Htpc

[baskerva]

I'm looking into building a HTPC here in the next few weeks or so and I really want to use a Linux OS to run it. I know that Mythbuntu with a fore/back-end setup will work with Mythtv for the television aspect, but I also want to be able to watch blu-ray movies as well as rip/burn and I've heard that might not be possible. I will also need to probably and install the Ubuntu or Kubuntu desktop for basic desktop functions. Can this all be accomplished with Linux or do I need to bite the bullet and get windows media center? I also am wondering what type of graphics card will be best suited for Linux. I've not had any issues with the one running on my current machine, but want to make sure when buying a new one that it will work on. Don't know if any brands are better than other for driver compatibility...

 

[skittle]

Rejoice! Yes this can all be accomplished with linux and Free Open Source Software!
1.) Stay away from ATI. Get an Nvidia card.
2.) You can use any distrobution. Ubuntu, Arch, Fedora etc... You can install media center apps (xbmc) and mythtv on any of them.
3.) For bluray there is only one good native solution. MakeMKV. It is payware but currently free and I highly suggest checking it out. http://makemkv.com/ (link to the linux files are in the forums). There are a few attempts at open source bluray decrypter but does not work on newer discs.

That being said, XBMC is the clear choice for a linux HTPC
http://xbmc.org/

Very nice user interface, and can have a mythtv backend. They even have their own distro built on top of ubuntu.

 

[Pyroflea]

Follow Skittle's advice to the t.

- Nvidia is infinitely better than ATI when it comes to Linux.
- Any distribution will work. Use something you're comfortable with, preferably with good community support (Debian/Ubuntu derivatives are always a safe choice)

Obviously you'll need a Blu ray drive in order to read/rip BR's as well.

XBMC is awesome.

'Nuff said

 

[baskerva]

That is such a relief to know. I've been using Ubuntu, but thinking of switching over to Kubuntu. With my build i'll be getting a blu-ray driver/burner for sure. I'm very excited to stay away from windows and all of the headaches that tend to come with it. Thanks for the knowledge

 

[Pyroflea]

Good luck with your build! Don't hesitate to come back for help if you need any

 

[chamaecyparis]

That is such a relief to know. I've been using Ubuntu, but thinking of switching over to Kubuntu. With my build i'll be getting a blu-ray driver/burner for sure. I'm very excited to stay away from windows and all of the headaches that tend to come with it. Thanks for the knowledge

Try Xubuntu in lieu of Kubuntu, too! (LOL)

Glad you are choosing to be Pane-Free!

 

[Pyroflea]

Try Xubuntu in lieu of Kubuntu, too! (LOL)

Lubuntu is nice as well

(There are way too many damn *buntu variants!)

 

[baskerva]

Best answer selected by baskerva.