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Gear / Technical Help => Playback Forum => Home Theatre & HDTV => Topic started by: Chuck on December 26, 2010, 10:59:56 AM

Title: Netflix streaming problems
Post by: Chuck on December 26, 2010, 10:59:56 AM
So, I bought a Sony BDP-BX37 (S370) at Costco about a month ago so I could stream Netflix to my HD TV.
I ran a hard wire to the Sony from my router. When I test my internet speed, I get 10mbps - 12mbps consistently on my main computer.

The problem is that when watching anything on Netflix in HD, it pauses several times during play back to re-buffer. Even when I don't use the computers attached to the network.
I'm wondering if this is a common problem with Netflix streaming?  ???

I called Netfix, they say it's my internet connection speed. I call Comcast and they say I have a 12mbps account, and there have been no problems with my internet connection. Netflix says I need at least 5mbps and no less than 1.5mbps. From what I can tell, my network is easily compliant with that requirement.

So, is it the Sony player? If it's the player, I'll bring it back and get another one.  ???

I really don't know what to do. When I works, streaming Netflix is awesome. The HD looks very good. But, I'm not OK with the constant pausing.

Anybody out there have some insight on this?

Title: Re: Netflix streaming problems
Post by: Church-Audio on December 26, 2010, 04:57:37 PM
So, I bought a Sony BDP-BX37 (S370) at Costco about a month ago so I could stream Netflix to my HD TV.
I ran a hard wire to the Sony from my router. When I test my internet speed, I get 10mbps - 12mbps consistently on my main computer.

The problem is that when watching anything on Netflix in HD, it pauses several times during play back to re-buffer. Even when I don't use the computers attached to the network.
I'm wondering if this is a common problem with Netflix streaming?  ???

I called Netfix, they say it's my internet connection speed. I call Comcast and they say I have a 12mbps account, and there have been no problems with my internet connection. Netflix says I need at least 5mbps and no less than 1.5mbps. From what I can tell, my network is easily compliant with that requirement.

So, is it the Sony player? If it's the player, I'll bring it back and get another one.  ???

I really don't know what to do. When I works, streaming Netflix is awesome. The HD looks very good. But, I'm not OK with the constant pausing.

Anybody out there have some insight on this?

Yeah when I try and watch it on my net book its a problem.. My wii seems to stream it just fine. But I only watch in 780 not 1080.
Title: Re: Netflix streaming problems
Post by: rastasean on December 26, 2010, 09:03:14 PM
We have a wee and recently streaming issues have occurred when the router was moved into a different room so for the time being, its sitting on the ground outside the room. It still looses the internet connection somehow so we just reset it and resume streaming.

For your issue, I would try to bypass the router and see if it stalls out. If it still does, take it to a friends place who also has comcast to see what happens. If it still occurs, I would suspect the sony s370.
Title: Re: Netflix streaming problems
Post by: Chuck on December 27, 2010, 09:22:47 AM
My router is a bit old. It's the D-Link DI-524 C1.
Are there any ports I need to open or settings I need to change for Netflix?
I read somewhere that it may be a router firewall issue?

I'm starting to think it may be the router...
I found the latest firmware (2006) for it.
Title: Re: Netflix streaming problems
Post by: rastasean on December 27, 2010, 11:39:58 AM
I did only about 5 minutes of searching to see if netflix uses a particular and specific port but I could only find people speculating it using 80 which is also www.
Also, all the posts seemed to be mentioning wireless streaming--not a direct connection.
Perhaps to test it, you can
a) temporarily disable any router firewall
b) connect sony into modem directly. 

In your oP, you say hardwire. Does that mean the actual network cable from the router sony to the router?
Title: Re: Netflix streaming problems
Post by: Chuck on December 27, 2010, 11:51:33 AM
Yeah, I have a network cable run from my router to my Sony BD player.
I did find a couple of posts that suggest some tweaks to my router set-up that might help.
I'll have to try them after work today.
Title: Re: Netflix streaming problems
Post by: Jimna on December 27, 2010, 12:30:53 PM
I would bypass the router just to be sure thats the problem before you go chasing ghosts, Chuck.
Title: Re: Netflix streaming problems
Post by: rastasean on December 30, 2010, 09:51:01 PM
Have you attempted to bypass your router and do a direct connection yet?
Title: Re: Netflix streaming problems
Post by: Chuck on December 31, 2010, 10:43:26 AM
Yes, I did bypass the router and I am experiencing the same problems. Some nights the it works well. But, some nights it's really bad.
Title: Re: Netflix streaming problems
Post by: kindms on December 31, 2010, 11:05:16 AM
I have been streaming netflix to my ps3 through a router on a 3.0/768 DSL connection. I never have drop outs. So you certainly have way more bandwidth then is needed.

If the issue is int. I would suggest loading up the netflix streaming on a PC and on your standalone box. Pick the same show/movie and see if they both experience the trouble at the same times. Or if it is easier when you encounter the issue with the netflix stream have a computer near by and see what the connection is doing at that time.

You should be able to narrow it down that way if you haven't already.

Buffering would suggesting network congestion.

I see you bypassed your router. So it is either the device or your connection. My guess is it is the connection. It is the only thing you don't control and the cable/telco techs aren't usually all that willing to try to track down INT issues. You have to basically get them on the phone while it is happening to show them. Anything after the fact they will simply dismiss as user error etc.
Title: Re: Netflix streaming problems
Post by: George on December 31, 2010, 11:06:26 AM
 Did you update your firmware by any chance?
Title: Re: Netflix streaming problems
Post by: Chuck on January 01, 2011, 07:40:56 PM
I'm running the latest firmware for the Sony.

All my problems are from watching HD content...
I just did some experimenting today.
I tried with the router, without the router, with no other computers running on the network, etc...
I'm still getting long pauses during most HD content.

I even did speedtests during several of the pauses, and I always get the same approx. 11mbps download speed.
Title: Re: Netflix streaming problems
Post by: rastasean on January 02, 2011, 03:57:27 AM
are you able to watch non HD content without the pauses?
Title: Re: Netflix streaming problems
Post by: Fatah Ruark (aka MIKE B) on January 02, 2011, 06:48:39 AM
Chuck, have you tried to watch Netflix on a normal computer or laptop. Ideally I would plug a network cable into a computer at the same location as your Sony player.

If that clears it up, you probably need to replace the Sony player...if not, it may be something else. Either your network, router, cable modem or the Comcast connection.

FWIW, I have no problems watching Netflix with Comcast in Boulder. Works great with either my Roku or any other computer, including wireless.
Title: Re: Netflix streaming problems
Post by: Chuck on January 02, 2011, 11:10:36 AM
are you able to watch non HD content without the pauses?

Yes, and I can watch some HD content without problems too.

Chuck, have you tried to watch Netflix on a normal computer or laptop. Ideally I would plug a network cable into a computer at the same location as your Sony player.

If that clears it up, you probably need to replace the Sony player...if not, it may be something else. Either your network, router, cable modem or the Comcast connection.

FWIW, I have no problems watching Netflix with Comcast in Boulder. Works great with either my Roku or any other computer, including wireless.

I didn't know I could watch HD on my laptop. Actually I doubt my laptop old Toshiba Satellite can handle HD.
I've talked to several people about this and it sounds like it may be my player. I'm off to CostCo today to return the Sony and look for a Ruku.
Title: Re: Netflix streaming problems
Post by: it-goes-to-eleven on January 02, 2011, 12:13:36 PM
When I test my internet speed, I get 10mbps - 12mbps consistently on my main computer.

It is normal practice for ISPs to prioritize traffic to speed test sites.  So the results aren't typically reliable.

Title: Re: Netflix streaming problems
Post by: Chuck on January 02, 2011, 05:42:23 PM
I brought the Sony BDP-BX37 back to CostCo and just ordered the Roku XDS from Amazon.
Title: Re: Netflix streaming problems
Post by: George on January 04, 2011, 11:56:47 AM
Let us know what happens.  I love my LG, I've been streaming a movie every night and the picture quality has been great.   Streaming Youtube and Pandora is fun too.
Title: Re: Netflix streaming problems
Post by: Chuck on January 04, 2011, 12:01:14 PM
I will update the thread after I get the Roku box and have some time to use it.
Title: Re: Netflix streaming problems
Post by: Fatah Ruark (aka MIKE B) on January 05, 2011, 02:51:28 AM
I brought the Sony BDP-BX37 back to CostCo and just ordered the Roku XDS from Amazon.

Nice! Love my ROKU. I have the original. The new ones look really nice. I like the ability to stream over your network or attach and external HD.

I'll probably wait until the next version to upgrade though.

Hopefully that fixes your problem. I have zero issues watching Netflix with my Roku. The NHL and MLB apps work great too.

Title: Re: Netflix streaming problems
Post by: Chuck on January 12, 2011, 11:02:39 AM
Well, I got the Roku XD/S via UPS yesterday. I like the interface better than the Sony.
I didn't have any problems streaming HD. I think it's a keeper.
Title: Re: Netflix streaming problems
Post by: Fatah Ruark (aka MIKE B) on January 12, 2011, 01:34:30 PM
Well, I got the Roku XD/S via UPS yesterday. I like the interface better than the Sony.
I didn't have any problems streaming HD. I think it's a keeper.

Nice! Love mine.
Title: Re: Netflix streaming problems
Post by: rastasean on January 12, 2011, 01:52:28 PM
What is the difference between a Roku and an apple tv? I haven't studied the two since I don't have a nice tv but the roku certainly more affordable.

Title: Re: Netflix streaming problems
Post by: DigiGal on January 12, 2011, 05:39:07 PM
What is the difference between a Roku and an apple tv? I haven't studied the two since I don't have a nice tv but the roku certainly more affordable.

We picked up a Roku box when they first came out and even beta tested several versions of their software, which was mutually beneficial during the infancy of Netflix streaming.  Roku was the only option for streaming Netflix at the time.  The Apple TV model available at the time of course did not have Netflix streaming at all.

Currently, Roku will also stream LMA, Apple TV will not.  Our Roku unit allows component, composite and HDMI video output with both optical and analog audio outputs, not sure about the current Roku boxes but Apple TV does not have the same output flexibility. There are other differences but we don't really find ourselves using the other available features on Roku much except when conducting the beta tests.

Many devices will stream Netflix now, which is our primary usage.  Some of the devices have implemented a better GUI than others for streaming Netflix.

Now that both our main TV and Blu-Ray player have Netflix streaming built in, the Roku unit has been moved to another TV. 

Roku's interface is the most enjoyable followed by the Blu-Ray players.  The TV's implementation of Netflix while certainly usable is a bit awkward compared to the other two.
Title: Re: Netflix streaming problems
Post by: Chuck on January 12, 2011, 06:16:34 PM
How do you stream LMA with the Roku ???

One thing I noticed is that Netflix says it's streaming HD, but my HD TV says the incoming signal is 720p.
Title: Re: Netflix streaming problems
Post by: Gil on January 12, 2011, 06:28:25 PM
How do you stream LMA with the Roku ???

One thing I noticed is that Netflix says it's streaming HD, but my HD TV says the incoming signal is 720p.

I always thought that Netflix HD was 720p.
Title: Re: Netflix streaming problems
Post by: Brian Skalinder on January 12, 2011, 06:28:36 PM
One thing I noticed is that Netflix says it's streaming HD, but my HD TV says the incoming signal is 720p.

720p is HD.

This whole solution intrigues me.  If I can find a box that allows streaming from online as well as directly from my computer, I'm definitely going to give it a go.
Title: Re: Netflix streaming problems
Post by: DigiGal on January 12, 2011, 06:29:19 PM
How do you stream LMA with the Roku ???

One thing I noticed is that Netflix says it's streaming HD, but my HD TV says the incoming signal is 720p.

LMA Archive dot Org setup info here ---> http://www.thenowhereman.com/roku/

720p is High Definition, OTA HD broadcasts are either 720p or 1080i depending on the network.  ABC for instance chose 720p standard because it is better for motion i.e. sports than 1080i.

Original Roku boxes could only do 720p HD but I believe the newer boxes have the option for 1080i too, this would appear in the settings menu.  Some older HD sets could not accept 720p only 1080i.  I believe Apple TV is 720p only but not certain on that.


Title: Re: Netflix streaming problems
Post by: Gil on January 12, 2011, 06:33:19 PM
One thing I noticed is that Netflix says it's streaming HD, but my HD TV says the incoming signal is 720p.

720p is HD.

This whole solution intrigues me.  If I can find a box that allows streaming from online as well as directly from my computer, I'm definitely going to give it a go.

I've been shopping for a Bluray player, and many of them these days appear to be DLNA certified. Might want to look into that option.
Title: Re: Netflix streaming problems
Post by: DigiGal on January 12, 2011, 07:48:19 PM
One thing I noticed is that Netflix says it's streaming HD, but my HD TV says the incoming signal is 720p.

720p is HD.

This whole solution intrigues me.  If I can find a box that allows streaming from online as well as directly from my computer, I'm definitely going to give it a go.

I've been shopping for a Bluray player, and many of them these days appear to be DLNA certified. Might want to look into that option.

Our new Oppo 93 Blu-Ray player is real sweet, streams Netflix similar GUI as Roku and plays everything including; SACD, HDCD, DVD-Audio/Video, Blu-Ray3D, even low tech MP3 discs and Video CD's.  Doesn't stream LMA though, but who knows maybe with a firmware update down the line.

Check it out if you are in the market for a disc player now...

http://www.oppodigital.com/blu-ray-bdp-93/
Title: Re: Netflix streaming problems
Post by: Fatah Ruark (aka MIKE B) on January 13, 2011, 01:22:39 AM
Chuck, this page will show you how to add the LMA. These are all "aftermarket" channels. Not all work perfectly. I use the newscaster channel for MSNBC and it will make it about 3/4 of the way through a broadcast and then just stop...better than nothing though.

http://www.thenowhereman.com/roku/
Title: Re: Netflix streaming problems
Post by: Chuck on January 13, 2011, 09:05:25 AM
Very cool! I love this type of stuff. :)
Title: Re: Netflix streaming problems
Post by: Chuck on January 15, 2011, 11:08:25 AM
Chuck, this page will show you how to add the LMA. These are all "aftermarket" channels. Not all work perfectly. I use the newscaster channel for MSNBC and it will make it about 3/4 of the way through a broadcast and then just stop...better than nothing though.

http://www.thenowhereman.com/roku/

All this stuff is free, right? I just signed up for all of it :)
Title: Re: Netflix streaming problems
Post by: Chuck on January 20, 2011, 11:09:18 AM
Well, my Netflix streaming problems are over since I returned the Sony and bought the Roku box. I'm very happy with the Roku.
Title: Re: Netflix streaming problems
Post by: DigiGal on January 20, 2011, 02:01:49 PM
Well, my Netflix streaming problems are over since I returned the Sony and bought the Roku box. I'm very happy with the Roku.

Roku Rocks!!!  Their development and support folks are great to work with. Very dedicated to the end user enjoyment/experience of their product.
Title: Re: Netflix streaming problems
Post by: Chuck on February 21, 2011, 07:42:29 PM
Just an update: 

The Roku has working great for me over the past month. I'm very happy with it. No more buffering pauses anymore.
Title: Re: Netflix streaming problems
Post by: sparkey on February 21, 2011, 10:09:08 PM
Just an update: 

The Roku has working great for me over the past month. I'm very happy with it. No more buffering pauses anymore.

And the quality is 720p?  Not pixelated?
Title: Re: Netflix streaming problems
Post by: Chuck on February 22, 2011, 08:59:56 AM
And the quality is 720p?  Not pixelated?

Yes. It's a 720p stream. No more buffering.
Title: Re: Netflix streaming problems
Post by: notsofast on February 23, 2011, 10:38:49 AM
I just went through a similar effort, my wife wants to stream Netflix onto our HDTV. I looked at the Roku, but wanted to be as future proof as possible, yes I realize that is fool's errand. The main reason I did not go with the Roku was the lack of HDMI support.

I ended up buying the Western Digital WD TV Live Plus HD Media Player, HDMI out, Flac support, 2 USB ports. I should get it this week and let folks know what I think and it works out.

Thanks for the informative thread.

Tim
Title: Re: Netflix streaming problems
Post by: DigiGal on February 23, 2011, 11:05:36 AM
The main reason I did not go with the Roku was the lack of HDMI support.

All Roku units including the original have an HDMI output.  Both their current top 2 model units are also 1080p capable.  The single version original units were 720p as is their entry level unit today but all have HDMI.

http://www.roku.com/roku-products#2
Title: Re: Netflix streaming problems
Post by: it-goes-to-eleven on February 23, 2011, 12:14:53 PM
Amazon just announced their tv/movie streaming service is free for Prime members.

The Prime membership is great (free 2nd day shipping, $3.99 for next day), and this just sweetens the deal.
Title: Re: Netflix streaming problems
Post by: Chuck on February 23, 2011, 12:23:56 PM
It looks like the Roku boxes can stream Amazon content too.
Is Amazon streaming as good as Netflix streaming I wonder?
Title: Re: Netflix streaming problems
Post by: it-goes-to-eleven on February 23, 2011, 12:53:00 PM
It looks like the Roku boxes can stream Amazon content too.
Is Amazon streaming as good as Netflix streaming I wonder?

It should be.  Amazon has far more infrastructure, engineering talent, and resources.

I haven't tried it yet.  I have a large Sony that should work with it, but need to run a cable.

Title: Re: Netflix streaming problems
Post by: DigiGal on February 23, 2011, 04:23:16 PM
It looks like the Roku boxes can stream Amazon content too.
Is Amazon streaming as good as Netflix streaming I wonder?

It should be.  Amazon has far more infrastructure, engineering talent, and resources.

I haven't tried it yet.  I have a large Sony that should work with it, but need to run a cable.

I beta tested Amazon VOD streaming feature on the Roku before it went public, ultimately there were no streaming problems.  At the time Amazon was charging for each stream unlike the recently announced Prime member streaming service. 

The marketwatch report I read about Amazon's new offering was that it was offering around 5000 titles with unlimited streaming to their Prime members compared to about 20,000 available for streaming from Netflix.  They don't yet have the studio contracts that Netflix has and there are currently more devices that stream Netflix than Amazon but of course this could change.  Amazon wants a piece of this market even though it is not their primary business. 
Title: Re: Netflix streaming problems
Post by: Chuck on February 23, 2011, 04:28:23 PM
Thanks DigiGal!  :coolguy:
Title: Re: Netflix streaming problems
Post by: Fatah Ruark (aka MIKE B) on February 23, 2011, 04:39:18 PM
Nice to have some competition in this dept.

Free/cheap shipping might be the deal breaker for Netflix once Amazon gets more titles. I don't order much from Amazon, but if I'm going to shell out $80/year to stream video...I might as well get a little bonus.
Title: Re: Netflix streaming problems
Post by: Chuck on February 23, 2011, 04:41:16 PM
I agree!
Title: Re: Netflix streaming problems
Post by: it-goes-to-eleven on February 23, 2011, 06:16:13 PM
I already do the $80/yr just to get free 2nd day, air and next day for $3.99.  It's great..  It doesn't take many orders with regular shipping to cover the cost.  You can also use prime to ship stuff to friends and family.
Title: Re: Netflix streaming problems
Post by: Brian E. on February 24, 2011, 11:09:20 AM
Nice to have some competition in this dept.

Free/cheap shipping might be the deal breaker for Netflix once Amazon gets more titles. I don't order much from Amazon, but if I'm going to shell out $80/year to stream video...I might as well get a little bonus.

Amazon not only needs better different titles, but HD streaming to devices and better quality all around.
Title: Re: Netflix streaming problems
Post by: it-goes-to-eleven on February 24, 2011, 12:24:43 PM
Amazon not only needs better different titles, but HD streaming to devices and better quality all around.

They advertise HD streaming to devices.  Are you saying they don't have it?
Title: Re: Netflix streaming problems
Post by: Brian E. on February 24, 2011, 12:32:33 PM
Amazon not only needs better different titles, but HD streaming to devices and better quality all around.

They advertise HD streaming to devices.  Are you saying they don't have it?


on AVS I've not read any reports of HD-like quality for the streaming on devices.  And there are only a couple that have it right now anyway - Roku, and maybe Boxee?
Title: Re: Netflix streaming problems
Post by: Brian E. on February 24, 2011, 12:34:45 PM
http://www.engadget.com/2011/02/22/amazon-prime-instant-videos-hands-on/
Title: Re: Netflix streaming problems
Post by: Chuck on February 24, 2011, 12:45:57 PM
Also:

http://www.msnbc.msn.com/id/41747069/ns/technology_and_science-tech_and_gadgets/from/toolbar