[cugine]

Hi,


I am new to the HTPC world but not to PC's. I recently purchased a 60" LCD RPTV and plan to hook my PC up via HDMI - DVI.


I will use the PC for Gaming, MP3's & DVD's. I have a digital cable HD set top box as well. I don't want to buy a separate sony DVD player with up conversion if I can do it via my PC. I am not familiar with this setup. Will I get better quality out of the PC? Could the PC and Cable TV have any interaction?


What Software do you recommend for the applications I listed above?

What hardware if, any?


Thanks for the help.


cugine

 

[mnn1265]

cugine, you have some reading to do....

Quote:

Will I get better quality out of the PC?

IF, and only IF, you take the time and configure your HTPC hardware and software correctly you will have a better quality picture than you would from all but the most expensive DVD players.

Quote:

Could the PC and Cable TV have any interaction?

If you use a capture card you can record programming onto your PC. Except HD, of which you can really only record OTA sources as cable HD is encrypted.


Hardware: search this forum and you'll find plenty of recommendations on what to buy for a great HTPC.


Software: search for Zoomplayer, TheaterTek and ffdshow to get you started. I'd recommend one of these programs for use in playing back DVD's.

 

[cugine]

Hi mnn1265,


Thanks for the reply.. I am so behind on reading. I think I may just take the lazy way out and buy a DVD/UP converter.. What are the top of the line? Does Sony make a good one?


On the other hand, I'd be willing to pay someone 65/hr if someone would like to do some consulting and help me get the most out of my HTPC. I hope this isn't against the rules of the forum, if it is I apologize.


Thanks,

cugine