I am in the process of setting up my home theater. I currently have a TV, and I have a Receiver in mind as well.
I have: Samsung LN-46A750
Want to get: Yamaha RX-V663
I'm going to connect my TV to receiver via HDMI. Then I want to hook up my content (ripped movies, music, photos, etc..) to my TV. I was thinking about an HTPC, but that route seems to be expensive and probably not worth the effort.
So, I'm thinking now about getting either:
1)
Popcorn Hour with a PVR (most likely the
Hauppage, or possibly
GB-PVR)
2)
iStar mini with a PVR as well, same set up as above most likely.
3)
TVIX HD-M6500A with a TV Tuner to record and pause cable.
Now they all have their pros and cons, so I want you guys to help me decide if you can.
Here are some of the pros/cons I found per device.
Popcorn Hour
Pros: Its got internal storage (sold separately). Plays all formats, and HD content. Small, small carbon footprint. Good forums and updates are frequent.
Cons: Internal storage is IDE and there is no SATA... There is also no way to record and pause unless getting an external PVR. The main thing though is I hear the UI is crap, and if your putting an internal hard drive some people have had heat issues.
iStar
Pros: Plays all formats, and HD. Tiniest of the devices. Takes eSATA devices for external storage.
Cons: Storage is external. No PVR.
TVIX M6500A
Pros: Plays all formats, and HD. Nice LCD. Good remote. Takes eSATA. Can buy a TV Tuner to record and pause. Good UI!!
Cons: External storage.
What do you guys think?
