As some of you might remember, Sling Media, the maker of the famous Slingbox streaming device, announced back at CES 2008 a new product that would be able to stream HD video to the user's computers. And now, 9 months later, the company finally delivered on its promise and announced the official availability of the Slingbox PRO-HD, which can stream high-definition content from an HD signal source (be it DVR, digital cable, satellite receiver or DVD player) to a computer located anywhere in the world, provided it features an active Internet connection.

Sadly, not all users will be able to take full advantage of the HD functionality. While the Slingbox PRO-HD can stream standard-definition video to any decent computer, HD streaming requires some more "potent" machines, equipped with at least a 3 GHz processor or 2 GHz dual-core processor and supporting a 1280 x 768 pixel resolution, 24-bit graphics and 16-bit sound.

The PRO-HD features an integrated digital tuner for access to analog or digital cable (clear QAM), and digital over-the-air broadcasts (ATSC), which may be used independently from one's cable or satellite box. Additional connectivity options include Coaxial, Composite, Component and S-Video interfaces, plus a stereo audio input.

The Slingbox PRO-HD offers a few very interesting features that allow users to enjoy their favorite shows even when they're not exactly able to watch them live. One of them is the Live Video Buffer, which allows one to easily pause, rewind or fast-forward, up to 60 minutes of video on the PC, right from SlingPlayer.

Other useful features are the SlingPlayer Guide, an electronic program guide, and the SlingRemote, which looks and acts exactly like one's real remote control at home. Plus, the device allows users to adjust the size of the viewing screen and the viewing mode, for an extended level of versatility.

The Slingbox PRO-HD retails for around 300 US dollars, which is $100 less than the price point initially announced back at CES.


We are just a few, but there are many of you, Softpedia users, out there. That's why we thought it would be a good idea to create an email address for you to help us a little in finding gadgets we missed. Interesting links are bound to be posted with recognition going mainly to those who submit. The address is .