Mac Mini as a Media Center
As a brief introduction to what this site is all about, I wanted to detail exactly how my Intel Mac Mini acts as a media hub to demonstrate what YOUR Mini can do for you!
Plugged into my 32″ HDTV, I use the Mini to:
* Watch, pause, rewind, and record live HDTV programming for free via EyeTV and my HD Homerun.
* Play HD movies, DVDs, and TV shows from my 1TB media library via Plex.
* Stream HD/SD movie and TV shows from websites like Hulu.com via Safari.
* Stream audio from any computer on my home network via iTunes.
* Listen to live Sirius satellite radio via StarPlayr.
* Play physical DVDs & CDs via the Mini’s built-in optical drive.
* Play my favorite Nintendo games with NEStopia.
All controlled wirelessly via my iPhone and Remote Buddy
Imagine all of the bulky components you can avoid by consolidating down to just the Mini! Explore the site for extensive reviews of everything I used to create and maintain this system.
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Hi Mr. Obsession.
Thanks for your site – it is very helpful! I have a question – wondering if you have any knowledge of Apple TV. I am trying to determine the differences between the ATV and Mac mini approach. I do understand that mini enables DVR functionality with eyeTV. But are there any limitations on the mini side that ATV has as strengths? Any info you can provide will be appreciated! I tried to contact you via your contact page but it seems to be broken (using IE7 browser).
thanks.
Hi!
Keep in mind when reading the following: I have never owned or extensively tested out an Apple TV.
That said, the only advantages I can see that the ATV has over a Mini are:
1. Lower price
2. Easier interface
On every other point, the Mini is simply superior. In particular, it allows you access to TONS of OS X programs that the ATV cannot run. And the inverse is simply not true – the ATV doesn’t offer a single advantage outside of price to a user such as myself.
I frankly don’t even consider them competitors. Hope that helped!
I have been using my mini as a central music and video hub for a while but are making the leap from cable to just mini. I am getting an Eye Tv and are excited about Plex but was wondering, if I dont plan on using a cable box(hoping Comcast doesnt shut down basic cable when I opt out and keep interent) what is the benefit of HD Homerun? Im going to scour your site for answers but saw this post and think this is the new wave of home entertainment.
One reason I can’t drop cable,
HBO! HD Curb Your Enthusiasm!
And I wish Blu-ray playback would work.
Do you know a good way for 5.1 surround sound speakers with the mini?
Perhaps with Airfoil? Or at least wireless for the rear speakers?
I was trying to avoid a surround sound system.
But if I have to get one, then I’ll just get a Blu-ray surround sound system.
Witch mac mini should i buy if i would like an media center that kan play 1080p movies?
is an 1.6 ghz core 2 enough or should it be faster.