Network media streamer ; enormous file playback compatibility ; can access media RSS feeds and play many online video files ; includes user-replaceable 500GB hard drive ; 802.11a/b/g/n compatible ; doesn't require Windows Media Center ; plays YouTube ...

A bit pricey ; occasionally crashes ; can't play any DRM iTunes Store video purchases ; no access to Flash-based online video ; and no streaming video services, like Netflix or Amazon Video On Demand

While it's a bit pricey and far from perfect, the Netgear Digital Entertainer Elite EVA9150 offers an easy way to access the widest array of digital audio, photo, and, especially, video files for the do-it-yourself crowd.

Wow.

Solid video quality and reception ; easy-to-use design, especially for digital TV amateurs ; good aspect ratio controls for handling widescreen programs on standard TVs ; attractive design ; remote can control the TV's power

Program guide is very basic ; small remote control buttons aren't ideal for seniors ; audio quality is subpar

The Zenith DTT900 DTV converter box has an easy-to-use design and solid video quality, but buyers should be aware of cheaper--and possibly better--alternatives coming in the future.

Former add-ons are now standard, including a disc utility to erase and format rewritables, a virtual drive to store game discs on your machine, and a label creator.

This inexpensive digital photo frame is easy to set up and can display JPEG images and AVI video files stored on various types of memory cards

No-frills design ; the screen is pretty small ; there's no internal memory ; while the outer frame is removable, no extra frames ship with the product

The no-frills Royal PF56 makes for an acceptable digital photo frame for those on a tight budget--but it does have some design quirks.

The Kensington RDS FM transmitter has decent signal strength and sound quality and is the first transmitter to use RDS technology for beaming song info to a compatible car stereo ; it has three presets, uses the iPod screen for FM tuning, and ...

The Kensington RDS FM transmitter has a poorly designed base unit, and it can occasionally freeze the iPod. In addition, there is no audio line input, and the RDS feature requires a compatible car stereo (while RDS is common, we didn't easily find one ...

The Kensington RDS FM transmitter works well enough, but unless you find RDS data necessary (and you have an RDS-compatible car stereo), you should consider another model.

For at-home use with your stereo, RemoteTunes isn't as elegant as remotes we've seen that use the iPod's dock connector, such as the Kensington Stereo Dock. But it works nicely for on-the-go control of your music.

LED lights add value to beginning guitar lessons ; Fender-like design ; can be used as a standard electric guitar

Software doesn't include any basic songs beyond scales ; Windows only ; expensive

The technologically advanced Fretlight guitar is no replacement for a human teacher; however, it could be a useful teaching tool for instructors themselves.

Nice high-resolution color screen ; memory card slots galore ; simple interface

Bulky ; poor battery life ; digital audio options limited ; supports only MP3 and JPEG playback ; can't listen to music and view photos simultaneously

Poor battery life and a thin set of features makes this photo viewer with a built-in MP3 player a secondary choice.

In-wall iPod docking station ; charges your iPod ; provides video connection for the iPod Photo ; compatible with Crestron or AMX touch-screen control systems

You (or a custom installer) must cut holes in your walls to install the iPort ; expensive ; works only with newer iPods

The Sonance iPort lets you anchor a whole-house music system using your iPod.