[donovan2123]

Hi all,

I had a m8s clone (had been rubbish) which had kodi on but this week, so I am now looking for a new box. So recommendations would be great. Main usuage is Kodi and not really much else as my tv does Netflix, Amazon etc.

Things that are a must:
4K
3D
HD Audio Pass through
HDMI 2.0 and CEC
Good Hardware Support
Good Kodi/Openelec Experience

At present I am looking at either Minix NEO U1, Wetek Core/Play, Nvidia Sheild(although a bit expensive) but will consider other options

[hdmkv]

If by 3D you have full 3D in mind (MVC decode, framepacked render), then only option that meets all your needs is HiMedia Q10 Pro. But, "Good Kodi/Openelec Experience" is for you to decide as HiMedia relies on Kodi only as a front-end, with actual playback pushed to its native player.

If non-HDR and 8-bit 4K is okay, while retaining full 3D, then Intel h/w now also becomes an option.

If SBS/TAB type half-rez 3D, then many choices, including all options you mention you're "looking at". Also see @wrxtasy's stickied 'Pick the Right Kodi Box' thread.

[donovan2123]

Not full 3d in mind. Just standard up and down type. No hdr needed and yes 8bit 4k would be perfect. Media device has to be smallish. When I say good kodi experiencing I mean no stuttering due to frames etc (-:

So what would you recommend in terms of device?

[donovan2123]

Btw I have seen the thread but still unsure which box suits me better and if there is a cheaper better alternative out there

[hdmkv]

Any of the ones you listed would be good. No need to pay more for Shield, unless you want 4K Netflix and Android TV games.

Check the Minix U1 and WeTek Core threads here... reviews by @wrxtasy, myself, and many user impressions. U1 IMHO has slight edge over Core for 4K. But, upcoming WeTek Hub should edge out both for 4K.

Yes, there are cheaper alternatives, namely AMLogic S905 boxes (same SoC as U1), but support may be (or likely) lacking.