Is there any Media Centre software for a Mac?

Question

I am thinking about getting a Mac Mini (mainly because of it's form factor) and a 24" iMac. I wish to using both of them as home media centres. (please don't ask why I am getting two.. it's complicated).

Anyways, is it possible to setup either Mac to be a media centre and then stream the data over the wire to a dumb terminal?

i'm sorta thinking of how an xbox can be a media centre extender and a pc can be the main media centre.

Answer 1

Besides XBMC you also have Plex, the source code is based on the XBMC Media Center code. I use Plex and it works great, I think it got a better UI than XBMC.

Answer 2

Since you didn't specify that you were needed TV tuner or DVR functionality, I believe Front Row (which comes installed on every Mac) meets your needs.

Answer 3

XBMC is a free open source media centre for Mac, Linux and Windows. It works well. I use it on my Mac to view exsiting Media Centre streams and when on the road to stream to others with very little problems.

Answer 4

Check,

• MacWorld: My multimedia Mac mini
• MacWorld: Mac mini media center: Configuring Front Row
• The Ultimate Mac Mini HTPC – Part 1: Media Center Software
  • Followed up with Part 2: Installing MediaPortal using Apple Boot Camp

Answer 5

Check out Boxee. It's free and works on Mac, Windows, and a variety of set-top boxes.