In the beginning, picking out a Slingbox was easy. Did you want the Slingbox behind door number 1, door number 1, or door number 1? Since then, Sling (like any other technology manufacturer) has discontinued, expanded, and revised their product assortment.

Today, consumers are faced with the task of choosing between two different Slingbox models, the Slingbox SOLO and Slingbox PRO-HD, with each uniquely tailored to a specific kind of user. With choice comes confusion, so it’s time to get an answer to the question that will be asked by nearly all newcomers to the Sling experience, “Which Slingbox is right for me?"

At a high level, here’s a quick feature comparison of all the different Slingboxes:

Feature	SOLO	PRO-HD
Widescreen 16:9 Support	X	X
High Quality Programmable video compression	X	X
Watch/control TV from any PC/laptop	X	X
Watch/control TV from a mobile phone*	X	X
NTSC/ATSC/QAM Digital Tuner		X
Pass-through connections for seemless integration into current setups	X	X
Connects to a set-top box (digital cable, DVD, etc.)	X	X
Remote control of A/V devices	X	X
Connect multiple sources		X
Connect HD component devices	X	X
Standard definition streaming	X	X
High definition streaming		X
Digital audio input		X
Manufacturer's Suggested Retail Price	$179	$299

*With SlingPlayer Mobile, sold separately

Looking at the list above, you'll see that Sling Media has made a major distinction between the Slingbox PRO-HD and Slingbox SOLO. While both Slingboxes have the ability to connect to high-defintion sources, only the PRO-HD has the ability to stream in high definition quality. The PRO-HD is also the only Slingbox in Sling Media's current line up that can connect to mulitple sources. Physical size and styling aside, it really boils down to the type and quantity of devices you want to use with your Slingbox, and the amount of money you’re willing to spend to get into the placeshifting scene.

Basic Cable and Antenna Users

If you’re a basic cable subscriber, or still rely on that broadcast antenna on the roof (you know, the thing you call “ol’ faithful”), your only real option is the Slingox PRO-HD. It is the only model in the lineup with an integrated ATSC/NTSC/QAM tuner. 

If you’re receiving basic cable now but are on the fence about upgrading to digital cable with a set-top box or DVR, the PRO-HD can connect to both, providing flexibility for when the set-top box is in use.

Digital Cable and Satellite Users

Satellite users that have an integrated DVR should seriously consider the Slingbox SOLO, since there’s a good chance that’s the only device you’ll ever use to receive and record your programming. Even if you have a separate DVR, you can still access your satellite box with it. So again, you’re down to one source. If high-definition streaming capabilities are desired, then you'll have to opt for the PRO-HD.

Digital cable subscribers that aren't using a dedicated set-top box should seriously consider the PRO-HD because you have the option of splitting your cable feed and running your basic channels into the Slingbox PRO-HDs internal tuner. This would allow you to stream the basics in case a family member is planted on the sofa using the cable box.

If you’re thinking about the jump to HDTV in the near future, it further strengthens the argument to get a PRO-HD.

HDTV Users

If you already have HD services, you should lean toward the PRO-HD. If you’re mostly a mobile viewer or don’t really care about the slightly better picture, and only want to stream one source, the SOLO will do the job just fine.

Multiple Device Users

You have a TiVo, HD cable box, and 400-disc DVD megachanger. You’re the only one that will be using the Slingbox, or you will be the only one that knows the admin password and don’t care if you boot the kids off so you can watch instead. You want a Slingbox PRO-HD. Go get one.

Busy Families

You have his and her cars, watches, and TiVos. Or, you both are absolutely addicted to the Slingbox. Busy,"on-the-go" couples and families may want to consider separate Slingboxes for every source they want to Sling. Though the Slingbox PRO-HD can handle the connection of up to four different devices, but only one person may connect at a time. If you and your other half are both on the road or both want access to something while in or out of the house, the more Slingboxes you have, the better. Grab a Slingbox PRO-HD for the cable box, a SOLO for the DVD changer, and another SOLO for the kids to fight over... because you love to torture them.

Decided? Shop for your Slingbox and Accessories now.

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