Mini + PS3 + HDTV?

[TRAG]

Hi guys. School is almost over and I'm going to start working this summer so I can set up my apartment for the fall. I need some advice on how to go about getting the perfect setup.

For starters, I already have a 2.4 aluminum MacBook and am definitely going to get a PS3. I'm thinking about getting a baseline Mac Mini and an LCD HDTV or display to be an HTPC, seeing as how my MB would most likely constantly be used for photography projects. I also have about 150 DVD rips which I play off of an external hard drive on my MB. I don't like original discs floating around so I just rip using Mactheripper.

1. Would it be better to go with the Mac Mini as the media center OR just use my MB? I do not want an Apple TV at all due to the usability of it. I'm liking the idea of having a 2nd Mac that can burn DVDs and run iTunes, Plex, Hulu, DVD rips, etc.

2. I need a 22"-26" LCD HDTV, but also need to use a display for photo editing. Do you have any suggestions for a great TV that can also be used as a good display OR a display that can accept analog television signals (coaxial). I will be editing on the MB because of the better specs, playing PS3, watching Blu-ray, TV, using Plex and such.

Any suggestions?

Trevor

 

[jnc]

1. Would it be better to go with the Mac Mini as the media center OR just use my MB? I do not want an Apple TV at all due to the usability of it. I'm liking the idea of having a 2nd Mac that can burn DVDs and run iTunes, Plex, Hulu, DVD rips, etc.

2. I need a 22"-26" LCD HDTV, but also need to use a display for photo editing. Do you have any suggestions for a great TV that can also be used as a good display OR a display that can accept analog television signals (coaxial). I will be editing on the MB because of the better specs, playing PS3, watching Blu-ray, TV, using Plex and such.

Any suggestions?

Trevor

Display-wise, I'd recommend Dells. I have a 2709 that runs my Mac , Wii and PS3 over DVI, Component and HDMI, then there's a composite port and DisplayPort left over as well. Only hitch is no co-ax, so you'll need your TV through composite if possible.

I wouldn't do photo editing on an LCD TV, I'd go for something more purpose built. Also I don't see any advantage on getting a new Mini if you can live with the "hassle" of unplugging a few cables when you need it on-the-go. Save the money!

 

[TRAG]

The Dell 2709 has very nice specs and reviews. I read that it has Display Port. Does it mean mini display port? Do you use mini display port, DVI, or VGA? My only option is mini display port.

 

[jnc]

Duplicate

 

[jnc]

The Dell 2709 has very nice specs and reviews. I read that it has Display Port. Does it mean mini display port? Do you use mini display port, DVI, or VGA? My only option is mini display port.

For some reason Apple chose to be awkward and introduce this büV$ん?も Mini-DisplayPort that even Apple doesn't support that well(Apple's LED Cinema Display with Mini DisplayPort STILL requires a USB port for audio, for instance, when the "predecessor" HDMI, carries audio+video).

To use your MacBook on a display such as the Dell 2709, you'll need a Mini DisplayPort to DVI adapter.

 

[TRAG]

Thanks jnc. That cleared up what I thought it was. I think I may not need the display for the editing just yet. Maybe I will next spring. I most likely will just get an LCD HDTV and use my brother's Dell monitor. All I need now to do is find a good TV.

 

[jnc]

Thanks jnc. That cleared up what I thought it was. I think I may not need the display for the editing just yet. Maybe I will next spring. I most likely will just get an LCD HDTV and use my brother's Dell monitor. All I need now to do is find a good TV.

You could probably get a nice 32" TV for the same price as a 24-27" monitor!

There should be a few 1080p sets at that size (I recall spotting a 32" Sharp Aquos 1080p online somewhere) but you'll probably want 37" or above to appreciate big screen full HD PS3 goodness I have a 40" Bravia, no complaints

 

[TRAG]

Thats' the plan. I actually don't need that big. This will be for my bedroom. I narrowed my choices down to this Vizio or these three Sony's. 1 2 3

 

[jnc]

Thats' the plan. I actually don't need that big. This will be for my bedroom. I narrowed my choices down to this Vizio or these three Sony's. 1 2 3

If your focus is on entertainment, value-wise I wouldn't think to go for a 1080p set, as at that size I don't think you'd notice a benefit over a 720p set...