Maybe I'm a bit hasty, in devaluing it. I'll be honest, My product knowledge is poor. So i can't answer that question. (most others seem to be in the £300 to £400 range? So it's extremely competitive)
Last night i was comparing it with a PlayStation 3. Picture and speed of operation. Which is stupid.
I don't want to offend anyone. I'm a tightfisted so and so and will always try and get something for nothing or less.
As for technical bit, don't see how anyone could use it normally without flashing it. For Example, couldn't get BBC One HD, until i flashed it.(maybe it's just me) So i'm talking in teams of setting it up and configuration.
All My points you've raised only make feel even better with my purchase.
After using it again today for short while, i see it in different light, and the picture is good no doubt. (i'm not lover of 1080i) Red it can playback in 1080p. haven't tried that yet. I'll play something of a pendrive soon.
Need to get HDD, something Like WD Green range.