I'm a first time poster and soon-to-be-owner of my first Apple computer. In a nutshell, I would like to build a multimedia system, which runs as seamless as possible.
My vision: I would like to wirelessly stream music, video and photographs from my desktop computer to my TV and out through the connected speaker system. I would also like to be able to run a cable TV signal into my computer and save programs on the computer, which I can either watch on the TV, on the computer screen or on an iPod. I would like to do both photo and video editing, but nothing too major at first, as I'm just getting into the hobby. I would also like to plug my guitar and keyboard into the computer to record music, ultimately to serve as a soundtrack to short films, home movies and the like.
My current setup: So far I have a new TV (Sony Bravia KDL-46XBR4), an older DVD and speaker system (Sony Dream System DAV-FX80) and a new 80gig PS3. I also have a 4-year old HP laptop, which is still servicable, two external hard drives and a Belkin Wireless G router. I also have a Canon XT and two nice L series lenses (EF 17-40mm and 70-200mm).
What to buy: iMac/MacPro, Apple TV, a nice prosumer camcorder, software, cables, new DVD and AV receiver and speaker system.
Generally, I'm leaning towards getting an iMac rather than a MacPro because I think the MacPro would be overkill (unless anyone thinks otherwise). I like the Apple TV, but I was wondering if there are any alternative options (i.e. Squeezebox Duet) that people prefer. Any suggestions on a nice prosumer camcorder and new AV receiver would also be helpful - I usually enjoy Sony products, but I generally go with the best reviewed devices. At first the camcorder would be for short films and learning good video technique. I don't want to break the bank, but I have a good stash of cash to play with. Ultimately, I wouldn't want to drop much more than $7500 in total to complete the setup.
Any thoughts or advice would be greatly appreciated. Also feel free to share about your similar or unique setup. Many thanks.
My vision: I would like to wirelessly stream music, video and photographs from my desktop computer to my TV and out through the connected speaker system. I would also like to be able to run a cable TV signal into my computer and save programs on the computer, which I can either watch on the TV, on the computer screen or on an iPod. I would like to do both photo and video editing, but nothing too major at first, as I'm just getting into the hobby. I would also like to plug my guitar and keyboard into the computer to record music, ultimately to serve as a soundtrack to short films, home movies and the like.
My current setup: So far I have a new TV (Sony Bravia KDL-46XBR4), an older DVD and speaker system (Sony Dream System DAV-FX80) and a new 80gig PS3. I also have a 4-year old HP laptop, which is still servicable, two external hard drives and a Belkin Wireless G router. I also have a Canon XT and two nice L series lenses (EF 17-40mm and 70-200mm).
What to buy: iMac/MacPro, Apple TV, a nice prosumer camcorder, software, cables, new DVD and AV receiver and speaker system.
Generally, I'm leaning towards getting an iMac rather than a MacPro because I think the MacPro would be overkill (unless anyone thinks otherwise). I like the Apple TV, but I was wondering if there are any alternative options (i.e. Squeezebox Duet) that people prefer. Any suggestions on a nice prosumer camcorder and new AV receiver would also be helpful - I usually enjoy Sony products, but I generally go with the best reviewed devices. At first the camcorder would be for short films and learning good video technique. I don't want to break the bank, but I have a good stash of cash to play with. Ultimately, I wouldn't want to drop much more than $7500 in total to complete the setup.
Any thoughts or advice would be greatly appreciated. Also feel free to share about your similar or unique setup. Many thanks.