We’ve mentioned the Roku player in other posts, citing its ability to stream Netflix movies instantaneously to your TV via the Internet.  In its original form, the standard definition Roku player allowed subscribers to conveniently play Netflix’ growing library of online content.  Now, Roku has released two additional players, both supporting high definition video and digital surround sound. 

The Roku HD maintains all the features of the original device, including both wired and wireless 802.11G networking capabilities.  Unfortunately, its video and audio connectivity options are limited, supporting only HDMI and optical connections respectively.  For those who’ve upgraded to a wireless-N networking infrastructure and are willing to pay an additional $30 on top of the HD price, the Roku HD-XR upgrades the device to include 802.11N compatibility. 

For anyone looking to augment their home theater experience and take those first small steps into the realm of viewing online content via a TV, these devices by Roku, in whatever flavor, do a great job of simplifing the process without requiring a networking degree to properly setup.  While HTPC’s or digital media players may offer access to more types of content, the cost and ease of the Roku devices make them good platforms upon which to unify traditional and online viewing.