The Manhattan T4-R launched (after many delays) and early reaction is a general mix of views as might be expected. Manhattan themselves updated their blog, and the focus there is mostly around the updated GUI and what it lets you do. I had a lot of interest in my first post on the T4-R, so I thought I’d revisit.
From reading their content, it looks incrementally improved in a many areas, without any revolution. My example is the storage of content. The picture I took from their site shows the filtering options in the search for recorded content — a neat feature, but where is the ability for me to create and name folders of my own choice? I was doing that a long time ago on other PVRs.
At least it’s available from the high street (including Argos, John Lewis and I think Richer Sounds). When announced most of the Amazon options wanted to charge posted, I think that’s now changed.
What do reviewers think?
The most detailed review I’ve found so far (and that only a first look) is from CordBusters — Freeview Face-Off: Manhattan T4 And T4-R vs T3 And T3-R. They have the sense of why break something people liked, but it’s worth mentioning people have little choice these days.
As to the public, Amazon (UK) has a handful of ratings, and has shipped over 200. The ratings range from sending it back for not having Netflix and YouTube (did they check first?), to being sent an empty box (teething logistics?) Actual users vary from really pleased to finding it very buggy. The remote gets mixed comments.
What am I going to do?
As I said in my second piece, Is the Manhattan T4-R worth it? I haven’t changed my position in regards it’s a lot of money to spend on a relative luxury given my viewing habits. My old T3-R hasn’t crashed for a week either, so decision delayed.
Do let me know if you bought one. I’m interested to know why you didn’t wait a short while and how you find the box. Get in touch via the comments!
Symmetry Junction 