CiragoTV Platinum CMC3000 Series Network HD Multimedia Center - Review

1. Easy to set up and use - easy to understand onscreen user interface.

2. Three side-mounted USB ports. 1 port direct PC connection. 2 ports for accessing content on USB flash drives, Digital Still Cameras, iPods, and/or wireless USB network adapter.

3. High defintition video playback capability - 1080p capable HDMI output.

4. Firmware Upgradable (via download from Cirago website to USB flash drive).

5. DVR functions add TV viewing flexibility.

6. NAS functions provide enhanced ability to stream and copy media files on a home network.

7. HDMI, USB Device, and Analog AV cables included.

CiragoTV CMC3000 - CONS:

1. Access to streaming services such as Netflix, require extra paid subscription to PlayOn service (this is in addition to the standard Netflix subscription fee).

2. An external tuner is required to record TV programs.

3. Lackluster video upscaling detail.

4. No controls on front panel of unit - Don't lose the remote control.

5. The remote control is not backlit.

Taking all into consideration, the CiragoTV CMC3000 is an interesting and very flexible add-on device that can complement both your home theater setup and home network for playing, storing, streaming, and downloading media files, and, with its built-in DVR functions, can even record TV programs, provided you have an external cable/satellite, or DTV tuner. Although there are some things could be improved or added, it does goes a long way into converging the home theater and PC entertainment world.

For a physical look at, and additional perspective on, the CiragoTV CMC3000, check out my Photo Profile and Video Performance Tests.

Additional Components Used in This Review:

Home Theater Receiver: Harman Kardon AVR2600 (on review loan).

Loudspeaker System : EMP Tek E5Ci center channel speaker, four E5Bi compact bookshelf speakers for left and right main and surrounds, and an ES10i 100 watt powered subwoofer.

TV/Monitor: A Westinghouse Digital LVM-37w3 1080p LCD Monitor.

External Tuner: Samsung DTB-H260F (using analog AV outs into the CMC3000).

16-Gauge wire used for speaker connections.

Audio/Video connections made with Accell, Interconnect cables. 16 Gauge Speaker Wire used. High Speed HDMI Cable provided by Atlona for this review.

PCs: Toshiba Satellite U205-S5044 Laptop PC and Sony VAIO VGC-RA826G Desktop PC with ATT Network Router.

Disclosure: Review samples were provided by the manufacturer. For more information, please see our Ethics Policy.