Broadband movie service Vudu has halved the price of its basic set-top box, with the trusty BX100 now retailing for $149.
Vudu, a pioneer in high-definition online video, also cut the price of its “Vudu XL” premium box to $499, from $999.
The BX100 still doesn’t come with wireless, so you’ll get a bit of a break on that kit, too: $20 off to the price point of $79.
Apple TV goes for $229, making the Vudu a strong option for those seeking another black block in the living room. Apple’s box has 160 gigs of storage, while the basic Vudu holds 250GB. Vudu says it has more than 13,000 titles, a convenient 1,300 of them in high-def.
Vudu cited a strong holiday season for the ability to make the big MSRP price cuts. The online video service ran a special in December that offered the player for $99 if you sprang for $50 in movie credits. This time, no credits but still the attractive $149 price.
“We are reaping the rewards of success in the retail channel over the holidays, lower component prices and higher movie revenues. The combination of these factors has enabled us to lower the price of VUDU and bring it within reach of more consumers,” said Vudu exec vp Edward Lichty.
Of course, once you own the box, it’s time to buy movies and TV shows. Your basic just-out-of-theaters movie title rents for $4 and sells for $20. Vudu has no monthly fee.
The Vudu box went for $400 a year ago, before a price cut to $295 in response to an Apple TV move.
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