Browse Forums Home Theatre & Automation 1 Nov 02, 2007 11:15 am I have finally built up my HTPC after many months of procrastination..
I am now on the hunt for some good HTPC software (not willing to use MS MCE or Vista).. I am trialling a program called XLobby which seems to be quite good.. Has anyone else had any experience with this program, or can suggest any other good options?? Re: Home Theatre PC Software 2Nov 02, 2007 11:30 am McReidy,
Have you tried the Linux alternatives? There is a whole community dedicated to this at http://www.xpmediacentre.com.au in case you didn't know also. You could also try the Nero option too Re: Home Theatre PC Software 3Nov 02, 2007 11:32 am Hey Matt,
Thought this might be up your alley:) I haven't tried Linux yet but have had a few people tell me it's a great alternative.. As I'm a Windows user I've had very little exposure to Linux.. I think I might try a dual boot option with both Windows & Linux to compare.. What's the Nero option?? Do you know if it is freeware?? Re: Home Theatre PC Software 4Nov 02, 2007 11:35 am McReidy Hey Matt, Thought this might be up your alley:) I haven't tried Linux yet but have had a few people tell me it's a great alternative.. As I'm a Windows user I've had very little exposure to Linux.. I think I might try a dual boot option with both Windows & Linux to compare.. What's the Bero option?? Do you know if it is freeware?? The nero option is not free but it does come as part of their packages if you buy a DVD drive from a computer shop. Re: Home Theatre PC Software 5Nov 02, 2007 2:03 pm There's an alternative Windows based one called Media Portal. I know people who think it's great. Re: Home Theatre PC Software 7Nov 03, 2007 8:29 am If you're using S/P-DIF (digital) out straight into an A/V receiver, which is what I'm doing, then my opinion is you don't need to fuss over what sound card. I'm using the onboard S/P-DIF on my motherboard, and everything sounds fine - great even.
Less fuss, less add-on cards takingn up your valuable PCI, etc. slots, more room inside your case. Re: Home Theatre PC Software 8Nov 03, 2007 8:35 am What compression ration are your MP3 files.
I find MP3 is still a bit scratchy for my likings, but hey - I'm still a bit of an audiophile - not extreme - just like it to sound clear and full. I'm thinking a touch screen panel PC mounted in the wall to drive it all (which has built in audio) and this same PC cna then drive my house electrics and auto controls for windows etc for eco side of the place to auto thermo control the place. Steve Steve, Personally I use 320kbps MP3 or FLAC. Rod is a fan of Windows Lossless and has his whole collection stored this way. 15th Nov 07 And the bit after my name above is a moderator inserting words in my post. I thank them for the words and I'll try those settings Next time maybe it should be posted as new post or people might miss it when they are busy Re: Home Theatre PC Software 9Nov 06, 2007 9:29 am Rodda There's an alternative Windows based one called Media Portal. I know people who think it's great. Rod, I have just played with Media Portal and can see what the fuss is about.. It's a fantastic aplication and is very customisable.. I would recommend it to anyone - and the best part is that it is FREE Media Portal 10Nov 06, 2007 9:47 am I have been using media portal for over 3 years now with a microsoft media remote. Its close to perfect for having a simple pc running a HTPC solution.
Media centre can run on low as well as high end computers, you can make it run at startup so that when you boot the pc it starts straight away. There are some limitations like any other software particularly with TV recording and the like but for a simple to use system with a remote control it is very good and free!!! The vista solution is very power hungry, hence you need a better pc, result is more noise and heat. We already paid for somfy motors for the blinds. The quote above was purely for “pre-wiring” so the blinds company can install the motors and blinds. That’s why we… 5 16288 From what I know about water tanks (I've been working with a client on them for a few years now) is this - The concrete can last a lifetime if they don't crack for some… 2 10639 |