The Dune HD Max 8K is designed with serious media enthusiasts in mind, delivering an incredibly advanced and feature-rich playback experience. It goes far beyond typical streaming devices, offering professional-level audio and video processing in a robust, full-sized unit. From its precise internal components to its seamless media integration, this model caters to users who demand excellence in home entertainment setups.
Built with high-performance hardware and future-ready video technology, the device ensures compatibility with next-gen formats like 8K and Dolby Vision. It’s crafted not only to support but to elevate the latest content standards, handling complex formats and high-bitrate files with ease. Whether it’s immersive films, high-resolution music, or detailed documentaries, the playback experience feels refined and effortless.
While it includes support for Android apps, that functionality takes a backseat to its true purpose: delivering high-end local and network-based media playback. With its professional-grade features and purpose-built design, this media player isn’t trying to be everything—it’s here to do one job exceptionally well.
Design and Functionality
The Dune HD Max 8K immediately stands out with its premium full-sized metal chassis and brushed aluminium front panel. This classic 43 cm width design allows it to slot neatly into standard AV racks, giving it the appearance of high-end audio equipment.
Internally, it features a built-in linear power supply with a toroidal transformer, which is magnetically shielded to reduce electrical interference. This contributes to cleaner signal delivery and enhanced audio-visual output, catering especially to users who prioritise signal purity.
The inclusion of a precision TCXO chip brings an added level of refinement to the processing circuitry. With its temperature-compensated design and low-noise power circuit, it ensures stable timing and reduces jitter—particularly beneficial for audiophiles and video purists.
Audio connectivity is extensive, supporting both digital and analogue output preferences. Coaxial S/PDIF, I2S-E, and enhanced analogue outputs are all present, with each interface benefiting from isolated and low-noise design strategies. The hardware is clearly engineered with attention to detail that rewards high-fidelity setups.
There’s also a dedicated USB audio port optimised for external DACs, complete with gold-plated connectors and noise filtering components. This helps to maintain sound clarity by minimising signal degradation between the player and external audio equipment.
The design integrates a smart passive cooling approach, using the entire metal chassis as a heatsink to manage the powerful internal components. For additional thermal control, a near-silent 120mm Noctua fan provides targeted cooling for the HDD bay, ensuring performance remains consistent without unwanted noise.
Key Features
At the heart of the Dune HD Max 8K is the cutting-edge S928X media processor, enabling true 8Kp60 decoding and output. This chip supports the AV1 codec and Dolby Vision VS10 engine, making it capable of rendering complex visuals with stunning clarity and colour depth.
Dolby Vision support is particularly comprehensive, with compatibility for all major profiles including P5, P7 MEL and FEL, and P8. The player also handles various container formats such as MKV, MP4, M2TS, ISO, and folder structures, delivering maximum flexibility for media playback.
The inclusion of Dolby Vision Profile 7 FEL support enables the player to transmit full metadata and high-bit-depth video for OLED displays. Combined with HDR10+ and traditional HDR10 support, it ensures optimal brightness and contrast across all types of display panels.
Audio capabilities are equally impressive, offering full bitstream passthrough and multichannel decoding up to Dolby TrueHD Atmos and DTS:X. Whether you’re connected via HDMI or using coaxial S/PDIF, the device delivers rich, detailed sound reproduction.
For music enthusiasts, it supports playback of high-resolution audio formats including FLAC, ALAC, DSD, and more. These can be output at the original sample rate to preserve the integrity of the recording, whether in stereo or multichannel configurations.
Storage options are generous, with a hot-swappable 3.5″ HDD rack supporting capacities beyond 20TB. Vibration isolation dampers ensure the drive operates quietly, and the integrated SMB server allows for easy sharing across your network.
Video playback is fluid thanks to features like automatic framerate and resolution switching, as well as flicker-free mode transitions. This ensures that the visual experience remains smooth and immersive, particularly when switching between content with different formats or frame rates.
Connectivity is extensive, featuring Gigabit Ethernet, Wi-Fi 6, Bluetooth 5.2, multiple USB ports including one optimised for DACs, and dual antennas for robust wireless performance. These features help the player integrate seamlessly into modern smart home entertainment systems.
Specifications
Hardware
- Processor: Amlogic S928X-K/J with Dolby Vision VS10 engine
- RAM: 8 GB
- Storage: 64 GB flash memory
- Ethernet: Gigabit (10/100/1000 Mbps)
- Wi-Fi: Dual-band Wi-Fi 6 (2.4GHz + 5GHz)
- Bluetooth: Version 5.2
- USB Ports: 3x USB 3.0 + 1x USB 2.0
- USB DAC Output: One USB port is optimised for Hi-Fi DACs with advanced noise filtering
- HDD Rack: 3.5″ SATA, hot-swappable, supports drives over 20TB with vibration isolation
- HDMI Output: HDMI 2.1a up to 8Kp60 HDR / 4Kp60 Dolby Vision, experimental 4Kp120 support
- Audio Outputs: 2x RCA (analog), Optical S/PDIF, Coaxial S/PDIF, I2S-E (RJ45)
- Front Display: LED display showing time and playback info
- IR Receiver/Input: Built-in IR receiver, includes external IR input port
- Antennas: 2 detachable Wi-Fi antennas, 1 built-in Bluetooth antenna
- Remote: Bluetooth remote with mic, Air Mouse, IR learning, backlight, and IR mode
- Case: Full-size 43 cm metal chassis with brushed aluminium front
- Cooling: Passive heatsink design + silent 120mm Noctua fan
- Dimensions: 430mm (W) x 79mm (H) x 324mm (D)
- Power Supply: Built-in linear PSU with toroidal transformer and auto-switching voltage
Video
- Decoding/Output: Supports up to 8Kp60 HDR and downscales to 4K or 1080p
- Codecs: AV1, VP9, H.265, H.264, VC1, MPEG1/2/4
- HDR Formats: Dolby Vision, HDR10+, HDR10, HLG
- Dolby Vision Support: Profiles 5, 7 (MEL & FEL), 8; container support includes ISO, MKV, MP4, M2TS, folders
- Dolby Vision Output: Supports both LLDV and STD DV with manual switching
- Framerates: 23.976 up to 60.0 fps, with experimental 120 Hz output
- 3D Video: Side-by-Side, Top-and-Bottom
- Video Formats: MKV, MP4, ISO, M2TS, VOB, AVI, MOV, WMV, QT and more
- BD/DVD Playback: Lite and Full Menu support for Blu-ray and DVD
Audio
- Bitstream Passthrough: Up to Dolby TrueHD Atmos and DTS:X via HDMI
- Decoding: Multichannel PCM up to 7.1; supports Dolby, DTS, SACD DSD, FLAC, ALAC and others
- File Types: MP3, AAC, FLAC, ALAC, WAV, SACD ISO/DSF/DFF, and many more
- Sample Rate Output: Maintains original sample rate (44.1–192 kHz)
Other Features
- Subtitles: Supports external and embedded subtitles in various formats
- Photo Support: JPEG, PNG, BMP with slideshow and zoom features
- Playlists: Create and manage playlists from audio, video, or mixed content
- Network Access: SMB and NFS clients + built-in SMB server for file sharing
- Mobile App: Control via iOS and Android apps (Dune Control)
- Smart Home: IP control support for integration with Control4, Crestron, etc.
Operating System & Compatibility
- OS: Linux-based Dune HD OS + Android 11
- DRM: Widevine L1 supported
- Android TV Certification: Not certified
- App Support: Varies – not guaranteed for all Android apps or streaming services
- File System Support: FAT16/32, NTFS, exFAT, EXT2/3/4, BTRFS, HFS (read-only)
- HDD Support: Drives larger than 16TB supported
- Internet Requirement: Needed for full Dolby Vision (Profile 7) and BD Full Menu playback
What’s in the Box
- Dune HD Max 8K media player
- 2x Wi-Fi antennas
- Bluetooth remote + 2x AAA batteries
- 4x regional power cords (AU, US, EU, UK)
- 8K HDMI cable
- IR extender
- Quick install guide
- 19″ rack mount brackets + screws
Experience Using the Product and Performance
From the moment it’s powered on, the Dune HD Max 8K presents a clean, responsive interface that feels purpose-built for TV use. Navigation is smooth, and the layout is intuitive enough for both beginners and advanced users to operate without confusion.
Playback performance is exceptionally stable, even when handling demanding formats like 4K ISO with Dolby Vision or large uncompressed audio files. The dedicated processing architecture ensures that complex files run seamlessly without dropped frames or sync issues.
High-bitrate content streams effortlessly from both local HDDs and NAS setups, showcasing the player’s ability to handle large media libraries without lag. File recognition is quick, and loading times are minimal, even with expansive movie collections.
Dolby Vision content looks rich and cinematic, especially when played on compatible OLED displays. Brightness and contrast levels adjust dynamically, revealing more detail in dark or light scenes compared to standard HDR.
The audio experience is equally refined, with multichannel audio providing depth and precision whether you’re connected to a soundbar or full AV receiver setup. Audiophile-grade playback via external DACs shows the benefit of the noise-isolated USB port.
Using the included remote is convenient, with thoughtful touches like backlighting, IR learning, and Air Mouse functionality for navigating Android apps. It’s responsive and comfortable in hand, bridging the gap between smart features and traditional remote ergonomics.
While Android 11 is available for apps, it’s clear the focus remains on local playback. Still, compatibility with select APKs expands utility for users who wish to experiment with additional software or streaming options.
Integration into smart home setups is smooth thanks to IP and IR control options. Whether using a custom automation system or voice-activated assistant, the player offers flexibility for advanced control schemes.
Storage management is straightforward, with the ability to organise and access files directly via the player’s browser or through network sharing. The My Collection feature adds polish by creating a visually appealing, metadata-rich movie catalogue.
Throughout extended usage, the cooling system proves effective and silent. The passive case design and quiet fan work together to maintain thermal stability without introducing any audible distractions, even during intensive sessions.
Dune HD Interface
The Dune HD interface has been carefully developed over more than a decade to deliver a smooth and intuitive user experience. It’s designed specifically for use on TV screens and works seamlessly with standard remote controls, making it feel polished and natural to navigate.
Menus are logically arranged, with quick access to essential features like file browsing, media libraries, and settings. The interface responds quickly to inputs, and transitions between screens feel clean and fluid without any lag or delay.
A standout feature is the “My Collection” function, which automatically organises your movie files into a visually rich library. It pulls metadata, posters, and descriptions from online sources, creating an engaging browsing experience similar to commercial streaming platforms.
The built-in movies encyclopedia enhances this by offering detailed information on a vast range of titles, including cross-links to related films and people. Users can explore cast lists, trailers, and even jump straight to viewing options through connected video services.
The advanced file browser makes local file management straightforward, supporting functions like copy, move, rename, and delete. It also intelligently recognises movie files, allowing for easy playback with full metadata support.
Customisation is well supported, with a range of themes, skins, and layout options available to tailor the interface to personal preferences. Users can even install third-party Jukebox-style apps to enhance how their media collection is displayed.
Navigation is further improved with features like the Recent and Favourites menus, allowing you to resume playback or quickly access frequently used content. These quality-of-life enhancements make everyday use feel fluid and user-friendly.
The interface combines aesthetics with function, delivering a refined user experience that complements the powerful hardware beneath it. Whether you’re browsing files, exploring your movie collection, or simply adjusting settings, everything feels deliberate and streamlined.
Conclusion
The Dune HD Max 8K is a media player built for enthusiasts who value precision, flexibility, and high-fidelity playback. It offers an impressive balance between powerful hardware and thoughtful design, elevating the home cinema experience with ease. Everything from its robust chassis to its advanced internals speaks to a commitment to quality.
With its wide support for modern audio and video standards, it handles complex formats with confidence. Whether you’re watching Dolby Vision films, listening to high-resolution music, or streaming over a local network, performance remains consistent and polished. The device is clearly designed to meet the demands of users who expect more than just basic streaming.
Beyond its technical strengths, the user experience is equally well-considered. The interface is streamlined and responsive, offering an organised and visually appealing way to interact with your media. Helpful features like My Collection, extensive metadata support, and strong remote functionality add to the overall convenience.
The Dune HD Max 8K delivers an uncompromising media experience that blends high-end performance with practical usability. It’s a compelling choice for users looking to build a premium, future-ready home theatre setup with a focus on local and network playback.
