Pace's +Le Cube satellite / IP hybrid set-top box to use the Ethernet ports for VOD services was delivered to CANAL+ Group on November 4th. +Le Cube’s hard disk has been optimised by Pace Engineering for very low audibility, to be less intrusive for the user. This is also the first HD PVR for CANAL+ Group with an internal hard disk drive, with a 320 GB capacity providing the ability to record up to 100 hours of HD programming.

In addition to Ethernet port, this product supports USB and HDMI and has Dolby Digital audio outputs. The IP connection allows progressive download of VOD whereby content is buffered onto the HDD.

+Le Cube has a striking new black and white rectangular design which can be placed horizontally or vertically to allow maximum versatility for the consumer. Turning the traditional concept of the front panel on its head, all the interactive elements – the buttons and LCD display – are set in one black corner section of +Le Cube. Here the 128x128 LCD display adapts to whichever aspect the +Le Cube is positioned, thanks to the Pace-designed gyroscopic detector.

+Le Cube has been designed to support and enable new services to CANAL+ and CANALSAT subscribers, including access to the latest US series, in high definition, less than one week after they have been shown to US audiences. Further features are catch up services, broadband access for interactive services and a recommendation service for viewers.

Pace, with the former set-top box division of Philips, which Pace acquired in April 2008, has enjoyed a long-standing relationship with CANAL+ Group, previously supplying products such as the Mediasat; Mediasat Max and DUALS.