.VOB files in ATV and/or Front Row?

[pbkiller]

OK, here's what I do to rip and "digitalize" my DVD collection:

I rip my dvd's using RipIt, so it gets me a clean, 100% copy of the original DVD (minus the protection).

Then I use DVD2OneX to extract only the movie (I don't care about extras, special features, etc).

The result is a 2.5-4.5GB .VOB file that plays fine in my PS3 and VLC. I like to have a .VOB file because in the rare ocassion that I need to burn a copy of the dvd I just ripped (If i need it to play on a DVD player), I am able to do so using Toast. I use handbrake for my iPhone encondes, but I dont like the idea of having a .mp4 file that only plays on computers and/or PS3 (again, if i ever need to burn a copy to a dvd I would love to do so, don't think I can do it with a .mp4 file?)

I would like to use Front Row to manage my movies, but it doesn't play any.VOB files (funny enough, it plays Video_TS folders which include .VOB files). Anyways, is there a way for Front Row or ATV to play these type of files? I've heard about Plex but never used it, is it a good choice? Thanks in advance for all the help...

 

[pbkiller]

Well, I downloaded Plex and I was able to play a .VOB file without any problems, besides the fact that the program is a little complicated to set up. Would still like to use the native Front Row application as it;'s easier to deal with.

 

[daze]

I know this is not what you were asking but I thought I'd suggest this anyway... You should pick up a WD TV Live. It plays all formats without issue and is relatively inexpensive. I picked mine up in Toronto for $129.

For DVDs, what I do is that I use MakeMKV and convert them to an MKV file which is extremely fast since it does not re-encode video. An added benefit is that it supports multiple audio streams and subtitles.

 

[pbkiller]

Well, after downloading Plex and spending the nite tweaking it's settings... Gotta say I love it! It's much better than Front Row. It even let's you program the Apple remote so when you press MENU, it activates Plex and not the Front Row program. I was able to have a folder with AVI, VOB & mp4 files and they all play without a hiccup. Great software!

 

[daze]

Plex is quite nice. I like it even more than Boxee or even XBMC.