The latest Logitech product Squeezebox Boom has been reviewed recently. Briefly it’s good and it pays for itself. It didn’t spark a revolution in the internet-capable device area but definitely Squeezebox Boom set a new benchmark in the market.
I liked Sqeezebox (but not its remote control) when I got it for testing a couple years ago. And like very much Squeezebox Boom and maybe will buy it some day.
Skype recently announced a new module which integrates Skype functionality into Digium’s Asterisk software. It allows to Asterisk users make, receive and transfer Skype calls with multiple Skype names with low Skype global rates. Not bad, isn’t it?
The Skype for Asterisk beta can be downloaded from here
[via Skype Journal].
LyngBox Media announced its new stylish, Linux-based satellite receiver LyngBox designed for European satellite TV enthusiasts. The IP-ready box combines an HDTV receiver/recorder with 160GB hard drive and dual DVB-S2/DVB-T tuners. Additionally LyngBox keep synchronized LyngSat Guide via web service.
The box offers 96MB of RAM and 32MB of flash. It has an Ethernet connection, as well as four USB 2.0 ports. A/V input/output includes digital HDMI, component, SCART, composite, optical S/PDIF, and analog stereo.
The LyngBox looks very impressive. It’s equiped by OLED display instead VFD (excellent solution!). The design of the LyngBox will be suitable for both live-and-breathe satellite enthusiasts and gadget and style sensitive consumers.
The LyngBox is available now in Europe for an undisclosed price.
[via LinuxDevices]
Edward Pearson has announced xAP plug-in for SqueezeCenter v7.x. It provides two-way xAP communication for SqueezeCenter with the following main functions:
The plug-in can be downloaded from here and its documentation here.
xAP is an open protocol that supports the integration automation sub-systems within the home – it is a ‘glue’ that sticks home automation devices together. So, now that ‘glue’ will help to add Sqeezebox to the xAP based system.
[via AutomatedHome]
Recently the Beta 1 of Linux-based media center software XBMC was released. Originally created for Microsoft XBox it’s available now for Linux, Mac OS X and Windows. There is a possibility to try Atlantis without installation (thanks to LiveCD).
XBMC offers a full set of features for HTPC: organize media library, playback video files, listen music, show photos. Its functionality can be extended using plugins and GUI can be customized using themes. There is an only one missed feature – Personal Video Recorder (PVR). But according to rumors XBMC development team is working to implement it. Definitely it won’t be in this release. Because the final version is scheduled for October right after Ubumtu 8.10.
I played with Boxee – another media center software with social features. XBMC team participates its development. I like Boxee. It’s really good and user friendly. There is only one reason why I don’t use it on my media center – lack of PVR functionality. I’m going to play a bit with Atlantis too.
