The main reason that I did not fork out the 5k for a Shield or a MiBox yet is because of optical out support. It's a rarity to find a decent box with an optical output. Except if someone can steer me in the right direction.
I honestly can't believe that manufacturers do not see the importance of this feature. I mean, who in their right minds like it to watch a movie with judder. Everyone wants a smooth video experience.
I give up with these amlogic boxes.
"Variable frame rate switching is under testing right now. We're hoping to be able to release with this feature."
You really got me interested when saying this on 22 August and now your saying you are having discussions with the chipset vendor.... Did you test and fail, or not test at all?
That is very exciting news. Are you testing the variable frame switching on oreo? Would it be possible then to have a choice to stay on oreo with a few fixes or move on to pie?
There are tons of examples of firmware that has working adaptive refresh rates.
Mi Box for one, then a lot of custom firmware from the guys at Freaktab.
PoisonATV Firmware
ATVxperience firmware
They all got it working for the Amlogic S905x SoC
Please investigate