Damn, that has to be one of the cleanest garages I've ever seen. But then again, my garage looks like that guy's in the thread where his basement was an absolute mess and then transformed it in just mere weeks (I forgot the name of that one). Except imagine all that junk crammed into a tiny garage :eek:.

House is looking great and can't wait to see the finished walkway. Funny how much bigger the house looks from the rear view.

Funny how much bigger the house looks from the rear view.

I always think the same thing Queen!

CD

http://www.uncoverthenet.com/shawn/theater/4181.jpg
http://www.uncoverthenet.com/shawn/theater/tan12.jpg

overkill?

This might be overkill...: http://gizmodo.com/5442012/panasonics-152+inch-3d-plasma-the-biggest-tv-yet

:p That 152" one looks really nice:D

Damn, that has to be one of the cleanest garages I've ever seen. But then again, my garage looks like that guy's in the thread where his basement was an absolute mess and then transformed it in just mere weeks (I forgot the name of that one). Except imagine all that junk crammed into a tiny garage :eek:.

House is looking great and can't wait to see the finished walkway. Funny how much bigger the house looks from the rear view.

Thanks Queen!

You should have seen the garage a few months ago. We've lived here for about 1.5 years now and it's the first time we could even pull more than one car in. It was literally floor to ceiling of stuff, mostly furnishings and accessories that my wife changed her mind on (she does that a lot). But since we sold/got rid of them all I wanted to make it a nice space and now I really like it!

Unfortunately, the walkway has been postponed. The stones I chose is a 5 size pattern and one of the sizes are backordered. So it probably won't be until mid next week that it's installed.

The house - yeah it's a walkout so it does seem bigger, I guess the roofline of the front makes it look smaller too!

:p That 152" one looks really nice:D



Thanks Queen!

You should have seen the garage a few months ago. We've lived here for about 1.5 years now and it's the first time we could even pull more than one car in. It was literally floor to ceiling of stuff, mostly furnishings and accessories that my wife changed her mind on (she does that a lot). But since we sold/got rid of them all I wanted to make it a nice space and now I really like it!

Unfortunately, the walkway has been postponed. The stones I chose is a 5 size pattern and one of the sizes are backordered. So it probably won't be until mid next week that it's installed.

The house - yeah it's a walkout so it does seem bigger, I guess the roofline of the front makes it look smaller too!

Are you going to blame the wife for changing her mind on the furnishings between posts 1751 and 1802? I dont even think that was your final decision...it goes beyond that I am sure, but I think you will get the point:cool:

Today the tile guy came and tiled the faux fireplace!

http://www.uncoverthenet.com/shawn/theater/fire1.jpg
http://www.uncoverthenet.com/shawn/theater/fire2.jpg
http://www.uncoverthenet.com/shawn/theater/fire3.jpg
http://www.uncoverthenet.com/shawn/theater/fire4.jpg

What do you all think? I think it's a little bold, but I think once it's grouted, the TV is up there, window treatments added and the chairs are back to their position, it's gonna be a nice focal point!

Speaking of the TV - I decided to not waste $800 by getting the 58" 1080p tv, instead I got a 50" 720p. For as little as it will be used, I think it was a smart move :)

http://www.uncoverthenet.com/shawn/theater/fire5.jpg

Are you going to blame the wife for changing her mind on the furnishings between posts 1751 and 1802? I dont even think that was your final decision...it goes beyond that I am sure, but I think you will get the point:cool:

I admit I change my mind a lot! But she literally sold/gave away every piece of furniture from our old house when we moved (1.5 years ago) and bought all new stuff for our house now. Then about 3 months ago, she decides she doesn't like any of it anymore....now it's ALL gone. We have no furniture on the main level of the house..none!!!

She agreed that this was the last time, so she's hiring a designer this time so it's done "right" (her words). I sure hope it is!! Furniture is $$$ :o

This post is kind of off in the middle of nowhere, but I'm a big animal lover. And I went into a pet store recently and saw a Rottweiler puppy. I grew up with rotties, my dad used to breed them as a hobby. And when I saw it I couldn't help but remember how I much I loved them.

Anyway, I wouldn't buy one from a pet store, it would be from a breeder. But my wife has already basically told me she's gonna be pissed if I get one! We have two doxins now and two cats. But the doxins are "her" dogs and she's psycho about them. She doesn't "let" me take them for walks, let them in the back yard alone (fenced!), in the car, meet people, nothing. She thinks they will escape or get "eaten by a bird" (totally serious:D).

So that's kind of what I would do with the rottie. Probably even do a obedience class with him/her to socialize him better.

I guess I gotta keep working at convincing the wife, or atleast wait until there is a couch to sleep on:D

I went out to see a litter of rotts today and they were so adorable! So I put a deposit down on one. She looks just like this:

http://www.vonneuroth.com/images/Tatyana4.jpg

She, the littermates and the parents all had great temperaments. They were all very nice. I'm supposed to pick her up when she turns 8 weeks on May 6th. However, earlier today the wife said if I want it, get it. But now she's giving me the silent treatment. So I guess I gotta figure out in the next couple days if I need to cancel it. Oh well, even if I don't get to take her home it was fun playing with them and it brought back memories of growing up.

I will say one thing, I forgot how BIG that they get!!! The mother and father were there... and holy crap:D

I

Oh well, even if I don't get to take her home it was fun playing with them and it brought back memories of growing up.

Geez Shawn, don't you have enough plates in the air? My god, why don't you guys have a kid, that will give you memories too and stop you hobby A.D.D. in it's tracks.

:D

Wow, good luck with the new dog. I guess you convinced the wife. ;)

I wanted to report back that I was able to rip a copy of 2012 with ClownBD and to successfully move the forced subtitles into the viewable 2.35 area. I know you have a scope screen, so I thought this might be interesting to you.

BTW, I'm using YANFOE and totally dig it. I love how easy it is to configure my YAMJ/Aeon content. Well worth the $15 donation.

i recall a few months back when you and the wife were going through a rough patch. Things atr cool agin and I am sure you are much happier...do you really need the rottir. Is that argument really worth it. The get it if you want it is a trap. :)

Geez Shawn, don't you have enough plates in the air? My god, why don't you guys have a kid, that will give you memories too and stop you hobby A.D.D. in it's tracks.

:D

LOL:D:D I guess the puppy would give my A.D.D. a workout:p

Wow, good luck with the new dog. I guess you convinced the wife. ;)

I wanted to report back that I was able to rip a copy of 2012 with ClownBD and to successfully move the forced subtitles into the viewable 2.35 area. I know you have a scope screen, so I thought this might be interesting to you.

BTW, I'm using YANFOE and totally dig it. I love how easy it is to configure my YAMJ/Aeon content. Well worth the $15 donation.

Thanks for the info! This is on the a110? How do you change the subtitle location, is it through ClownBD?

i recall a few months back when you and the wife were going through a rough patch. Things atr cool agin and I am sure you are much happier...do you really need the rottir. Is that argument really worth it. The get it if you want it is a trap. :)

I know, you're right about that (especially the trap part:D). It's not worth it if it means her being mad or upset or worse resenting the puppy. She's only mildy upset tonight, so I'll see how she is the next few days. If she's still the same way or worse I'll call the breeder and cancel it.

Thanks for the info! This is on the a110? How do you change the subtitle location, is it through ClownBD?

No, this is on a A200. I'm using ClownBD to rip to BDMV folders. I guess the question is what does the A110 support regarding subtitles. Like does it support them in mkv's?

The actual moving of the subtitles is done with a program called BDSup2Sub. I forgot you weren't on the 200 series. So I guess we need to figure out what the 110 can play? If it supports mkv's with subs, then Damian has a great write up on how to accomplish this.

This is also a problem that is driving me nuts too!! No PGS subtitle support on the A110.

How is the stability of the C200 these days? Worse or on par with the A110?

Thankfully i've only got 8-10 foreign titles on Bluray, that i can't watch with the A110!!:mad:

It's looking doubtful now, if we'll get PGS support on the A110!!:confused:

So it's either convert to another format, or buy the films on DVD so i can put them on the server. (Pointless putting them on the server if i can't watch 'em!!)

Sorry for ranting, it's the only problem i have with the PCH A110.

Cheers
Lee

I have been ripping subtitles with my files, but I dont know why. I dont see ever watching using them and the A110 cant play em...sure it is a negative to not have the option, but I think I can live with it.

The 200 series is nice and added features but it is at the expense of some other features too. While CD has the patience to start over and start the Rip process from the ground up. I say no way, not while my A-110 is functioning. Unlike bitstreaming support on the 200 series, PGS support on the A-110 is minor.

Geez Shawn, don't you have enough plates in the air? My god, why don't you guys have a kid, that will give you memories too and stop you hobby A.D.D. in it's tracks.

:D

Geez Hap; now you sound like my wife. :p

CD

I have been ripping subtitles with my files, but I dont know why. I dont see ever watching using them and the A110 cant play em...sure it is a negative to not have the option, but I think I can live with it.

The 200 series is nice and added features but it is at the expense of some other features too. While CD has the patience to start over and start the Rip process from the ground up. I say no way, not while my A-110 is functioning. Unlike bitstreaming support on the 200 series, PGS support on the A-110 is minor.

Smak, I feel the same way about subtitles...except forced subtitles. As someone pointed out the other day, it is getting more "common" (although still really only a handful of titles). Because I don't care about subtitles, I've never really messed with them...but I know when I started ripping BD, it was a royal PITA (which is another reason I chose not to care...lol). I see that Clown makes the ripping pretty easy, but I haven't tried using them. Sounds like the A-110 won't do it; I wonder if my PS3 will (will test, when I try the core audio track from my re-ripped Adventureland today)?

I think the title coming up, where it's likely to be an issue, is Avatar, yes? I haven't seen it, but I would imagine those Blue things speak in some foreign language, with a forced subtitle...and following their dialogue is pretty central to the plot?

CD

Got it, so forced vs normal subtitles...Makes sense now. American movie with a guy speaking German is forced for his parts...

I hate movies that require me to read along. Might as well be a book at that point

This is also a problem that is driving me nuts too!! No PGS subtitle support on the A110.

How is the stability of the C200 these days? Worse or on par with the A110?

Thankfully i've only got 8-10 foreign titles on Bluray, that i can't watch with the A110!!:mad:

It's looking doubtful now, if we'll get PGS support on the A110!!:confused:

So it's either convert to another format, or buy the films on DVD so i can put them on the server. (Pointless putting them on the server if i can't watch 'em!!)

Sorry for ranting, it's the only problem i have with the PCH A110.

Lee,

This is why I asked if the A110 supports mkvs with subtitles. I think it does. You can use the BDSub2Sub program to change the type of subtitles from PGS to whatever is supported. Here's Damian's write up explaining it. (http://www.mediasmartserver.net/2010/03/31/mkv-mania-clown_bd-mkvmerge/) The write up seems long, but the process is really simple.

I'm using a A200 and ripping to BDMV folders with ClownBD. So all I need to do is demux, move the subs into the viewable area and run txMuxR. I watched 2012 the other night and everybody was excited that the forced subs were inside the viewable area (me included).

LOL:D:D I guess the puppy would give my A.D.D. a workout:p

?

Geez Hap; now you sound like my wife. :p

CD

Shawn/CD.
As the old fart around here with a set of kids I need to get you two to pony up a bit so you guys slow down so I can keep up. I also want to see your house/garage/theater after a weekend of kids playing nerf gun fights, watching movies, and pulling stuff out of the garage and see if it is as pristine as all the pictures I usually see. My house NEVER looks that good and I don't want to be left alone so come on guys, make your woman Happy ;)

Shawn/CD.
As the old fart around here with a set of kids I need to get you two to pony up a bit so you guys slow down so I can keep up. I also want to see your house/garage/theater after a weekend of kids playing nerf gun fights, watching movies, and pulling stuff out of the garage and see if it is as pristine as all the pictures I usually see. My house NEVER looks that good and I don't want to be left alone so come on guys, make your woman Happy ;)

I can't speak for Shawn, but I am my own kid.

CD

Shawn/CD.
As the old fart around here with a set of kids I need to get you two to pony up a bit so you guys slow down so I can keep up. I also want to see your house/garage/theater after a weekend of kids playing nerf gun fights, watching movies, and pulling stuff out of the garage and see if it is as pristine as all the pictures I usually see. My house NEVER looks that good and I don't want to be left alone so come on guys, make your woman Happy ;)

Maybe that is why the Mrs. isn't so keen on a pup around the house. She wants the little feet to be of the human kind! ;)

Thanks Ed for your post with links for the BD subtitle conversion.

Looks reasonably easy, so I'll have a go when i've got 5 mins to spare!! ;)

Cheers
Lee

Shawn/CD.
As the old fart around here with a set of kids I need to get you two to pony up a bit so you guys slow down so I can keep up. I also want to see your house/garage/theater after a weekend of kids playing nerf gun fights, watching movies, and pulling stuff out of the garage and see if it is as pristine as all the pictures I usually see. My house NEVER looks that good and I don't want to be left alone so come on guys, make your woman Happy ;)

Maybe that is why the Mrs. isn't so keen on a pup around the house. She wants the little feet to be of the human kind! ;)

I can't speak for Shawn, but I am my own kid.

CD

No kids!!! I can only imagine how much work that would be!!:eek:

Hi Shawn:
Being retired and having a boat, I have been down in Florida since January trying to keep warm. Now I am back home I am trying to catch up, which I see is going to be impossible! There is no grass growing under your feet!

I don’t think I am about the step into unraid any time soon, but I am interested in the mods you made to the skins in YAMJ. I already have the original cinemascope version working. Being a real novice I don’t want to screw anything up by trying to install these changes without first making sure I know what to do with the aeonscope file you provided.

Do I simply delete everything in the YAMJ skins/default file and replace it with aeonscope? Do I also need to delete everything in my current Jukebox file in WHS and then re-run My_YAMJ?

Brian

Hi Shawn:
Being retired and having a boat, I have been down in Florida since January trying to keep warm. Now I am back home I am trying to catch up, which I see is going to be impossible! There is no grass growing under your feet!

I don’t think I am about the step into unraid any time soon, but I am interested in the mods you made to the skins in YAMJ. I already have the original cinemascope version working. Being a real novice I don’t want to screw anything up by trying to install these changes without first making sure I know what to do with the aeonscope file you provided.

Do I simply delete everything in the YAMJ skins/default file and replace it with aeonscope? Do I also need to delete everything in my current Jukebox file in WHS and then re-run My_YAMJ?

Brian

Hey Brian,

Don't delete anything on the current skin. Just unzip the scope skin I made to your skins folder and change the skin to use in the properties file. Then delete your current YAMJ output (or back it up to a zip file so you can revert back to it if you want) and rerun YAMJ. It will then create the the YAMJ files based off the new scope skin.

If you don't like it, just change the skin to use back to your original in the properties file, delete the new skin YAMJ output and re-run YAMJ. There's no risk in trying it! Just don't delete your movies on accident :D

Painting is pretty much done!!! I'll post more pics later!

Also got the walkway installed yesterday :) I like it a lot. Next is landscaping for the walkway.

http://www.uncoverthenet.com/shawn/theater/4281.jpg
http://www.uncoverthenet.com/shawn/theater/4282.jpg
http://www.uncoverthenet.com/shawn/theater/4283.jpg
http://www.uncoverthenet.com/shawn/theater/4284.jpg

Top job Shawn, the house looks great.

Cheers
Lee

Looks great (both the color and the walkway). Although the random color tests had a nice patchwork feel to them. :)

The pathway is awesome!

Before
http://www.uncoverthenet.com/shawn/theater/house/house6.jpg
After
http://www.uncoverthenet.com/shawn/theater/4282.jpg

Walkway (ok, maybe the house too :rolleyes:) looks awesome Shawn!! Surprised your town does have curbs? Reminds me of a zero entry pool :).

Thanks all! Stew - wow what a transformation!! Thanks for posting that!! :)

Queen - Thanks! Our town does have them on most residential streets, even in our subdivision. But the "street" that the walkway butts into is actually a "private lane", which is basically just a long driveway. It's owned by 2 houses that are on off it - me and my neighbor. So no curbs there!

Here's some more pics of the rest of the house - the back is done too. But they have to finish up on the deck tomorrow.

http://www.uncoverthenet.com/shawn/theater/425.jpg
http://www.uncoverthenet.com/shawn/theater/426.jpg
http://www.uncoverthenet.com/shawn/theater/427.jpg
http://www.uncoverthenet.com/shawn/theater/428.jpg

Here is a before of the back:
http://www.uncoverthenet.com/shawn/theater/42b1.jpg

And here is the basement finished. We moved some of the furniture around, grouted the fireplace, hung the TV etc. I'm very happy with how it came out!


http://www.uncoverthenet.com/shawn/theater/421.jpg
http://www.uncoverthenet.com/shawn/theater/422.jpg
http://www.uncoverthenet.com/shawn/theater/423.jpg

Looks really nice. Good job!

What kind of shingles are those on the roof?

Nice house!

Nice house!

That's his guest house.

You should see pictures of the actual house.

Looks really nice. Good job!

Nice house!

Thanks guys, it's come a long way! :)

What kind of shingles are those on the roof?

Normal roof shingles?:p:confused: Asphalt? I dunno!

That's his guest house.

You should see pictures of the actual house.

Hah, I wish!!! My theater could be an IMAX then:D

Shawn,

Since it seems you're running out of projects, next you need to connect those two decks.

Outstanding job on the basement! Looks like one of those decorator homes where people don't actually live in them (but of course it's that neat with no kids :p).

The before and after shots of the house look great. So, what's with the small perimeter fence when you've got all the lovely property that belongs to you? After all, you already said the dogs aren't allowed out anyway.

Shawn,

Since it seems you're running out of projects, next you need to connect those two decks.

Dang, I never really thought about it, but now that you mention it, it does sound pretty cool!!

The next projects going on are having the guy who did my basement build a shed like this (12' x 14'):

http://www.uncoverthenet.com/shawn/theater/shed.jpg

And then add trellises to the back decks and above the rear patio basement door. It should add a lot to the back of the house.

The "fun" part of both those projects is I am painting them both. So all the cedar for the trellises is unfinished, so I'm going to paint it before it's built and then do touch ups after it's built. And then the shed I am going to paint after it's built, the same colors as the house.

And then I might paint the panels in the basement foyer, (probably the same color as the basement walls) maybe everything but the applied molding. Thoughts?
http://www.uncoverthenet.com/shawn/theater/r1.jpg

And then I might paint the panels in the basement foyer, (probably the same color as the basement walls) maybe everything but the applied molding. Thoughts?
http://www.uncoverthenet.com/shawn/theater/r1.jpg

Yes.



PS. What's that little door thing under the stairs?

Outstanding job on the basement! Looks like one of those decorator homes where people don't actually live in them (but of course it's that neat with no kids :p).

The before and after shots of the house look great. So, what's with the small perimeter fence when you've got all the lovely property that belongs to you? After all, you already said the dogs aren't allowed out anyway.

Thanks Queen. I'm really happy with how it's turning out. Honestly the biggest changes (impact) on these improvements has been paint! Remember the theater door!! It's amazing what it can do to a space. Here is the basement before (wow so much white:D):
http://www.uncoverthenet.com/shawn/theater/bas4.jpg

The fence - the dogs do get to go out there as long as I or she is with them. She's still a freak about them, but yeah the fence is solely for the dogs. It's about 100' x 100' x 100'. We didn't make it bigger because we have a hard enough time getting them to come in as it is now. I can only imagine if we had an acre or more fenced in, we'd never find em:D

Speaking of the dogs, I decided it's not worth upsetting her and worrying about the other animals. So I'm not going to get the Rott after all. The good part of that is I guess I don't have to wake up every hour of the night to let it out anymore lol!

Yes.



PS. What's that little door thing under the stairs?

Ok thanks. That'll be my next project until the lumber drop.

The little opening there is a doggie door, but it's actually for our cats. That space it leads to is storage under the stairs which we converted to a cat room. Basically that's where their litter boxes are, food, water, etc. There is a full door visible on the left side of the pic here:

http://www.uncoverthenet.com/shawn/theater/422.jpg

that I use to change the litter boxes, refill water, food etc. It's pretty neat, my wife actually thought of it because she was sick of seeing litter boxes in the open at our previous houses. The cats love in there too, it's like their little hiding place.

Are you looking to adopt? :D I have a wife, 16month old daughter and another baby on the way and a small dog(12lber).

The little opening there is a doggie door, but it's actually for our cats.

That's what I thought. I was thinking of doing that in my house. I have a closet underneath our stairs that could easily be converted to a cat room. I don't remember where I first saw something like that, but I've been contemplating it for about a year.

Normal roof shingles?:p:confused: Asphalt? I dunno!



Ha, nice, I guess this is one detail you forgot...I was thinking brand and style, like GAF - Grand Slate...I am in the market for a new roof, so I have been making myself crazy trying to settle on a final product. I will try to document things like you as many enjoy that sort of thing.

Ha, nice, I guess this is one detail you forgot...I was thinking brand and style, like GAF - Grand Slate...I am in the market for a new roof, so I have been making myself crazy trying to settle on a final product. I will try to document things like you as many enjoy that sort of thing.

Ah yeah sorry, it's not a slate roof. The roof is one area I wish we got black instead of the current color. But it doesn't look as bad now that the house is painted. Before it really stood out!

Documenting things here has helped me out a ton, when I go back to see how things were before or what steps I took to get there. I just hope they never delete this thread!! :)

Next project should be wrought iron...I know I want to do it one day

Next project should be wrought iron...I know I want to do it one day

Like this?

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v243/spartanstew/beforetheload.jpg

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v243/spartanstew/P1010078.jpg

Fantastic home you have there! I would paint the walls except the molding. This will provide a good contrast similar to what you have done by painting the house and window trim.

Fantastic home you have there! I would paint the walls except the molding. This will provide a good contrast similar to what you have done by painting the house and window trim.

Thanks! I guess I will paint it. I just looked at the foyer today and man it's a lot of cutting in!!:eek:

Like this?

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v243/spartanstew/beforetheload.jpg

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v243/spartanstew/P1010078.jpg

heck yeah!

Are you looking to adopt? :D I have a wife, 16month old daughter and another baby on the way and a small dog(12lber).

Sure, you just have to vacuum the theater carpet each day:D

Like this?

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v243/spartanstew/beforetheload.jpg

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v243/spartanstew/P1010078.jpg

Great improvement!!

Just curious, is anyone using the aeonscope skin (the one I modified)? Someone said they downloaded the zip file and ran YAMJ, but it gave them errors, but it works fine for me. Next I gotta check their version of YAMJ and my version of YAMJ. I'll also rezip the files and make sure something wasn't missing or something in the original zip.

Just curious, is anyone using the aeonscope skin (the one I modified)? Someone said they downloaded the zip file and ran YAMJ, but it gave them errors, but it works fine for me. Next I gotta check their version of YAMJ and my version of YAMJ. I'll also rezip the files and make sure something wasn't missing or something in the original zip.

N/m their version of YAMJ was like 2 years old. The new skin (even without mods) needs a newer build of YAMJ.

N/m their version of YAMJ was like 2 years old. The new skin (even without mods) needs a newer build of YAMJ.

Shawn, is this the scope version of the skin? I'm interested in trying it out, where can I download it?

Shawn, is this the scope version of the skin? I'm interested in trying it out, where can I download it?

It's a modified version of the normal AEON with lowlist etc to fit a scope screen!

Here's the post with the zip file:

http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?p=18320863#post18320863

Lemme know how you like it!

It's a modified version of the normal AEON with lowlist etc to fit a scope screen!

Here's the post with the zip file:

http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?p=18320863#post18320863

Lemme know how you like it!

Thanks for the link Shawn. It'll be next week before I get to try it out. I'm going to Toms River, NJ for an AAU tourney this weekend. Should be interesting.

Thanks for the link Shawn. It'll be next week before I get to try it out. I'm going to Toms River, NJ for an AAU tourney this weekend. Should be interesting.

Sounds neat have fun!

We got our landscaping along the walkway installed! It's a kind of funny, but I went with my neighbor to Home Depot and Lowes to buy it all and we just hauled it back home and then a yard worker installed it for me. Anyway, it's funny because the amount of stuff I bought for the walkway is almost as much as we had before we did the trees. And that cost $10k. This stuff only cost about $1100, including the mulch that's waiting to be spread out. It's not quite as much stuff, but what a savings if you do it yourself!!

Here's some pics, tomorrow he's gonna mulch it.

http://www.uncoverthenet.com/shawn/theater/531.jpg
http://www.uncoverthenet.com/shawn/theater/532.jpg
http://www.uncoverthenet.com/shawn/theater/533.jpg
http://www.uncoverthenet.com/shawn/theater/534.jpg
http://www.uncoverthenet.com/shawn/theater/535.jpg

I think it's gonna look great, but the wife says she doesn't know if she likes the "big red trees" (japanese maples) at the end of the walkway. What do you all think, do they look ok there? She's wondering if we should have just done boxwoods or something small like that there.

I just noticed something interesting. I know it is just a private drive/road for you and your neighbor, but is it still a road? if so, it is kind of funny that your walk leads to a road as opposed to a sidewalk or driveway like I am used to. Not sure why but this just struck me as funny. I think the trees look fine, they give some color and break up all the green

I just noticed something interesting. I know it is just a private drive/road for you and your neighbor, but is it still a road? if so, it is kind of funny that your walk leads to a road as opposed to a sidewalk or driveway like I am used to. Not sure why but this just struck me as funny. I think the trees look fine, they give some color and break up all the green

Thanks Smak. I have another walk that leads to the driveway too. The lane isn't a road that random people drive on since it dead ends by my neighbors house. And it's not plowed or maintained by the HOA or the city. Not sure what to call it:p

Its a shared driveway.

landscaping the walkway looks good...

Its a shared driveway.

Nah, private drive.

Its a shared driveway.

Nah, private drive.

I dunno!! Our plat says "Private Drive".

landscaping the walkway looks good...

Thanks! :)

House and landscaping are both looking great. I actually like the Japanese maples!

House and landscaping are both looking great. I actually like the Japanese maples!

Thanks Queen!

Just got back from Disney World in Orlando!! We usually go to Vegas a few times a year, but are kind of getting tired of it, so we thought we'd try DW! Man was it fun!! I've never been and the wife has been once when she was about 10. We went to Magic Kingdom, Epcot, Hollywood Studios, and Universal Studios. We stayed at the Swan hotel. I loved it! One theme that I saw in almost all the attractions was the use of projectors. Some of the attractions had HUGE screens and several of them. The Ellen attraction about energy had 3 movie size screens curved around you..it was very immersive! The Simpsons was also amazing. It was a Dome/IMAX type of screen and the seats moved like a roller coaster, but the screen was like a virtual roller coaster, very cool!

My favorite attraction was probably the Extreme Stunt Show at Hollywood Studios. It was a show about fast car chases and the cars were drifting all over the place, back and forth. It was crazy, the drivers are absolutely awesome.

At that attraction they had a huge TV screen showing some of the replays and it was in the middle of the Florida Sun and it was still extremely bright. I wonder what kind of bulb that was!!:D

I'd even like to go back soon and check out Universal Islands of Adventure, Animal Kingdom, SeaWorld and more at Magic Kingdom!!

Anyway, tonight I get to catch up on my comcast DVR shows and/or watch Edge of Darkness!!

Welcome back Shawn. These threads were quiet without you.

I am planning a DW trip for the wife and kids (oh sure me too) in October. I can't wait.

Welcome back Shawn. These threads were quiet without you.

I am planning a DW trip for the wife and kids (oh sure me too) in October. I can't wait.

Thanks, it was a ton of fun, you'll have a great time and will hopefully miss the busy time of the year (july-august?)!

Wow!!! What a build. I have been reading this thread for the last 4 or 5 days (any chance I got) and I'm amazed at how fast it went. I'm also impressed with some of the changes you and your GC made.

I got excited when you painted the door (which is amazing) because being white didn't do anything for it.

I also like how you don't mess around. You think of something or hear something, do some research on it then, you put the money on the table.

BTW great ride. I have been in love with Lambo's since I knew what and exotic car was. I'm excited to get into a new house and build my own theater. I have some time to wait (could be 2-3 years) but reading this thread and and a few others has me waiting with a big stupid grin on my face.

James

Thank you James! I am really happy with the way the room turned out, I use it pretty much everyday! I owe most of the outcome to AVS! I was looking through some old pics on my computer the other day and came across this one:

http://www.uncoverthenet.com/shawn/theater/uglydoor1.jpg

Man that was so plain!! If it wasn't for this place I probably never would have changed it!

Man, now that's a sight for sore eyes (literally)! Glad to hear you had a great time at WDW. I've been taking my kids there the past few years during the supposed least busy week of the year (first full week of Dec.). It's also one of my favorite places to go as well. I've stayed at the Dolphin (right next door to the Swan) and have found it to be great. I like the ferry rides to the parks. But in the more recent years, I switched to Animal Kingdom since it includes the Magic Express bus/luggage benefit (mandatory if travelling with kids!).

Disney is awesome, no doubt. I hope you got in to see Mickey's Philharmagic show. If you are thinking of a few trips to Disney, check out their vacation club. (If you only go once or twice now and then, not worth the cost...)

I'll throw out another vote for Animal Kingdom, and I highly recommend the Kidani Village villas when staying there. If you do go there, be sure to book a villa that is overlooking the habitat. Nothing like breakfast with a Giraffe walking by your balcony!

For the Magic Kingdom, we stay at the Saratoga Springs villas. They have new Treehouse Villas that we are hoping to check out next time we get there.

We're kind of Disney freaks here at home. We're even thinking of starting an annual trip to go there for the Christmas light ceremony. :)

Thanks Warren & Queen! We're actually going back to DW on June 19th!!

As for hotels, there are so many I'd like to stay at. A lot of them look really nice. I stay at the Swan because it's an SPG property and I use an Amex SPG card for my business so basically my trips (airfare hotel) are free. Can't beat that!!

The villas at AK sound pretty awesome, I'd like to stay there atleast once and watch the giraffes go by!

Mickey's Philharmagic - I did! Kind of funny when it first started I was thinking how stupid it was gonna be, but it was a lot of fun. After that we liked the 4D shows, so we also caught Shrek & Terminator (3D). Next time we're gonna see the Muppet one, it was closed last time.

One attraction that sucked was "Sounds Dangerous" with Drew Carey, it was so stupid!

Look at SW getting some love:

- http://networkedmediatank.com/showthread...#pid354563 . shawnwalters has modified the previous cleanup for cinemascope users. It's not official, but it seems to look OK.

http://www.networkedmediatank.com/showthread.php?tid=25534 (May 9th cleanup #7)

shawnwalters' CinemaScope mod::Based on v2.10.0227::Info/Download

Look at SW getting some love:

- http://networkedmediatank.com/showthread...#pid354563 . shawnwalters has modified the previous cleanup for cinemascope users. It's not official, but it seems to look OK.

http://www.networkedmediatank.com/showthread.php?tid=25534 (May 9th cleanup #7)

shawnwalters' CinemaScope mod::Based on v2.10.0227::Info/Download

Hey very cool!!! Thanks :)

Here is the next project we are working on. If some of you recall I said my wife changes her "style" all the time. Well this time we made a deal that 1) she's going to hire a pro designer to help her; and 2) this is the last time!!:p

So that brings me to the kitchen! The house (and the kitchen) is about 1.5 years old and this is how it looked after we moved in:

http://www.uncoverthenet.com/shawn/theater/kitb1.jpg

As you can see there was nothing wrong with it, she just didn't like the granite, backsplash, sink, hardware...basically everything:D

So.. then we ripped out the backsplash, had the granite removed, sold the copper sink and replaced the hardware and here is where we are now:

http://www.uncoverthenet.com/shawn/theater/kit1.jpg
http://www.uncoverthenet.com/shawn/theater/kit2.jpg
http://www.uncoverthenet.com/shawn/theater/kitchen02.jpg

The new sink (Linkasink V030):
http://www.uncoverthenet.com/shawn/theater/kitchen07.jpg
http://www.uncoverthenet.com/shawn/theater/V030.jpg

The new backsplash (SAICIS Tiramolla Blu):
http://www.uncoverthenet.com/shawn/theater/kitchen10.jpg

The new island light (Visual Comfort Chart House):
http://www.uncoverthenet.com/shawn/theater/light.jpg

The new granite actually it's a "quartzite" (Exotic Yellow):
http://www.uncoverthenet.com/shawn/theater/gran1.jpg


Next up is getting the sink installed which should be this week, granite installed and lights replaced next week. I hope it looks ok, especially considering it looked ok before (to me) and because it wasn't cheap!! And she better like it too lol!!

I'm sure it will look great Shawn, but I gotta say it looked pretty darn good before and I love that copper sink.

I'm sure it will look great Shawn, but I gotta say it looked pretty darn good before and I love that copper sink.

+1! I think it could have just used some paint for some contrast and color. I'd be happy with the old one!

BTW Shawn I think I will be working on an UnRAID server soon. Ordered another drive that should arrive Monday. So I may be asking some questions! ;)

Disney is awesome, no doubt. I hope you got in to see Mickey's Philharmagic show. If you are thinking of a few trips to Disney, check out their vacation club. (If you only go once or twice now and then, not worth the cost...)

I'll throw out another vote for Animal Kingdom, and I highly recommend the Kidani Village villas when staying there. If you do go there, be sure to book a villa that is overlooking the habitat. Nothing like breakfast with a Giraffe walking by your balcony!

For the Magic Kingdom, we stay at the Saratoga Springs villas. They have new Treehouse Villas that we are hoping to check out next time we get there.

We're kind of Disney freaks here at home. We're even thinking of starting an annual trip to go there for the Christmas light ceremony. :)

I second DVC. The treehouses are awesome. Huge huge huge! We go multiple times a year since we have been together. When I was younger went alot too but not that much as now.

I will ay our fav time of the year there is Halloween. Nothing can touch their halloween parade and the show projected on the castle! Just awesome!

THis Dec will be our daughter's first trip. She'll be 13 months old. . . well actually it's a trip for us. She's just along for the ride! LOL

jimi

Thanks Warren & Queen! We're actually going back to DW on June 19th!!


Good thing you're going before school gets out because you definitely do not want to go in the summertime when it will be mad crowded. If I could stay for free at the Swan there wouldn't even be a second thought!

Muppet show was silly but fun. If you like the 3D movies, there's also a Bug's Life in Animal Kingdom that is an interactive 3D one. There was talk of bringing back the MJ Captain Nemo 3D movie to Epcot but I don't think it's back quite yet. One show I highly recommend though is the Fantasmic evening show at Hollywood Studios (you have to go 30-60 min in advance to get seating) where they throw an image up on a water screen combined with a live show. It's very cool.

BTW, I love the new sink way more than the copper one. And the backsplash tiles are very nice. Thanks for helping us get out of the recession :D!

Good thing you're going before school gets out because you definitely do not want to go in the summertime when it will be mad crowded.

Last day of school here in Texas is June 3rd.

Good thing you're going before school gets out because you definitely do not want to go in the summertime when it will be mad crowded. If I could stay for free at the Swan there wouldn't even be a second thought!

Muppet show was silly but fun. If you like the 3D movies, there's also a Bug's Life in Animal Kingdom that is an interactive 3D one. There was talk of bringing back the MJ Captain Nemo 3D movie to Epcot but I don't think it's back quite yet. One show I highly recommend though is the Fantasmic evening show at Hollywood Studios (you have to go 30-60 min in advance to get seating) where they throw an image up on a water screen combined with a live show. It's very cool.

BTW, I love the new sink way more than the copper one. And the backsplash tiles are very nice. Thanks for helping us get out of the recession :D!

Captain EO is actually back at Disneyland.

Fantasmic is awesome too. i second that comment. in DL they actually have their own coming up real soon. World of Color I think it's called?

Shawn, how was all the construction coming along by Mickey's toon town? they moving along with the expansion?

jimi

+1! I think it could have just used some paint for some contrast and color. I'd be happy with the old one!

BTW Shawn I think I will be working on an UnRAID server soon. Ordered another drive that should arrive Monday. So I may be asking some questions! ;)

Good to hear, unraid has treated me well! I agree about the paint!

I'm sure it will look great Shawn, but I gotta say it looked pretty darn good before and I love that copper sink.

I think so too, I hope it turns out good though! As for the sink this was it:

http://www.uncoverthenet.com/shawn/theater/cop1.jpg

That pic was when it was first installed. It didn't have a hammered inside so it had 'stains' all over it and it looked pretty horrible inside. I agreed that we should have swapped it out, but I just meant for a hammered inside or something, not a mosaic sink that cost 4 times as much LOL!! She also didn't like the vine pattern on the front.

I second DVC. The treehouses are awesome. Huge huge huge! We go multiple times a year since we have been together. When I was younger went alot too but not that much as now.

I will ay our fav time of the year there is Halloween. Nothing can touch their halloween parade and the show projected on the castle! Just awesome!

THis Dec will be our daughter's first trip. She'll be 13 months old. . . well actually it's a trip for us. She's just along for the ride! LOL

jimi

Halloween does sound fun there! I read somewhere that the week of Christmas & New Years is the busiest week? That's crazy!

Good thing you're going before school gets out because you definitely do not want to go in the summertime when it will be mad crowded. If I could stay for free at the Swan there wouldn't even be a second thought!

Muppet show was silly but fun. If you like the 3D movies, there's also a Bug's Life in Animal Kingdom that is an interactive 3D one. There was talk of bringing back the MJ Captain Nemo 3D movie to Epcot but I don't think it's back quite yet. One show I highly recommend though is the Fantasmic evening show at Hollywood Studios (you have to go 30-60 min in advance to get seating) where they throw an image up on a water screen combined with a live show. It's very cool.

BTW, I love the new sink way more than the copper one. And the backsplash tiles are very nice. Thanks for helping us get out of the recession :D!

Thanks Queen! That makes me feel better :)

Re school, I'm not sure if it's going to be in or out, but I hope if it's out we're going early enough in the season to beat the majority of the crowds. The last time we went, there were like no lines anywhere! It was great. If it's busier this time, we'll get the fast pass I guess! Thanks for the tips on the shows! I'll be sure we catch Fantasmic!

Captain EO is actually back at Disneyland.

Fantasmic is awesome too. i second that comment. in DL they actually have their own coming up real soon. World of Color I think it's called?

Shawn, how was all the construction coming along by Mickey's toon town? they moving along with the expansion?

jimi

Thanks. As to the construction, I'm not sure. I didn't notice any. But I'm not sure what toon town is though:o

Last day of school here in Texas is June 3rd.

dangit!!:p

Good thing you're going before school gets out because you definitely do not want to go in the summertime when it will be mad crowded. If I could stay for free at the Swan there wouldn't even be a second thought!

Muppet show was silly but fun. If you like the 3D movies, there's also a Bug's Life in Animal Kingdom that is an interactive 3D one. There was talk of bringing back the MJ Captain Nemo 3D movie to Epcot but I don't think it's back quite yet. One show I highly recommend though is the Fantasmic evening show at Hollywood Studios (you have to go 30-60 min in advance to get seating) where they throw an image up on a water screen combined with a live show. It's very cool.

BTW, I love the new sink way more than the copper one. And the backsplash tiles are very nice. Thanks for helping us get out of the recession :D!

Isn't it funny how many people have either stayed at the Swan or Dolphin. We stayed at the Dolphin on our last trip (my first, but my wife and her family are Disney nutz), but hit the spa at the Swan (or do I have it backwards?). Shoo...big dollar-dollar bills ya'all. I think the missus and I dropped a cool k by the time we were done, and then they try to sell you that $200 massage oil on the way out...lol. I guess once you get past the Family-style villages, the Swan and Dolphin are few of the only "hotel"-type properties in the park?

We also were going to stay in AK, but I think the rooms with Safari views were sold-out; and what's the point of staying in AK if you can't have the Giraffes walk by your balcony. Next time.

Love the kitchen SW, even like the old farmhouse sink (although I agree with your wife, the vine pattern on the front is a little busy for my tastes as well). The new sink? Belongs in a museum, not for doing your dirty dishes in :D Seriously, what happens to all the perfectly good old stuff?

CD

The new sink? Belongs in a museum, not for doing your dirty dishes in :D Seriously, what happens to all the perfectly good old stuff?


Haha, no kidding CD. The wife is already saying, you better not mess this sink up. I guess we can't set dishes in there anymore, just rinse and straight to dishwasher:p! She wants to get those mats for the bottom so we can set pans on it and stuff.

Ya Shawn that brings up a point. How the hell u going to cook with sink? I mean for prep and stuff. I guess if u aren't big cooks. Kristen cooks at least 3 times a week and we destroy our sink especially with our pots. Even our prep sink which only sees veggies and small stuff is getting beat up and I really try to be careful. I would give that sink 1 day in our house. Lol

re Disney new years week is crazzzzzy. We have done new years like 3 times now and this was thd last. The other two times we were at the Floridian for private parties on new years DVD so it was cool and the parks were busy but not crazy. Last year we didn't go anywhere and stayed in epcot cause we ate at the steakhouse in the beach/ yaught (sp) club. One of our favs. Epcot was rediculous! Never again. We are sticking with our Halloween trips and may, feb, or wine and food festival times. Unless we are going down to just hangout and not spend that much time in he parks.


Re the s&d we never stayed there but my inlaws stay there when they would go down themselves and they love it. We always stay on the monorail places cause we ca get around a little quicker and plus we love the poly.

Oh and u want to talk spas. The Floridian spa is crazy too. They try tricking u when u gets massages there. They ask if u want sented oil. Anyone would most likely say ya and then bam! 60 dollars extra in the bill! Kris killed me the one time with the sentexoil charges cause she didn't know.

There are regular hotels on property, over by downtown. Hilton, Best Western, etc.

I think Florida schools may be out soon, as they start early august. That is where most of the crowds will come from.

If you are looking at going during high season, I would suggest "The Unofficial Guide to Walt disney World 2010" 850 pages, but man is there allot of good info. In the back there are cut out maps with what you need to do to get the most rides during high time. hints about what parks not to visit on certain days (skip parks with extra magic hours) And since you are at the swan and Dolphin, I don't think those allow you to use the extended hours like the regular Disney resorts.

The guides are for magic kingdom in 1 day, magic kingdom in 2 days, magic kingdom with small kids... They have these plans for each park, and for all kinds of categories.

They rate each hotel, the in park dining options, each ride for age appropriateness (too scary for the young, to lame for the adults). It even covers Universal up the road.

Needless to say I am getting excited for my trip in October.

Shawn, got a good link on how to get started with UnRaid? I've built the machine, setup the flash drive and can boot up. I get to the login screen and type "root" with no password, but that is as far as it will go. I can't access the tower from another PC right now either, despite setting up the IP manually since I do not have DHCP where I'm currently at. I can do that later tonight though I doubt that is the problem.

The WIKI SUCKS!!! Why is it that you have to search for the login information? Shouldn't that be in the "Getting Started portion? :rolleyes:

Shawn, got a good link on how to get started with UnRaid? I've built the machine, setup the flash drive and can boot up. I get to the login screen and type "root" with no password, but that is as far as it will go. I can't access the tower from another PC right now either, despite setting up the IP manually since I do not have DHCP where I'm currently at. I can do that later tonight though I doubt that is the problem.

The WIKI SUCKS!!! Why is it that you have to search for the login information? Shouldn't that be in the "Getting Started portion? :rolleyes:

Mike, I found the following video very helpful http://www.category5.tv/show_notes/episode_103.php

Does an especially good job IMO of explaining split levels, which I know always confuses people.

Good luck,
CD

Shawn, got a good link on how to get started with UnRaid? I've built the machine, setup the flash drive and can boot up. I get to the login screen and type "root" with no password, but that is as far as it will go. I can't access the tower from another PC right now either, despite setting up the IP manually since I do not have DHCP where I'm currently at. I can do that later tonight though I doubt that is the problem.

The WIKI SUCKS!!! Why is it that you have to search for the login information? Shouldn't that be in the "Getting Started portion? :rolleyes:

I actually used this:

http://www.smallnetbuilder.com/nas/nas-reviews/30247-lime-technology-unraid-reviewed - it was very helpful. I also watched the category5 videos before I attempted the build.

Good luck!

PS, if you are connected via Ethernet, try running ifconfig at the tower login and see if it gives you the IP of the server. Then access that IP from the remote computer.

Ya Shawn that brings up a point. How the hell u going to cook with sink? I mean for prep and stuff. I guess if u aren't big cooks. Kristen cooks at least 3 times a week and we destroy our sink especially with our pots. Even our prep sink which only sees veggies and small stuff is getting beat up and I really try to be careful. I would give that sink 1 day in our house. Lol

re Disney new years week is crazzzzzy. We have done new years like 3 times now and this was thd last. The other two times we were at the Floridian for private parties on new years DVD so it was cool and the parks were busy but not crazy. Last year we didn't go anywhere and stayed in epcot cause we ate at the steakhouse in the beach/ yaught (sp) club. One of our favs. Epcot was rediculous! Never again. We are sticking with our Halloween trips and may, feb, or wine and food festival times. Unless we are going down to just hangout and not spend that much time in he parks.


Re the s&d we never stayed there but my inlaws stay there when they would go down themselves and they love it. We always stay on the monorail places cause we ca get around a little quicker and plus we love the poly.

Oh and u want to talk spas. The Floridian spa is crazy too. They try tricking u when u gets massages there. They ask if u want sented oil. Anyone would most likely say ya and then bam! 60 dollars extra in the bill! Kris killed me the one time with the sentexoil charges cause she didn't know.

Those spas sound like a scam!!

There are regular hotels on property, over by downtown. Hilton, Best Western, etc.

I think Florida schools may be out soon, as they start early august. That is where most of the crowds will come from.

If you are looking at going during high season, I would suggest "The Unofficial Guide to Walt disney World 2010" 850 pages, but man is there allot of good info. In the back there are cut out maps with what you need to do to get the most rides during high time. hints about what parks not to visit on certain days (skip parks with extra magic hours) And since you are at the swan and Dolphin, I don't think those allow you to use the extended hours like the regular Disney resorts.

The guides are for magic kingdom in 1 day, magic kingdom in 2 days, magic kingdom with small kids... They have these plans for each park, and for all kinds of categories.

They rate each hotel, the in park dining options, each ride for age appropriateness (too scary for the young, to lame for the adults). It even covers Universal up the road.

Needless to say I am getting excited for my trip in October.

Yeah it probably will be busy :(

Luckily (or unluckily?) the Swan and Dolphin do get the 'extra magic hours'. This trip we are going to:

Animal Kingdom
Magic Kingdom
Universal Studios & Islands (Studios will be free!!)
Seaworld
Indoor Skydiving

Hope we can make it all! We already have been to Magic Kingdom and Universal Studios, but the others never been!

THis Dec will be our daughter's first trip. She'll be 13 months old. . . well actually it's a trip for us. She's just along for the ride! LOL

jimi

Since everyone's talking about Disney at the moment. I wouldn't recommend taking any child until they're about 6 or 7. I live about 6 miles from the mouse and go when I feel like it, I see too many frowns on parents faces pushing baby carriages around. I doubt you'll enjoy yourselves when you each have to take a ride alone. Just some food for thought.

Beautiful home by the way SW

Since everyone's talking about Disney at the moment. I wouldn't recommend taking any child until they're about 6 or 7. I live about 6 miles from the mouse and go when I feel like it, I see too many frowns on parents faces pushing baby carriages around. I doubt you'll enjoy yourselves when you each have to take a ride alone. Just some food for thought.

Beautiful home by the way SW

Actually we are going cause we want to go. We try to go at least once to twice a year. Our girl is coming along for the ride. We are also taking my parents. They are big Disney folks also so they will help us out. I have tone of friends who go yearly or more and have some pretty young kids and they always have a good time. We are there so much we don't really care if we get on rides at times. Just being there is good enough.

Personally I think based on your kid as young as 4 is ok. I know they are long days but that's why you stay on property. No reason not too with the rail and the great bus system.

JMO,

jimi

It is a great place to go to though!

I actually used this:

http://www.smallnetbuilder.com/nas/nas-reviews/30247-lime-technology-unraid-reviewed - it was very helpful. I also watched the category5 videos before I attempted the build.

Good luck!

PS, if you are connected via Ethernet, try running ifconfig at the tower login and see if it gives you the IP of the server. Then access that IP from the remote computer.

I'll check out the video and the link, thanks!

I setup a static IP in the network.cfg file since I had it at work and we only have switches, no routers. But after logging in ipconfig gives me an error.

But after logging in ipconfig gives me an error.

For this application (linux), it's ifconfig. Does that work?

For this application (linux), it's ifconfig. Does that work?

Got it working this morning so I didn't try ifconfig.

I changed the name of the tower to MyTower and it found it right away. Before, typing in Tower was taking my to Tower Records! :rolleyes:

Starting the array now. So what type of "add ons" are recommended? Or should I stick with a simple setup until I get the hang of it?

Got it working this morning so I didn't try ifconfig.

I changed the name of the tower to MyTower and it found it right away. Before, typing in Tower was taking my to Tower Records! :rolleyes:

Starting the array now. So what type of "add ons" are recommended? Or should I stick with a simple setup until I get the hang of it?

I'm a big believer of mastering walking before you start to run. That being said, UnMenu is fairly straight-forward and has some nice, built-in add-on functionality.

CD

I'm a big believer of mastering walking before you start to run. That being said, UnMenu is fairly straight-forward and has some nice, built-in add-on functionality.

CD

What is UnMenu (in a nutshell)?

What is UnMenu (in a nutshell)?

I agree with CD, make sure you understand the basics first, and that everything is working ok. Then the first one I'd do is unMenu. Basically it's a UI like the stock one, but with many more details and features.

More about unmenu:

http://lime-technology.com/wiki/index.php?title=UnRAID_Add_Ons#UnMENU

http://lime-technology.com/wiki/index.php?title=UnMENU_documentation

http://code.google.com/p/unraid-unmenu/

I agree with CD, make sure you understand the basics first, and that everything is working ok. Then the first one I'd do is unMenu. Basically it's a UI like the stock one, but with many more details and features.

More about unmenu:

http://lime-technology.com/wiki/index.php?title=UnRAID_Add_Ons#UnMENU

http://lime-technology.com/wiki/index.php?title=UnMENU_documentation

http://code.google.com/p/unraid-unmenu/
I started reading up on it earlier and was lost so I'll wait until I see why I need it. :)

So that I don't clutter up your thread Shawn I'll be asking questions on my thread.

Thanks for your help!

I started reading up on it earlier and was lost so I'll wait until I see why I need it. :)


Personally, I would install unMenu for the syslog functionality alone. It would help you if there are problems, hardware issues etc.

I've got a question for the DVD pros out there. I have a DVD of an old family vacation that was transferred to DVD from VHS a couple years ago. Now I want to make a copy of the DVD to give to my sister. Do I just copy the files to my PC and the burn a new disc, or does it have to be a special burning software for it to play in normal players? The files are all in a video ts folder.

http://lmgtfy.com/?q=duplicate+dvd

I prefer ImgBurn personally...

http://lmgtfy.com/?q=duplicate+dvd

I prefer ImgBurn personally...

I'm a moron, thanks :)

A little bit of progress on the kitchen today. The granite was installed! Also, the sink was installed a few days ago and I installed the light a few days ago too.

Here's the before:
http://www.uncoverthenet.com/shawn/theater/nk11.jpg

As it is now:
http://www.uncoverthenet.com/shawn/theater/nk1.jpg
http://www.uncoverthenet.com/shawn/theater/nk2.jpg
http://www.uncoverthenet.com/shawn/theater/nk3.jpg
http://www.uncoverthenet.com/shawn/theater/nk4.jpg

It's kind of hard to tell from the pics, but I think it looks much better than before (and I didn't even mind how it was before!).

Next up is the backsplash install and the faucets! - Hopefully later this week.

http://lmgtfy.com/?q=duplicate+dvd

I prefer ImgBurn personally...

Thanks for the tip, it worked perfect!

That's a lot of light colors Shawn, are you going dark for the backsplash?

That's a lot of light colors Shawn, are you going dark for the backsplash?

Agreed about the colors. But a "designer" chose them all out, so it better look good!!

Yes backsplash is much darker. Here's a not so good pic of it:
http://www.uncoverthenet.com/shawn/theater/kitchen10.jpg

Faucets installed today!

http://www.uncoverthenet.com/shawn/theater/gn1.jpg
http://www.uncoverthenet.com/shawn/theater/gn2.jpg
http://www.uncoverthenet.com/shawn/theater/gn3.jpg
http://www.uncoverthenet.com/shawn/theater/gn4.jpg

There's one more faucet going on the main sink for the reverse osmosis. But that won't be installed till next week. Hopefully tomorrow or next week the backsplash can start going up!

I am surprised you guys kept the cabinets. I mean while at it, you could have swapped all those out too...I guess the wife went easy on you.

I am hoping the backsplash adds some more contrast. But the glass doors makes me wonder, are your dishes colorful? Could add to the presentation, although I'd crack under the pressure of keeping my dishes artfully arranged.

That is a nice sink.

Nice main sink, very nice in fact. Just a quick question about it though. Are the "mosaic tiles" in it raised? If so, aren't you worried about all sorts of stuff getting in the joints? Just curious.

I am surprised you guys kept the cabinets. I mean while at it, you could have swapped all those out too...I guess the wife went easy on you.

New cabinets would have been some $$!

I am hoping the backsplash adds some more contrast. But the glass doors makes me wonder, are your dishes colorful? Could add to the presentation, although I'd crack under the pressure of keeping my dishes artfully arranged.

That is a nice sink.

Thanks, I hope the backsplash adds some contrast too. I'm sure it will. It's being installed tomorrow! Good idea about the dishes behind the glass!

Nice main sink, very nice in fact. Just a quick question about it though. Are the "mosaic tiles" in it raised? If so, aren't you worried about all sorts of stuff getting in the joints? Just curious.

Thanks. The tiles appear to be simply installed inside the sink with grout. I was skeptical about the durability of it, but it comes with a lifetime warranty and it seems very high quality.

As for the scratches of the pans we talked about before, my wife got these plastic mats to go inside the sink. Pretty neat!

http://www.uncoverthenet.com/shawn/theater/hn2.jpg
http://www.uncoverthenet.com/shawn/theater/hn1.jpg


Also, since we didn't use the faucets and sinks from before I used the vegetable sink and main faucet from the kitchen in the bar now! I like it a lot better, the previous bar sink was so tiny, like only 6" wide!
http://www.uncoverthenet.com/shawn/theater/hn3.jpg
http://www.uncoverthenet.com/shawn/theater/hn4.jpg

Here's the before:
http://www.uncoverthenet.com/shawn/theater/41913.jpg

But the glass doors makes me wonder, are your dishes colorful?

Speaking of which, what's in the upper cabinets now? It looks like a whole bunch of silverware setups (fork, spoon, knife wrapped in a napkin).

You guys are so funny. I actually liked your kitchen before with the tile backsplash and ogee edge on the granite. Your new set-up is equally nice and I can't wait to see the mosaic tile installed. I know I said this before but thanks again for single-handedly helping this economy get out of the recession :p.

Speaking of which, what's in the upper cabinets now? It looks like a whole bunch of silverware setups (fork, spoon, knife wrapped in a napkin).

Ah, yeah I see what you mean. That's just the seeded glass. They are currently empty.

You guys are so funny. I actually liked your kitchen before with the tile backsplash and ogee edge on the granite. Your new set-up is equally nice and I can't wait to see the mosaic tile installed. I know I said this before but thanks again for single-handedly helping this economy get out of the recession :p.

:p Thanks Queen!!

A setback though, looks like the tile guy got called to a big job so he can't get here for another week.

Do you have any info on your back splash tile? Material, size, where you got it from?

http://www.uncoverthenet.com/shawn/theater/gn3.jpgAre those barns I see in the distance? How far is your house located from civilization? ;)

Do you have any info on your back splash tile? Material, size, where you got it from?

It's by 'SAICIS Italy' and it's called 'Tira Molla Blue'

It was recommended by the designer and they wanted us to buy from 'their supplier', which was a high end tile place in Chicago called the Tile Gallery. It was $92 a sq ft there:eek:

I didn't want to pay that insane of a price for tile, but the wife loved it. So I shopped around on my own and was able to find it for $51 sq ft from Century Tile. Still expensive of course, but much better at least.

Hopefully will be installed at the end of the week. But we're going to Disney again on Saturday!! So it may have to wait until we get back.

Are those barns I see in the distance? How far is your house located from civilization? ;)

Haha, yes - it's a horse farm :)

http://www.uncoverthenet.com/shawn/theater/horses1.jpg

It's very peaceful! :)

Got back a little while ago from Orlando and it was a blast!

We went to Magic Kingdom, Universal Studios, Islands of Adventure, Animal Kingdom, Hollywood Studios, Sea World, Discovery Cove and SkyVenture (Indoor Skydiving).

My favorite was probably at Discovery Cove. We did the "trainer for a day" program and got to swim with the dolphins, snorkel in a salt water reef and a lot more. It was a full day of activities. I highly recommend it, atleast once in a lifetime!

Here's a pic with the baby dolphin, she was so sweet!
http://www.uncoverthenet.com/shawn/theater/dolphin.jpg

Disney was a ton of fun too, although it was considerably busier that last time we went (May). And it was a heck of a lot hotter too! And it also rained pretty much everyday! The first day we got there it rained the entire time we were at Universal. So we got drenched.

We didn't attempt harry Potter since we went there on opening weekend. The park wasn't crazy busy, but after seeing this picture for the line to Harry Potter, we decided to pass:D

http://www.google.com/hostednews/ap/media/ALeqM5hkSymqz15SNwwtP96qaJinTw77iQ?size=l

Overall it was an awesome time and I can't wait to go back!!

On the kitchen remodel - nothing new there, the backsplash guy has been busy with a huge project he's working on, so I'm guessing so backsplash for a while!

On the theater front, the unraid server is still working perfectly. Gonna give it a spin tonight!

Great Pics Shawn, nice to see you back.:D

That line to Harry Potter looked well busy!!:p

Cheers
Lee

Kind of off topic, but my iphone is gone!! On Thursday I'm getting the Droid X (http://phandroid.com/2010/07/02/motorola-droid-x-review/). The big screen from the theater carried over to my taste in phones:D

http://www.blogcdn.com/www.engadget.com/media/2010/06/motoroladroidxengadget01.jpg

Can't wait!

Backsplash installer is coming today!! Should have some pics later :)

Kind of off topic, but my iphone is gone!! On Thursday I'm getting the Droid X (http://phandroid.com/2010/07/02/motorola-droid-x-review/). The big screen from the theater carried over to my taste in phones:D

http://www.blogcdn.com/www.engadget.com/media/2010/06/motoroladroidxengadget01.jpg

Can't wait!

make sure you report your thought. I fear its size, but otherwise I think it will be my next phone.

make sure you report your thought. I fear its size, but otherwise I think it will be my next phone.

Will do, already checked it out in person. Here it is in my hands:

http://www.uncoverthenet.com/shawn/x2.jpg
http://www.uncoverthenet.com/shawn/x3.jpg

The person in the pic above must have had small hands!! Anyway I loved it. I actually have the Evo now (will be returning it), but hate Sprint and can't wait to get on a network where I actually have a signal.

Hey Shawn, nice to see you posting.

I have Verizon now and I can attest to how good their signal is. My wife works in a high rise in Boston and from the 27th floor she can get on the elevator not loose her signal while traveling down. I also don't get cutoff in my elevator at work but that's only 1 floor up and down:p I also get service in my basement at home, while with every other carrier it's tough to get signal even on the 1st floor.

In any event I was contemplating on switching our service to Sprint cause I really like that Evo and Sprint's family plan and price seems like more bang for the buck, but when I looked at their coverage area (especially in my neighborhood) we would suffer. The best plan and price means nothing if you can't get a signal...:(.

Hey Shawn, nice to see you posting.

I have Verizon now and I can attest to how good their signal is. My wife works in a high rise in Boston and from the 27th floor she can get on the elevator not loose her signal while traveling down. I also don't get cutoff in my elevator at work but that's only 1 floor up and down:p I also get service in my basement at home, while with every other carrier it's tough to get signal even on the 1st floor.

In any event I was contemplating on switching our service to Sprint cause I really like that Evo and Sprint's family plan and price seems like more bang for the buck, but when I looked at their coverage area (especially in my neighborhood) we would suffer. The best plan and price means nothing if you can't get a signal...:(.

Thanks Oman. I have verizon too - a 3g laptop card. I get service on that thing anywhere I go virtually and that's data, voice should be even better!

Re the EVO - I love the EVO, but sprint ruins it! I don't even get service in my house - none! Nor in most buildings. I walk in target and my phone shows a big x where the bars are supposed to be. I called sprint but they could care less. So I'm happy to drop them.

The 4G is fast, but it is way too spotty for prime time. It really only works if you are stationary (not in a moving car) in one of the few areas that gets a good signal. Not to mention the 2 hour battery life you'd get running the 4g!

Will do, already checked it out in person. Here it is in my hands:

http://www.uncoverthenet.com/shawn/x2.jpg
http://www.uncoverthenet.com/shawn/x3.jpg

The person in the pic above must have had small hands!! Anyway I loved it. I actually have the Evo now (will be returning it), but hate Sprint and can't wait to get on a network where I actually have a signal.

Well?

Well?

I got the X! I woke up at 6 to go the store at 7 and got one! I think they are pretty much sold out as of now, so I'm glad I did.

I really like the phone. It feel extremely light, the evo felt like a brick.

My first impressions..

Favorite thing is the keyboard!! Even better than the iphone, which has a really good one.

Also, WIFI signal is much stronger. I even get my neighbors signal on the X in my basement. And VZW service is really good so far, I get a signal in every room in the house even the theater room.

I like the hardware buttons on the bottom.

Call quality is excellent.

Oh and I love the car dock! I pop it in there and chose my custom app to be gmail so I can have my inbox on the phone, very cool. The GPS on it is even better than my built in unit on my car.

The phone - the sound is extremely clear (and nice and loud) on my end - like I'm on a landline. Honestly probably better than any other cell phone I've used. However, my wife said that she thought I had her on speakerphone though when I was talking to her. I asked her if it sounded bad and she said no it sounds good, just sounded strange. I was in the car with the A/C blasting though, so I'll have to try it some more.

Negative-wise - I am seeing some minor lag on the app tray and the unlock screen. Not a big deal, but it is weird though, those are the only things on the phone I'm noticing a lag on. Everything else is super fast. The odd thing is I don't recall these issues on the demo model I tried out last week. I would imagine it will either go away or be fixed on the next update.

I returned my EVO just a little bit ago to Best Buy and it was kind of sad. The EVO is a great phone. I'm gonna miss the sense UI. But I'd say most everything else about the X is as good or better. I'm definitely not going to miss Sprint though!!

But yeah very happy with it so far :)

Thanks for your thoughts on that. I need to switch phones soon, and have been looking at the X for a while. Good to hear some impressions with a real phone in the real world. Thanks!

Thought I'd post it here, I'm going to sell some of my old computers that I no longer use and the first one up is my old macbook pro. I listed it here on avs:

http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/vbclassified.php?do=ad&id=13978

Here's a couple pics in case anyone is interested!

http://www.uncoverthenet.com/shawn/theater/mac01.jpg
http://www.uncoverthenet.com/shawn/theater/mac03.jpg
http://www.uncoverthenet.com/shawn/theater/mac04.jpg
http://www.uncoverthenet.com/shawn/theater/mac05.jpg

PS, pics were taken with the Droid X:D

Thanks for your thoughts on that. I need to switch phones soon, and have been looking at the X for a while. Good to hear some impressions with a real phone in the real world. Thanks!

The good thing is there are so many cool phones out now that it's hard to go wrong! I can't wait till next year when we have 4G Verizon phones running on a 2.0GHz processor!!

Hiya Shawn,

Shame i'm in the UK, otherwise i'd have happily bought the MBP off you. I'd have to add a suitable UK power adapter & battery.

Plus the fact it'll cost on P&P, and possibility of a customs charge.

Ah well these things happen!!;)

Cheers
Lee

Hey all,

I've been out of town the past few weeks and I shut down my ripping PC and server before I left. Well I got back the end of last week and turned on the server and PC and everything was fine.

However yesterday I went to go start ripping season 6 lost that I bought - the PC was on, but nothing was on the monitor. I have the monitor hooked up via DVI. I tried the mouse and keyboard and nothing would 'wake it up', so I turned it off and back on and the same thing. I thought maybe the graphics card or something might have gone bad, but it seems like the fan runs louder than usual all the time when the pc is on.

Any ideas what it might be or how to fix it?

Shawn,

Have you got another monitor to try? This will eliminate the video card?

Cheers
Lee

It sounds like your system is not posting (the higher than normal fan sounds and no picture). Could be your video card or memory.

CJ

Shawn,

Have you got another monitor to try? This will eliminate the video card?

Cheers
Lee

It sounds like your system is not posting (the higher than normal fan sounds and no picture). Could be your video card or memory.

CJ

Thanks guys. I'll try another monitor and go from there. I think I have one around with a VGA input.

Is the monitor plugged in? :)

Any pics of the backsplash?

Is the monitor plugged in? :)



Hah, I think it is! I'm gonna tinker with it today. I've been pretty engrossed in watching "24" again. I used to watch it religiously several years ago, but gave up. But while I was out of town, I started watching season 7 from my laptop via netflix and really liked it. So now I'm starting over at season 1! On another note, netflix streaming has come a LONG way!! I remember trying it last year on my roku and laughed at how low quality it was on the big screen, both AQ & PQ. But now it's actually very decent quality. I like it!


Any pics of the backsplash?

Doh! I forgot to post em. I'll take some pics :)

Ok, tried a different monitor with a VGA cable and still nothing on the screen. I opened up the case, everything was in the slots tight and checked the memory. There are 4 slots and 4 sticks (came with it).

What should I do now?

Yet another wrinkle on the HT front. My Harmony 890 remote that I bought in June of '08 seems to be acting up. The volume buttons barely work anymore. So since it's over a year old, the warranty is up and the extended warranty through my CC is also up.

So I contacted harmony and they said the best they could do for me is give me 50% off a new remote through them. I dunno if I should do it or not. But I do like the 890 and see the 900 gets pretty good reviews. Anyone familiar with the 900?

http://cache-02.gawkerassets.com/assets/images/4/2009/08/remote1.jpg

The Harmony 900 is the same as the Harmony One except the 900 has RF. I have the Harmony One (don't need RF), and love it, especially now that I have it tweaked exactly like I want it. Logitech support is great for helping with setting up the remote.

try to reseat the video card. also, does the machine actually fire up? I mean can you hear the fans and hard drive work as though the OS is still loading, just no video?

The Harmony 900 is the same as the Harmony One except the 900 has RF. I have the Harmony One (don't need RF), and love it, especially now that I have it tweaked exactly like I want it. Logitech support is great for helping with setting up the remote.

Thanks glad to hear it. I guess for $200 the 900 isn't too bad!

try to reseat the video card. also, does the machine actually fire up? I mean can you hear the fans and hard drive work as though the OS is still loading, just no video?

Ok, thanks I'll try it. I hear the fans start and the hard drive spin up, but after that all I hear are the fans. IIRC, when it was working normally, I usually hear some "thinking" type sounds for the first minute or so.

if you dont hear the thinking sounds, you may have bigger issues...does the HD start up at least?

hmmm, possibilities are endless. since you were gone and things were bad when you returned, I might start at the PSU after you reseat the video card. also, does the mobo have on board video, you can try that too.

if you dont hear the thinking sounds, you may have bigger issues...does the HD start up at least?

hmmm, possibilities are endless. since you were gone and things were bad when you returned, I might start at the PSU after you reseat the video card. also, does the mobo have on board video, you can try that too.

Thanks Smak. Not sure about the HD. Just opened it up, reseated the video card (and no the mobo does not have on board video) and powered it on and still nothing on the screen. But this time I didn't even hear the HD spin up. So I dunno!

The computer is under my credit card's warranty so maybe I should go that route.

If it's not posting when you first switch it on, could be CPU or memory problems?

Can you test the memory in another computer? Or even have one spare PC to take parts out & test with your regular PC?

I know how you feel it's annoying when your 'puter doesn't work!!:(

One other tip try resetting the CMOS jumper, to see if that helps?

Could be a faulty mainboard? Too many options to try, but start with the basics first.

Cheers
Lee

I want to suspect power supply. Pull the PSU from another rig and just lay it on the floor and connect it up. Should be able to do it fairly easily without oo much effort as long as you have a spare, otherwise you need to pull one from another machine...

If it's not posting when you first switch it on, could be CPU or memory problems?

Can you test the memory in another computer? Or even have one spare PC to take parts out & test with your regular PC?

I know how you feel it's annoying when your 'puter doesn't work!!:(

One other tip try resetting the CMOS jumper, to see if that helps?

Could be a faulty mainboard? Too many options to try, but start with the basics first.

Cheers
Lee

I want to suspect power supply. Pull the PSU from another rig and just lay it on the floor and connect it up. Should be able to do it fairly easily without oo much effort as long as you have a spare, otherwise you need to pull one from another machine...

Thanks guys. I agree Lee so many possibilities and I don't have as much time to tinker with it as I'd like. I did remove the mobo battery, but still no luck. I decided to give my amex extended warranty a try and man they came through. They paid for packaging, shipping everything. All I had to do was take the PC into a ups store and they'll ship it back to me once fixed or if not fixable (doubtful) send me a check.

Only downside is I'll be without a ripping computer for a little bit - hopefully not too long though. Luckily the new releases lately have been really crappy!

Not much going on around here, still on my "24" marathon :D . Its addicting, once I start, I don't want to go to sleep haha.

No new info on the PC I sent in for repair, but I got a firmware update from Jason at AVS for my Sim2 that I may attempt to update!

Also, just now (I know I'm way behind the times) listed my first item on ebay. Now I have quite a few. They're all electronic gadgets, so thought some of you may be interested.

It's amazing how much junk I have, I'm going through it over the weekend and it keeps piling up:D

http://shop.ebay.com/shawnlambo/m.html?_nkw=&_armrs=1&_from=&_ipg=25

Does the billfold come with money in it?

Does the billfold come with money in it?

It should for the price:p

Shawn I would imagine that the billfold is on the frequently counterfeited list. You might need to address this in your ebay listing.

I have so much junk around here but I always wondered how people react to the the fact you have no history.

Shawn I would imagine that the billfold is on the frequently counterfeited list. You might need to address this in your ebay listing.

I have so much junk around here but I always wondered how people react to the the fact you have no history.

Thanks Big. The wallet was a gift from one of my business partners and I know he would never buy me a counterfeit, although I don't have proof. Maybe I can offer a guarantee. I did offer a return policy on it, maybe that will help. But that is a good point.

As for the feedback - another good point - my wife said the same thing. She suggested I have my neighbor list it all since he's got hundreds of feedback @ 100%, but that sounded like a lot of work to hand off to him.

I figured it's worth a try to get rid of all my crap, and I have a lot of it! If you have a lot, I'd it a try too. The listing fees are pretty low, but the selling fees aren't.

I guess I'm just relying on ebay's buyer protection.

I did make my first sale yesterday though!

http://cgi.ebay.com/Rolex-Sea-Dweller-SS-Mens-Watch-/260662722998?pt=Wristwatches&hash=item3cb0b581b6

So hopefully he'll leave me some feedback!!

I don't think it matters much. If the price is good, many folks will try out a new user.

Man, I love my sea dweller. That thing takes a punishment. It's my everyday watch and it's sees under hoods, under cars, paint, stain, varnish, everything. It's just a beast. Oh, and after all I've put it through, it looks just as good as the day I bought it.

Now, you've sold it, whatcha gonna buy? ;)

I don't think it matters much. If the price is good, many folks will try out a new user.

Good to hear, thanks :)

Man, I love my sea dweller. That thing takes a punishment. It's my everyday watch and it's sees under hoods, under cars, paint, stain, varnish, everything. It's just a beast. Oh, and after all I've put it through, it looks just as good as the day I bought it.

Now, you've sold it, whatcha gonna buy? ;)

I agree, the SD is an awesome watch. And yes VERY tough. I wore that thing everywhere, the gym, the ocean, and even in suits. It looks great all the time.

The rolex was a present for myself when I met a financial goal I set for myself. I made the same promise to myself if I met another goal for another watch I have loved for the past year or so: An Audemars Piguet Royal Oak Offshore:

http://www.kronometry1999.com/docs/ap/ap_26170ST_OO-a.jpg
http://www.uncoverthenet.com/shawn/ap11.jpg

I love it!

Only downside is I'll be without a ripping computer for a little bit - hopefully not too long though. Luckily the new releases lately have been really crappy!

Join the club SW. I need to replace my BD drive. It hasn't completely bitten the dust, but it's starting not to read the newer movies. I suspect a driver issue, but it's a Lite-On, about 2 years old, and they don't even have a driver for the thing anymore.

It wouldn't rip Date Night for our date night; so I'll be dusting off the BDP-S550. :eek: Good thing I didn't sell it just yet.

CD

Hmmmm....that wallet looks pretty nice.

Join the club SW. I need to replace my BD drive. It hasn't completely bitten the dust, but it's starting not to read the newer movies. I suspect a driver issue, but it's a Lite-On, about 2 years old, and they don't even have a driver for the thing anymore.

It wouldn't rip Date Night for our date night; so I'll be dusting off the BDP-S550. :eek: Good thing I didn't sell it just yet.

CD

Date night is funny. Not a great movie, but I think a lot of married people can relate to it!

Hmmmm....that wallet looks pretty nice.

Ah so it was you that bought it eh? ;) J/k, kinda funny I was worried it wouldn't sell for reasons big mentioned, then I had 2 buyers at once!

On another note, is it me or does something seem too good to be true with this Sim2:

http://cgi.ebay.com/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewItem&item=250694679435&ssPageName=STRK:MEWAX:IT

Or have the prices come down that much?!

shawn when are you going to test unRAID 5 for us all? It is still beta, but sounds very promising.

shawn when are you going to test unRAID 5 for us all? It is still beta, but sounds very promising.

Thanks, didn't even know there was a 5 ;)

But yeah looks neat. Maybe I'll give it a try!

Heard back on the ripping PC - it was the mobo that failed! So they had to order a new motherboard and they will ship the pc back to me later next week. All free of charge :)

Nice one Shawn, at least you got it fixed & free too!!;)

At least you'll be back on track soon.

My setup has taken a step back lately, need to redo network wiring. Since installing a BT Vision box (UK based TV & On demand video recorder)

The homeplugs didn't like my setup with the router, so i've gotta re-route several cat5e cables to sort the problem out.

Till i get this done, i'll be without the server & no films for a few weeks!!:(

Cheers
Lee

Nice one Shawn, at least you got it fixed & free too!!;)

At least you'll be back on track soon.

I'm back in business! I got the PC back yesterday! Looks like they had to reinstall windows too, but all my data and programs are still on it.

That's good Shawn, I would have taken the extra step & mirrored the drive just in case they erased it!!:eek:

I've seen that happen before!! I always backup, before working on any of my PC's. (Or anyone else's for that matter!! Just in case!!;))

Glad you've got it working, so you'll be busy catching up then!!:p

Cheers
Lee

yeah lets see your back log of amazon purchases

Yet another wrinkle on the HT front. My Harmony 890 remote that I bought in June of '08 seems to be acting up. The volume buttons barely work anymore. So since it's over a year old, the warranty is up and the extended warranty through my CC is also up.

So I contacted harmony and they said the best they could do for me is give me 50% off a new remote through them. I dunno if I should do it or not. But I do like the 890 and see the 900 gets pretty good reviews. Anyone familiar with the 900?

http://cache-02.gawkerassets.com/assets/images/4/2009/08/remote1.jpg

Don't know if you resolved this, but the EXACT same thing happened to me. The volume up button stopped working, they offered me the $200 discount. I took it. I'm happy with everything except for the lack of the precise IR emitters a la 890.

shawn, do you have American Psycho and if so, did you have any issues ripping it?

Sorry all for the delay, I was traveling - we went to Niagara Falls! And then I came home to a cold dangit! Been sick for the past few days. Probably because it was freezing in Canada and I didn't have a coat!

yeah lets see your back log of amazon purchases

LOL, I slowed down quite a bit in the past few months ;)

That's good Shawn, I would have taken the extra step & mirrored the drive just in case they erased it!!:eek:

I've seen that happen before!! I always backup, before working on any of my PC's. (Or anyone else's for that matter!! Just in case!!;))

Glad you've got it working, so you'll be busy catching up then!!:p

Cheers
Lee

Thanks Lee. You're right I should have mirrored the drive. There was really no data, just mainly programs like anydvd, yanfoe etc, but still should have played the safe route. Glad it worked out ok though!

Don't know if you resolved this, but the EXACT same thing happened to me. The volume up button stopped working, they offered me the $200 discount. I took it. I'm happy with everything except for the lack of the precise IR emitters a la 890.

Thanks very much! Actually Oman helped me repurpose some other buttons to use for now, which has been working fine. I have also fell in love with the 'macros' like turning on lights when pause is hit, and off when play is hit. So I think I'm waiting [hopefully] for another version that also supports those. If it doesn't come though, I guess I'll be getting the 900.

shawn, do you have American Psycho and if so, did you have any issues ripping it?

No, sorry don't have that one. Actually I've never even seen it. Isnt that with Christian Bale? Any good?

Thanks very much! Actually Oman helped me repurpose some other buttons to use for now, which has been working fine. I have also fell in love with the 'macros' like turning on lights when pause is hit, and off when play is hit. So I think I'm waiting [hopefully] for another version that also supports those. If it doesn't come though, I guess I'll be getting the 900.

Ya. That wouldn't go over well with the Mrs. She was nagging me to do something about the remote. Since it's not in a dedicated theater and I don't have lighting control, I wasn't worried about macros. I'm disappointed that they dropped Z-wave from the 900. I was considering going to lighting control.

No, sorry don't have that one. Actually I've never even seen it. Isnt that with Christian Bale? Any good?

Well, it depends on your definition of good. I will say the movie is crazy. It is definitely a guy movie. I think it is good, but weird good. For the few bucks of a used copy, I think it is worth it, especially for you, I mean you have Ghost Rider and it is hard to be worse than that...

Hey all, sorry I haven't posted in a while. A lot has happened, but long story short, I'm getting a divorce:eek: . But before you feel sorry for me, know it's for the better, for both of us! I'm happy about it.

Moving on to AVS stuff - so she is taking some of the TVs in the house, one in particular is the TV in the master bedroom. It's only a 26" LCD, so I don't mind, since it's so small :p

But it's on a rather small wall, so the largest I can comfortably go is 32". So I'm deciding between a Samsung 720p 32" LCD for $329, or a Samsung 720p LED for $499, or a 1080p LG LED for $549. I realize 1080p at that screen size and my distance won't make much difference. But any opinions on what/which to buy? :)

Well, it depends on your definition of good. I will say the movie is crazy. It is definitely a guy movie. I think it is good, but weird good. For the few bucks of a used copy, I think it is worth it, especially for you, I mean you have Ghost Rider and it is hard to be worse than that...

Ah ok thanks. I'll give it a rent, I've been buying less lately! Still haven't even watched most of the ones I purchased since I bought them!!

Very sorry to hear that Shawn. I know you had been having some trouble, but I was figuring/hoping the two of you had worked things out.

As for your TV question, I was recently researching small TV's for our master bedroom (36" - 40") and read lots of reviews and viewed lots of sets in-store. For me, it came down to simply a matter of price. From out bedroom viewing distance and the size of the display, none of the other stuff really mattered (couldn't see the difference). So, unless you want a specific feature from the TV (i.e. internet), just get the best deal on a 32" you can find (with the options you gave above, I'd go with the Sammy, and if it's the 32LD350, that's the same display I ended up getting).

Thanks Stew, 32LD350 looks like a great option. I'll probably get that. All the reviews on it are good and it's only $329 :)

I put a 720 42 sammy in my bedroom and love the thing. It does get limited use, but it is more than enough. It is a plasma I believe, but honestly I dont recall. as mentioned, in the bedroom, you dont need much in features, just a decent picture and this thing delivers.

I hate asking because it is personal, but based on what you have said, you are keeping the house, umm, are you keeping the kitchen...I know that it was not your design, so that is the only reason I ask...

Shawn,

Welcome back to "active mode" in these forums.
Sorry to hear about the personal difficulties with the "M" word, but it also seems you have made it thru and are quickly getting to a better spot. Looking forward to more updates and conversations!

I put a 720 42 sammy in my bedroom and love the thing. It does get limited use, but it is more than enough. It is a plasma I believe, but honestly I dont recall. as mentioned, in the bedroom, you dont need much in features, just a decent picture and this thing delivers.

I hate asking because it is personal, but based on what you have said, you are keeping the house, umm, are you keeping the kitchen...I know that it was not your design, so that is the only reason I ask...

Thanks Smak! Actually I ended up thinking that I wanted to try a bigger TV in the space, since I would be using it now (instead of her). So I figured why not go as big as I could :D

So I got a 42" and yes it's a little "full", but it still fits, and I don't think it looks out of place:

http://www.uncoverthenet.com/shawn/theater/1261.jpg

As for the kitchen, yes I am keeping it and keeping it as is. My neighbor is helping me decorate after she moves out next week and going to make it all work together!!

Shawn,

Welcome back to "active mode" in these forums.
Sorry to hear about the personal difficulties with the "M" word, but it also seems you have made it thru and are quickly getting to a better spot. Looking forward to more updates and conversations!

Thanks Craig! Speaking of future conversations, my first battle is the kitchen island light (the chrome one we just replaced). My neighbor thinks it should be changed to match the dinette one. Opinions? Btw, that table and chairs is new, from a consignment shop...$100! Just gotta recover the cushions.

http://www.uncoverthenet.com/shawn/theater/1262.jpg



And moving on, this is a table that we found at a consignment shop for like $200, and my neighbor just said paint it and man he was right :)

http://www.uncoverthenet.com/shawn/theater/befaft1.jpg
http://www.uncoverthenet.com/shawn/theater/befaft2.jpg


And finally here is my new little girl, Hailey :)
http://www.uncoverthenet.com/shawn/theater/hailey1.jpg
http://www.uncoverthenet.com/shawn/theater/haileyout.jpg

Lot more projects to come!!!:D

Finally the backsplash pic!

Change the light fixture (eventually).

Shawn,

I agree; losing the chrome light over the island would be good - something more "rustic" like the one over the table would be more fitting.

Finally the backsplash pic!


Oh man, sorry I forgot all about it:o

Shawn,

I agree; losing the chrome light over the island would be good - something more "rustic" like the one over the table would be more fitting.

Thanks guys, ok the light will go!

Yes, I'm painting...again :D

Today, I met with my neighbor and we went to Lowes and picked out some paint colors, and also a stain color for the brick fireplace.

I still have a long way to go, but look at the differences, just already!!

Tomorrow, I still have another coat for the walls and then will do the ceiling (a lighter tan), and don't mind the furniture, it's not mine :)

http://www.uncoverthenet.com/shawn/fam1.jpg
http://www.uncoverthenet.com/shawn/fam2.jpg

Shawn,

NICE color changes for this room - much less formal and will be more relaxing once you replace that flowery furniture! I like where you are going with this room.

I saw the first picture, and I said to myself "Ew why would he go with that", then I scrolled down. Much improved.

Is the green tape better than the blue for paint bleed? I think I saw it on TV somewhere.

Thanks guys! I'm excited to actually have a home for once. :)


Is the green tape better than the blue for paint bleed? I think I saw it on TV somewhere.

Its supposed to be, and it's also more $$ than the blue tape. I have used both in the past and haven't really noticed a difference. I've got blue and green tape on this job, so I'll pull the tape off tomorrow and see if one performed better than the other!

Room pretty much done. Today I did another coat on the walls and also did the ceiling (PITA!!), and also hung some blinds :)

http://www.uncoverthenet.com/shawn/fam21.jpg

Next up, for this room atleast is the fireplace log setup (with remote!!) to be installed and then next is to furnish it. I already bought the furniture, it's coming next Thursday.

This is gonna make a really great alternative to my theater, for just casual TV watching!!

Is the green tape better than the blue for paint bleed? I think I saw it on TV somewhere.

Ok, I saw no differences between the two tapes - green and blue. Actually I had three going - green, blue general purpose and blue delicate. Ending results looks to be all about the same to me - I dunno!

Ok, I saw no differences between the two tapes - green and blue. Actually I had three going - green, blue general purpose and blue delicate. Ending results looks to be all about the same to me - I dunno!

Thanks, I saw a commercial for the green tape and I thought "I wish I had that when I was painting my basement". I was curious if it actually worked better. Although, I may be repainting the basement so I may get another shot.

Looks great, and I love Two and a Half Men.

My next project...the kitchen!

Did this today, faux finished the hood and painted one wall. The other walls with all the cabinetry in there are going to be a PITA!! Hopefully it will look good when done though :)

http://www.uncoverthenet.com/shawn/kit1.jpg
http://www.uncoverthenet.com/shawn/kit2.jpg
http://www.uncoverthenet.com/shawn/kit3.jpg

Sorry to hear about the split.

The changes look really good so far.

James

Gosh, where have I been? I missed the painting of the fireplace, which came out awesome! I was beginning to wonder how all that non-white was going over but then I read someone else's reply - again, sorry to hear but glad to hear that you seem good :).

Shawn, after all this fixing up you aren't going to just turn around and sell your house are you? And leave that kick !&$@% theater of yours?

Gosh, where have I been? I missed the painting of the fireplace, which came out awesome! I was beginning to wonder how all that non-white was going over but then I read someone else's reply - again, sorry to hear but glad to hear that you seem good :).

Shawn, after all this fixing up you aren't going to just turn around and sell your house are you? And leave that kick !&$@% theater of yours?

Hey Queen!!

Thanks, I love the color, can't stand the white now, it's terrible!! And no way, I'm not selling anytime soon! Even if I wanted to, I would lose a ton of money on my house, so no way!....Plus I love my theater way too much :D

Sorry to hear about the split.

The changes look really good so far.

James

Thanks James!!

Man what happened, I was enjoying this thread

Man what happened, I was enjoying this thread

Hey sorry!! I'm still alive and still very much enjoying the theater!!! :D

Hope everyone is doing ok! Haven't been here in forever it seems....just trying to curb my upgraditus that I'm sure I'd get when I see things like LED projectors!!

I did have a bulb go out in my Sim2 a few weeks ago, but I replaced it and all was well again!

I actually slowed down quite a bit on ripping movies to my library. I still have all my movies and my media server, but I don't add to it like I used to. Usually just a movie here and movie there.

I also am in the process of buying a vacation home in Wilmington (Wrightsville Beach), NC. There is a full in law suite above the (detached, but attached via covered porch) garage including living room, bedroom, full kitchen and full bath. My plans? To make one of those rooms in there a theater room for my vaca home!!!! Can't wait...coming soon..."best room above the garage" haha :)

Shawn,

Good to hear from you and know all is well. Welcome Back!
Your NC adventure sounds like fun - keep us posted

Sounds like a perfect opportunity to indulge the upgrade-itis! Sim2 goes to the vacation home, and you get a shiny new LED projector for the main house. :) I just noticed, where in the Chicago Area are you?

Shawn,

Good to hear from you and know all is well. Welcome Back!
Your NC adventure sounds like fun - keep us posted

Thanks Craig!

Sounds like a perfect opportunity to indulge the upgrade-itis! Sim2 goes to the vacation home, and you get a shiny new LED projector for the main house. :) I just noticed, where in the Chicago Area are you?

There's an idea!! But then I gotta spend more $$$! I live in the S Elgin/St Charles area.

I'm in South Chicago myself.

Just a suggestion. Knowing the upgrade bug myself, I know it always helps to justify it as "using the old equipment elsewhere". Or should I say hurts?

I also am in the process of buying a vacation home in Wilmington (Wrightsville Beach), NC. There is a full in law suite above the (detached, but attached via covered porch) garage including living room, bedroom, full kitchen and full bath. My plans? To make one of those rooms in there a theater room for my vaca home!!!! Can't wait...coming soon..."best room above the garage" haha :)


Uh oh...I see this taking a life of its own. How does one trump a door like that anyway :p.

Hey Shawn.

Were you crusing with your green Lambo friend on Sunday down Hwy 38 in DT "G". Saw two go by (one orange, one green) and thought it might be you. u should have stopped at the girls car wash (or maybe not).

There was another guy giving rides to the owners of Josef's in is "Carroll Shelby signed glovebox" Cobra. Great day for cars....

Hey all, hope everything is going good! I'm here in NC now, bought the place a couple weeks ago and have decided on a location for the theater. It's in the "apartment" over the garage. The area has a (very small) bedroom, a bathroom, and one big room with a kitchen in it. That's the room I've got to do. The bedroom is too small, I think. It's not going to be as nice as my theater in Chicago, I'll just say that now, but I'd like to make it as nice as I can!!

First up, a sketch. The entire front wall will look similar to the best room; the 112" wide means the screen width. It will be all screen surrounded by gom panels. The windows will be blacked out and then I'll build fabric panels to cover them. Same with the closet up front by the screen wall. The doors will be removed, and I'll make a fabric door, as that will house the equipment. I'll also remove the ceiling fan and put down some sort of large area rug covering most of the wood floors.

First up - what colors should I paint? I already started - a rust color and then black ceiling, and black trim. However I hate the rust color now. And to make it worse, the cabinets and appliances in the kitchen are white. I'm open to painting the cabinets though. So any color suggestions? I'm open to anything!!!

Thanks :D

http://www.uncoverthenet.com/shawn/sketch.jpg
http://www.uncoverthenet.com/shawn/the1.jpg
http://www.uncoverthenet.com/shawn/the2.jpg
http://www.uncoverthenet.com/shawn/the3.jpg

Welcome back to theater building! On the cabinets just looking at them I'm guessing that they might be a thermofoil laminate which will require some high tech paint to bond well. As for a color A dark brown like the first picture here:

http://www.ikea.com/us/en/catalog/categories/departments/kitchen/tools/kitchen_rooms_ideas

Thanks Big! :) So dark brown for the cabinets? I figured I could sand them down and then use a primer and then the paint. Maybe I'll ask around at home depot before doing that. How bout the wall color? What should I paint instead of the rust color?

I think your objection to the rust is that it has too much orange. I have to run to my Kick-boxing class, but this PM I will try mixing in a little more gray with photoshop to see how it looks toned down.

actually like up in the shadows (upper right) of this picture but a little lighter.

http://www.uncoverthenet.com/shawn/the3.jpg

Definitely something like an espresso brown on the cabinets. If you don't have a sprayer, it might be worth it to rent one from HD. There are also products to change your countertop color also. Take a look at HD as well. For the appliances, maybe you can find some black ones on CL and then sell yours on CL, that way your net cost to replace will be small. Wall colors are more personal. For me, a nice dark blue with some grey in it would work for me. Looks like fun though!

Thanks guys. Any of these three?

http://www.uncoverthenet.com/shawn/pn1.jpg

actually like up in the shadows (upper right) of this picture but a little lighter.

http://www.uncoverthenet.com/shawn/the3.jpg

So more like a really dark brown?

The blue/grey but darker and in flat to cut down on reflections.

http://i23.photobucket.com/albums/b393/bigmouthindc/the3-2.jpg

http://i23.photobucket.com/albums/b393/bigmouthindc/the3-2.jpg

I think this is nice. not too dark.

Shawn, of your 3, like it was said, the top right but darker. Not white and absolutely no red/orange

The blue/grey but darker and in flat to cut down on reflections.

That's my vote too.

Shawn,

Welcome back with a new project!

I see you already have some excellent advice going. My 2 cents worth:
- That latest darker rust sample above (from "Big" - I think) is looking good.
- Definitely loose the white in the kitchen. I believe Rust Oleum has some specialty formulations designed for this purpose

I've recently become a fan of white cabinets. I say keep em. On the other hand, I am not a fan of white appliances. But that's just me. I'm a stainless type of guy. However, in a theater room, I'm not sure it matters much. I say leave the cabinets alone.

Big's rust color looks great.