Media Player Recommendations

DavoW on 29/06/2016 - 10:55

Hey ozbargainers.

Looking for a new media player to replace a dead Mac that used to serve as our plex home theatre. I've seen a few such as the r-box on eBay and others on geekbuying. There was discussion with regards to differing amounts of RAM and the CPUs that they used, so I'm a bit in the dark as to what's good.

Preferably would be the following:

Multiple USB ports for hard drives.
Separate HDMI and optical audio out to connect to existing equipment.
A simple interface so wifey can switch on and go, so maybe an android front end?
Netflix playback would be great, but not a deal breaker.
Under $75 would be great.

Any hints or suggestions?

Thanks in advance.

Electrical & Electronics

Comments

  • spackbace on 29/06/2016 - 12:17
    +1

    Find a secondhand WDTV that supports Netflix (newer ones don't). Will do everything you want it to, has a remote (rather than using your phone) so wifey will be happy, and plays everything you throw at it.

    • No on 29/06/2016 - 12:24
      +1

      I had a WDTV Live but it was pretty slow and unreliable. They may have improved lately but I moved to Roku & I am really happy with it. It doesn't have optical out or many USB ports so wouldn't be suitable for OP.

    • DavoW on 29/06/2016 - 14:55

      I did have one many years ago before switching to a boxee box and then the Mac. Good recommendation, will have to have a look on gumtree methinks.

  • No on 29/06/2016 - 12:25
    +1

    If you like to tinker check out the Raspberry Pi. You can put something like this on it and I believe Android is coming soon so you could dual boot between various different operating systems.

    There are plenty of guides online so if you don't know linux as long as you can copy and paste commands you should be fine.

  • frondono on 29/06/2016 - 12:38
    +1

    I'd probably get something with a z8300 or above in it. Probably something from geekbuying as they offer reasonable express postage.

  • StewBalls on 29/06/2016 - 14:14
    +1

    Keep your eye out for a good used Xbox 360, they make a great media box…Plex now being free is also a big win in this dept.

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