latest update, remote is working perfectly. also got wireless xbox 360 controllers to work in emulators. currently running an nes emulator, and mame. next up to get working is snes, n64, and sega genesis. I even have it so you launch the game directly from xbmc, it goes to the emulator, and then when you're done hit a button and go back to xbmc. it's pretty seamless and easy for anyone to use.

 

What's your total cost?

 

For the server, I think it was about $300 not including the drives.

the htpc was free since I upgraded my work pc and got the old one.

I've bought little things here and there so maybe $400 total for the 2 computers involved, with lots of freebies.

 

i use this - http://www.sothinkmedia.com/video-converter/

it's $25 for the full version & will rip dvds, convert practically any file format to any file format & will also let you edit start/end

i used it to rip my Insanity dvds, then i edited the intos & end commercials out. i can also convert them from avi to .mov for an ipad or whatever. i've used that to convert movies & tv shows to .mov for a friend that only had a MAC laptop when she wanted all the episodes of breaking bad & sons of anarchy