I am confused, what is a Media Centre and do I need one?

Correctly speaking; a Media Centre is a computer that is connected to your television and is enhanced for Audio and Video. Typically this would be a PC running Window’s “Media Centre” software.

Lately the term has also been used more loosely to describe a device that connects to your TV and offers the ability to enjoy your digital media (movies, photos, music) via your computer network.

But do you need such a device?

By having a dedicated PC in your lounge room you also gain the ability to browse the internet, play computer games, check email, record TV to hard drive; BUT even though it may have a remote control remember that this is a PC and requires quite a bit of computer knowledge to operate. Many customers have purchased Media Centres being promised the world and are very disappointed when they struggle to even put a DVD on.

A device like the new Apple TV, aims to provide you with access to your digital media via your TV whilst making the experience a whole lot easier. OK so you can’t surf the net or do home banking with it but you do get stunning photo slide shows, instant access to your music library and stored videos (apple format).

Ask your HiFi specialist for a solution to your requirements.