The Ultimate Dolby Vision Test: Best TV Boxes Compared - Nvidia Shield TV, Amazon Fire TV, Zidoo

Table of Contents:

• Introduction
• testing Media Players: SDR, HDR, and Dolby Vision
• Participants in the Test
• Dolby Vision Compatibility Controversy
• Additional Players for Future Tests
• Exclusion of Apple TV from Testing
• RGB Tunneling Test Results
• Importance of EDID in Dolby Vision
• Kodi 21 Omega for Dolby Vision Conversion
• Comparative Analysis of Players with and without Kodi
• Testing the Ability and Correctness of L1 and L2 Parameters from CM2.9
• Response to Different L1 Levels in RPU p8.1 L1 881nits File
• Analysis of Player Performance in Various PQ Levels

Introduction

In this video series, we will be conducting tests on media players, specifically focusing on SDR, HDR, and Dolby Vision. We aim to explore the capabilities and controversies surrounding Dolby Vision, providing a comprehensive analysis of different players and their performance. Through these tests, we hope to clarify any uncertainties and provide valuable insights into the world of media players.

Testing Media Players: SDR, HDR, and Dolby Vision

After previously testing SDR and HDR options, we are now focusing on the most desirable yet controversial video option, Dolby Vision. This series of tests aims to address any uncertainties and provide a definitive assessment of the participating players' ability to deliver high-quality Dolby Vision content. We will evaluate their performance, image processing capabilities, and overall effectiveness in playing Dolby Vision.

Participants in the Test

The following players will be participating in this series of tests:

• Oppo Clone
• Dune Real Vision 4k
• Zidoo Z9X
• Fire TV Cube 3rd Generation (upcoming)
• Apple TV (excluded from the test)

Each player offers unique features and claims to support various Dolby Vision profiles. However, it is essential to analyze their actual performance and determine if they live up to expectations.

Dolby Vision Compatibility Controversy

Before delving into the test results, it is crucial to address the controversy surrounding Dolby Vision compatibility. Initial reviews emphasized the superior image quality and performance of certain media players, such as Dune Real Vision 4k and Zidoo Z9X, suggesting they could play full FEL layers and provide enhanced image quality. However, our tests will shed light on the reality and determine if these claims hold true.

Additional Players for Future Tests

In addition to the current participants, we are planning to include the Fire TV Cube 3rd Generation in future tests. This player has garnered significant attention due to its upscaling capabilities and powerful processor, making it a valuable addition to our study. Although it may not be Present in the first part of the test, we aim to include it in subsequent parts for a comprehensive analysis.

Exclusion of Apple TV from Testing

Apple TV will not be participating in this test due to its inability to work properly, even with profile 8. While we acknowledge its proficiency in working in TV-LED mode and its compatibility with Oppo Clone, it does not meet the requirements for this particular study. However, we have conducted separate tests on Apple TV's performance in RGB tunneling, which revealed its competence in this specific mode.

RGB Tunneling Test Results

The previous test focusing on RGB tunneling revealed fascinating results. We tested various media players and found that Apple TV, Shield TV Pro 2019, and Oppo Clone were the only players that displayed exceptional capabilities in TV-LED mode. These devices can effectively process and deliver a finished signal to the TV, resulting in impressive image quality. Conversely, other players proved to be "fake" TV-LED players, operating solely in LLDV mode.

Importance of EDID in Dolby Vision

EDID (Extended Display Identification Data) plays a vital role in Dolby Vision. It ensures seamless communication between the media player and the TV by specifying the supported formats and capabilities. In our tests, we utilized an EDID from a Sony TV with LLDV support, combined with color parameters from an LG CX EDID. This was necessary to address limitations in certain devices, such as the Amazon players, which cannot force LLDV output. Our custom EDID enables comprehensive Dolby Vision conversion and accurate color reproduction.

Kodi 21 Omega for Dolby Vision Conversion

To correctly convert Dolby Vision from profile 7 to 8.1, we utilized custom Kodi 21 Omega. This unofficial version of Kodi provides a solution for the common issue of black screens observed with Amazon devices. Additionally, it allows us to explore the nuances of Dolby Vision playback in profile 7 and assess the impact on image quality. The use of Kodi will be limited to specific players, as some devices have their own built-in players, rendering Kodi unnecessary or less effective.

Comparative Analysis of Players with and without Kodi

We will conduct a comparative analysis of media players in two categories: those utilizing Kodi for Dolby Vision conversion and those relying on their built-in players. Players such as Dune Real Vision 4k, Zidoo Z9X, and Homatics Box R 4k will be compared in both modes of operation: the native Dune app on Android and Coreelec with a custom version of Kodi 21. This analysis aims to determine whether using Kodi improves Dolby Vision playback and whether the built-in players offer comparable performance.

Testing the Ability and Correctness of L1 and L2 Parameters from CM2.9

In one of our initial tests, we focused on evaluating the players' ability to respond to L1 and L2 parameters from CM2.9. This test helps assess how well the players handle specific image processing parameters. Preliminary results showed a range of responses, with Shield TV and Fire TV Max demonstrating strong performance due to their support for CM4.0. However, further analysis is necessary to draw accurate conclusions.

Response to Different L1 Levels in RPU p8.1 L1 881nits File

Another crucial aspect of our tests revolves around assessing players' response to different L1 levels in the RPU p8.1 L1 881nits file. By analyzing player performance at various L1 levels, we can identify their ability to optimize Dolby Vision content for different TVs. Preliminary results have showcased variations in peak brightness, image compression, and overall brightness. These findings enable us to draw comparisons and determine which players offer the most accurate representation of Dolby Vision.

Analysis of Player Performance in Various PQ Levels

To comprehensively evaluate player performance, we conducted tests at different PQ levels using a variety of test files. These files sought to replicate scenarios where the total movie brightness is prescribed for specific nits levels while displaying a fragment with a different peak brightness. By analyzing player responses, brightness compression, and peak adjustments, we can ascertain how effectively players optimize Dolby Vision content for specific TV capabilities.

Thank you for reviewing our table of contents. Please continue reading the article for detailed insights, test results, and conclusions.

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