In our view, quite the reverse is true. The future for affordable CI-focused media server solutions is brighter than ever. The difference is that with cheap hardware readily available, it is now more about having the right software at the right time. The recession has weeded out weaker companies who perhaps did not keep pace with the changing market.
Media servers should not be viewed as purely a storage device. They are increasingly important for aggregating and delivering content around the custom-installed home, especially with the growth in popularity of online content, such as internet radio, Last FM, Spotify, YouTube and other services. Video on Demand services also need a CI and user friendly interface - internet TV remotes just don’t cut it.
They also allow homeowners to bring together, then browse and access their entire movie, home video, photo and music collection through one slick interface.
Customers expect media servers to be rich in features but they must also pass the affordability, reliability and versatility tests too. As other media server brands fall by the wayside, the DF Solutions range from AWE ticks all these boxes, offering the potential to add value to any CI project.
Importantly, DF Solutions has a policy of free online software updates, including feature enhancements as they come available! A fantastic user interface, on-line media streaming connectivity, full Blu-Ray functionality, unlimited storage capacity through NAS drives (so no overpriced storage tie-ins), remote maintenance and multiroom playback are all features available with the latest range of DF Solutions servers. The Base© unit from DF Solutions can be used in a single room or easily integrated into a whole home custom installation using the Link Clients and is controllable from a wide-range of control systems, including Philips Pronto – also available from AWE as well as iPhone, AMX and Crestron.
And behind the DF Solutions product, there’s also the service and technical support that AWE is renowned for. This back-up includes comprehensive DF Solutions training courses held at our Surrey Head Office each and every month. This teaches installer best practice, but also how to remotely manage client servers using the Team viewer software.
For us and for DF Solutions, media servers remain a key technology for custom installers – but only the right products, at the right price and with the right level of support will ultimately succeed.