Mozaex is putting all of your AV eggs into one basket — or at least one server series. The company just started shipping its Chroma media server line, which combines support for Blu-ray discs with iTunes, UltraViolet and even Netflix. Oh, and the whole thing is legal.
Mozaex is quick to point that out, considering Kaleidescape’s recent dealings with the DVD Copy Control Association (DVD CCA). According to Mozaex, the Chroma doesn’t ship with the DVD CCA’s or other unlicensed decryption software.
“It is Mozaex’s belief that the recent court ruling against Kaleidescape reaffirms that Mozaex products are legal since Mozaex does not make, traffic, or provide unlicensed decryption software,” said the company in a statement. “Mozaex also believes that the court reaffirmed that the DMCA law does not prohibit the use of decryption software for legal purposes which includes storing content you own for your own personal use.”
What the Chroma does ship with is support for a variety of popular entertainment services, via the iBLU feature. This means that the device supports both iTunes movies and music, as well as Blu-ray. Also, the iPlay feature allows users to play back an iTunes library using Apple’s own Remote app for the iPad and iPhone.
Chroma is not simply a stand-alone product, however. It’s actually a series of devices, all of which are sold separately. The main piece is the Chroma integrated Player and storage server, which is available in 1TB ($2,995) and 4TB ($3,995) models. The Chroma Player BD adds in Blu-ray playback for $2,795, or you can opt for the Chroma Player ND (a Blu-ray player with no Blu-ray drive) for $2,595. For $795, you can add in music and online media via the Sonnet music player. And finally, the Chroma Stor 3TB external USB unit adds in a little extra storage for $395.
Mozaex says to plan on a $100 license fee, if you want to add in your own USB or eSATA storage. Users can add up to four additional players and unlimited Sonnets to any Chroma system. The Chroma also works with all of Mozaex’s Players, Servers and Solos.
Chroma comes with its own RF remote, but is also compatible with third-party systems, such as Control4, Vantage, Elan g!, RTI, Crestron, and the iPad and iPhone.
Everything above is shipping now, except the Chroma 4TB, which is coming in September.