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.