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

Description

Stunning Design and Build Quality

The zidoo Z3000 PRO immediately catches the eye with its sleek aluminum alloy brushed panel and a large LED display panel that screams premium. It feels like a carefully crafted piece of tech rather than just another streaming media player. The design isn’t just for aesthetics; it’s functional too. The hidden NSS patented HDD bay is a clever touch, keeping things tidy while offering expansion options for up to 24TB of storage. I found the dual HDMI outputs particularly useful, allowing me to separate audio and video signals without needing to upgrade my AV receiver. It’s a thoughtful addition that enhances the overall experience.

Performance That Shines

Under the hood, the Amlogic S928X-K processor paired with 8GB DDR4 RAM ensures this device is no slouch. Whether I was streaming high-resolution 8K HDR10+ content or playing back lossless audio formats, the performance was buttery smooth. I tested various formats, including Dolby Vision, HDR10+, and HLG, and the results were nothing short of spectacular. The built-in VS10 image engine works wonders, offering customizable image quality enhancements that make every frame pop. Even the most demanding tasks, like handling BDMV/ISO files, were executed flawlessly.

Upsides

• 8K HDR10+ Support delivers stunning visuals with vibrant colors and deep contrasts.
• Dual HDMI outputs for seamless audio and video separation.
• Hidden HDD bay accommodates up to 24TB, perfect for media hoarders.
• Lossless audio playback including DSD, WAV, and FLAC formats for audiophiles.
• The Zidoo Controller App is a game-changer for remote management.

User-Friendly Software and Features

Navigating the Android 11 OS was a breeze, thanks to the intuitive interface. The Poster Wall 5.0 feature is particularly impressive, allowing me to organize my movie library with ease. It even supports movie trailers and custom classifications, which makes browsing an enjoyable experience. The music player 8.0 was another highlight. Its redesigned UI and support for lossless audio formats made it a joy to use, especially for someone like me who values high-quality sound. Additionally, the automatic frame rate and resolution switching worked seamlessly during playback, eliminating any interruptions.

Disadvantages

• The large size makes it less portable compared to some competitors.
• No 3D output, which might be a dealbreaker for enthusiasts of older 3D content.
• While the Android 11 OS is smooth, it occasionally felt bloated with features I didn’t need.
• The price point might be steep for casual users not looking to utilize all the advanced features.

Audio and Video Excellence

As someone who values both visual and audio quality, I was thrilled with this media player’s ability to handle Dolby Atmos and DTS:X audio formats via pass-through output. It brought a whole new level of immersion to my home theater setup. The HDR10+ and Dolby Vision support were equally impressive, offering a cinema-grade experience at home. One standout feature was the automatic frame rate switching, which worked like magic to ensure smooth playback for both local files and online streaming.

Competing Products

I’ve used other high-end media players like the NVIDIA Shield TV Pro and Apple TV 4K, which are fantastic in their own right. However, the zidoo Z3000 PRO excels in areas where they fall short. For instance, its dual HDMI outputs and hidden HDD bay are features you won’t find on most competitors. That said, the Shield TV Pro offers better gaming support, while the Apple TV 4K boasts a more polished ecosystem for Apple users. If your focus is on audiophile-grade sound and cinema-level visuals, this media player outshines its rivals.

Cost Efficiency

Considering the array of features packed into this device, the price-to-quality ratio feels justified. It’s not a budget option by any means, but if you’re someone who values 8K playback, HDR formats, and lossless audio, it’s an investment worth making. Compared to other media players in its class, this one offers tremendous value for enthusiasts who want the best of both worlds: top-tier performance and expandable storage options. However, casual users might find it overkill for their needs.

Every feature and design choice feels like it’s been tailored for home theater enthusiasts and audiophiles. Whether you’re streaming, playing back local files, or diving into high-fidelity music, this device delivers a premium experience. There are minor quirks here and there, but overall, it’s a standout performer that’s hard to beat in its category.

Additional information