New Slingbox models should increase streaming performance

Sling Media announced the nationwide availability of three new Slingbox models that should increase performance and provide customers with choice depending on their home TV setup and start at as low as $179.99. The Slingbox Pro, Slingbox AV, and Slingbox Tuner transform PCs, laptops and Windows-based mobile phones and handheld computers into personal portable TVs. Slingbox owners can watch and control their home cable, satellite or digital video recorder anywhere they can access the Internet. All three products are available to U.S. customers only.

From left to right: Slingbox Tuner, Slingbox Pro and Slingbox AV

Slingbox Pro

The Slingbox Pro is designed for the consumer who has multiple A/V devices or has made an investment in high definition TV. The Pro features four sets of audio-video inputs and outputs including the optional HD component connection for HD set-top box customers making for seamless integration into current A/V systems. Other new features include widescreen (16:9) support, high quality programmable video compression, easy connection to set-top boxes (e.g. digital cable, satellite, DVR) and remote control of A/V devices.

The optional cable for HD component set-top boxes is called the Slingbox HD Connect and it includes all the necessary cables to connect HD component video and audio to the Slingbox Pro. This accessory will be available later this fall. Customers who wish to seamlessly connect their HD receiver to the Slingbox Pro using the component connection will need to purchase this accessory.

Slingbox AV

The Slingbox AV gives consumers who watch TV using a standard definition cable set-top box, satellite receiver or DVR, the ability to connect their Slingbox AV seamlessly to their set-top box. Slingbox AV features the ability to watch and control TV from any Internet connected PC/Mac/laptop or Windows-based mobile device, widescreen (16:9) support and high quality programmable video compression.

Slingbox Tuner

The Slingbox Tuner must be ideal for customers with cable who want to view their line-up of television channels and do not require access to a set-top box, satellite receiver, DVR or other AV device. The Slingbox Tuner connects adjacent to a cable modem or basic coaxial connection, even without a TV present. This allows the Slingbox TUNER customer to view their cable channels without impacting anyone watching TV anywhere else in the home.