THE BEST Mac Media Center Application.

Question

THE BEST Mac Media Center Application.

Can it be developed? Who will be the first?

I think the front runner for now is TVedia for PC. At least long file names scroll.

This is what a Media Center App for Mac should have, to be the best:

1. Integration with iTunes, iPhoto (playlists, albums, etc.)
2. Follow the user's folder structure, don't FORCE them into your organization for media.
3. Ability to view EyeTV live TV or recordings.
4. Ability to scroll long file names, or at least adjust font size : there is currently NO mac media center app that does this! TVedia is a good example of a PC media center app that does this effectively.
5. Support for web video: google & youtube, perhaps others.

I have not found a decent Mac Media Center solution, although so many are trying...is it really that hard to satisfy these 5 points? I would GLADLY pay for this functionality!

Dual 2ghz G5, MacBook Pro 2ghz, Mac OS X (10.4.6)

Posted on Sep 18, 2006 6:48 PM

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Answer 1

Sep 19, 2006 4:51 AM in response to Joshua Bessom

I would like to add the following:

- Ability to adjust aspect ratio and remember the setting for each video file / disc

- Ability to learn IR signals through the built-in IR receiver and program them to do certian functions. (6 button remote isn't flexable enough for me)

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Answer 2

Sep 21, 2006 1:00 PM in response to Joshua Bessom

true, front row has so many silly limitations.

I have to agree with #2, I don't have half the stuff they have entries for and #4 is just as annoying. I can't tell what half my tv shows are. Apple's solution to this seems to be that they prefer making many folders and just assume that tv show episodes, as well as movies, will have short titles. These two are huge, and probably my biggest complaints. I actually came to this posting board looking for a solution to #4.

That leads me to your #3, as long as you convert to a compatible avi format or mp4 then you can watch your tv shows if you place them, or a shortcut to them, in your Movies folder. Also note that you can place a directory within your iTunes library called Movies and another call TV shows, that's where iTunes puts the purchased stuff, what a hack. But note that this only supports mp4, no avis placed here will play, though they may play if placed in your Movies folder. interesting huh?

mini Mac OS X (10.4.7)

mini Mac OS X (10.4.7)

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