[back in stock] Sony LocationFree® Base Station Model LF-B10 $34.98 shipped [Mobile/Archive]

briandadude

05-16-2008, 01:11 AM

Saw this on Slickdeals:

http://www.staples.com/office/supplies/StaplesProductDisplay?storeId=10001&jspStoreDir=Staples&productId=211857&cmSearchKeyword=667222+&fromUrl=home&cmArea=SEARCH&catalogId=10051&langId=-1

I ordered one and from what I've read, it's basically a Slingbox that also works with PSPs. Basically, you hook it up to your router and cable/tivo/satellite and you can receive your local channels wherever you have internet access.

eliter1

05-16-2008, 01:19 AM

Oos

Z(+)DIAC

05-16-2008, 02:55 AM

Oos

You could try to get this in-store.

eliter1

05-16-2008, 02:58 AM

You could try to get this in-store.

No Staples near me:cry:

abhinav

05-16-2008, 03:15 AM

I want to find this, this thing looks interesting.

VipFREAK

05-16-2008, 03:21 AM

So, could content be played on an iPod touch with this? Also, does this do tv? Thanks

nick_fazekas

05-16-2008, 06:00 AM

I'd dig up one of the newer LF-V30 models, which has component cable support, if I could, instead of get one of the older B models. Especially the B10 which doesn't even have wifi support, and needs to be connected to a lan cable.

The V30 gives a slingbox a run for it's money, and does things the standard slingbox's don't do like run on a psp flawlessly. Watching your cable tv lineup on your psp anywhere in the world with a wifi connection is pretty awesome. And the PC player software is now free, it used to require a license fee if you used it on more than one pc.

Mine's wicked, and I get a lot of use out of it. But get the V30. It's wireless lan and HD component inputs are bigtime.

CocheseUGA

05-16-2008, 08:04 AM

Thanks, I'll check my Staples today.

itlnstln

05-16-2008, 11:06 AM

This is one of the best purchases I ever made. Control your home TV/TIVO on your PSP or laptop anywhere you have a WIFI connection. If I am out and about and need to record a show, simply find a WIFI(Starbuck, MCDs, etc) and control your TIVO box just like you were at home. Got mine last time they were on sale, keep this link handy as they randomly restock them. If you call Staples and give them the item number, they can store search for you.

briandadude

05-16-2008, 01:03 PM

Looks like it's up again

CocheseUGA

05-16-2008, 01:30 PM

Snagged one online, thanks.

Now to sell some of my games to pay for it before the bill comes due. Hopefully I can also use it on my phone.

SubjectNameHere

05-16-2008, 02:12 PM

Oos

mj1984

05-16-2008, 03:26 PM

For sale again.

heavy liquid

05-16-2008, 03:28 PM

Back up for me!

Thanks, OP!! I'm looking forward to using this!

Blade70

05-16-2008, 03:32 PM

Me too. Watching TV at campus rules!

Vader582

05-16-2008, 03:40 PM

Thx to the OP and for the bumps today! In for 1. Thought I'd missed-out this.

Alucard400

05-16-2008, 03:43 PM

Thx to the OP and for the bumps today! In for 1. Thought I'd missed-out this.

Damn you! You beat me to it on the cart. I had it added but once i finished inputting my cc info, it went out of stock again!:bomb:

VipFREAK

05-16-2008, 03:47 PM

Lame... also lame is how much they add on for shipping and tax...

briandadude

05-16-2008, 03:49 PM

Lame... also lame is how much they add on for shipping and tax...

Shipping was free for me and I expect to pay tax on things I buy.

Watchman

05-16-2008, 03:54 PM

Vader582

05-16-2008, 03:58 PM

Damn you! You beat me to it on the cart. I had it added but once i finished inputting my cc info, it went out of stock again!:bomb:

Ack! Sorry about that! I've been in that boat so I know how it feels.:cry:

I'd dig up one of the newer LF-V30 models, which has component cable support, if I could, instead of get one of the older B models. Especially the B10 which doesn't even have wifi support, and needs to be connected to a lan cable.

The V30 gives a slingbox a run for it's money, and does things the standard slingbox's don't do like run on a psp flawlessly. Watching your cable tv lineup on your psp anywhere in the world with a wifi connection is pretty awesome. And the PC player software is now free, it used to require a license fee if you used it on more than one pc.

Mine's wicked, and I get a lot of use out of it. But get the V30. It's wireless lan and HD component inputs are bigtime.
The V30 specs are nice but $36 vs $150+ makes the B10 a more reasonable experiment. I'm lucky in that my house has a wired network so my wi-fi is only used for the PSP and laptop. Perhaps one day Staples will have the V30 on massive clearance? :D

Free shipping for me as well. Total came to $36.73 with tax so I can't complain. Expected Delivery: Tues. 20th.

Phanatic

05-16-2008, 04:08 PM

OOS again, as I was checking out. Damn. I'll keep checking back, I guess...

VipFREAK

05-16-2008, 04:11 PM

Shipping was free for me and I expect to pay tax on things I buy.

What was your final price?

Watchman

05-16-2008, 04:19 PM

briandadude

05-16-2008, 04:23 PM

So wait, this model doesn't have Wi-Fi? That's what I really need. Specs aren't very forthcoming on CNET either.
Is it possible to switch out at Staples B&M for a wireless model?

Also: It's back up already.

The main difference between this model and the B20 is that with the B10 you must connect it to your router via an ethernet cable, while the B20 allows you to connect via Wifi. However, both models allow you to access your channels anywhere where you have internet access.

Hope that clears it up a bit.

VipFREAK

05-16-2008, 04:24 PM

Got mine last time they were on sale, keep this link handy as they randomly restock them. If you call Staples and give them the item number, they can store search for you.

So, can I buy it at this price at the store?

Watchman

05-16-2008, 04:27 PM

The main difference between this model and the B20 is that with the B10 you cannot connect it to your router wirelessly (requires an ethernet cable), while you can with the B20. However, both models allow you to access your channels anywhere where you have internet access.

Hope that clears it up a bit.

That it does. Now I'm thinking of still getting one and (unfortunately) running a 30-footer cable from my roommate's router out of her office and into the living room...

I really don't like running cables like this.

I wonder if they'll sell you the BF20 at B&M stores for the same price if they're OOS?

briandadude

05-16-2008, 04:27 PM

What was your final price?

Subtotal:$84.98
Coupon Total:$50.00
Delivery:$0.00
Tax:$2.89
Total Ordered:$37.87

By the way, I've heard of people buying ink coupons from ebay (http://cgi.ebay.com/3-x-3-off-Staples-online-only-ink-Coupon-Fast-ship_W0QQitemZ310049893716QQihZ021QQcategoryZ31411 QQssPageNameZWDVWQQrdZ1QQcmdZViewItem) and saving another $6. In no way am I suggesting you try, as I have not tried it myself, but just thought I'd throw that out there.

VipFREAK

05-16-2008, 04:35 PM

Mine came to $40 "pre-tax"...

miqspot

05-16-2008, 04:56 PM

Out of stock. Sad face.

CocheseUGA

05-16-2008, 05:13 PM

I wonder if they'll sell you the BF20 at B&M stores for the same price if they're OOS?

You're more likely to have the cashier do a striptease for you.

Mine came out to the exact same price, and shipping date. No shipping, regular tax.

xraytd

05-16-2008, 05:22 PM

I was able to get one this morning before it went out of stock again. Free shipping and same price as previously posted:

Subtotal: $84.98
Delivery: FREE
Coupon1: -$50.00
Tax: $2.89
Total: $37.87

Watchman

05-16-2008, 05:35 PM

Vader582

05-16-2008, 06:09 PM

BACK IN STOCK! as of 5:09 pm EST.

Superfan

05-16-2008, 07:11 PM

Out of stock as of 6:11 EST

Watchman

05-16-2008, 07:12 PM

Annnnnd out of stock at 3:12pm PST.

Capitalizt

05-16-2008, 07:15 PM

Grabbed two for $38 each with tax. These are going for $75-$85 on Ebay but I'm willing to split the difference to help a fellow CAG out. If anyone wants an extra for $58 shipped, send me a PM. I know I'm asking $20 more than I paid, but after shipping and Paypal fees, I'll barely be making anything on the deal...and the gas getting to the post office will probably make me lose money, lol ;)

Alucard400

05-16-2008, 09:19 PM

Man. I had class today from 2pm to 4pm. IT just had to restock during that time when I was refreshing the page every 3 mins to check stock before I headed out >_<.

Alucard400

05-16-2008, 09:33 PM

I just got off the phone with an operator from Staples, who told me that this is an online-only deal-- they don't carry these in B&M. So get it while you can.

Also--BB has the VF-30 (wireless) model on sale online for $169, 30 off retail-- Pricegrabber has a $5 rebate for writing a review for it too. Lowest price out there right now. Just FYI

That thing is nice, that it has wifi and component inputs. The problem is, I'll probably own a ps3 in the future and I can just use that to stream stuff off my hdd from the computer and then just run it off my psp on any wifi spot.

Watchman

05-16-2008, 10:15 PM

That thing is nice, that it has wifi and component inputs. The problem is, I'll probably own a ps3 in the future and I can just use that to stream stuff off my hdd from the computer and then just run it off my psp on any wifi spot.

How's that work? I'll have the 80 gig in a few weeks-- and I have a Mac. I just want to watch stuff off my DVR.

CocheseUGA

05-16-2008, 10:45 PM

How's that work? I'll have the 80 gig in a few weeks-- and I have a Mac. I just want to watch stuff off my DVR.

Unless your DVR is a computer, you'll need one of the LF players to control it.

abhinav

05-17-2008, 12:43 AM

Aw it's gone again. I hope it comes back.

Watchman

05-17-2008, 02:11 AM

Unless your DVR is a computer, you'll need one of the LF players to control it.

Explain LF?

neonglow

05-17-2008, 02:28 AM

Explain LF?

LocationFree®

Watchman

05-17-2008, 03:18 AM

LocationFree®

D'oh. I knew that before I even saw the reply. But I don't understand what he means by "unless your DVR is a computer".

nick_fazekas

05-17-2008, 03:28 AM

Just another addition here:

I've read a few places online that people have figured out how to use the locationfree player with a ps3 running linux to record video.

Basically you can rig up your ps3 to act as a DVR. I'm not quite sure how, as of yet, just heard that it can be done.

Draknight

05-17-2008, 08:59 AM

IN STOCK as of 8:00 am EST

Get them while you can

Hibiwa

05-17-2008, 09:15 AM

nope. gone during checkout.

Order went through the previous time they were on sale and they never sent it. Claimed they emailed an out of stock cancel. Liars. Status of ship date never changed.

Teqonix

05-17-2008, 09:16 AM

In for one of these things- I've wanted to play with a Locationfree player for a while now, and this low of a price enables me to do that.

Thanks a ton, OP!

Vader582

05-17-2008, 01:06 PM

Just to let folks know, these seem to be shipping. Just checked my status and I have a UPS tracking number.

CocheseUGA

05-17-2008, 02:24 PM

D'oh. I knew that before I even saw the reply. But I don't understand what he means by "unless your DVR is a computer".

I mean you need a way to control your DVR. The LF player does this. So, unless your DVR is a computer you built and control via the internet, you need a LF player or Slingbox to watch your recorded content.

Got it?

psychoxfoo

05-18-2008, 04:27 AM

hmm... just went all the way through final checkout page, and it stayed at the $84.98.. dead deal? or am i doing something wrong here? Doesn't seem to be taking that $50 off.

freakyzeeky

05-18-2008, 04:33 AM

How's the quality of TV shows when viewing them on a PSP using LF?

Silentype

05-18-2008, 04:38 AM

Back in Stock at 3:30AM EST? The check out page lists it as it may not be in stock. Also, as psychoxfoo said... the coupon isn't listed as applied.

badcrap1

05-18-2008, 04:50 AM

The price has changed from 36 to 49.99 afte a 50 dollar instant cupon and 99.99 for the original

Silentype

05-18-2008, 02:17 PM

Well, I tried to order this last night/this morning. I never got a confirmation email. So, I checked my order status just now. It says I placed an order for nothing for $0.00 and free shipping.

I wonder when my nothing will arrive...

VipFREAK

05-18-2008, 03:25 PM

I see the raised the price after making it out of stock too... FAIL

Alucard400

05-20-2008, 06:45 PM

Product is gone from the staples link.

CocheseUGA

05-20-2008, 06:51 PM

Got mine today. Bastards could have at least included a composite cable.

Watchman

05-20-2008, 07:52 PM

Thread should be marked as officially dead now.

CocheseUGA

05-20-2008, 08:55 PM

Vader582

05-20-2008, 11:25 PM

I'm impressed thus far. After an initial run of B&W video, I figured out how to fix that with my SA8300HD DVR. This is awesome.

Now, if I can figure out how to use it at school where they don't have WiFi...My wife and I are impressed too! She had a small TV w/o a set-top box in her home-office. Comcast keeps taking away channels from the no-box lineup. So I've connected the B10 to a DVR (the same one you mentioned above ;)) downstairs. Works extremely well on her secondary computer. She can now free up the space the old TV was taking up, view every channel we are subscribed to and every DVR recording. Very cool! A great deal for < $40. Gotta thank the OP again! :bow:

Connected my PSP, which works well but takes some hits from time to time since its wireless. My wife's office computer never has an issue since it's hard-wired.

I'll keep an eye out for the newer models to drop in price now that I've had a chance to play with this one.:D

CocheseUGA

05-21-2008, 12:47 AM

My wife and are impressed too! She had a small TV w/o a set-top box in her home-office. Comcast keeps taking away channels from the no-box lineup. So I've connected the B10 to a DVR (the same one you mentioned above ;)) downstairs. Works extremely well on her secondary computer. She can now free up the space the old TV was taking up, view every channel we are subscribed to and every DVR recording. Very cool! A great deal for < $40. Gotta thank the OP again! :bow:

Connected my PSP, which works well but takes some hits from time to time since its wireless. My wife's office computer never has an issue since it's hard-wired.

I'll keep an eye out for the newer models to drop in price now that I've had a chance to play with this one.:D

I assume you connected to the #2 Out of the DVR? All I got was B&W when I was connected to the main, and that wouldn't have worked anyways because I have a component-capable TV.

Vader582

05-21-2008, 01:55 PM

I assume you connected to the #2 Out of the DVR? All I got was B&W when I was connected to the main, and that wouldn't have worked anyways because I have a component-capable TV.
Correct. I connected via the reg. RCA connections on Out 1 at first as well. I could hear everything but the picture was basically rainbowy snow. I think if we didn't have the component connections in use, Out 1 would have worked.

Alucard400

05-22-2008, 12:18 PM

This was posted before but the thread was moved.

http://www.staples.com/office/supplies/StaplesProductDisplay?storeId=10001&jspStoreDir=Staples&productId=211857&cmSearchKeyword=667222+&fromUrl=home&cmArea=SEARCH&catalogId=10051&langId=-1

It is now 49.99 instead of 34.98.

Here is a link to the original thread. Admins can delete this thread and return the original thread if needed.

http://www.cheapassgamer.com/forums/showthread.php?t=183172

UPDATE:
I added the item to the cart. I'm from CA and I get taxed for this item. I think the delivery fee is region/price dependent. It used to show charges for shipping when it was 34.98, now shipping is FREE!. Item totaled about 53$ after tax for delivery to CA.

guinaevere

05-22-2008, 12:33 PM

The thread belongs in the Other Deals and requests, so I'll merge this into the pre-existing one. As this is back in stock though, I'll leave the redirect up for about 8 hours in case this is something big that a lot of people want.

xMATTxEDGEx

05-22-2008, 09:07 PM

fieldkillah

05-23-2008, 03:08 AM

Ordered yesterday and expected delivery is today. Not bad for free shipping.

Alucard400

05-23-2008, 07:55 AM

I'm just curious, but how exactly do you set one of these up? Do you connect it to a modem, cable box, or cable wall outlet, etc...? Do you need a DVR, Satellite Dish, or even basic cable in order to use one of these? I apologize, but I guess I am just a bit confused on the installation process.

Also, can you only receive local channels, or can you access Dish stations...?

I just set mine up today. You basically connect the base station to any device with a video and audio output (yellow cables and red and white cables). some TVs have video out. dvd players have obviously video outs. the base station connects to a router to stream videos into a private internet server for you to watch them, exclusive only to you. you're allowed one device to be registered for viewing (let's say the psp). the psp then get's to watch whatever is playing on your DVD or TV. the beauty of it is, the base station can actually turn on or turn off your DVD or TV by it's IR blaster (you stick it or use tape to point it into the DVD or TV's remote receiver). all this done by the internet. Being at starbucks and using their wifi, you can access your videos at home.

VipFREAK

05-23-2008, 12:23 PM

Fucking lame... Not only is it more now $49.99, but it won't let me add the $50 off because it expired when they were out of stock.

I'm over it.

I hope staples follows the same path as Comp USA.

Vader582

05-23-2008, 12:45 PM

you're allowed one device to be registered for viewing (let's say the psp). the psp then get's to watch whatever is playing on your DVD or TV.Actaully, I've got several devices registered that can log into the Base Station. You can only have one device viewing at a time though.
I think only having one device work is part of the older software that comes in the box. You're better off avoiding it and downloading the more recent LF player (http://esupport.sony.com/perl/swu-download.pl?upd_id=3196&SMB=YES).

pimpinc333

05-23-2008, 01:32 PM

Can anyone explain something to me. Lets say I bought this item and hooked it up and such. Now. I have Dish Network. Lets say im using this on my laptop at work. Lets also say someone else is at my home watching TV. What would happen? Would we both be able to watch TV at the same time and different programs? Sorry if that sounded dumb but I am dumb about this stuff :D

Hibiwa

05-23-2008, 01:57 PM

You'd be watching the exact same thing. Battle it out by changing channels to annoy each other.

CocheseUGA

05-23-2008, 02:27 PM

Actaully, I've got several devices registered that can log into the Base Station. You can only have one device viewing at a time though.
I think only having one device work is part of the older software that comes in the box. You're better off avoiding it and downloading the more recent LF player (http://esupport.sony.com/perl/swu-download.pl?upd_id=3196&SMB=YES).

Yeah, figured that out about ten seconds after I used the license on my PC.

That free license only works on PCs, not WM devices, correct? I want to watch TV on my unlimited data plan.

Vader582

05-23-2008, 02:40 PM

Yeah, figured that out about ten seconds after I used the license on my PC.

That free license only works on PCs, not WM devices, correct? I want to watch TV on my unlimited data plan.
Not sure about WM devices, as I don't have one. Sorry.

You'd be watching the exact same thing. Battle it out by changing channels to annoy each other.
The LF player won't allow 2 viewers at once. Whoever was watching first, is the winner. If someone attempts to connect while the LF station is already in use, they get a pop-up that says the LF Terminal is already in use. Also that second person cannot kick the first one off.

Hibiwa

05-23-2008, 03:47 PM

It's more like the LF player only allows one computer/psp to access the feed at any given time.

pimpinc333 was referring to watching from a laptop at work, and someone else watching at home on the regular TV. The LF would be mirroring the program and thus both will be watching the same program.

Doesn't matter who was watching first because you have remote control access and can flip to whatever you want to piss off the other if needed.

Vader582

05-23-2008, 03:53 PM

pimpinc333 was referring to watching from a laptop at work, and someone else watching at home on the regular TV. The LF would be mirroring the program and thus both will be watching the same program.

Doesn't matter who was watching first because you have remote control access and can flip to whatever you want to piss off the other if needed.Ah I see. I misunderstood. :)

Hibiwa

05-23-2008, 04:44 PM

No worries. You were technically correct, just not in the mentioned scenario. ;)

Gah, I just have to say the LocationFree base station and player is such a great device. Absolute must have for PSP owners.

It's still a great bargain at $50 for what it does. Keep an eye out to see if the price goes back down and have Staples do an adjustment.

fieldkillah

05-23-2008, 06:54 PM

Can't wait to get home from work to set mine up.

Teqonix

05-23-2008, 10:45 PM

Mine came in, unfortunately I've just now realized I have nothing to really hook it up to. I have my antenna plugged directly into my TV - looks like I need to pick up an old VCR or something with a tuner to get this thing working.

Oh well, still a sweet deal for $38 shipped!

Just found a portable DVD player I could mess around with - I'm actually really impressed with how well the thing works on the PSP and over the home network on other PC's - and the new software allows you to register with a device without needing to input a serial. Hooray!

Man, awesome deal. Big, big thanks to the OP for this. I have a feeling this thing is going to come in handy.

Alucard400

05-24-2008, 06:01 PM

where didyou get the new software?

[edit] nvm. I just read Vader's post and he gave the link to the updated software. THanks!

fieldkillah

05-24-2008, 10:16 PM

Just got a chance to try it out on my psp. Makes me even more glad to have bought it. Can't wait for WM6 software to be released to I can use it with my cell phone

Teqonix

05-25-2008, 12:07 AM

Just got a chance to try it out on my psp. Makes me even more glad to have bought it. Can't wait for WM6 software to be released to I can use it with my cell phone

Do you have any issues with sound on your PSP? I can barely hear DVD's that I pipe through to the thing - I wonder if I need to get an amplifier or some old receiver I can use to pump up the volume..

fieldkillah

05-27-2008, 01:32 AM

Hey everyone who ordered it for 49.99. The price is back down to 34.98, so you should hopefully be able to get a price adjustment.
*edit* Just got the email. Price adjustment successful

Do you have any issues with sound on your PSP? I can barely hear DVD's that I pipe through to the thing - I wonder if I need to get an amplifier or some old receiver I can use to pump up the volume..
I have it attached to my cable box, the sound is a little low, but there is an option to boost the volume just a little bit. It's in the menu when you press triangle.

boli

05-29-2008, 12:48 PM

Hi guys I called my local staples and the rep said this device is only available online...Also the link or the item doesnt show the item in stock anymore.

Watchman

05-29-2008, 04:08 PM

Hi guys I called my local staples and the rep said this device is only available online...Also the link or the item doesnt show the item in stock anymore.

Deal's been dead for over a week. Now this is more a discussion of those that got it.

Purkeynator

05-29-2008, 04:14 PM

Why don't we change the title to read something other than "back in stock" then.

MaXx

06-03-2008, 08:37 AM

Just wanted to let you guys know that this is back up right now. I just put in an order myself.

boli

06-03-2008, 02:54 PM

Just wanted to let you guys know that this is back up right now. I just put in an order myself.

geesh it says out of stock again

MaXx

06-03-2008, 05:42 PM

That was fast, I got my order in.

Vader582

06-03-2008, 05:55 PM

I'm glad to see this deal keeps popping up. This thing is highly useful and works great. My wife uses it daily. In fact, she uses it so much that I can't log into it from work. :lol:

xMATTxEDGEx

06-03-2008, 06:14 PM

Vader582

06-03-2008, 06:27 PM

I currently have Dish Network Satellite TV, and am still a little confused on the device set up... If I want to want my Dish channels via the Base Station how would I go about configuring it to the cable box/television? Also, if a router is not present in the room would I need to buy a wireless router to transmit a signal to my wired router a floor about my TV set? Please help!
Not specifically sure about your Dish setup, as I don't have one but connecting to one of the a/v outs (more than likely you have 2 outs, choose the second) should be easy enough. You just use regular RCA cables (or s-video, if you prefer) and connect the LF station to the Dish box. The instructions are clear so you shouldn't have a problem. If you already have a wireless router in the house, you probably would just need a wireless bridge/adapter to connect to your network. However the bridge will be more expensive than the LF station. :cry: The other option is to find a way to place the LF close to your wireless router and Dish TV box.

Watchman

06-04-2008, 02:43 AM

Great. Now it's back, and $15 more than it was before. I'm gonna pass now since MGS4's bundle pack is about to hit next week.

kevzik

06-04-2008, 03:04 AM

So can I stream say a dvr recording from my htpc to this to watch on my bedroom tv?

Edit: Looks like I can, but will it play windvr files and will it recognize my worldbook network harddrive on the network?

n8nmonster

06-04-2008, 05:12 AM

I have mine currently connected to a slim ps2 and using it as a remote dvd player (the slim model includes an ir reciever, and the psp settings includes a ps2 remote) -- mainly using it to finally catch up on all those anime dvds ive bought along the way.

I'm wondering if this will work with the nyko bluwave remote for ps3 (currently on sale for $9.99 as part of the gamestop game days sale), of which the usb dongle is an ir reciever... perhaps could create a remote blu-ray player....