Media Computer time?

[CheapBastid]

Hi,

I've been away for a bit, but felt compelled to come back with a question for the knowledgeable here at DVDTalk.

I had a cheap all-in-one solution for my home theater setup. It was a Panasonic SA-AK600 (5CD changer, Home Theater, Receiver). Well, it just died on us (blown IC (http://www.pechorin.com/m/2005/01/19/Technics_F61_problem-232429.html)) and I'm trying to figure out what to replace it with.

I am my handle, so I was thinking of just getting a passable receiver and a CD player/changer, then I thought perhaps a Media Computer might be the way to go. Last time I scoped them out was over a year ago and I thought perhaps they'd gotten cheaper/better since then.

Anyone have any suggestions?

[Spiky]

If you get such a computer, you still need a receiver. Or some cheesy speakers that have amps built-in. You can find info on HTPCs at many different places. Some spend thousands, others get by for $4-600. You can spec such an animal at most PC maker sites, like Dell. Or there is a thread at the AVS HTPC forum with system recommendations.