So it is very important that each movie be in its own sub-folder. At minimum, you directory structure should be /movies/movie1/movie1.iso or /movies/movie1/video_ts/files.vob, for example. Beyond that, it's up to you how you separate the main folders; the different top-level folders will be your main categories on the main MediaBrowser screen. My main folder groups are as follows: All Movies (DVDs, Blu-Rays, Rented), Blu-ray, TV Show, Music Concerts, Rented (i.e. watch once and delete).

For music, I put it all in a Music folder on my server using the following directory structure: music/artist_name/year-album_name/track#-track_name.mp3 . This gives most all information need to identify any song. I don't use genre because it is difficult to get the consistent and repeatable.

I'm looking forward to the new version 3 of MyMovies, which will be out in a couple of months. It will have a MediaBrowser-like user interface. Unlike MediaBrowser, which relies on folder structure for navigating movie groups, it uses the full MyMovies database, which can give more flexibility in grouping, sorting, and filtering videos dynamically. It may surpass MediaBroswer in some ways, but it's nice to have both available.

The way you equipped your home theatre is superb.
Can you help me in suggesting the complete home theatre setup for a room of dimensions 15.6 ft * 13 ft.I want to go for an LCD tv not a projector.

So far your site ahs been the most helpful in laying out my home theater room in the new house I am building. The room size will be 14 X 23 X 10 with two rows of seating and a third row on bar stools at a railing table.

I currently am running Vista Ultimate as my home theater system to drive my 50" plamsa. I plan on looking to the DVD software for storing the DVD on my storage array.

A couple of things I am not clear about are video output for the projector and audio output from the HTPC. What are the cards you are using and is there anything else I need to be aware of as I move toward the new home and its theater room.

In addition, have you looked into any wireless options for video and audio.

Thanks,
Glenn

PS. I know I will have more questions as I start the construction.

There is about 14 inches between the wall and the front row, which is plenty for someone to turn sideways and walk into the back row. Since the back row isn't used as frequently and since it only takes about 1 second to walk past the front row, I see no need for more space.

My surround sound speakers are in-wall. I really need to update these photos. Basically, they are about ear level when standing, so well above ear level when sitting. You don't want the sound from the surrounds to be too directional, you don't want to be able to pinpoint each surround. If you have a narrow aisle and on-wall speakers, I'd recommend mounting them a little higher and possible angling them down slightly if possible.

Great site.

I have just put a down payment on a house which will be finished in 5 months, but have only 2 weeks more to submit special wiring (conduit) choices.
My room will be 12 x 19 1/2 and I want 2 rows of seats.

1. How much clearance do you have for people to get past the 1st row to get to the back of room?

2. I don't see the surround speakers mounted. I would assume you want them perpendicular to the 1st row or between the 2 rows. Would you mount them on the wall just above ear level and hope people don't hit their head on them as they walk to the 2nd row of seats or mount them near the ceiling and angle them down?

Thanks

Chase: In general, I think most screens are more similar than different from one another. The fixed screens with the frame coated in a black, light-absorbing material is the best value for the cost. As far as brands, I think Carada and Da-Lite offer great performance for the cost. With a screen that large, consider going with a higher gain material; check out my Home Theater Calculator for specifics.

Im guessing a matte white screen, would you agree?

Thanks

Is the sofit / ceiling painted the same color as the walls? I see the crown molding is the same as the trim.

Also, how well does the flat brown paint you used hide wall imperfections? I painted mine a dark brick red, but it is easy to see imperfections. I believe I used flat paint, but I can not remember.

The seating is from Bass Industries. It's the Executive series of seating in a Mustang Brown color. I'm not sure of the current cost or sure exactly what I paid, but I do know that those 9 seats are the most expensive "component" in the room.