Zidoo Z3000 PRO 8K Media Player review Amlogic S928X-K processor and HDR support

Description

Sleek and Functional Design

The zidoo Z3000 PRO is an absolute standout when it comes to design and build. I was immediately drawn to its aluminum alloy brushed panel, which not only adds a premium feel but also ensures durability. The large LED display panel is crisp and modern, making it easy to navigate through settings even in dimly lit environments. It’s not just beauty without brains; the hidden NSS patented HDD bay is a game-changer for those who value a clean, uncluttered setup. I appreciated this thoughtful touch, especially during installation. At 13.78 x 9.45 x 2.37 inches and weighing just over 8 pounds, it fits seamlessly into my entertainment center. The compact form factor doesn’t compromise on functionality, and the overall aesthetic blends well with most modern home theater setups.

Performance That Sets a New Standard

This media player delivers a performance that’s nothing short of impressive. The Amlogic S928X-K ARM Cortex-A76 + Cortex-A55 processor, combined with 8GB DDR4 RAM and 64GB eMMC storage, ensures a buttery-smooth experience. Testing its ability to handle 8K HDR content, I was blown away by the clarity and vibrancy. The HDMI 2.1 support for 8K 60Hz output brought out colors and details I didn’t know my TV was capable of. The built-in VS10 image quality engine is another highlight, as it automatically optimizes brightness and contrast for each frame, creating a cinema-like experience at home. I also tried streaming and local playback, and the automatic frame rate and resolution switching worked flawlessly, ensuring no interruptions during movie nights.

Key Benefits

• Dolby Vision and HDR10+ support make colors pop and details sharper.
• Dual HDMI ports allow simultaneous 4K video and HD audio output without needing an upgraded AV receiver.
• Wide compatibility with formats like SACD ISO, DFF, and DSD512 ensures audiophiles won’t be disappointed.
• The Android 11 OS is stable and user-friendly, with access to a plethora of apps.
• Exceptional WiFi 6 and Bluetooth 5.2 connectivity for seamless streaming.

User-Friendly Features and Controls

Navigating through the zidoo Z3000 PRO was surprisingly intuitive. The Poster Wall 5.0 feature is something I didn’t realize I needed. With its ability to organize and display my movie collection in an aesthetically pleasing way, it made my library feel fresh and exciting. The Music Player 8.0 is another standout, offering lossless playback and personalized settings that made listening to my favorite tracks a treat. I also used the Zidoo Controller App on my phone, and it was incredibly convenient to control every aspect of the media player without needing to fumble for the remote.

Areas of Concern

• Audio delay was noticeable when using certain streaming services, although this was rare and didn’t occur during local playback.
• The setup process for some of the advanced features, like NAS integration, might feel overwhelming for non-tech-savvy users.
• No support for 3D output, which might be a dealbreaker for fans of 3D content.

Competitive Options

Comparing the zidoo Z3000 PRO to similar products, it holds its ground in several areas but also faces stiff competition. The NVIDIA Shield Pro, for instance, excels in its AI upscaling and seamless integration with gaming platforms. However, the zidoo Z3000 PRO pulls ahead in audio fidelity and its ability to play lossless music formats like DSD. Another option, the Apple TV 4K, offers a more polished app ecosystem but lacks the customizable image processing engine that Zidoo provides. The dual HDMI ports are a unique advantage here, something I didn’t find in competing brands. For those who prioritize audiophile-grade music playback and 8K support, this media player is a solid choice.

Value for Money

Considering its premium build quality and top-notch performance, the zidoo Z3000 PRO offers excellent price-to-quality ratio. While it’s not the cheapest media player out there, the features it packs more than justify the investment. The inclusion of high-end processing capabilities, extensive format compatibility, and future-proofed hardware makes it a smart choice for anyone serious about their home theater setup. I’d recommend it to both casual users and enthusiasts looking for a reliable, all-in-one media player that doesn’t skimp on quality.

Additional information