Media Center PC

[Tyrant]

I want a media centre that will be used for running Spotify through the TV and stereo. It seems sensible to have it capable of playng HD content and a blueray drive also.

I've no idea where to start. Whether I build it or buy something of the shelf I'll need pointing in the right direction if anyone can help?

Thanks!

[Tyrant]

At the moment I don't have a desktop PC, so if it is sensible price wise to buy one and stream from that I'll go with that option and put it in the office. As I don't yet have a blueray player I thought it might be worth having that built into whatever solution I go for.

I'll read up on your suggestions so far, thanks.

[Tyrant]

Ok I'm set on a stackable unit, I'd build one myself if I knew how.
Could someone help me with a sensible spec and parts list needed for blueray with hdmi, 5.1 sound, spotify and web browsing? A few places to buy online would also be helpful as would an idiots guide.

[Tyrant]

I'm struggling to find anything useful on AVforums simply because there's so much info.
I have to say I don't want to spend huge money on it - my laptop is capable of everything I want from the media centre all be it in the wrong package. So I'm thinking around £500.

[Tyrant]

theboyfold said:

Tyrant said:

I'm struggling to find anything useful on AVforums simply because there's so much info.
I have to say I don't want to spend huge money on it - my laptop is capable of everything I want from the media centre all be it in the wrong package. So I'm thinking around £500.

did you look at the link I posted above? Or have you looked into the Dell Hybrid?

Yeah, thanks. Price and spec wise it's what i'm after but I want something stackable and amp like in looks.

[Tyrant]

If I bought this case;

http://cgi.ebay.co.uk/Antec-Micro-Fusion-Remote-35...

What else should I buy to make a machine capable of playing blue ray from disc and the hard drive with audio outputs suitable for HD audio and music from spotify / harddrive?

[Tyrant]

Thanks, I'll have a go at putting something together.