Considering Switching. Need some advice

[rjw1239]

I've been strongly considering buying a mac for a few months now. I thought I was going to get a 24 Imac, but I'm having second thoughts. I had heard that the 24" was capable of displaying 1080p and I was interested in using it in my bedroom as computer and tv using a dish network receiver. I now understand that I would not be able to get a HD signal from by DN box to display on the Imac. I am aware of eyetv, but I don't think that even with it I would be able to watch HD video on the IMac. Am I wrong. I don't really need my computer to be a DVR as I can get that functionally with my DN receiver.

Anyhow I now believe that I might be better off just getting a mac mini, and buying a seperate monitor that would have a HDMI input. This should also allow me to hook up a PS3 / Xbox360.

I suppose I would prefer the Imac, but if I am unable to use the built in monitor to display the dishnetwork signal in full HD, then I'm thinking the mac mini + stand alone monitor or HDTV with pc input might be the solution.

I mainly want the mac for internet surfing, cataloging digital photos and music, microsoft office type programs. I don't really care about pc gaming.

What would you suggest? Can the Imac be used how I want to use it, or is the mac mini my best choice. Thanks in advance to all who take the time to offer advice.

 

[trip1ex]

Well for gaming you're better off with a separate monitor for your consoles and a Mac mini.

You can use an eyeTV to watch cable and satellite tv though with a box according to their website.

 

[digitalnicotine]

Check out this link for watching HDTV on all Macs.