Time to upgrade… 1080p w/ full HD audio bitstreaming + HVEC all in KODI

Well my Minix box is starting to do funky things and it’s served me well for about 5 years now, plus it cannot deal at all with HVEC in Kodi (it’s X8-H)… time to upgrade.

I recently upgraded to a projector setup so 1080p is where I stay, not interested in 4K although it seems most of my initial choices will include playback of 4K content. All of my viewed content is local from my server (NFS share) absolutely no streaming.

In priority my needs/wants:

  • best KODI native compatibility (would prefer not to have to use external players if possible)
  • clear/crisp 1080P w/ true colors (3D is not important, although my projector is 3D capable)
  • full HD audio bitstreaming (ATMOS, DTS/DOLBY HD and MA, etc)
  • HVAC support
  • Wired Gigabit Ethernet

My hardware at home:

  • Sony SXRD VPL-HW45ES Projector
  • Yamaha AVENTAGE RX-A3040

So far I’ve narrowed it down to the following boxes:

  • Zidoo X9S or X8
  • NVIDIA Shield
  • Intel HTPC’s or NUC’s with Kodi MVC Build

So far the X9S looks like the best bet for me to future proof a little and have a nice looking box as well. But I am looking for some input.

Thanks!