02-04-2009, 09:18 PM
RAMd®d wrote:
The only reason I don't have an AppleTV yet is because my 25" and 32" XBRs are all composite and RF, not HDMI or component.
It can be done with a temporary TV connection (don't need to open the ATV or do any software hacks), http://wiki.awkwardtv.org/wiki/Composite
As for this debate, I'd be tempted to see how my mini (or other spare Mac ...) fairs when connected to the TV, but I don't have any spare Macs.
But would I prefer it? If my main computer was in the TV room anyway and there wasn't a conflict with TV viewing vs. computer use, sure. Still, Hulu would be the biggest draw here, because it's about the best "TV-like" thing on the web.
Most of you overlook the significantly cheaper price and dedicated functionality ATV brings. Characterizing ATV as a Mac with missing features is inaccurate. Think about what makes a TV a TV --- it's an appliance. As beerman said, you put your Mom in front of it and she knows pretty much what to do. You turn it on and you get TV. Computers can be configured to be easy to use, dedicated solutions but NONE of them are that seamless to run or maintain.