Short version: Are the PH devices more for basic home users? For the $350 of a PH cost, could I build a basic HTPC for streaming and downloaded video playback?
Long version:
I'm a tinkerer, I admit it. I build my own PCs and have tried linux, windows, and mac. I have a current HTPC but it's old and won't even do a QT 720p trailer. I admit it's my old PC from 2003, so I'm not surprised.
Anyway, I was going to start researching new parts, when I saw the Popcorn Hour device, which looks like it would be able to stream videos from my current PC over the network, and has a slick interface. But for the price, since I'm capable of installing a new HTPC, is it worth it? Could I build a basic HTPC (not counting storage space) for the $350 that it would be for a Popcorn Hour? I have a few reusable accessories which helps out. But are any of the interfaces (like MediaPortal) as good?
Lastly, if I go HTPC, would it be worth it to put a BD-ROM in it for $100? I don't currently have BluRay at home, still on a 720p DVI projector.
Long version:
I'm a tinkerer, I admit it. I build my own PCs and have tried linux, windows, and mac. I have a current HTPC but it's old and won't even do a QT 720p trailer. I admit it's my old PC from 2003, so I'm not surprised.
Anyway, I was going to start researching new parts, when I saw the Popcorn Hour device, which looks like it would be able to stream videos from my current PC over the network, and has a slick interface. But for the price, since I'm capable of installing a new HTPC, is it worth it? Could I build a basic HTPC (not counting storage space) for the $350 that it would be for a Popcorn Hour? I have a few reusable accessories which helps out. But are any of the interfaces (like MediaPortal) as good?
Lastly, if I go HTPC, would it be worth it to put a BD-ROM in it for $100? I don't currently have BluRay at home, still on a 720p DVI projector.