Month: January 2009

I know I might be biased, but this is a bit too doomsday of a message for my likings. A lot of the problems Ben has been frustrated with are (I feel) resolvable with some effort/different configuration, and still feel that an HTPC offers maximum flexibility over that of a limited Extender-based model.   I think the HTPC as we […]

While there are a few areas that I may make different component choices to save a few bucks, there was one part of this article that I really thought was nice.  They ran their setup with four different CPUs in order to see which would be enough for smoth HD playback.  At the end, they then take power measurements on […]

It’s not really a new case anymore, but nMedia does make some nice enclosures that are worth a second look.   Overall the nMEDIAPC HTPC 2000B is a worthy addition for those looking for an HTPC case. While it’s not the thinnest HTPC case out there it should still fit in a lot of home theatre setups, just check the […]

If you need to look at an external solution to house your extra hard drives, here’s another option for your consideration.   Today I’ve got a Cavalry branded 500GB USB 2.0 and eSATA External hard drive from them, this drive though is a bit different, it features a Western Digital Green SATA hard drive inside of it allowing the enclosure […]

I really look forward to systems built based on the ION platform.  Such a tiny platform being used as a frontend would be really cool.  I could see a number of ways it could be used.   We know that it can run high-definition movies, but what else? On the next page, I’ll take a look at the few gaming […]

Here’s a look at the SageTV HD Theater from someone a little less experienced with Sage.  It sounds like it’s not all ease of use with the device.  I have not had my hands on one so I can’t comment directly.  And if you’re an experienced user, then maybe it’ll be a little smoother for you.   Also similar to […]

There are a few dates you could pick to call “the TV’s birthday” but this one is one of the more common ones. I personally will be celebrating with my 46″ LCD tonight along with a glass of wine (for me not the TV) and a time-shifted episode of “24.”   It’s January 26th and while most would notice that […]

Its pretty common knowledge that Microsoft works closely with custom installers when rolling out Media Center features. Entertainment 2.0 reports that CE Pros will have the chance to enter a private beta to give feedback direct to Microsoft.   "This is an entirely different program than the public Windows 7 beta," says a Microsoft spokesperson. "Inclusion in this private beta […]

EngadgetHD seems pretty pleased with the THIEL SCS4 set of speakers. They can be yours for the small sum of $950 per speaker. Ouch.   If you just want to get yourself set up with really, really good sound and forget worrying about upgrading your speakers, the SCS4s could be a good fit. The styling is classic and fairly unobtrusive, […]