2Wire's MediaPortal is an
all-in-one media box for SBC
2Wire MediaPortal
The product: Home-networking stalwart 2Wire has introduced an ultra-set-top box that combines a multituner HD satellite receiver with a TiVo-style digital video recorder, a network media device, a DVD player, and a DSL-powered Internet hub. The aptly named MediaPortal will offer users access to live and recorded standard and high-def TV, plus digital audio and photos on their home network (as well as recorded TV shows on other MediaPortals in the home), live and cached content from the Web, and a host of other cool options, all through a single seamless interface. The resulting Home Entertainment Service, as provider SBC has dubbed it, will provide a one-two punch of satellite TV and DSL-delivered broadband Net access, offering customers a single point of contact for all their entertainment needs--and a viable alternative to cable.

• All-in-one satellite TV broadband set-top box
• 250GB HD DVR
• Seven-day electronic programming guide
• Dual satellite and dual over-the-air HD tuners
• Built-in CD/DVD drive
• Ethernet and Wi-Fi connectivity

The prospects: Many convergence products overpromise and underdeliver (remember Digeo?), but 2Wire's MediaPortal certainly has the makings of an impressive, do-it-all device. The hardware offers some compelling advantages over separate machines, but we'll keep our excitement in check until SBC actually begins rolling out its MediaPortal-powered Home Entertainment Service later this year. (Those outside of SBC's western U.S. coverage area will have to hold out hope that their local telco will offer a similar service.)

By John P. Falcone, senior associate editor, CNET Reviews