LaCie introduces 500GB, 1TB wireless HD media players
Storage manufacturer LaCie has announced an expansion to its range of Wireless HD media players, the LaCinema Black PLAY and LaCinema Black RECORD, designed for accessing music, photos, and video over a home network on an HDTV.
Both the PLAY and RECORD units allow consumers to watch downloaded HD movies and programs directly on a TV. The units are capable of decoding 1080p resolution movies, HD JPEG photos and 1080i upscaling of Standard Definition movies, and can handle surround sound through an optical audio output.
True to its name, the RECORD features DVR capabilities, and allows users to digitize (in SD) analog content. Both units allow for direct and wireless connectivity, allowing storage of multimedia files from any computer on the local network. A built-in UPnP client player makes it easy to access media content from a networked PC or Mac.
LaCie's user interface allows for media browsing and creating photo slideshows or music playlists. There's also a parental control feature to password-protect files -- in case you've got something kicking around that Junior shouldn't watch.
The units have USB ports for peripherals allow for expanded capacity, or direct connection with video and digital cameras.
The LaCinema Black PLAY and RECORD are available with capacities at 500GB and 1TB, starting at $429.99.