HTPC: All done!
I finished my HTPC today, thanks to my father-in-law and my numerous consultants for their help. I said it was done awhile ago, but I didn’t include surround sound in that original assessment. So now it is DEFINITELY complete :).
The setup involves, first and foremost, the computer: Apple Mac Mini, Intel Core Duo 1.66GHz, 512MB RAM, 60GB HDD (base system).
Relevant software on the Mac is
- OS X latest version (currently 10.4.9)
- VideoLAN Client Media Player, plays all media types.
- Sofa Control, allowing system control from the Apple Remote.
Cost: $599 - 25% discount - $85 (thanks bro and person who traded me Best Buy gift card for Apple gift card) = $364 shipped.
Next, the TV: Samsung HL-S4666W 46″ DLP 720p HDTV
The Mac Mini is connected via VGA, and my XBoX 360 is connected via component cable. Price was $1000 shipped from Amazon.
Next, audio went from from the Mini to my AV Receiver via a Digital Optical Cable with Mini-TOSLINK adapter, like this one.
I was able to get the cable for $1 shipped from a nice guy over at [H]ard|Forum.
As far as the AV Receiver, I bought a JVC RX-6030VBK 5.1 on Craig’s List. Obviously, it was used, and it didn’t come with a remote, which I’m hoping won’t be a problem in the long run.
It was $70 local pickup.
Finally, I received 5 speakers and a subwoofer, hand-me-downs from my wife’s parents’ old broken surround sound setup. Their receiver and one speaker was broken, but everything else is fully functional. My living room came pre-wired for 5.1 surround sound. With my father-in-law’s help, I removed the set face plates and mounted the speakers to the wall. The speakers were free, so no complaints.
Overall price was $1435, and the setup sounds and looks awesome. There are plenty of pictures, and I’m sure there will be plenty more.
Jeff Said,
May 14, 2007 @ 8:45 am
Nice work.
I’m so 1337. I’ve had an HTPC with 6.1 surround setup in my 10′x11′ bedroom at my parents house for over a year now!!! Yeah….
Raybdbomb Said,
May 14, 2007 @ 11:29 am
Luckyyy. *reads parent’s house* err wait…
Ray's #1 fan Said,
May 17, 2007 @ 4:09 am
ray.
Raybdbomb Said,
May 17, 2007 @ 9:02 am
chuck.
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