Monday, June 16, 2025

RockTek GB1: Google-Certified 4K Streaming Revolution or Overhyped Gimmi...


Introducing the Rocktek GB1 TV Dongle – What You Need to Know

What’s up, everyone? Today, I’m diving into the exciting world of Android streaming once again. This time, it’s all about the Rocktek GB1 TV Dongle. Although technically a dongle, it has the look and feel of a sleek mini Android TV box. Best of all, it’s incredibly compact. So, let’s unpack this device and see what it really offers.

What Comes in the Rocktek GB1 TV Dongle Package?

First things first, the unboxing experience tells you why it’s a dongle. Inside, you get:

  • The Rocktek GB1 TV dongle

  • A G10 Bluetooth voice remote with Google Assistant

  • A 6-inch HDMI cable

  • A USB-A to USB-C power cable

  • A user manual

However, you won’t find a DC power adapter or a long HDMI cable. That’s because it’s built to hide behind your TV, powered by a 5V USB port. You can, though, opt for a longer HDMI cable if needed.

Rocktek GB1 TV Dongle: Design and Build Quality

The Rocktek GB1 TV Dongle measures only 2.75 inches wide and about half an inch thick. It's made of plastic with a stylish swirl pattern and Realtek branding on top. It features:

  • One HDMI port

  • One USB-C port for power and data

  • An LED power light

  • No ventilation holes underneath

It's minimalist and efficient — designed to stay out of sight and out of mind.

Initial Setup and Interface Experience

On first boot, the GB1 displays a splash screen and pairs easily with the Bluetooth remote. Setup involves:

  • Wi-Fi connection

  • Google account sign-in

  • Android TV OS 12 launcher activation

It’s smooth and user-friendly. The pairing process only takes a few seconds.

Safety First: Malware Scans and Clean Results

Before installing anything, I ran malware scans with two tools:

  • Bitdefender Mobile Security (paid)

  • DefSquid (free)

Both confirmed the Rocktek GB1 TV Dongle is malware-free. Especially after the FBI’s recent warnings about malicious Android TV boxes, it’s smart to use antivirus protection. I recommend Bitdefender for Android users — affordable and effective.

DRM, Security, and Streaming Services

Security-wise, this dongle shines. It features:

  • Google Widevine L1 DRM

  • HDCP 2.2

  • Unrooted firmware

This combination ensures it can stream from services like Netflix, Disney+, and Prime Video in full 4K HDR with Dolby Vision and Dolby Atmos. Yes, you read that right.

Rocktek GB1 TV Dongle Firmware Display Settings

Here’s where things get technical — but important.

  • 4K 60Hz display support

  • Up to 12-bit color depth

  • Multiple HDR and Dolby Vision settings

  • Adaptive or forced Dolby Vision modes

  • HDR10, HLG, and SDR options

  • HDMI CEC and auto frame rate switching

Essentially, you can fine-tune this dongle to match your exact display setup, whether it’s HDR-only or Dolby Vision-ready.

Advanced Audio Output Options

Now, let’s talk sound.

You can switch between HDMI sync, optical audio, and even force Dolby Digital output. It supports formats like:

  • Dolby Atmos

  • Dolby Digital Plus

  • Dolby TrueHD

  • Dolby AC4

  • DTS and DTS HD

Through USB audio or HDMI passthrough, the GB1 covers nearly all surround sound options. However, playback compatibility also depends on the media player used — Kodi is my top recommendation.

Rocktek GB1 TV Dongle Hardware Specs and System Details

The specs are surprising for a device this small:

  • CPU: Realtek RTD1315C quad-core Cortex-A55 @1.7GHz

  • GPU: Mali G57

  • RAM: 2GB DDR4

  • Storage: 10GB

  • Wi-Fi: Dual-band Wi-Fi 6

  • Android OS: Android TV 12

Even though it lacks Vulkan GPU support and has no active temperature monitoring, it performs exceptionally well.

Streaming 4K HDR Content with Kodi

When it comes to self-hosted 4K HDR or Dolby Vision videos:

  • Use a USB-C hub to connect external storage

  • Use Kodi for smooth playback and passthrough

  • Enable expert audio settings

  • Adjust HDR settings according to your display

This setup triggers formats like HDR10, Dolby Vision, and HLG automatically, depending on the video file.

Audio Playback Tests: What Works and What Doesn't

So, I tested several audio formats using Kodi and VLC:

✅ Works:

  • Dolby Atmos

  • Dolby Digital Plus

  • Dolby Surround

❌ PCM fallback (no passthrough):

  • Dolby TrueHD

  • DTS HD Master Audio

  • DTS-X

So while Dolby formats work great, DTS-HD and DTS-X fall short.

Can You Game on the Rocktek GB1 TV Dongle?

While gaming isn’t its main purpose, I tested Shadowgun Legends — and guess what? It runs on high graphics smoothly thanks to the Mali G57 GPU. So yes, light gaming is possible. Also, sideloading APK files via USB-C hub is a breeze.

Benchmark Scores and Performance Tests

Let’s break down how it performed in benchmark testing:

  • RAM copy speed: 2930 MB/s

  • Internal storage read: 188 MB/s

  • Internal storage write: 47 MB/s

  • 5 GHz Wi-Fi speed: ~200 Mbps

  • 2.4 GHz Wi-Fi speed: ~83 Mbps

  • Ethernet via USB-C hub: full 300 Mbps (on gigabit port)

That’s impressive for a dongle-style device. It’s clearly optimized for streaming over high-speed connections.

Final Thoughts: Is the Rocktek GB1 TV Dongle Worth It?

Absolutely. The Rocktek GB1 TV Dongle delivers exceptional performance in a tiny, unassuming package. You get:

  • Android TV OS 12

  • Netflix ESN certification

  • 4K HDR with Dolby Vision

  • Dolby Atmos and DTS support

  • Strong Wi-Fi 6 performance

  • Malware-free firmware

  • Google Assistant remote

Though it misses DTS-HD passthrough and lacks a power adapter, those are minor trade-offs for such a feature-rich device. For casual streamers and home theater enthusiasts alike, this is one of the best mini Android streamers out right now.

Who Should Buy the Rocktek GB1 TV Dongle?

If you:

  • Want a minimalist setup

  • Stream on Netflix, Disney+, or Prime

  • Use Dolby Atmos or Dolby Vision TVs

  • Prefer using Kodi or VLC

  • Need a malware-free, certified Android TV OS

Then yes — the Rocktek GB1 TV Dongle is made for you.

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Tuesday, June 10, 2025

Mecool KM9 Pro Max TV Box - Is It Safe from FBI’s BadBox Malware Alert? ...


✅ Welcome to My Review of the Mecool KM9 Pro Max

What’s up, everyone? I’m Nick from TV Box Stop. So today, I’m diving into the Mecool KM9 Pro Max. And guess what? This Android TV box is officially Google-certified! Therefore, you’re going to get full Netflix, YouTube, and Prime Video compatibility with features like Google Assistant, Dolby Atmos, and 4K HDR streaming. So let’s go!



📦 What’s Inside the Mecool KM9 Pro Max Box?

Firstly, let’s talk about what you get:

  • Mecool KM9 Pro Max TV box

  • Google TV Bluetooth voice remote

  • HDMI 2.1 cable

  • 12V 1A DC power adapter

  • User manual

Everything comes neatly packed. And yes, the remote includes voice control through Google Assistant.



⚙️ Mecool KM9 Pro Max Design and Build Quality

So yes, the box is plastic, but it feels solid. Also:

  • Three LED indicators are on the front.

  • Ports on the back include HDMI 2.1, AV, optical audio, LAN, and power.

  • There are two USB 2.0 ports and a reset button on the side.

  • And guess what? The base has ventilation holes and anti-skid rubber feet.

Although the design is simple, everything you need is there.






🛠️ Setup and Google TV Interface

Right after bootup, you’ll go through Google TV’s setup wizard:

  • Connect to Wi-Fi or Ethernet.

  • Log in with your Google account.

  • Pair the remote and activate voice control.

Because it runs Android 12 with full Google certification, you’ll enjoy features like:

  • Official Netflix ESN license

  • Developer options access

  • Full Widevine L1 and HDCP 2.2 support

🔒 Is the Mecool KM9 Pro Max Safe from Malware?

So with all the recent FBI alerts about Android boxes, I tested it using:

  1. Bitdefender (premium version)

  2. DefSquid

Both scans showed no malware. But please remember, you still need to protect your device by installing antivirus software or using a VPN.




📺 Display and Audio Capabilities of Mecool KM9 Pro Max

Here’s where things get interesting:

  • 4K output at 2160p @ 60Hz

  • HDR10 and HLG supported

  • No working Dolby Vision support

  • AI SR and AI PQ for video upscaling

So Dolby Vision options are present, but they don’t function—even with a Dolby Vision-compatible TV. However, it does support:

  • Dolby Atmos

  • DTS HD

  • HDMI passthrough audio

Additionally, for surround sound from self-hosted content:

  • Use VLC player with passthrough enabled

  • Avoid MX Player or Nova Player for surround format




🧠 Mecool KM9 Pro Max: System and Hardware Specs

So let’s talk specs. Here’s what’s under the hood:

  • CPU: Realtek RTD1325 (Quad-Core Cortex-A55, 1.7GHz)

  • GPU: Mali-G57 (No Vulkan support)

  • RAM: 2GB DDR4

  • Storage: 32GB

  • Bluetooth: 5.0

  • Wi-Fi: Dual-band AX (Wi-Fi 6)

  • LAN: 100 Mbps only, not gigabit

It’s also worth noting:

  • No Dolby Vision decoders

  • Decoders include AV1, VP9, and HEVC

  • Temperature sensor is disabled by default




🎮 Gaming and Graphics Performance

Even without Vulkan support, gaming is decent:

  • Mali-G57 performs better than Mali-G31

  • Good for standard Android gaming

  • Not recommended for advanced 3D games

Therefore, casual gamers will find it satisfactory. But Vulkan lovers, this may not be for you.



📊 Benchmark Results of the Mecool KM9 Pro Max

Let’s dive into some hard numbers:

  • RAM Copy Speed: 3002 MB/s

  • Storage Read/Write: 149/52 MB/s

  • Wi-Fi Speed (5GHz): Maxed out my network

  • LAN Speed: ~94 Mbps

  • Geekbench Scores: 135 (Single), 436 (Multi-core)

  • 3DMark Slingshot: 779

  • Antutu Score: 114,853

When compared to other boxes, it ranks #34 on my performance chart with a 4-star rating.




🎬 Streaming Experience with Mecool KM9 Pro Max

Let’s talk content. Because it’s fully certified:

  • Netflix, Disney+, Prime Video, and Max stream in HD and 4K

  • Widevine L1 and HDCP 2.2 ensure premium playback

  • Root status: Not rooted

  • Google Cast and Google Assistant included

In fact, even the remote has shortcut buttons for all the major streaming apps.



📹 Playback of Self-Hosted Media Files

So here’s what you can expect:

  • HDR10 and HLG are supported

  • AV1 decoding works well

  • No Dolby Vision playback for self-hosted content

  • Use VLC player for best audio output

Audio formats supported:

  • Dolby Atmos

  • Dolby Digital Plus

  • DTS-HD Master Audio

  • Dolby TrueHD

  • DTS-X

Once again, avoid non-compatible players like MX Player if surround sound matters to you.






✅ Pros and Cons of the Mecool KM9 Pro Max

Pros:

  • Google-certified

  • Supports Netflix, Prime Video, Disney+ in 4K

  • Dolby Atmos and HDR10 supported

  • Strong Wi-Fi 6 performance

  • Smooth AI upscaling

Cons:

  • No Dolby Vision

  • No Vulkan GPU support

  • LAN port is not gigabit

  • Only 2GB RAM

So depending on your priorities, these drawbacks may or may not be deal-breakers.



💸 Should You Buy the Mecool KM9 Pro Max?

Yes, if you want:

  • A budget-friendly, Google-certified Android TV box

  • Great streaming performance

  • Strong Wi-Fi 6 connectivity

  • Full Dolby Atmos support

  • Good basic gaming and AI upscaling

However, if Dolby Vision or advanced gaming with Vulkan is important, you may want to wait for a future update or explore other options.

🧾 Final Thoughts on the Mecool KM9 Pro Max

So to wrap this up—Mecool is transitioning from Allwinner to Realtek chipsets, and this is a good move. While the firmware needs updates (like Dolby Vision and Vulkan support), the Mecool KM9 Pro Max already delivers excellent value.

Therefore, I’d recommend it to anyone wanting a Google-certified streaming box that also supports Dolby Atmos and HDR content.

🛒 Where to Buy the Mecool KM9 Pro Max

So if you’re interested in the Mecool KM9 Pro Max, check out the link in the video description. You’ll find a 10% discount coupon and a direct purchase link. Supporting the channel by using that link helps me keep creating these reviews.

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Saturday, June 7, 2025

Wanbo Vali 1: Android TV OS FHD1080P 900ANSI Gimbal Projector


Introducing the Wanbo Vali 1: A Bright and Smart Full HD Projector

To begin with, the Wanbo Vali 1 is a brand-new full HD 1080p projector designed for home entertainment. Additionally, it runs on Android TV OS, comes with 900 ANSI lumens of brightness, and features autofocus, auto Keystone correction, and a unique 200° rotating gimbal stand. Furthermore, it holds an official Netflix ESN license, so users can stream directly in HD.



Unboxing the Wanbo Vali 1: Everything You Get Inside

First of all, once unboxed, you’ll find the Wanbo Vali 1 unit, a Bluetooth remote with Google Assistant, a power cable, a spare dust filter, and a user manual. Therefore, it comes fully ready for setup and use right away.



Exploring the Wanbo Vali 1’s Design and Build Quality

Clearly, the projector features a compact design—10” wide, 7.25” long, and 9.5” tall. Moreover, its all-plastic body is paired with a 200° gimbal bracket. As a result, this setup allows smooth rotation without obstruction from power cables, since the power socket is built into the bracket’s side.






Navigating the Ports and Buttons with Ease

In particular, the Wanbo Vali 1 includes one HDMI port, one USB port, a headphone jack, a reset button, IR sensors at both front and back, and a power button. However, it lacks physical control buttons, relying entirely on the Bluetooth remote.


Understanding the Dual Operating Systems for Seamless Use

Interestingly, this projector runs two operating systems at the same time. Therefore, you get a native projector firmware for source inputs, and a built-in Android TV OS box. This dual setup ensures users enjoy both smart and traditional projector features.

Mastering Image and Sound Settings with the Remote Control

With a dedicated settings button, users can adjust image correction, autofocus, auto Keystone, digital zoom, and more. Additionally, picture settings let you fine-tune brightness, contrast, sharpness, and color temperature. For sound, you can switch between preset modes or customize audio with a mini equalizer.

Tailoring Input Behavior and HDMI Controls

At this point, users can decide if the projector boots into the Android OS or HDMI source. Furthermore, game mode can be enabled for lower latency, and HDMI features like ARC and CEC offer added convenience.

Diving Deep into Language and Firmware Settings

To accommodate global users, the projector firmware supports 26 languages, while the Android TV OS supports up to 52. Thus, language preferences must be set on both platforms independently.

Reviewing the Android TV Box Features and Specs

Undoubtedly, the Android TV box is a standout feature. Notably, it’s built using the Android 11 SDK and includes Google Assistant, Chromecast (Google Cast), and a full Netflix ESN license. Moreover, it supports 1920x1080p resolution at 59.94 Hz with HDR and 12-bit color depth.

Analyzing the Hardware and System Specifications

Next, the Android box is manufactured by Skyworth Digital and runs on an Amlogic S805X2 chipset. Additionally, it has 1GB RAM, 8GB internal storage, Bluetooth 5.0, and dual-band Wi-Fi. However, it lacks Vulkan GPU and Dolby decoding support but includes AV1 and DTS-HD decoders.




Playing Media from External Storage—Two Methods

To clarify, users can play videos using the native projector firmware or the Android TV OS. The former supports only HD and basic codecs, while the latter reads 4K HDR files but struggles with smooth playback. Still, HD 1080p videos play flawlessly on both.

Streaming Netflix Directly on the Wanbo Vali 1

Fortunately, due to its official Netflix ESN, the Wanbo Vali 1 streams Netflix in full HD without the need for an external device. Plus, casting from mobile apps like YouTube and Netflix is seamless using the built-in Google Cast feature.



Connecting External Devices for Enhanced Viewing

Whenever additional features are needed, users can switch to HDMI input. For example, when connected to a 4K Android TV box like the Homatics Box R 4K, the Wanbo Vali 1 showcases impressive color accuracy and sharpness, thanks to its autofocus and vivid picture presets.



Evaluating Audio Performance and Bluetooth Connectivity

While the built-in speaker provides decent bass and treble, it may fall short in large rooms. Therefore, it’s great that you can pair Bluetooth speakers or AV receivers for fuller sound. Additionally, latency over Bluetooth is impressively low.

Utilizing the 200° Gimbal for Flexible Viewing Angles

One of the projector’s best features is its 200° gimbal, allowing you to rotate and project images onto walls, ceilings, or any angled surface. This adds a lot of flexibility for various viewing setups.






Testing the Gaming Experience on Wanbo Vali 1

When connected to a gaming PC or console, users will appreciate the low input lag and vibrant colors. Plus, game mode ensures smooth visuals, making this projector suitable even for casual gaming.



Final Verdict: Should You Buy the Wanbo Vali 1?

To sum up, the Wanbo Vali 1 delivers excellent value for those looking for a high-quality, smart projector with official Android features. From its bright 900 ANSI lumens display to its easy-to-navigate interface and built-in streaming capabilities, it stands out in its price range.

Even though this review cannot fully capture its visual quality due to camera limitations, the Wanbo Vali 1 truly shines in real life. So, don’t miss the chance to grab it at a discounted price using the coupon in the video description.


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