Media Streaming—How to Manage Your Content

If you look at how home entertainment has evolved over the past century, or even the past three years, you’ll see a dramatic difference. TVs have gone from large boxes to flat panels, and picture has gone from fuzzy black and white to crisp and colorful images. Along with those changes in devices is the way we view and access content. Now there are so many different audio/video platforms available – so much so it can get confusing. In this blog we are going to cover what media streaming is and what the best ways are to access online content in yourAlbany, New York home.

SEE ALSO: How do I find a reliable wireless network for my New York home?

What is media streaming?

Media streaming is the process of sending compressed audio or video content over the Internet and displaying it for the viewer in real time. Instead of downloading the file, or playing a disc, the content can be accessed directly and instantly via the Web. The media is sent in a continuous stream of data and played as it arrives to the screen or speaker.

What do I need to stream content?

There are a number of ways to access streaming platforms. One way to stream video is to purchase a smart TV, which already comes with the most popular services – such as Netflix, Hulu, and Amazon Prime. You can also use a streaming stick, box, or Blu-ray player. Streaming sticks are Wi-Fi enabled, but if the Internet isn’t strong you can experience issues. A wired Ethernet connection, or professional home network like the ones we install, will provide a reliable connection for high-definition movies and games. Smart TVs by top players like Sony and Samsung also have the advantage over sticks and boxes in some respects because they have exclusive deals with studios to offer more content. In addition, a smart TV has a strong processor to handle Internet content, which helps make navigating and browsing faster. If you want a larger picture or are investing in a dedicated home theater, we have devices that will stream HD and Ultra HD picture as well.

For audio, you’ll need a whole house audio system or smart speaker. Sonos for example is a popular choice for wireless audio. They have more than 45 audio sources for streaming music, including the most popular ones-Pandora, Spotify and Apple Music. All you need is a strong network, the speaker, and a little setup. If you want music in every room, you’ll need a professional like us to help you place the speakers, set up the system, and configure a strong Internet connection.

What are the best sources for streaming content?

You will find that many folks have opted out of cable, and chosen to use only streaming services instead. In the music world, few people buy CDs these days and either download digital files or just stream music for free on platforms like Pandora.

If you have a smart TV, often there will be buttons for streaming services on the remote, but it may be difficult switching back and forth between cable and Internet sources since they are different animals. And that is where having asmart home systemgives you the advantage. Not only can we guarantee that the video streaming will be reliable, clear, and fast due to professional networking, but we can also give you a universal remote that integrates every content source you own – including video games, cable, and streaming subscription services. The same goes for our audio systems. A professional multi-room setup will allow you to switch between personal music collections on iTunes and streaming platforms like Spotify quickly and easily.

The truth is that it’s not a question of local content vs. streaming it; it’s all about how you are going to switch between the two sources and the quality of the content. If you would like to learn more about this topic or add media streaming to your home, contact us online.

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