ITO STBICT6300

Not since the Centrex CTDV100 have we seen a digital TV receiver that differs from the standard VCR form factor. The Centrex was small, simple, and unobtrusive, and we're pleased to report that the STBICT6300 from ITO follows in the Centrex's footsteps, proving that not all set top boxes have to be large and clunky.

Measuring 300mm x 210mm x 64mm, the ITO is slightly larger than the CTDV100, but still remains markedly smaller than every other standard definition receiver we've reviewed. A simple set of buttons for menu navigation sit next to the LED display on the front panel, while a refreshingly minimalistic back panel sports S-Video and AV outputs, SPDIF and not much else. This clutter-free trend is continued on the remote, which is small and lightweight, with an intuitive and readily responsive button layout.

Feature-wise, the ITO has everything we'd expect from a standard definition unit. Radio/TV separation, multiple favourites menus, info display, it even has a pause function, which freezes the image (audio continues uninterrupted, and video playback resumes in time with audio). The EPG and info display are a little bare, lacking program descriptions, but they serve their purpose well otherwise. A basic and easy to use menu system makes operating the device a cinch even for beginners.

Despite lacking high definition support, the 6300 delivers impressively clear and sharp pictures, and most users will be able to notice an improvement over regular analogue signals.

There's nothing that we can really fault about the ITO, apart from the fact that it's simplicity holds it back from more advanced (and rather complicated) functionality. Users looking for a small, unobtrusive and basic model will find themselves well served by this product.