It's the next logical step for a big-name A/V manufacturer that has developed a robust Web platform for its TVs and Blu-ray players. Why wouldn't you put that same platform in a standalone box that people can use with their non-networkable HDTVs? LG and Sony have both embraced this approach, and I suspect others will follow suit. LG's standalone box is called the Smart TV Upgrader--so named because LG's Web platform is dubbed "Smart TV." We have not performed a hands-on review of the Smart TV Upgrader (ST600), but here is a more comprehensive look at its features. LG's Smart TV service currently includes access to Netflix, Amazon Instant Video, VUDU, Hulu Plus, CinemaNow, YouTube, MLB.TV, and Picasa, among others. An Apps store and Web browser are also available. The box supports personal media streaming from a computer or server, using either PLEX (with supplied software) or DLNA, and you can directly cue up media content stored on a USB drive.

Additional Resources
• Read more media server reviews from HomeTheaterReview.com's staff.
• Find an LED HDTV or Plasma HDTV to pair with the LG Smart TV Upgrader.

The ST600 has a tiny form factor, measuring just 4.3 x 4.3 x 1.2 inches and weighing a mere 0.66 pounds. The brushed-black case includes one HDMI output, one optical digital audio output, a USB 2.0 port, and an Ethernet port for a wired network connection. The box also has integrated 802.11n. LG has not included any type of analog A/V output, so it's not compatible with older, non-HDMI-equipped TVs. A small, non-backlit remote is included; its simple button layout features a navigation pad with touchpad-like control, transport controls, and four color buttons, plus Home, Back, Menu, and Power. Unfortunately, the remote lacks a full QWERTY keyboard, which would make it easier to input text when searching for content or typing URLs. LG also offers a control app for iPhone, iPad, and Android smartphone users.

The Smart TV interface is a bit more cluttered than the Roku and Boxee designs, but it's still a fairly logical layout. The Home menu is divided into three main options: Premium, LG Apps, and Web Browser. In the Premium area, LG's video-on-demand options are excellent, covering all of the major bases with Netflix, Amazon, VUDU, Hulu Plus, and CinemaNow. On the music side, Pandora and Napster are included. The LG Apps store isn't nearly as extensive as Apple's or even Samsung's at this stage, but it continues to grow. The Web browser is a full browser that supports Flash. A customizable toolbar runs along the bottom of the screen, allowing you to jump quickly to your favorite functions. Navigate to the right of the Home menu, and you'll find the Smart Share menu, where you can access your personal media content--be it networked or connected via USB. Compatible file formats include AVI, MP4, WMV, Divx HD, XVID, MP3, WMA, JPEG, and PNG.

Read about the high points and low points of the LG Smart TV Upgrader on Page 2.