playing 1080P options?

[Timerrr]

Hi all,

I recently setup a 7.1 audio system to compliment my plasma and I have run into a bit of a problem with playing 1080p movies. Currently I have a DVI to HDMI cable that connections my computer to my plasma (in addition to dig audio cable) and I use my computer to download high def movies, then play them on my plasma. My computer however is older and despite fiddling around with the media player programs and settings I can only play 720p movies. 1080i and 1080p movies are choppy at best.

I already dropped a considerable amount of money on the audio system so my funds are not so extravagent, so I'm not so inclined to purchase a whole new desktop to get 1080P ability. Also, I only have basic PCI slots on my desktop so upgrading my video card does not too many worthwhile great options either (which may or may not even work).

What are my most cost effective options to be able to play 1080P movies with the setup I have? steaming devices (would need one w hard drive several hundred megs)? Any in particular or would most play any movies I downloaded?

thanks

 

[JerryLove]

Your options depend on the issue.

Obviously, a complete replace of the computer (a media device with its own storage) would solve the issue. I have no specific recommendation.

There's question as to where the bottleneck in the computer is. Hardware upgrades are not expensive generally, especially if it's just that you are using an onboard video card or the like. The computer problem falls into one of two camps: datastream (HDD speed generally) or rendering (either video card, CPU, or system resources running low).

 

[Phil Taylor]

Just get a Blu-ray player and a Netflix or Blockbuster sub and you'll be good to go. Panasonic BD-60 player is under $200 now and is a great machine. Of course it won't play downloaded movies but with Nf or Bb you should be able to get as many movies a month that you would care to watch delivered to your mailbox.

You don't say how old your PC is or its hardware, is but if it's having issues the less expensive solution would be to go with the traditional standalone player ... if you don't want to upgrade to a quicker, more powerful media friendly PC.