Thanks to this forum, I now understand that ATV is the simpler cheaper option, with some pro's in functionality like connectivity to iOS devices, but negatives like it isn't a computer. I'm leaning towards the mini (especially after writing the below), but would greatly appreciate someone with some experience and/or knowledge to check my assumptions in relation to retiring my 2006 duo mac mini to the lounge room (presuming they one day up-date the imac!!!).
Basically, the main functions I'm aiming for are full internet, non-country-restricted DVD player, access to files (music and vids) on the imac downstairs (extern HDs), and maybe a cool way to record off the TV onto a external HD connected to the mini. I'm a bit worried about how to control the mini - are there bluetooth / wi-fi apps so that I can use an iOS device for keyboard or mouse? or would a wireless keyboard / mouse be the go? or other cool solution?
What makes iTV or apple TV (?) seem less the point for me personally, is that I don't really need is access to more (bloody) US TV content. If they could deliver cricket or rugby to Germany, they'd have a sale - no question.
What I'm not too sure about is the connectivity between my imac, my wife's MBP, her iPhone 4s, and my iPhone 4s. Nothing is connected now, and we don't seem to wish it was.
My questions are,
* Is this a sensible retirement for my dual processor 2006 mac mini? or will it not deliver said functionality?
* Will I need any additional hardware other than the HDMI to DVI adapter; and a LAN cable (and maybe a remote keyboard / mouse / other)?
* How do I then establish file sharing with iMac downstairs? Through the router - will they just see each other (mini runs OSX 10.6.8)? If so, can my wife's ML MBP also share files wirelessly?
Grateful for any knowledgeable or experience based feedback.
Basically, the main functions I'm aiming for are full internet, non-country-restricted DVD player, access to files (music and vids) on the imac downstairs (extern HDs), and maybe a cool way to record off the TV onto a external HD connected to the mini. I'm a bit worried about how to control the mini - are there bluetooth / wi-fi apps so that I can use an iOS device for keyboard or mouse? or would a wireless keyboard / mouse be the go? or other cool solution?
What makes iTV or apple TV (?) seem less the point for me personally, is that I don't really need is access to more (bloody) US TV content. If they could deliver cricket or rugby to Germany, they'd have a sale - no question.
What I'm not too sure about is the connectivity between my imac, my wife's MBP, her iPhone 4s, and my iPhone 4s. Nothing is connected now, and we don't seem to wish it was.
My questions are,
* Is this a sensible retirement for my dual processor 2006 mac mini? or will it not deliver said functionality?
* Will I need any additional hardware other than the HDMI to DVI adapter; and a LAN cable (and maybe a remote keyboard / mouse / other)?
* How do I then establish file sharing with iMac downstairs? Through the router - will they just see each other (mini runs OSX 10.6.8)? If so, can my wife's ML MBP also share files wirelessly?
Grateful for any knowledgeable or experience based feedback.