Slingbox - VERY Cool Technology

I've been interested in accessing my TiVo over the Web since I first read about TiVo mods. For regular TiVo users, this became a non-issue with TiVo's online services. However, for us dumb schmucks with DirectTV TiVos, there is no joy in online-town. DTV doesn't even have online components scheduled for development, let alone deployment.

I read the release reviews of the Slingbox (released around 7/3/05) and was intrigued. Actually broadcasting my TiVo over the Internet, not just controlling it? Too good to be true? Probably. However, the gadget-fiend in me wouldn't let skepticism get in the way of trying it.

So one trip to CompUSA and -$250 later, I had the Slingbox home and began the install. About 30 painless minutes later the device was installed and I was watching video on my desktop computer. It was good video by computer standards--that is, about what I'd expect from a good capture card. But, could it stream to my laptop over my wireless connection (which is one reason I got the Slingbox)? Thankfully the answer is yes. In fact, it did an amazing job.

(The Slingbox installs between the device you want to control and your TV. It allows the signal to pass through to the TV so you don't need to dedicate an output on the device for the Slingbox. It supports RCA audio (stereo) and video plugs as well as S-Video connections. The box itself is kinda funky in design, but only about 12" long so it doesn't stick out like a sore thumb. It does require the proprietary SlingPlayer software to view the remote 'casted video.)

The next day I tried the connection over the Internet, watching and controlling the TiVo at work. Because of the reviews I expected acceptable quality. I was unprepared for almost flawless video--but a bit dismayed at the few pronounced flaws (see below). I can now watch my TiVo from anywhere over the Internet. (Well, anywhere where I have my laptop [with installed SlingPlayer software] that has broadband.) This would have been incredibly useful when I traveled more--I wouldn't have had to rely upon local channels, HBO's lineup (although impressive), and Spectravision for entertainment. I could have watched anything that I would have been watching at home--live or recorded.

The device has a few limitations and shortcomings. Among those that I've noticed:

• There is a noticeable delay between the time a remote button is pushed and the TiVo responds
• Using the remote interrupts the video flow (but mastering the “control mode” helps a lot)
• The SlingPlayer software only acts as one specific remote--I'd love to use the player to access several devices (DVD player, VCR, and TiVo) which are all connected to the same TV
• There's an annoying audio glitch that causes feedback when the video gets too bright
• The price tag is a little steep

I don't have a real practical use for it--I mean I can't exactly watch TV all day at work (but being able to watch TV on my laptop anywhere in the house is a plus). Still the Slingbox is one of the hottest gadgets I've seen (and place-shifting a cool concept). I can't wait to see their PDA and phone players.