Sony SMP-N200 Reviews and Price Comparison: Media Streamer

Here’s a list of the questions other shoppers have asked owners of the Sony SMP-N200

1. we own a panasonic plasma (tx46g10b) blu ray 850eb, and onkyo sr608 surround processor . All units run thro the processor to the tv using HDMI cable so will the sony connect likewise i.e. via processor with 6 HDMI inputs is this the best setup ? thanks
   
   Mark asked on 10 Dec 2011
   1. Dear Marj,
      
      I would think this would be the ideal way to hook the SMP-N200 into your set up. The instruction book has full instructions on how to do this so, before you buy, why not download a copy from Son'y site. I've had the unit since it was launched in the UK and am really pleased with it.
      
      I hope this helps
      
      Anthony replied on 12 Dec 2011

       
2. c an I access Skype thro this connection
   
   cherry asked on 23 Dec 2011
   1. No, unfortunately there is no provision for Skype at this stage.
      
      Regards
      
      Anthony replied on 24 Dec 2011

       
3. How do I access itv player
   
   Linda asked on 27 Dec 2011
   1. I'm afraid Sony have not included the ITV player as yet. It's something we are still waiting for.
      
      Anthony replied on 27 Dec 2011

       
4. What cables do I need to buy? (I can't find a 'what's in the box' link).
   Thanks.
   
   Gerald asked on 29 Dec 2011
   1. In the box all there is are the SMP-N200, the remote control an AC adapter and the instruction manual - no leads I'm afraid.
      
      Anthony replied on 01 Jan 2012

       
5. how do i get to connect my pc, iphone so that I can stream media to my tv please
   
   aj asked on 30 Dec 2011
   1. You connect it via a local wired network using the LAN connection or via the SMP-N200's built in wi-fi. You can also plug an external hard drive directly into the box and stream stuff from there. Of course to stream movies, music or photos from your PC you will need to install a media streamer. You can use WMP or Sony do recommend Serviio which can be downloaded free from http://www.serviio.org/ I use this myself and it works like a dream - I hope this helps.
      
      Anthony replied on 01 Jan 2012

       
6. hi if purchasing this box can i connect it to my sandstrom tv to enable a wifi connection to allow the feature "throw" from my sony s tablet.
   thankyou.
   
   callum asked on 30 Dec 2011
   1. I do understand that the Sony does work in this way. Unfortunately I haven't a tablet or iphone to test it out.
      
      Anthony replied on 01 Jan 2012

       
7. How do you find the BitTorrent P2P Client? Does it download at the same rate your computer does? And are these files then able to be transferred to my HDD?
   
   Graeme asked on 05 Jan 2012
   1. will not down load torrent files
      
      
      neil replied on 06 Jan 2012

       
8. Hi
   1, BBC I player 'page' will always not load correctly, i've had to reset unit twice now
   2 HDMI outputs to 3 way hdmi 'auto select socket' , which should automatically select the last input switched on, this also has 'failed' twice now.....
   I have owned the unit for 1 week now
   
   Richard asked on 06 Jan 2012
   1. I don't have that problem with mine. BBC iPlayer loads first time everytime. So I don't think its a problem with the box. I also connect directly to my TV via the HDMI and have had no problems there, so I'm afraid I can't be of much help - sorry.
      
      Anthony replied on 08 Jan 2012

       
9. I would like to use this box to browse the web in the same way as I would on my PC.
   Is it possible to use a full-size wireless keyboard of any kind ??
   
   Alec asked on 09 Jan 2012
   1. To answer the first part of your question. The SMP-N200 has a browser built in (Opera, I believe) and I have used this myself to browse from time to time. Unfortunately it won't play videos directly in the browser.
      
      I may be wrong, but I believe Sony do provide a Wireless keyboard to work with the 200, but you will need to check with them. Hope this helps.
      
      Anthony replied on 09 Jan 2012

       
   2. no. and you cant browse the web like a pc the evolve is the only box that can do that the spm n200 and other like boxes will not browse the web
      
      neil replied on 09 Jan 2012

       
10. A few questions :-
    
    (1) Do Sony provide regular Firware updates for the SMP-N200 ?
    (2) Does anyone know if Soney are planning to provide an update so that Netflix UK in the same way as LoveFilm
    (3) Is Serviio the only DLNA S/W that works with the SMP-N200, if not what others are people using successfully ?
    
    Thanks,
    Stu.
    
    Stuart asked on 11 Jan 2012
    1. Firmware Updates - Yes they do, I have had two since I purchased it on release.
       Netflix - The Update has already appeared on the PS3 and hopefully it will be shortly available for the N200.
       Serviio - I have used the PS3 server with mine but ultimately preferred Serviio as it has worked flawlessly for me.
       
       Anthony replied on 11 Jan 2012

        
11. have serviio but PC will not stream to TV ,it displays files not supported/corrupted/downloaded films from APPLE-I-TUNES BUTNO DISPLAY. Comments please.
    
    charles asked on 14 Jan 2012
    1. You need to convert the files to a format that the SMP-N200 can read. Please see my previous reply for details of a free programme to convert your videos. Hope this helps.
       
       Anthony replied on 16 Jan 2012

        
12. PC will not stream films downloaded from i-tunes.haveServiio installed Filesunsupported/corupted is the message when trying to use this product. Any advice is welcome.
    
    charles asked on 14 Jan 2012
    1. See previous replies.
       
       Anthony replied on 16 Jan 2012

        
13. Where can I find an authoritative list of the streaming and TV services that work with the Sony SMP N-200 in the UK? I've heard it works with Lovefilm and iPlayer. Any others? 4OD? When will Netflix become available? This is essential information in deciding whether to buy this product.
    
    Jonathan asked on 18 Jan 2012
    1. Yes indeed, BBC iPlayer, Channel 5 catchup, You Tube, Love Film and Sony Entertainment Network together with the Berlin Philharmonica Digital Concert Hall, are all included, plus a host of others. Sony seem to be adding sites all the time but haven't yet published a complete list. Netflix recently appeared on the PS3 and is rumoured to be coming to the SMP-N200. But nothing has appeared yet. Sorry I can't be of more help.
       
       Anthony replied on 18 Jan 2012

        
14. hi - i own a N100 model - and am still waiting for 4oD as are others - but what i'd really like to see appear in the menu is NETFLIX. you don't think sony would just update the N200 with this do you?
    
    thanks in advance!
    
    james asked on 01 Feb 2012
    1. They have updated the PS3 to carry Netflix but, so far, nothing for the SMP-N200. We can live in hope however.
       
       Anthony replied on 02 Feb 2012

        
15. Hi.. does anyone know why my iplayer doesnt work at the moment... I have tried unplugging the unit but still nothing....
    
    Russell asked on 05 Feb 2012
    1. I have exactly the same problem. I think there must therefore be a temporary problem with it.
       
       Anthony replied on 06 Feb 2012

        
    2. it never works. If you reset the media player it will work untill you switch the player off, then you have to re set it again still say the evolve is far far better
       
       neil replied on 06 Feb 2012

        
16. Does the unit backup content to be played later or is it a live stream? I am worried that as I only have a 6mb broadband it may not play.
    
    
    
    Dave asked on 07 Feb 2012
    1. It does not back up the content 6mb should be okay will you content wirelessly or by ethernet if ethernet 6mb will be fine. Hope this helps?
       
       Chas replied on 20 Feb 2012

        
17. I have installed an SMP-N200 this week and all works fine apart from ITVPlayer. When I access ITVPlayer using the manual input method URL (www.itv.com/itvplayer), it displays an Adobe Flash Player upgrade screen requesting installation of firmware 10.2 or better. Does anyone know what device this message is refering to. Is it the SMP N200 device or is the message due to ITVPlayer not being supported yet.
    
    Peter asked on 09 Feb 2012
    1. You cannot get ITV Player via the internet we are awaiting Sony to buy access like the BBC i player
       
       Chas replied on 12 Apr 2012

        
18. I'm not very technical, so please excuse me if these queries are obvious! I'm principally looking to be able to play music (iTunes) and view photos that are on my upstairs PC on my downstairs TV. I've considered buying a new SMART TV but this seemed to offer a cheaper alternative. Is that right? Is there anything else I need (I've got wi-fi broadband)?
    
    The option to view iPlayer etc would also be useful but do you get a remote control (or some way) of choosing such options?
    
    Many thanks in anticipation!
    
    Steve asked on 13 Feb 2012
    1. Don't buy a smart TVas this unit will to all that you require plus moreI have all my music/photos and videos coming though my tv from my PC and laptop very easy to set up. You get the iplayers and the internet you get a small remote that does the job plus if you have a smart phone you can use this to control the unit as well its great alround for a small cost. Since I have bought mine family and friends once seeing what it has done they have all gone out and bought one.
       
       Chas replied on 12 Apr 2012

        
19. Hi,
    
    I wander if I can hit play on my PC and with this box, see the movie on TV?
    
    Razvan asked on 15 Feb 2012
    1. Yes you can multi task whilst player the media player.
       
       Have fun
       
       Chas replied on 20 Feb 2012

        
20. Can l connect my ACER A500 tablet to the Sony SMP-N200 (Wi-Fi).
    
    I would like to download my photograhs
    
    
    
    Neil asked on 25 Feb 2012
    1. The SMP=N200 has a USB connection, and also RJ45, I have connected a USB drive but haven't tried my tablet/laptop
       
       J replied on 19 Mar 2012

        
    2. I use an Acer 5742 laptop and the Sony recognises this without any problems. Provided the files to wish to stream are those supported you wont have any issues. I stream photos, video and music from my laptop and NAS.
       
       Mark replied on 19 Mar 2012

        
21. hi
    plz can you tell me if this box can read srt files for subtitle or no?
    many thnx
    
    waleed asked on 26 Feb 2012
    1. I'm afraid i can't answer your question , with certainty, but i know it won't play coded files such as DRM, lossless so suspect that srt will not play.
       Hope this helps
       
       Mark replied on 19 Mar 2012

        
22. Sony do not respond to my emails. Has anyone had any luck finding out when the updates will include netflix, 4od and itv player
    thanks john
    
    john asked on 26 Feb 2012
    1. I haven't heard either. I've been using my PS3 to access Netflix and found it to be an excellent service.
       
       Anthony replied on 28 Feb 2012

        
23. Hi
    How can I 'catch and throw' media on my iPhone 4 (websites, pics and home videos shot on the phone) to my Bravia TV via my SMP-N200 media player?. Both are on the same home network and I can use the remote feature on my iPhone to control my N200 output.
    Also, I've updated the Sony firmware on my N200 today (7.3.12). Should this offer me more services?
    
    Dave asked on 07 Mar 2012
    1. Hi,
       Sorry can't help with the i phone question would suggest contacting Sonu Support they are great for these sort of questions.
       Firmware - I have set my unit to auto updates so since having my unit I have seen many more services come on board. We are all still waiting for ITV i player and 4OD.
       Hope this helps!
       
       Chas replied on 08 Mar 2012

        
24. Hi,
    I have a CyberShot HX9V and I store my AVCHD 1080i movies from the camera on my laptop. Will the SMP-N200 stream these files and play them at 1080i?
    Also, if I move my pictures and movies to an external USB disk - will the SMP-N200 still play them back at 1080i?
    Thank you.
    
    Dave asked on 16 Mar 2012
    1. Hi,
       Yes to both questions.
       What I find is that if a codex won't play via the stream via my computer that when I place the files on my hard drive or memory stick and plug into the usb on the N200 its plays. hope this help?
       
       Chas replied on 18 Mar 2012

        
25. Currently have a number of video's saved on my NAS which I can access from my playstation and I am wondering if this streamer play MPEG-4 via my NAS?
    
    
    Vargo asked on 20 Mar 2012
    1. Sorry, I do not know what a NAS is.
       The network media player will play
       .mpg/.mpeg/.mt2s/.mts/.mkv/.mp4/.m4v/.m2ts/.wmv/.asf/.avi also .mp3/.m4a/.wma/.wav
       
       J replied on 21 Mar 2012

        
26. I'm also looking a buying a WD Book Live NAS server to store my photos and AVCHD (1080i) movies from my Sony HX9V. Will the SMP-N200 stream this content from this NAS and play it back at 1080i?
    
    Dave asked on 20 Mar 2012
    1. Yes this will work
       
       Chas replied on 23 Mar 2012

        
    2. I use a WD Book connected to my server which streams all my movies and photos to my SMP-N200.
       
       Anthony replied on 29 Mar 2012

        
27. Hi, i have a slow internet connection living out in the sticks, when i stream from my VAIO to PS3 the movies stutter and skip.
    1.Can i plug a hard drive straight into the SMP-N200 and play movies most are .mkv files,
    2. If yes do these movies play like a normal DVD ie no buffering?
    3. also thinking of getting a S tablet can you push things to a non smart Bravia TV? via the Box
    
    
    Robert asked on 01 Apr 2012
    1. 1 Yes this is easily done
       
       2 Yes no buffering
       3 Not sure what an S tablet is but I use a Samsung TV successfully
       
       J replied on 02 Apr 2012

        
    2. Easiest thing is to plug a USB disk into the Sony. Streaming files across your home network (to any compatable device including tablets) also works in the much the same way as you can share files between networked PCs.
       
       Chris replied on 02 Apr 2012

        
28. My SMP-N200 works beautifully, but I have a few questions:
    -It does identify my Buffalo NAS, but it cannot see the files on it, displaying 'no playable file'. How do I get the mediaplayer to play the files on my NAS?
    -How do I remove a usb-stick safely? After I remove it and stick in the next, it displays 'no playable file'.
    -Can de mediaplayer stream HD movies, or do I need to wire it to the router to do this?
    I hope one of you has the answers to my questions. Many thanks!
    Ben
    
    Ben asked on 10 Apr 2012
    1. Seeing files on your NAS will depend entirely on the format. Some extensions the SMP-N200 won't support. For example, it will not see quicktime movies. What i did was to import movie into windows live movie maker then save back to NAS in WMV format....the N200 will then recognise and play the movie no probs. See page 25 of the manual for a list of playable files
       USB sticks... Havent encountered this problem, you didnt say whether or not they were the sam make? it may be an incompatability?
       I have streamed HD from my NAS an the Net and haven't had a problem, only thing was due to my broadband when it is in use by other family members and bandwidth drops then i would get occasional stops while the data buffered again.
       
       Mark replied on 10 Apr 2012

        
29. Are we able to record nor capture any content involving gameplay (Capture card)?
    
    Matt asked on 11 Apr 2012
    1. No
       
       Chas replied on 12 Apr 2012

        
30. I'm really pleased with this, but when I try to play MKV format files from my network drive, it takes around 3-4 mins to start playing them, and the rewind/forward buttons don't work when I does start playing.
    
    Other file formats seem to play instantly.
    
    Any idea why, or how to fix this?
    
    Thanks
    
    Jim
    
    
    Jim asked on 12 Apr 2012
    1. Interesting, Mine starts in around the usual time of around 15- 20 secs. Fast forward and rewind work well but you do have to allow it to buffer a reasonable amount before this feature will work. Usually fine after about a minute.
       
       Hope this helps
       
       Anthony replied on 13 Apr 2012

        
31. I got a 1tb hard drive. And if I wanna play video from it is there a certain way I put as ima folder named VIDEO or does it matter
    
    johnny asked on 14 Apr 2012
    1. No. Folder names don't matter as you will have a choice when you open the media players home menu as to how you vids are displayed. ie; all vids displayed, folders by name, genre etc. the only thing that really matters is that the video format is one that is recognised by the SMPN200.
       
       Mark replied on 16 Apr 2012

        
32. Thoes this player read subtitles with m2ts and mts files? Thanks
    
    Slobodan asked on 18 Apr 2012
    1. 
       
       john replied on 18 Apr 2012

        
33. Hi - can you make an audio playlist with this device - I've read the manual and it only seems to refer to Albums ?
    
    Terry asked on 19 Apr 2012
    1. Sorry Terry. I do not know. I use it to access on demand TV and video plus my home NAS.
       
       robert replied on 19 Apr 2012

        
34. this box works in Sony Bravia KDL 32ex301 model?
    
    Eugenijus asked on 22 Apr 2012
    1. The N200 has HDMI output and works fine with the HDMI equipped TV that I have tried.
       
       Chris replied on 23 Apr 2012

        
35. On my pc I store each movie under it's own directory and on Windows 7 I can then add in-addition to the movie to the folder a JPEG file called folder and windows will display the image of the folder.jpeg file for the movie. Therefore, when I look in the movies folder I see images for each movie as the folder. But the Sony SMP-N200 does not know what to do with the folder.jpeg image. Is there a way to fix this so when I access the network with my movies with the Sony SMP-N200 I can see the movie image and not just the name?
    
    William asked on 26 Apr 2012
    1. In short, No. The sony has been reviewed by many people more able than i and all have said this is one of the weak areas. It will not currently support this function. I would like to think Sony will update the software to improve functionality and choice for UK customers although ive not heard anything to this effect, but it is lacking in some areas; file recognition, browser functionality, java and the limited search options.
       
       Mark replied on 26 Apr 2012

        
36. so ive connected my device to my wireless network all works fine but how do i connect my pc (dell) and my laptop on the same network so i can play music/photos on my sony tv? do i need a dlna?
    
    tony asked on 27 Apr 2012
    1. Your main PC (Dell) should be connected directly to your router and then the other items should easily conect to it wirelessly. You will then need to add a server programme to your main PC. Sony reccomend a programme called Serviio which is free and can be downloaded here :- http://www.serviio.org/ Then all you will need to do is to ensure the folders you wish to view over the network (music/photos) are set to 'share'. This you can do by right clicking on them and setting them to share in the properties folder. I hope this helps - have fun.
       
       Anthony replied on 28 Apr 2012

        
    2. You don't need dlna you go to your pc/laptop setting and allow access via the network to your sony N200. then reboot computer and N200 and then go into the N200 menu and you will see your computers coming up then just access your pictures/music so that the N200 can pick up theinformation. JHope this helps!
       
       Chas replied on 28 Apr 2012

        
37. i have a sony 40hx803 tv, if i buy smp n200, will it stream from my acer aspire 7750 laptop ? many thanks
    
    Ed asked on 08 May 2012
    1. Short answer is 'yes' - but laptop will need to be configured to stream media - e.g. via DLNA/UPnP (or equivalent). I have a NAS where this is built in - and the SMP-N200 works well with this.
       
       However for your laptop, the web link below describes how Windows Media Player allows Windows 7 users to stream their media to DLNA-compliant devices on the same network. I haven't tried this myself though.
       
       http://www.ehow.com/how_8689919_use-dlna-laptop.html
       
       
       Chris replied on 09 May 2012

        
38. how much capacity hard disk drive it supports
    
    trinadh asked on 19 May 2012
    1. It has no drive, it merely connects the TV etc to your Router so you can access the Internet. For example, I can see my 'youtube' videos on my HD Television - or download films by streaming them to my TV directly.
       
       john replied on 19 May 2012

        
39. will sony update smp-n200 so that you can accsess playmemoriesonlie on the tv
    
    anthony asked on 20 May 2012
    1. Sony update the SMP-N200 regularly and add new services from time to time. However not until the updates arrive do we know what services are coming. You should contact Sony for details on whether specific services will be added.
       
       Anthony replied on 21 May 2012

        
    2. On their web site Sony mark this service as 'coming soon' to Bravia TV's. As the SMP-N200 uses the Same platform as the Bravia, I think it highly likely that it will be included when they update the system.
       
       Anthony replied on 21 May 2012

        
    3. You should contact Sony for details on whether specific services will be added.
       
       
       
       Chas replied on 21 May 2012

        
40. How intuitive is the interface for selecting and playing audio files stored on a NAS (WD MyBookWorld)? It would be great if it is similar to the familiar feel of Windows Media Player. We don't have smart phones so would have to use the remote control provided by Sony.
    
    Chris asked on 22 May 2012
    1. Sorry, no experience with your device but I can confirm that I can play movies stored on a memory stick through the USB port - that would probably be your route for Audio too.
       
       john replied on 25 May 2012

        
41. Hi,
    We have four NAS drives holding video files. Can the SMP-N200 connect to all of these (at the same time) and present a combined "media library"-like listing of all the videos?
    TIA
    Kev
    
    Kev asked on 25 May 2012
    1. I have not tried this and cannot say for sure. However, the SMP-N200 recognises Upnp servers and I suggest you configure your 4 NAS boxes so that one of them runs a Upnp server with connectivity so that it can see folders form the from the other NAS servers.
       
       Chris replied on 25 May 2012

        

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