what is best media center under $400?

Windows Media Center is free with Home Premium. XBMC is also free and acts as an open-source media center and runs on Windows, Mac, Linux, and XBOX systems, . Boxee is based on similar content as XBMC but brings you web content. Plex is a media center for Mac but is also a variable of XBMC.

✔ Highest voted answer

Reply · Send thanks · posted 92 days ago · 1 person agrees

I agree with XBMC. Its been around since the original xbox. It has had so many years to mature into a sweet system with lots of options built in. Works on pc (low end to high end), mac, linux and xbox. Running it on my custom htpc and i couldnt be happier. Keeps my media well organized and the plugins you can get for it, along with the ability to launch programs outside of xbmc makes it a must for htpc's.

Reply · Send thanks · posted 85 days ago

Thanks for the replies from everyone. Getting more specific. I'm looking for the following:
1. Small box
2. HDMI compatible for video (don't have an HDMI supported audio receiver but possibly later)
3. low noise
4. I would like to record from HD antenna & possibily ROKU player (doing away with cable TV)
5. DVD RW player (Blueray not neccessary but would like)
6. I would like to be able to stream to other TV's or possibly the internet (Not sure if a NAS is required for this to work).
7. I would be able to build the system myself. Not sure on the best operating system for this. The XBMC based system with Boxee looks good.

Reply · Send thanks · posted 89 days ago

Boxee Box, or a computer with XBMC

Reply · Send thanks · posted 90 days ago

You need to be more specific. Are you looking for a bluray/dvd surround sound system to go with your tv or something else. What are some features you are looking for?