Note: This product was previously featured as part of Connect’s Holiday Gift Guide.

The SlingBox was first introduced as a single device in 2005, now it is a family of products designed to allow you to watch your TV anywhere, anytime. Today, we take a look at the SlingBox AV from Sling Media.

“The Slingbox AV is the perfect companion for your DVR, digital cable, or satellite receiver. The Slingbox AV allows you to watch and control live TV, or any other TV entertainment you have, anywhere you go. Using an Internet connected computer or wireless mobile device, you can watch and control your home TV, DVR, digital cable box, or satellite receiver around town or around the globe. With a Slingbox AV you will never be separated from your favorite TV shows, sports broadcasts, breaking news stories, digital video recordings, or video on demand.” - Sling Media

The setup of the SlingBox AV is very simple, plug in power, ethernet, and video from your set-top box or DVR and your good to go. Sling Media was kind enough to send me their SlingLink product which eliminates the need to string ethernet across your house, and transfers the data over your electrical wiring. Again, the setup of this device was virtually painless. Big thumbs up for ease-of-use.

Installing the software on my PC and Mac couldn’t have been easier, just insert the CD or in my case, download the software for the Mac. Although the interface isn’t exactly Mac-like per say, they’re trying really hard. I just wish it would be a native Cocoa application like all the other Mac apps, but I digress.

Quality of the video and audio was generally good, but I haven’t been able to test it outside of my own network, so expect a follow-up review sometime soon if I have the time. Some minor problems with video, but that was to be expected. By the way, this device is a must-have for people on the road.

Overall, I can recommend this SlingBox to anyone, whether it be a consumer or a techie, and if you don’t have cable, be sure to check out their other product, SlingBox Tuner. If you have HD or want to hook up more than 1 source, check out the SlingBox Pro.

Pros

• Very easy to setup.
• Great for traveling.

Cons

• Minor issues with video quality.

Final Verdict

4.5 out of 5 stars.

You can find this product, and all of our reviewed products at Shopzilla, the best resource for checking prices on things online.

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