Mac Mini as Sage HD client

[mikesm]

Has anyone here tried to use a Mac Mini (running windows) as a Sage HD client? I was looking to build a SFF 6150 based system when I ran into user reports of very good HD playback from the Intel based Mac Mini's. Apparently they can do full 1080i playback using the integrated Intel graphics accleration present in the 945 chipset the mini uses.

Here is a thread on the topic of the Intel GMA 950 and HD:
http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?t=781096

And here is a thread on installing MCE on the Mini (should work the same for XP): http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?t=706050

We just upgraded a couple TV's in bedrooms to HD LCD's and I would love to have a decent HD extender solution. Lacking that, the Mini would look to an excellent Sage client if it can really do the 1080i playback well. It's compact, has a builtin DVD player, and shouldn't require a lot of futzing around to get the video to work right. It's relatively expensive, but not that much more expensive than building it yourself, and you couldn't be able to deuplicate the formfactor very well in a build.

Some new models may be coming out very soon making older ones more of a bargain.

Thanks,
Mike

[flavius]

The question is if you would want the older model. Just wait a few days..

[Menehune]

I have one of the original minis-1.4GHz ppc chip with the standard 56k modem installed
I've been debating if I want to ugrade to OS 10.4.

[mikesm]

The old PPC one is lousy at HD playback unfortunately...

I know some new models are coming out soon. It'll be even better if they come with the new 965G based graphics acceleration - even more hardware assist.

thanks,
Mike