Every time I get a new DVD in the mail from Netflix, I’m reminded why I hate DVD’s. They could be filled with blue rays, they could be brand new, whatever. The problem is that no matter what, they almost always skip. It’s like you can’t even breath on them or else you’re screwed. So here’s a list of the best gadgets to have in your home theater excluding any sort of DVD player.

Mac Mini
Why you ask? A Mac Mini will give all sorts of advantages in your home theater. One of the biggest is that you have internet access which lets you use Boxee. Not only that, you’ll also have access to Mac OS X’s Front Row, so with a little help from Handbrake and MacTheRipper you’ve got your entire DVD collection on your Mac. If they don’t fit, connect an external hard drive and you’re set. Also, Boxee will give you access to Netflix’s online streaming choices. Boxee also gives you access to Hulu, and if Hulu ever finds a way to block them again, you could always use Hulu Desktop. This is a must-have for any ultimate home theater. See how to launch Front Row on a secondary display.

The new Mac Mini will not only give you access to the iTunes store and all of its HD content, it will allow you to hook it up to an HDTV, and also allow you to install Windows (though I don’t know why you would). Another great thing about it is that in the event that none of the online services have the movie or TV show you want, you’re still able to use its DVD player.

iPhone/iPod Touch
This may seem like an unusual addition to your home theater, but if you’ve got your Mac Mini hooked up to your TV, the iPhone or iPod Touch is an amazing addition to your overall experience. After connecting everything to your home wireless network, not only will it allow you to control your music from anywhere in the house, you can also use iPhone Apps like Rowmote which will allow you to launch any application from your device.

Total cost before taxes is roughly $829. It’s a big price tag, but considering the money you’re saving from not having to pay cable, DVD rentals, DVD equipment, TV tuners, Tivo, you name it, it makes it very cost effective.

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4. Boxee Gets New API, Hulu Workaround, And More
5. My media setup with Boxee and Front Row

Tags: Boxee, HD, Hulu, OS X