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$129.99
Since its release in late 2020, the Roku Streambar has established itself as a clever solution to two common home entertainment challenges: mediocre TV speakers and the need for a premium streaming device. After extensive testing in various home setups, we've found it continues to provide impressive value, especially following several firmware updates that have added features and refined performance.
The concept of combining a soundbar with streaming capabilities might seem obvious now, but it represents a significant shift in how we approach home entertainment. Traditional setups required separate devices - a streaming box, an audio solution, and multiple remotes. The Streambar elegantly combines these elements while maintaining quality in both areas.
The 4K HDR streaming capabilities truly shine in real-world use. During our testing, we found the interface snappy and responsive, with apps loading noticeably faster than on many smart TVs. The device supports HDR (High Dynamic Range), which enhances contrast and color depth - making shows like "Our Planet" on Netflix look stunning with their vibrant natural scenes.
What's particularly impressive is how the streaming performance has improved since launch. Regular firmware updates have added features like Apple AirPlay 2 support and enhanced the user interface's responsiveness. When comparing it to built-in smart TV platforms, the Roku interface feels more intuitive and consistently smooth.
The audio performance is where the Roku Streambar really exceeds expectations for its size and price point. The four-speaker array creates a surprisingly wide soundstage (the perceived width of the audio), which we found particularly noticeable when watching movies with complex sound design.
The automatic volume leveling feature deserves special mention - it's not just marketing speak. During testing, we found it effectively prevented those jarring volume jumps during commercial breaks or when switching between different streaming services. The dialogue enhancement mode also proved valuable, making speech clearer without making the overall sound artificial.
In our testing environment (a 15x20 foot living room), the Streambar filled the space adequately. However, for larger rooms or home theater setups, you might want to consider adding the wireless subwoofer and surround speakers, which we tested briefly and found significantly enhanced the experience.
The voice control implementation is thoughtful and practical. Unlike some competing products that try to be full smart home hubs, Roku focuses on entertainment-related commands that you'll actually use. Simple phrases like "show me comedy movies" or "launch Netflix" work consistently and feel natural in daily use.
The private listening feature through the Roku mobile app is particularly clever - we've found it invaluable for late-night viewing without disturbing others. The Bluetooth streaming capability also works well for playing music, though audiophiles might notice some compression in the audio quality compared to dedicated speakers.
One of the most impressive aspects is how simple the setup process is. In our testing, we had the unit up and running in under 10 minutes. The HDMI-ARC connection (which allows your TV remote to control the soundbar's volume) worked flawlessly with various TV brands we tested.
At $130, the Roku Streambar represents exceptional value when you consider it replaces both a streaming device ($50-100) and a basic soundbar ($100-200). The ongoing software updates have added features like Apple AirPlay 2 and Spotify Connect support, effectively increasing its value over time.
For home theater enthusiasts, while this won't replace a dedicated surround sound system, it serves admirably as a secondary room solution or as a starting point for a expandable system. The ability to add wireless surround speakers and a subwoofer later is a thoughtful feature that allows the system to grow with your needs.
In our testing, we identified a few limitations worth considering:
The Streambar is particularly well-suited for:
After extensive testing and daily use, the Roku Streambar continues to impress with its combination of features, performance, and value. While it won't replace a high-end home theater setup, it represents a significant upgrade for most users' TV audio while providing an excellent streaming experience.
The regular software updates and expandability options make it a future-proof investment, while the straightforward setup and operation make it accessible to everyone. At $130, it hits a sweet spot in the market that few other products manage to achieve, delivering notable improvements to both audio and streaming capabilities in a single, elegant package.
For most users looking to upgrade their TV sound and streaming capabilities without breaking the bank or dealing with complex setups, the Roku Streambar represents an excellent choice that continues to improve through regular updates and maintains its value proposition even years after its initial release.
Yes, the Roku Streambar offers excellent value by combining a 4K streaming device and quality soundbar in one unit. For most users, especially in smaller to medium rooms, it provides a significant upgrade over TV speakers while adding premium streaming capabilities. While it won't replace a full home theater system, it's a great solution for secondary rooms or starter setups.
While the Streambar provides good sound, it's not designed to replace a full home theater system. However, it can be expanded with Roku's wireless subwoofer and surround speakers for a more immersive experience. It's best suited for smaller rooms or as a secondary system.
Setup is very straightforward, typically taking less than 10 minutes. You'll just need to connect one HDMI cable to your TV (preferably to an HDMI-ARC port), plug in the power, and follow the on-screen instructions. The device automatically recognizes your TV for remote control setup.
Yes, it supports all major streaming services including Netflix, Amazon Prime, Disney+, HBO Max, and many others. It also provides access to over 500 live TV channels and thousands of free movies and shows through the Roku Channel.
The Roku Streambar works with any TV that has an HDMI port. For best results, use an HDMI-ARC port if your TV has one. It also includes an optical port for TVs without HDMI-ARC.
The sound quality is significantly better than built-in TV speakers, with clear dialogue and good stereo separation. While bass response is decent for its size, action movie enthusiasts might want to add the optional wireless subwoofer for more impact.
Yes, you can stream music through Bluetooth, Spotify Connect, or various music streaming apps. The sound quality is good for casual listening, though audiophiles might prefer dedicated speakers for music.
Yes, the Roku Streambar supports 4K resolution and HDR content, providing excellent picture quality when used with compatible TVs and content.
Yes, the included remote features voice control for searching content, launching apps, and basic playback controls. It's also compatible with Alexa and Google Assistant devices for hands-free control.
While it works fine for casual gaming, serious gamers might want to consider a different audio solution. The Streambar doesn't support advanced gaming features like variable refresh rate or ultra-low latency audio, though it provides good sound quality for general gaming use.
We've done our best to create useful and informative comparisons to help you decide what product to buy. Our research has used advanced automated methods to create this comparison and perfection is not possible - please contact us for corrections or questions. These are the sites we've researched in the creation of this article: bestbuy.com - walmart.com - tomsguide.com - techradar.com - camelcamelcamel.com - cnet.com - odpbusiness.com - community.roku.com - staples.com - roku.com - roku.com - community.roku.com
The $19.99 Amazon Fire TV Stick HD takes a fundamentally different approach to streaming, focusing on simplicity and affordability rather than premium features. Its compact design plugs directly into your TV's HDMI port, completely hidden from view, and provides access to all major streaming services with smooth 1080p playback. While it lacks 4K support, its performance is perfectly adequate for everyday viewing on HD TVs, and its deep integration with Alexa makes it particularly appealing for households already using Amazon's smart home ecosystem.
Where the Fire TV Stick HD really shines is its value proposition. At less than one-sixth the price of the Streambar, it delivers capable HD streaming performance and voice control features that satisfy basic viewing needs. However, it's important to note that the $19.99 Fire TV Stick HD doesn't include any audio enhancement capabilities - you'll need to rely on your TV's built-in speakers or a separate sound system. For secondary TVs, bedrooms, or situations where audio quality isn't a primary concern, it represents an incredibly cost-effective way to add smart streaming features to any HDMI-equipped TV.
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๐Amazon Fire TV Stick HD Streaming Device Details
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The Roku Ultra ($99.99) stands out with several premium features absent from the Streambar, most notably Wi-Fi 6 connectivity, Dolby Vision HDR support, and a significantly faster processor for snappier navigation. Its ethernet port ensures stable 4K streaming, while the included Voice Remote Pro offers convenient features like backlit buttons, remote finding capability, and USB-C charging. The Ultra's support for Dolby Atmos and advanced audio formats also makes it a better fit for serious home theater setups, though you'll need separate audio equipment to take advantage of these capabilities.
For those who already have a sound system or plan to invest in one separately, the Roku Ultra offers better overall value despite its lack of built-in audio. Its superior streaming performance, more stable connectivity, and better HDR support provide a noticeably better viewing experience, especially when paired with a high-end TV and sound system. However, if you're starting from scratch and need both improved audio and streaming in a single device, the Streambar's all-in-one approach might better suit your needs and budget.
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๐Roku Ultra 2024 4K Streaming Device Details
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The Google TV Streamer ($99.99) takes a different approach, focusing solely on streaming performance with its 22% faster processor and 32GB storage. It stands out with advanced smart home integration through Matter and Thread protocols, allowing users to view security cameras and control smart devices directly from their TV. The device's AI-powered recommendations and seamless integration with Google services provide a more sophisticated content discovery experience, while its backlit remote with USB-C charging and Find My Remote feature offers modern conveniences.
While it lacks the Streambar's audio capabilities, the Google TV Streamer excels in pure streaming performance and flexibility. Its Gigabit Ethernet port ensures stable 4K streaming, and the additional storage means more room for apps and games. At $99.99, it's a compelling choice for those who already have a sound system or don't need audio enhancement. The Google TV Streamer particularly shines in smart homes with multiple connected devices, offering a central hub for entertainment and home automation that the Streambar can't match.
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๐Google TV Streamer 4K Details
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The Roku Streambar SE offers an intriguing alternative for those seeking a more compact and budget-friendly streaming soundbar solution. At nearly half the price of the Streambar 4K, it delivers the same core 4K streaming capabilities in a smaller 9.6-inch form factor that's ideal for bedrooms, dorm rooms, or smaller TVs. While it lacks Dolby Vision support and uses only two speakers instead of four, the focused sound output works surprisingly well in spaces under 200 square feet, and the basic HDR support still provides good picture quality for most content.
Where the Roku Streambar SE falls short is in its limited expansion options and overall sound performance in larger spaces. Unlike its premium sibling, it can't be upgraded to a full surround sound system, though it does support adding a wireless subwoofer. The included basic remote lacks voice control capabilities, requiring users to rely on the Roku mobile app for voice features. However, for those prioritizing value and space efficiency over premium audio features, the Streambar SE represents an excellent entry point into the streaming soundbar category, providing a meaningful upgrade over built-in TV speakers while maintaining a budget-friendly price point.
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๐Roku Streambar SE Soundbar Details
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The Amazon Fire TV Stick 4K ($49.99) offers a more focused streaming experience at a significantly lower price point, excelling with its superior video format support including Dolby Vision HDR and more powerful processing capabilities. Its recent update brought Wi-Fi 6 support and an enhanced quad-core processor, resulting in noticeably faster menu navigation and app loading times. While it doesn't include speakers, it can pass through Dolby Atmos to existing audio equipment, making it an excellent choice for those who already have a sound system or are satisfied with their TV's built-in audio.
When compared to the Streambar's all-in-one approach, the Fire TV Stick 4K stands out for its compact form factor and deeper integration with the Amazon ecosystem, including advanced Alexa voice controls and gaming capabilities through Luna and Xbox Game Pass. The price difference is substantial - you could buy two Fire TV Sticks for less than one Streambar - but this comparison only makes sense if you don't need the audio upgrade. For pure streaming performance and value, particularly in homes already equipped with good audio, the Fire TV Stick 4K delivers excellent results at a more accessible price point.
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๐Amazon Fire TV Stick 4K Streaming Device Details
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The Amazon Fire TV Cube ($139.99) represents a different approach, focusing on delivering premium streaming performance and smart home integration rather than audio enhancement. Its standout feature is the powerful octa-core processor, which provides notably faster app loading and menu navigation compared to the Streambar. The device also supports more premium formats, including Dolby Vision and HDR10+, making it a better choice for users with high-end TVs. The addition of WiFi 6E support and an HDMI input for cable box control adds significant value for those looking to future-proof their setup or streamline their entertainment system.
Where the Fire TV Cube particularly excels is in its comprehensive Alexa integration and smart home capabilities. Unlike the Streambar's basic voice commands, the Fire TV Cube functions as a full-fledged smart speaker even when the TV is off, offering hands-free control of your entire smart home ecosystem. However, users seeking audio enhancement will need to factor in the cost of a separate sound solution, as the Cube lacks built-in speakers. For home theater enthusiasts who already have quality audio equipment, this isn't a drawback, but it's an important consideration when comparing the overall value proposition to the Streambar's all-in-one approach.
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๐Amazon Fire TV Cube 3rd Gen Streaming Media Player Details
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The Amazon Fire TV Stick 4K Max ($55) offers a different approach to streaming, focusing on pure performance with its upgraded processor and Wi-Fi 6E support. While it doesn't include audio capabilities, it excels at streaming with faster app loading times, support for more HDR formats including Dolby Vision, and a more powerful interface. The device's compact design and lower price point make it an attractive option for those who already have a sound solution or are primarily focused on streaming performance.
When comparing value propositions, the Fire TV Stick 4K Max delivers excellent streaming capabilities at less than half the price of the Streambar, but without any audio improvements. For home theater enthusiasts who already have quality speakers or those seeking the most advanced streaming features, the Fire TV Stick 4K Max represents a more focused and cost-effective solution. Its superior format support and processing power make it particularly well-suited for higher-end setups where audio is handled separately.
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๐Amazon Fire TV Stick 4K Max Streaming Device Details
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While both devices aim to enhance your TV viewing experience, the Tablo 4th Gen 2-Tuner DVR ($79.99) takes a completely different approach by focusing on over-the-air content. Its standout feature is the ability to record broadcast television and stream it to multiple devices throughout your home, effectively creating a whole-home DVR system for free TV channels. With 50+ hours of built-in storage and support for external drives up to 8TB, it offers tremendous flexibility for recording and time-shifting content. The dual tuner capability means you can record one show while watching another, or stream different recorded content to multiple devices simultaneously.
Where the Streambar excels at streaming services and audio enhancement, the Tablo DVR shines in its ability to capture, record, and distribute free broadcast television throughout your home. It's particularly appealing for cord-cutters who want to maintain access to local news, sports, and network programming without monthly fees. While it requires additional hardware like an antenna and doesn't include audio capabilities, its lower price point and lack of required subscriptions make it a compelling value proposition for those looking to maximize free content access. The trade-off comes in the form of slightly more complex setup and the need for additional equipment, but the long-term savings and flexibility can make it worthwhile for the right user.
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๐Tablo 4th Gen 2-Tuner Over-The-Air DVR Details
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The Amazon Fire TV Stick Lite ($29.99) offers a dramatically different value proposition, focusing solely on streaming capabilities at an extremely affordable price point. Despite its budget-friendly approach, it delivers impressive 1080p HD streaming performance and includes Alexa voice control through its remote, making it surprisingly capable for basic streaming needs. The compact stick design disappears behind your TV, and its USB power requirement means it can often run directly off your TV's USB port, simplifying installation.
Where the Fire TV Stick Lite particularly shines is in its integration with the Amazon ecosystem and its straightforward approach to streaming. While it lacks the audio capabilities and 4K support of the Streambar, the Fire TV Stick Lite proves to be an excellent choice for those who already have a sound solution or are primarily concerned with adding smart features to a secondary TV. The Alexa voice control actually outperforms Roku's voice capabilities, and while the interface does favor Amazon content, it provides access to all major streaming services. For users who don't need enhanced audio or 4K resolution, it offers remarkable value at less than a quarter of the Streambar's price.
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๐Amazon Fire TV Stick Lite Streaming Device Details
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The Roku Streaming Stick 4K ($49.99) offers a more streamlined approach to upgrading your TV's streaming capabilities. While it lacks built-in speakers, it excels in pure streaming performance with support for Dolby Vision HDR, which provides enhanced picture quality on compatible TVs. Its compact design disappears behind your TV, and the included long-range WiFi receiver ensures stable streaming even in challenging locations. The device boots apps about 30% faster than previous models, providing a notably snappy user experience that home theater enthusiasts will appreciate.
At less than half the price of the Streambar, the Streaming Stick 4K represents excellent value for those who already have a sound solution or are primarily focused on video quality. Its superior HDR support and hidden installation make it particularly appealing for home theater setups, where it can integrate seamlessly with existing audio equipment. While it doesn't provide the audio enhancement of the Streambar, its focused approach to streaming performance and more affordable price point make it the smarter choice for users who don't need the additional audio capabilities.
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๐Roku Streaming Stick 4K Streaming Device Details
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The Apple TV 4K ($152.99) stands out with its powerful A12 Bionic processor, which delivers noticeably smoother menu navigation and faster app loading times compared to the Streambar. This premium streamer offers superior HDR support, including Dolby Vision and high frame rate HDR, making it particularly appealing for home theater enthusiasts. While it requires a separate audio solution, its ability to pass through high-end audio formats like Dolby Atmos and integrate seamlessly with complex audio systems gives it an edge in more sophisticated setups. The device also excels at gaming through Apple Arcade and serves as a capable HomeKit hub for smart home control.
When comparing value propositions, the Apple TV 4K represents a different approach - it's a specialized streaming powerhouse that demands additional investment in audio equipment but rewards users with superior performance and flexibility. While its higher price point and need for separate speakers might seem like disadvantages compared to the Streambar's all-in-one solution, it's better suited for users who prioritize streaming performance and want to integrate the device into a more advanced home entertainment system. The premium features and regular software updates also make it more future-proof, though this comes at a higher total cost of ownership.
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๐Apple TV 4K 32GB 2nd Generation Details
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The NVIDIA SHIELD ($149.99) stands out as a more powerful and versatile streaming device, featuring the robust Tegra X1+ processor that enables advanced features like AI-powered 4K upscaling and serious gaming capabilities through GeForce NOW. While it requires a separate audio solution, it offers superior video processing, comprehensive HDR format support including Dolby Vision, and exceptional compatibility with high-end home theater setups. The Android TV platform provides access to a wider range of apps and customization options, though this comes with a steeper learning curve than the Roku interface.
For just $20 more than the Streambar, the SHIELD delivers significantly more processing power and future-proofing potential, backed by NVIDIA's impressive track record of long-term software support. While it doesn't include built-in speakers, its flexibility in working with external audio equipment makes it a better fit for users who want to build a premium entertainment system over time. However, this advantage comes with additional costs and complexity that may not appeal to users seeking a simple, all-in-one solution for basic streaming and audio improvement.
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๐NVIDIA SHIELD Android TV 8GB 4K HDR Streaming Media Player Details
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The Apple TV 4K stands out with its powerful A15 Bionic processor and comprehensive HDR support, including Dolby Vision and HDR10+, providing a more premium streaming experience. While it requires separate audio equipment, its superior processing power enables seamless gaming through Apple Arcade, and the device serves as a capable smart home hub with Thread networking support. The integration with the Apple ecosystem is particularly impressive, offering features like AirPlay and iCloud photo sharing that create a more cohesive entertainment experience for Apple users.
At the same price point as the Streambar, the Apple TV 4K represents a different value proposition - one focused on pure performance and future-proofing rather than all-in-one convenience. Its ability to handle high-end gaming, support for every major HDR format, and powerful smart home capabilities make it a more versatile entertainment hub, though these advantages come with the need to invest in separate audio equipment. For home theater enthusiasts or those already invested in the Apple ecosystem, these additional capabilities justify the extra investment in audio gear, but users seeking a simple, space-efficient solution might find the separate components less appealing.
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๐Apple TV 4K 64GB 3rd Generation Wi-Fi Details
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The Roku Express 2022 ($29.99) represents the streamlined, budget-friendly alternative in Roku's lineup. While it lacks the Streambar's audio capabilities and 4K support, it delivers reliable 1080p streaming in a compact, energy-efficient package. For users with existing sound systems or those satisfied with their TV's built-in speakers, the Express 2022 provides access to the same extensive streaming library and user-friendly interface at a fraction of the cost. Its simplified remote and straightforward setup make it particularly appealing for secondary TVs or users who prioritize basic functionality over premium features.
When considering value, the Express 2022's affordability is its strongest asset. While it doesn't match the Streambar's performance in terms of speed or video quality, the Roku Express 2022 handles most streaming tasks competently, with only occasional lag when navigating menus or loading content. The device's dual-band WiFi ensures stable streaming in most home environments, and its compact size makes it easy to hide behind a TV. For viewers who primarily watch 1080p content or own 1080p TVs, the Express 2022 offers everything needed for streaming entertainment without the additional investment in audio features they may not need or want.
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๐Roku Express 2022 Streaming Media Player Details
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The Roku Express 4K+ represents a fundamentally different approach to streaming, offering a budget-friendly alternative that strips away the Streambar's audio enhancements in favor of pure streaming functionality. At just $39.99, this compact device delivers 4K HDR streaming that matches many of the Streambar's core video capabilities, making it an attractive option for budget-conscious consumers or those with existing sound systems. Its dual-band Wi-Fi ensures stable connectivity, and the voice remote provides basic search and control functions that will satisfy most users' fundamental streaming needs.
Where the Express 4K+ falls short compared to the Streambar is in overall ecosystem and audio performance. While it handles streaming tasks competently, users will be limited to their TV's built-in speakers, losing the rich, room-filling sound that makes the Streambar so appealing. The device is best suited for secondary TVs, dorm rooms, or as a portable streaming solution for travelers. Its compact size and low price point make it an excellent entry-level streaming device, but those seeking a more immersive home entertainment experience will find the Streambar's integrated audio and more sophisticated features a worthwhile investment. Ultimately, the Express 4K+ proves that basic streaming doesn't have to be expensive, but it also demonstrates why investing in a more comprehensive solution like the Streambar can dramatically enhance your viewing experience.
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๐Roku Express 4K+ Streaming Device Details
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For those seeking maximum streaming performance, the NVIDIA SHIELD TV Pro ($199.99) represents a significant step up in processing power and capabilities. Its Tegra X1+ processor enables advanced features like AI-enhanced upscaling, which noticeably improves the quality of non-4K content, and it supports Dolby Vision HDR for superior picture quality on compatible TVs. While it requires separate audio equipment, this actually provides more flexibility for home theater enthusiasts who want to choose their own audio solution or integrate with existing systems.
The SHIELD TV Pro also offers substantial additional value through its gaming capabilities, including cloud gaming via GeForce Now and local game streaming from a PC. Its Android TV platform provides deeper smart home integration through Google Assistant, and it can even function as a Plex media server. While these advanced features come at a higher price point and require more setup than the Streambar's all-in-one approach, they make the SHIELD TV Pro a more future-proof and versatile choice for users who want to maximize their streaming and entertainment options.
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๐NVIDIA SHIELD TV Pro 16GB 4K HDR Streaming Media Player Details
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Original price was: $5,997.99.$5,797.99Current price is: $5,797.99.
