MacMini Media Centre Uk

[mkcoo]

Originally Posted by R.Youden

Right, about time I post a proper reply.

This is how I do things and my opinions on things:

• Don't stream your media. Why not? Well for me it means that you have to have two computers on at once. Also it makes setting up harder, if your network goes down you loose you connection etc...
• Buy a cheaper mini (second hand maybe) and get an external hard drive to give you more storage space. I think all Intel minis will play almost all HD video so you can save money on that and get the external storage. I went for a Drobo which was a bit over the top but it is worth it for the safe storage
• I use Plex for my interface. I have spent far too long trying out lots of different interfaces and for me, that is the best. Lots of nice plug-ins, iPlayer, 4oD etc...

If you have any questions then give me a shout, I will be happy to help.

Cheers R.Youden,
See what you mean about two computers but I thought at this stage will get the mini or mini server then later add a drobo in maybe a year or so. Do you also backup all your data or just bank on your drobo?

Yeah gonna give Plex the go.. but do you use any apps on your iPhone to control?

[mkcoo]

Just costed out the Minis...

Standard - 2.53Ghz Core 2 Duo, 4GB £729
+500GB HD
+Superdrive

Server - 2.53Ghz Core 2 Duo, 4GB £799
+Duel 500GB HD
+Snow Leopard Server
-Superdrive

So is the £70 worth it for the extra HD space? And possibly to play/utilize with some of the extra features?

I know the MediaCentre setup would be fine for both but i'm just not sure i know enough about the server edition. Once i learnt it would it be a benefit apart from just future proofing what i do next? Is it just overkill? does apple just want to sell more server editions?

Comments and ideas please

[DoFoT9]

70 pounds for another 500gb hdd and server version of SL is a steal! Personally i would take it

[mkcoo]

Does anyone know if you can get a Mini Displayport to HDMI Cable?

Am going to get a Mini DisplayPort to HDMI Adapter and HDMI-HDMI and hope that works?

And would a shorter cable = better results?