb site for hottеst updates.
my web blοg; eyelash glue
It's hard to find educated people for this subject, however, you seem like you know what you're
talkіng about! Тhankѕ
Also visit my homepage: beldray steam Mop
Hello, i think that i noticed you visited my web site thus i
came to go back the want?.I'm attempting to to find issues to improve my site!I suppose its adequate to make use of a few of your ideas!!
My web site male enhancement review
Feel the need have a look at more regarding the similar.
Produce you had gotten new information?
my web-site cash online
If you wish for to obtain a good deal from this post then you
have to apply such techniques to your won web site.
Visit my web blog ... natural libido Enhancer Women
Acne is definitely serious problem to lot of an americans these days.
That is why I feel like we need to do one thing
about it...thanks
my webpage buy exposed acne
can you upload one as to winnings the lottery with subliminal communications
and scrypts on screen. say thanks a ton. i appreciate a great deal
your own operate. montreal.
Here is my blog post dating advice for guys from girls
Magnificent goods from you, man. I've be mindful your stuff prior to and you're just
too great. I really like what you've got here, certainly like what you are stating and the way through which you say it. You're making it enjoyable and you continue to care for to stay it smart.
I cant wait to read far more from you. That is actually a great site.
Also visit my web site renover un parquet
You've asked a couple of big queries there. It's probably
more than I can answer right here without going into
a long conversation.
Feel free to surf to my homepage ... Learn More
You could definitely see your expertise within the work you write.
The world hopes for more passionate writers such as you who
are not afraid to say how they believe. All the time follow your heart.
Here is my web blog ... rosacea treatment
Amazing! Its in fact awesome paragraph, I have got much clear idea about from this piece of writing.
Here is my site :: Beat maker contract
Hey! Do you know if they make any plugins to help with
SEO? I'm trying to get my blog to rank for some targeted keywords but I'm not seeing very good success.
If you know of any please share. Kudos!
Stop by my blog :: kyle leon somanabolic muscle maximizer video
I am extremely impressed with your writing skills and also
with the layout on your weblog. Is this a paid theme or
did you customize it yourself? Either way keep
up the nice quality writing, it's rare to see a great blog like this one today.
Also visit my weblog: semenax ingredients review []
If you are going for most excellent contents like me, simply pay a
visit this website every day since it offers feature contents, thanks
Review my web blog - lose fat fast
I needed to thank you for this fantastic read!
! I absolutely loved every little bit of it. I've got you saved as a favorite to check out new stuff you post…
My weblog; http://www.sbwire.com/press-releases/proactol-plus-review-new-studies-and-clinical-results-store-less-fat-and-lose-more-weight-238616.htm (mensajerodivino.com)
This is a very good tip particularly to those new to the blogosphere.
Short but very accurate information… Thank you for sharing this one.
A must read article!
Here is my weblog ... cute tattoos for women
I every time used to study paragraph in news
papers but now as I am a user of web so from now I am using net for
posts, thanks to web.
My web page how to warm your voice up
Hi, I do believe this iѕ a great wеb ѕite.
I stumbleԁupоn it ;) I'm going to come back yet again since i have book marked it. Money and freedom is the best way to change, may you be rich and continue to help others.
my webpage Shoe shops
Thanks for sharing your thoughts on tаra mcavoy;.
Rеgaгds
Take a look at my site: slow cooker with timer,
Write more, thats all I hаvе to saу.
Literally, it ѕeеms as though you relіed on the ѵiԁeo to makе уour poіnt.
You obvіouѕly know what youre talκing аbout, why thгow away your іntelligence
on just pοѕting videos to yоur ѕitе when yοu could be
giѵing us something іnformative to read?
Fеel frее to ѵisit mу site ::
voucher discount
Post a Comment
<< Home