Can I play computer files through USB ?

[treejohnny]

Is there a device that will let me play and view mp3 and wma files thru usb and view files on my tv?

Was thinking of dvr or maybe a component that had a hard drive ?

I have about 300-400 CDs on my pc and would like to play them on my home stereo 25' away.

My yamaha rx-v2600 does not have usb input.
My jvc dvd/cd player will do xv-fa95 will do dvd audio but wont read wma or mp3 format.

 

[ParadigmDawg]

Buy you a PS3 and you can just stream it all over to your display wirelessly plus you can start watching BR!

 

[treejohnny]

Htpc ?

Has anyone made their own HTPC ?......Is it just like a computer as far as using a mouse to control ? I have seen some cases that have touch screen and remote controls. Wondering if the remote control bypasses using the mouse...

 

[roshi]

With regards to displaying mp3s and such, the easiest way I can think of is using an iPod with iPod dock. It shows you what is playing and you can even control it with a remote. (There are several different dock options, many receivers have ones you can integrate)
I'm sure there are other mp3 players out there that would work too (zune? maybe?)
There other options like these:
- Logitech
- Sonos (a whole different price class though)
- there are other brands that make similar products

If you only want the music, without displaying them on your tv you can buy an Apple Airport express, it has a 1/8" output. You use iTunes to stream directly to the router, which you would hook up to your stereo.

With regard to HTPCs, there are also different options. They normally run XP-Media Center edition or use the Vista Media Center (or even Apple's Frontrow). A HTPCs needs to have a descent graphic card to put out HD and a tuner to be able to record tv. Theoretically you can turn any pc into a HTPC, the ones that are sold as such, just have a certain look and a really quite fan.

Hope this answers some questions....

 

[treejohnny]

Htpc

I think that the HTPC is the best option for me as it would open up a whole new level to my stereo and tv. But I will need to make sure that the HTPC will be able to be controlled from a remote control via the tv monitor. ( I would like to see folders, titles and such of music to choose from)

Well i have a couple of almost complete pcs laying around. I can fix and build them myself. I would have to get some parts of course, but thinking that almost all of my cost will be eventually the htpc case. I will set up in standard pc case to make sure the audio and video is good enough quality to warrant buying expensive case.

So the software that works the remote control is that just a program on the OS ? I currently have xp home edition and w2k at my disposal. I am assuming that windows starts up and the HT/ remote control software takes over ?

 

[roshi]

I'm not sure if there is any program you can buy that takes over once you start the pc. I know that there is a XP version called Media Center (it doesn't come with XP). As far as Vista goes, I think all or maybe a certain version comes with media center capabilities. It's integrated in the OS.
With regard to the remote, as far as I remember PC that use XP-Media Center come with one. (Not sure though) Maybe it even comes with the htcp case....
Here is the Microsoft link where you should be able to figure out how it works and what you need to buy.

 

[sparky77]

This remote package worked for me in combination with freeware recomended on the webpage. I'm simply using media player and winamp.

http://tekgems.com/Products/tg-pbr.htm

 

[patnshan]

I built a simple HTPC to use as a music server. I use a bluetooth mouse and keyboard to control it. I have it wired to my projector via VGA and to the stereo via SPDIF. I have a box that looks like a stereo component and fits right in my rack. No need for wireless.

Pat

 

[treejohnny]

DVD audio ?

Ok...I am on my way to making a makeshift htpc. I have ordered some parts as I dont have all that i wanted. I ordered a turtle beach fiber optic sound card and a dvd burner (put that one off long enough). Is there an internal pc burner/player that can play read my dvd audio? If so what else can i do with the data after being read ?

I have been looking at alot of htpc cases and wodering if I really need/want the lcd/vfd/touchscreen on the front of the case ? I am thinking that I will have it hooked up to the tv screen and use wireless mouse for now and eventually a remote. I should even be able to get some software that will overlay the cpu and chassis temp on the screen as well.

Anyone with any input is welcome to chime in. I would like to hear all of the "wish I would have..... or wish I woudnt have...." As i am very frugal

 

[jramon]

Buy you a PS3 and you can just stream it all over to your display wirelessly plus you can start watching BR!

yay I have a PS3

but how exactly can I do that??

thanks in advance