DVDs now playing at a R2-D2 near you

Posted on Jan 10, 07 08:48 PM PDT

CES 2007 - I suppose Star Wars is definitely a cultural force to be reckoned with, but even famous fanchises can have its fair share of bloopers. The R2-D2 astromech droid from Nikko does not only beep and rotate its head around, it also features an integrated iPod docking station, a memory card slot with a USB 2.0 connector, and FM wireless audio. What makes it more interesting is the inclusion of a DVD player and an 80" LCoS-powered projection system that works great with older video games and other video devices. The big question would be - how does it fare in real world functionality?

The Force is definitely weak in this one. For the price you pay ($2,500), you are better off getting an iPod dock, a hybrid Blu-ray/HD DVD player, and a 32" full HD LCD TV instead of having a lumbering robot that beeps for no particular reason moving around the house. Also, the projector does not support widescreen formats that are basically a staple in this day and age. The resolution is definitely nothing to shout about as well, making this nothing more than an expensive toy. It would've been neat if they incorporated vacuum cleaners at the bottom though.

Specifications:
• Image Sensor:LCoS
• Resolution: 800 x 600
• Brightness: 1200 lumens
• Contrast Ratio: 500 to 1
• Aspect Ratio: 4:3
• Signal: S-Video/Composite
• Memory Slots: SD/MMC, Memory Stick, Smart Media
• iPod compatibilitiy: iPod 3G, 4G, 5G, mini, photo
• Millenium Falcon remote control included

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