Front end

[faxel]

I am getting an older computer (xp2500 ati 9600 with a tuner card(not sure))

I really want to use it as a htpc. My problem now is what front end i should use. I will be using a spare digital stb and connect it to my crt hdtv. I don't want mce or linux alternatives eventhogh they are quite good.

I saw beyond tv gives me a free rf remote untill 12/12. Was wondering what you guys recommend. i know there are free alternatives like Meedio so let know what you guys would do.

Also i need a ir blaster.

 

[arkamw]

I played around with a number of front ends (I didn't try Meedio). I really wanted to like BeyondTV and BeyondMedia (as it came free with my capture card) but just couldn't get over the "here-and-there" glitches (for the record, it was BeyondTV 3.5 or 3.7something). BeyondMedia was nice but kept crashing daily.

I ended up going with SageTV because it has the most professional "feel" and is 100% stable on my machine. I have lifetime program schedule updates (as opposed to paying for it with BTV). Basically, once I got it set up (easier setup than anything else I tried) it just works. That counts for a LOT. If you do end up buying it, there are bundles out there. Check PCAlchemy for cheaper prices than the mfg website offers.

In the end though, it'll be up to you to try out a bunch of front ends and see what YOU like. What works for me in a front end may not work for you at all. Almost all of them have trial versions. And, to avoid headaches, be sure to check that your hardware is supported.