Mecool NOW KA2 - what is it, what is it for, a review
Strange people, these Chinese manufacturers. They will release a gadget, but they cannot explain why it is needed. Here is an example - Mecool NOW KA2, which is positioned in the TV-Box category. However, it is intended for completely different purposes, which will be discussed in this article.
What is Mecool NOW KA2 and why is it needed
The Mecool KA2 set-top box is an Android TV device capable of providing streaming services and video calls. In addition, the functionality is supplemented by support for the playback of various content. Following the example of conventional Android set-top boxes. With some restrictions only.
Mecool KA2 is aimed at bloggers who need to capture content in real time and see it immediately on the screen. The prefix is conveniently configured for these abilities:
- Tripod shoe mount.
- Availability of input and output for connecting devices via HDMI.
- There is a built-in camera and microphone for filming or making video calls.
Mecool NOW KA2 Specifications
| Chipset | Amlogic S905X4 |
| Processor | 4x ARM Cortex A55 |
| Video adapter | ARM Mail-G31 MP2 |
| RAM | DDR3 2GB |
| ROM | Flash 16 GB |
| Interfaces | 1xUSB 3.0, 1xUSB 2.0, HDMI-in, HDMI-out, RJ-45, DC |
| Multimedia elements | Built-in microphone (2 pcs);
Speaker 5 W (1 pc); FullHD camera 2 Mp (1 piece). |
| Wired interfaces for the Internet | 100 Mbps Ethernet |
| Wireless Interfaces | WiFi 2T2R 2.4 / 5 GHz, Bluetooth 4.2 |
| Operating system | Android 10 |
| Price | $130 |
Mecool NOW KA2 - useless TV-Box or ...
Let the manufacturer tell as much as he wants about the multimedia capabilities of the set-top box as a TV-Box. Just multiply all those ads by zero. Since Mecool NOW KA2 is not able to give the owner of the TV what he needs.
All pre-installed functionality is video playback from Youtube channel and Google services. The declared support for 4K, HDR, H.265, 3D is not adapted for the gadget to work as a TV-Box. If only because it is impossible to install programs from third-party sources on the device. The cloud and external drives are blocked at the firmware level, which limits the functionality of the set-top box.
Mecool NOW KA2 streaming attachment
The nice thing is that the device has shown itself to be a good video receiver. By the way, the prefix is great for sharing with blogger's recruitmentwhich we recently tested. Moreover, the camera and microphones do an excellent job with their tasks. And this cannot but rejoice. The usual conversation in Google Duo on the Mecool NOW KA2 set-top box caused delight. The picture quality, transmitted to the interlocutor, and the sound are perfect. Naturally, it still depends on the communication channel. But there are no questions about the hardware of the set-top box.
And one moment. The powerful Amlogic S905X4 chipset and the ability to install any applications from the Google Market open up interesting functionality for the user. The Mecool NOW KA2 prefix does an excellent job with productive toys. You cannot play a video from a torrent, but any games are welcome. From the outside it all looks ridiculous.
In general, the gadget is not bad for its functionality. But there is no desired effect "hey you!" (or "wow", whoever likes it). Considering the $ 130 price tag, the streaming box with a stripped-down service looks very dank. Well, at least they gave permission to install programs (maybe access will come in the updated firmware). We wait. Or the loyalty of the manufacturer. Or a similar device in terms of functionality from competitors.