New to Mac Mini -- Suggestions for Setup and Initial Actions

[stolaf]

Hi there. I may be getting a bit ahead of myself (I pick up my Mini tonight from FedEx), but I discovered this forum and thought I'd get some advice before I get to work setting up my Mini.

I'm a long time Mac user, but haven't had a Mini or used a computer with a home theater. I plan to use the computer for both regular computer use and as an addition to my home theater.

I currently have a Pioneer receiver and a Panasonic HDTV. My current plan is to run the HDMI from the Mini, through the receiver, to the TV. Do you have any advice/suggestions for the initial setup?

I'm also wondering what you would recommend as far as apps, etc. are concerned. I have a Harmony One remote--I've seen talk of using it with the Mini on this forum. What do you control exactly?

I'm sure I'll have more questions once I get going, but any advice you can supply now is appreciated!

Thanks.

[scooper]

Congrats on getting the new Mac mini!

You should be fine with HMDI, it's just plug-and-play basically.

As far as apps, Boxee, XBMC (personal favorite), Hulu desktop and Plex are what you need. If you have an iPhone, iPod touch or iPad, look into an app from Logitech called Touch Mouse. It will turn them into a trackpad and keyboard for your media center. I would also cough up for the little aluminum Apple remote. It works well with all the media center apps I mentioned before. Then again, you have a Harmony One! You lucky dog you...

[Smithcraft]

Regarding the Apple Remote - If you want one get it from eBay.

Are you going to be moving the computer from desk to media center, or is it gonna be at the media center all the time?

SC
_________________
Grumpy old man of computing.

[Desktop] G4 mini - 1.5Ghz 1GB 80GB HDD - Newer miniStack v2 500GB - 10.5.8

[Media System] Intel i5 mini - 2.33Ghz 8GB 500GB HDD - 4 x Hitachi 2TB HDD in a qBOX-SF - 10.7.5 (Thanks Phil!)

Make sure it has pins!