Storing and watching DVDs on my computer

[alevasseur14]

So how does everyone do this? Right now I use dvdshrink to create an ISO file that I then have to use VLC player to watch. Ideally, I'd like to setup a watch folder through Windows Media Center and use that to play and control my movies. What progams do I need to rip my DVDs and then convert them into something Media Center can play? I really, really want to keep the original quality and 5.1 surround sound.

Thanks to you experts for any help!!!

 

[mmntech]

DVD Decrypter is probably the best tool, even if it's been discontinued. DVD Shrink should also work. All you need to do is rip them .VOB, which is the default file format used by DVDs. From there you can convert them to AVC or WMV if size is a concern, or just leave them as uncompressed VOB files.

 

[sivart]

I rip via DVDFab HD Decrypter -- Free http://www.dvdfab.com/free.htm
Use ImgBurn to create ISO (easier for me to move/manage) http://www.imgburn.com/ -- or you could continue to use DVD Shrink to do the ISO process. Just tell it you have a DVD9 disc.
User Media Browser in Vista Media Center (http://www.mediabrowser.tv/) to browse.

Works great, looks great.

 

[alevasseur14]

Thanks guys. Storage is of no concern as I have a little over 5 TB at my disposal...

As long as mediabrowser can pick up ISO files, I'll just leave all the files in that format without having to convert them. Sounds perfect!

 

[mshan]

How about a Windows Home Server box, with My Movies and AnyDVD plug-ins?

 

[erwos]

Originally posted by: alevasseur14
As long as mediabrowser can pick up ISO files, I'll just leave all the files in that format without having to convert them. Sounds perfect!

WMC has a built-in DVD Library function - use Google to find out how to enable it. Works quite nicely.

 

[alevasseur14]

Wow, I'd feel pretty dumb if WMC could read the ISOs the whole time and I didn't even know it!

Also, my fileserver is a WHS box so I'll look into those plugins as well! Thanks again!!!

 

[abaez]

AFAIK, it doesn't do ISO's out of the box.

 

[tw1164]

I've been using MakeMkv instead of Iso, I never watch the extras anyways.

 

[Mango1970]

MakeMKV +1 here if whatever application you end up using reads MKV. The conversion is blazing fast but just leaving them in ISO format is even better in my opinion.

I have for once found a combo that works like a dream for me and my gf can actually use herself. I ripped all my movies to various HD's... and using my PS3 to play them all with PS3 media Server running on the comp. That free app is something else... best I have ever used. Not exactly your situation but now that I can control my PS3 with my Harmony remote, life has gotten so much better.

 

[sivart]

Originally posted by: Mango1970
MakeMKV +1 here if whatever application you end up using reads MKV. The conversion is blazing fast but just leaving them in ISO format is even better in my opinion.

I have for once found a combo that works like a dream for me and my gf can actually use herself. I ripped all my movies to various HD's... and using my PS3 to play them all with PS3 media Server running on the comp. That free app is something else... best I have ever used. Not exactly your situation but now that I can control my PS3 with my Harmony remote, life has gotten so much better.

I have your setup in one room and the Vista Media Center in the other. Now if only PMS (PS3 media server) could have the look of media browser, I'd love it

 

[erwos]

Originally posted by: abaez
AFAIK, it doesn't do ISO's out of the box.

Correct. It does VOBs.