So with the introduction of the new C1, I realize now that owning a K-Scape system is within reach of my budget. That said, the lack of RAID or user-serviceable drives within the new C1 is a huge turn off, especially given what I've read about the previous C1 with 4 2.5" Hard Disks. Combined with the fact that it won't integrate with any M-Class architecture beyond the DV700 for BD storage, I'm starting to think the current C1 isn't the magic bullet I'd hoped for.
That said, I'm soliciting opinions/information about the old KCINEMA-1 (and its HC model). From what limited info I've gleamed during a Google Search, it seems to be compatible with M-Class hardware and servers (or at least provides a migratory path to them), which is a big plus. Its DVD-Only import mechanism also isn't a downside, especially considering the size of my DVD collection (animation buff) and how BD storage is handled anyhow across the K-Scape environment. So my main questions are these:
Thanks for the advice!
That said, I'm soliciting opinions/information about the old KCINEMA-1 (and its HC model). From what limited info I've gleamed during a Google Search, it seems to be compatible with M-Class hardware and servers (or at least provides a migratory path to them), which is a big plus. Its DVD-Only import mechanism also isn't a downside, especially considering the size of my DVD collection (animation buff) and how BD storage is handled anyhow across the K-Scape environment. So my main questions are these:
- I've heard whisperings and complaints about the KCINEMA-1's reliability. Was it poorly built? Did it have major bugs with the software and/or hardware?
- What sort of integration with the current M-Class hardware is supported? Can I use it as a DVD server now, then integrate it into a proper BD M-Class setup as refurb gear appears or prices come down?
- Disk availability seems to be a major concern, as I don't see them listed at all on K-Scape's store. Are they easily available from dealers? If not, is there a way to repurpose 2.5" SATA or SAS drives into the carts (NOT to copy content off of - that's illegal!)?
- I see it has HDMI output up to 1080p60. If a BD vault is added to the network, will it support playback of imported BDs on another server over the network? Will it do PAL/SECAM encoded material, or NTSC only? How does the internal scaler compare? Does it carry bitstream DVD Audio as well?
- Any other nuggets of info? Warnings? Cautions?
Thanks for the advice!