I have a ReplayTV... why SHOULDN'T i build a HTPC?

[Diabolus]

I have a friend that is suggesting that I not do it, but I like the idea of having a web browser, email client, word processor, AND a PVR (was going to use SageTV) in my room with a wireless keyboard and mouse.

I know the positives... any negatives? I am going to re-use parts of my current PC (i'm upgrading to an Athlon 64 3000) to build this new HTPC, so my investment cost will be pretty minimal. I'm going to buy a motherboard (has audio, video, tv out, and optical out), case, wireless periphrals, WinTV PVR and the SageTV software. I'm also going to sell my ReplayTV to cover the expenses of doing this upgrade (I should get ~400 on e....bay, since I have lifetime registration).

Anyways... always looking forward to hearing why I should not do something. Also, any input you may have in this regard because I'm trying to keep my options open so I don't shoot myself in the foot later on. I figure if I slap a DVD burner onto this HTPC as well... I can back up everything I record should I so choose. It should be pretty good, no?

Again... looking to hear negatives and positives both, if I haven't mentioned any. I am choosing SageTV based on what people say, but I do admit I like the simplicity of my Replay.

Thanks all!

 

[arod]

no computer pvr will work as well as a real dedicated one, if you can deal with losing a recording here and there go for it, thats really the only drawback is its not as stable as a dedicated pvr.

 

[Diabolus]

I hadn't heard anything bad about SageTV losing recordings.... I'll try to do more searching. Anybody else?

 

[Todd33]

I have Replay, I just built a HTPC. I'm not done yet, but I figure it will be more flexable and useful. The replay has a nice resale with the lifetime subscription.

 

[Gonad the Barbarian]

One reason not to do it is that it will be a pain in the ass to get it set up & configured properly. Choosing the right hardware, the noise factor, getting all the software set up, etc. But it's well worth it once you get everything right and can sit back and enjoy it.

 

[rbV5]

You may be disappointed by the HTPC after getting used to your replay. User friendly, HTPC's are not. Maybe keep your replay and just get the WinTV PVR and try out SageTV before you upgrade to get a feel for the HTPC before jumping in all the way.

 

[Diabolus]

Hrmm.... I am going to use the beta test for Sage, and see how it works out. If I program it okay I think I'll be fine, so we'll see

 

[rbV5]

Originally posted by: Diabolus
Hrmm.... I am going to use the beta test for Sage, and see how it works out. If I program it okay I think I'll be fine, so we'll see

I really enjoy my HTPC, but I spend way too much time setting everthing up, trying new stuff. If you enjoy that kind of thing, like I do, its a pretty enjoyable waste of time.