How to Choose: Media Centers vs. Server + Extenders

Dedicated Media Servers are more robust than "all-in-one" media centers w. combined storage & play back. Media Servers have unique features auto-updates, virtually no maintenance, & conveniences like Drop-n-Rip™ & DualRip™ which are not available on any other VidaBox product line.

Whenever possible, always start with a dedicated server, such as a RackServerV2, or RACK24, then add in your media extenders as needed. However, in some instances, the budget may not allow for this, so choosing an "all-in-one" system like a RackClientV3 may be more suitable instead.

Learn more about each product line and how to choose the most appropriate selection below.

Media Centers are cost-effective, entry-level systems that provide AV playback and storage in a single all-in-one unit. It offers a good compromise between the enhanced stability & feature set of a dedicated server-client setup versus an affordable cost.

A project can start with a media center, and then have a dedicated Media Server added in later. This is often a popular choice when a client wants to minimize the upfront investment requred, but still want most of the VidaBox's media center features.

In-room media centers are good for single or small, 1-2 zone setups where maximum uptime is not critical, scheduled maintenance is permissible, and meeting a budget is key.

Media Servers are designed for maximum stability & provide massive storage for Blu-ray, DVD, music, video, and other digital content for 10 or more zones. It connects to media extenders for AV distribution over a single CAT5e/CAT6 Ethernet connect

Only VidaBox Media Servers provide unique features such as Drop-n-Rip™ & DualRip™ - which give easy, 1-step movie & music archival directly at the server. Higher-end models offer RAID protection & integrates easily w. third-party multiroom audio systems & automation for lighting, HVAC, security, etc.

Media Servers are recommended as the base-line or 'starting' system for any professional installation, especially where maximum uptime and minimum maintainance are important, while cost is secondary.

Media Extenders are set-top box devices designed to stream or "pull" digital AV content from a server or media center for playback. They connect back to the main system via a single CAT5e/CAT6 ethernet connection.

VidaBox offers a full line of Media Extenders that stream Blu-ray, DVDs, music, & more, complete with full 1080p HDMI outputs - all in a variety of form factors in ultra-compact, in-room-ready designs. Extender models - like the vPlayer - with disc drives can also archive a disc back onto the main server. High end models like vStreamer and vPlayer include HDMI1.3 for 7.1 Dolby TrueHD, DTS-HD, and DTS-MA bitstreaming support.

Generally, start with a media server or media center, then add (1) extender for each new, distinct video feed needed. They can be run directly into a TV or a matrix switching system in advanced setups.