Google TV has long promised the dream of a unified home theater experience, effortlessly blending cable/satellite content, streaming services, and web content into one seamless interface powered by Google search. However, flawed implementations, limited DVR functionality, and a lack of specialized applications for major streaming providers have frequently ruined this vision. Sony NSZ-GS7 Media Player with Google aims to realize this ambitious concept with a sleek design, a feature-rich remote, and an affordable price tag.
While it offers impressive power and functionality for your home theater, it faces competition from less expensive media streamers. Sony’s NSZ-GS7 is a better device than the NSZ-GT1. It has a new remote with a better touchpad and a full keyboard on the back. This remote is not for everyone, but it is better than the remote for the Logitech Revue. The NSZ-GS7 is really a good choice for people who want a wholesome home entertainment system.
SONY NSZ-GS7 Media Player: Price and Availability
The Sony NSZ-GS7 has been discontinued, and most online stores no longer stock it. Although you can still buy it on eBay or other third-party marketplaces. The price will vary depending on the condition of the device and the seller’s listing. Used units start at around $103 and new units cost around $199. You can also get a used streamer in good condition for around $98.88. However, prices and availability may vary over time, so it is always best to check out Sony’s official website for the most up-to-date info.
SONY NSZ-GS7 Media Player: Ingenious Features
The Sony NSZ Streaming Stick includes a number of smart features. The main purpose of these features is to add more convenience to your home entertainment encounter. Here’s a deeper look at these characteristics:
Integration with Google TV
The TV Box is intended to connect Google TV to your home theater system. Google TV offers you access to a large number of streaming material. These services include cable/satellite programming, streaming video services, and web-based content, all through a single user interface. This integration is powered by Google search, which makes it quite easy to discover the desired content.
Advanced Remote Control
The most unique thing about the NSZ-GS7 TV Box is its remarkable remote control. It has two sides. On one side, there’s quite a large touchpad that makes it easy to move around on Google TV. This touchpad works really well and makes it simple to use. On the other side, there’s a full keyboard. This keyboard is useful when you need to enter some text or search for info. Despite its beautiful appearance, the remote is quite helpful for operating your smart television.
Wired Network Connectivity
The Google TV box contains an Ethernet port (RJ-45) for connecting to a wired network. Connecting an Ethernet cable from your router or modem to the NSZ-GS7 will provide a consistent and high-speed internet connection. Wired connections are particularly handy for streaming high-definition material and online gaming. Both of these need a reliable and fast network connection.
Wireless Network Connectivity
The NSZ-GS7 is equipped with built-in Wi-Fi support, enabling wireless network connectivity. You can connect the Google TV box to your home Wi-Fi network, eliminating the need for physical Ethernet cables. This wireless capability provides flexibility in terms of device placement, as you can position the NSZ-GS7 anywhere within the Wi-Fi coverage area of your home network.
Elegant Design
It has a thin and stylish look. It’s a little set-top box that will fit effortlessly into your home entertainment center. The device’s shiny black surface and textured top panel make it look appealing to the eyes. Moreover, it does not require a big power adapter due to its compact power cord.
SONY NSZ-GS7 Media Player: Design Layout
Where we are concerned about the performance of the smart device, its look and feel matter too. The Sony NSZ TV Box has a radiant and small appearance that suits your home entertainment center well. Here are some of its design elements:
Thin and Stylish Appearance
The device’s sleek and slim design makes it an eye-catching addition to any entertainment system. Because of its small size, it may fit in with your home TV design without taking up too much space.
Top Panel: Glossy Black Surface
The body of the gadget is defined by a glossy black finish, which gives a touch of elegance. The textured top panel offers a smooth and luxurious feel, while the polished surface adds to the modern style.
Minimal Design
The TV Box adopts a minimalistic design approach with clean lines and a lack of excessive buttons or distractions. This design aligns with Sony’s commitment to delivering both form and function.
Branding
The Sony logo, which appears on the device’s top surface, is the sole prominent branding element. Sony’s reputation for quality and innovation in consumer electronics is boosted by this minimal branding.
Compact Power Cord
Notably, the streaming stick is designed with user convenience in mind. It has a slim power cord that removes the need for a large power adapter. This sleek and smart power solution makes wire management quite easier and keeps your entertainment center neat.
See More: Xiaomi Mi Box S: An Impartial Review
Sony NSZ-GS7Media Player: Remote Control
In addition to the Google TV box itself, the included remote control is thoughtfully designed to enhance the user experience. Here’s an overview of the remote’s layout and functionality:
Two-Sided Remote
The remote control provided with the Sony GS7 Streamer is double-sided, offering two distinct interfaces for different functions. This two-sided remote design optimizes its usability.
QWERTY Keyboard
The reverse side of the remote boasts a full QWERTY keyboard with a numeric row on top. This keyboard allows text input. Thus, making it convenient for searching and typing on the Google TV interface.
Conventional Remote Buttons
The touchpad side also offers standard remote buttons for TV controls and navigation. It provides quick access to various key functions.
Touchpad Navigation
One side of the remote features a 2.7-inch touchpad, allowing for intuitive navigation. The touchpad provides a smooth feel with physical clicks when selecting items on the screen.
Dual-Functionality
A dedicated function button on the keyboard side can transform a portion of the keys into menu and playback control buttons. This feature allows settings adjustments without turning the remote.
Convenient Side Buttons
The side of the remote accommodates Volume Up/Down, Channel Up/Down, and Mute buttons, strategically placed for easy access and control using your thumb.
SONY NSZ-GS7 Media Player: Specifications
Let’s explore the remarkable specifications of this Sony Media Player in depth:
| Specifications | Details |
|---|---|
| Device Type | Google TV Set-Top Box |
| Dimensions | 6.02 x 4.96 x 1.26 inches (152.9 x 126.3 x 32.0 mm) |
| Weight | 0.75 pounds (340 grams) |
| Color | Glossy Black |
| Operating System | Google TV (Honeycomb) |
| Processor | Marvell Armada 1500 1.2 GHz Dual-Core |
| Memory | 1 GB RAM |
| Storage | 8 GB Flash Storage (eMMC) |
| Wi-Fi Connectivity | Built-in 802.11b/g/n Wi-Fi |
| Ethernet Connectivity | Ethernet Port (RJ-45) |
| HDMI Ports | HDMI Input and HDMI Output |
| USB Ports | Two USB Ports (Type A) |
| Audio Output | Optical Audio Output |
| Remote Control | Dual-Sided Remote with Touchpad and QWERTY Keyboard |
| Power Source | External Power Adapter |
| Additional Features | Web Browsing, USB Media Playback, Google Play Store |
| Supported Video Resolutions | Up to 1080p (Full HD) |
| Wireless Mirroring | Miracast Screen Mirroring Support |
SONY NSZ-GS7 Media Player: What’s in the box?
Here are the contents typically found in the box of the Sony NSZ-GS7 Google TV Set-Top Box, organized with headings:
Sony Google TV Set-Top Box
The main device of the package provides access to Google TV features and content.
HDMI Cable
An HDMI cable is included for connecting the smart device to your compatible display.
Documentation
User manuals, quick start guides, and warranty information to help you set up and use the device effectively.
External Power Adapter
A power adapter is included, it is used to supply power to the smart streaming device.
Power Cable
Its the cable that connects the power adapter to the Sony GS7 streamer for power supply.
Dual-Sided Remote Control
A remote control with two sides – one featuring a touchpad for navigation and the other side with a QWERTY keyboard for typing and input.
SONY NSZ-GS7 Media Player: How to set up?
Here is a complete setup guide for the media player. Follow these simple steps and begin your streaming delight:
SONY NSZ-GS7 Media Player: Pros and Cons
The Sony NSZ is a Google TV set-top box known for its stylish design and unique remote control. While it promises a unified home entertainment experience, it struggles with app support and software issues, making it most suitable for tech enthusiasts. Let’s preview its pros and cons:
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Sleek and stylish design. | Google TV software can be buggy. |
| Dual-sided remote with touchpad and keyboard. | Limited app support compared to other platforms. |
| HDMI input and output for easy connectivity. | Lack of dedicated apps for some major streaming services. |
| USB ports for playing media from external devices. | Some content providers block streaming on Google TV. |
| Built-in Wi-Fi and Ethernet support. | |
| Full web browsing capability. |
SONY NSZ-GS7 Vs. Roku
The Sony and Roku are both popular streaming devices, each with its own set of features. The Sony streamer offers access to the Google TV platform, providing access to various streaming services and apps. However, certain services may have limited app availability, and it is no longer in production, which may hinder continued support and updates.
Roku, on the other hand, is known for its large app library, which includes a varied selection of streaming services and apps, making it an appealing alternative for individuals seeking different entertainment options. Roku devices come in various models, catering to different budget ranges and preferences, and they typically receive ongoing updates and support, ensuring a reliable streaming experience.
SONY NSZ-GS7 Vs. NVIDIA Shield Pro
The NVIDIA Shield TV is well-known for its remarkable tech and gaming capabilities. It gives you access to the Android TV platform, a broad selection of apps, clear and crispier sound, and 4K HDR streaming. It also has a specialized gaming controller and the ability to stream PC games from your NVIDIA-powered gaming PC. The Sony GS7, on the other hand, while offering Google TV access, may have restricted app availability for some services and is no longer in production, which may hinder continued maintenance and upgrades. It does, however, have a one-of-a-kind double-sided remote with a touchpad and a complete keyboard.
If you are a gaming enthusiast and prefer cutting-edge hardware, the NVIDIA Shield TV might be the better choice. However, if you prefer Google TV and an intuitive remote design, the Sony GS7 could still offer a satisfactory streaming experience. Ultimately, the decision depends on your specific use case and preferences.
Conclusion
However, the Sony GS7 Streamer is held back by the limitations of Google TV software, which continues to face issues with app availability and occasional bugs. While tech-savvy people who like to play around with settings might enjoy it, the Sony NSZ TV Box isn’t the easiest thing for everyone. It’s not as straightforward for regular people with lesser tech knowledge who just want to watch shows and movies. If you’re eager to experiment and can overlook some software hiccups, then it might be worth considering, but those seeking a more straightforward and reliable streaming experience may want to explore alternative options.
SONY NSZ-GS7: FAQs
Here we have categorized the most frequently asked questions for our reader to cater to your any further queries:
FAQs: General
Here are some general FAQs about the streaming device:
FAQs: About the Device
Here are some FAQs about the device:
