MediaPortal
Turn your PC into a home theatre system with this Open Source media centre
Filesize: 23960KB
Licence: Freeware
Restrictions: None
System: XP (SP2+)/ Vista
Version: 1.2.1 (01/04/11)
Website: http://www.team-mediaportal.com
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PC Utilities review:
The Media Center Edition (MCE) of Windows XP provides users with an excellent alternative interface for accessing audio and video files, listening to Internet radio stations, and tuning into TV stations. It's designed specifically with living room PCs in mind, and has a bold chunky interface that can be easily navigated from the comfort of your sofa with a remote control. The main drawback with Windows XP MCE is that it's only available pre-installed on Microsoft-approved PCs. Even if you've upgraded your PC with all the necessary multimedia hardware, you still can't get hold of the OS.
MediaPortal is an Open Source project that was launched to provide all PC users with an accessible alternative to Windows XP MCE. Unlike its Microsoft counterpart, MediaPortal works happily with virtually all PC setups. Using the separate Setup utility, you can configure MediaPortal to access all your multimedia hardware, including TV-tuner cards, as well as configuring which directories should be accessible from the Music, Movies and Pictures components.
The main program is packed with a dizzying array of options, which should help ensure your home theatre PC isn't relegated to the ranks of a glorified DVD player. In addition to accessing audio, video and photo files, you can view your local weather forecast, listen to Internet radio stations and even access online movie trailers. What's more, MediaPortal looks every bit as good as XP MCE
We first covered MediaPortal (0.1.0.0) back in issue 55, and though we were impressed with its functionality back then, the program had some serious stability issues and failed to install on some test PCs. Though the project has only progressed to version 0.2.0.0 RC3 in the intervening years, it's come a long way in terms of stability. The enhanced online functionality is a welcome bonus, and helps to make this a genuine alternative to Microsoft's offering.
Review last modified 16/04/09. Each month PC Utilities magazine reviews scores of great new programs. Have you considered taking advantage of our no-risk subscription offer?
User reviews:
TerryC says: A fantastic program. With a TV card, lets you pause and rewind live TV and record TV. Store all your music and photo's and watch them on your TV. I built a dedicated PC using this program, and now use it instead of my hard disk recorder! A full media center PC. Much better than microsoft's Media center, you can actually record using composite input without IR blasters being required! Hook it to a plasma/LCD TV and you can watch DVD's as well as surf the internet, utube, catch up TV etc. Loads of plugins available to customise for your needs. Amazing and free, although you can donate some cash. (05/03/2009)
techrim says: Awsome program please give it a go and its free (17/06/2008)
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