Unless I'm really confused or misunderstand your use of "front end", MCE2005 is a complete OS.

Yep, I don't plan to use MCE2005, I'll continue to use XP Pro.

Well technically MCE is a WinXP platform with a frontend packaged with it. You can actually shut it down and be back on a regular desktop (like you would with Meedio etc...)

Yup, the media player aspect is sort of like a different program you open up that is very well integrated into the OS

I meant that Windows MCE is purchased as an operating system for installation on a new computer, and not a stand-alone application that is installed on an existing XP installation.

Wow...I see an HTPC trend on the Axiom HT board!

Ya, I only posted to get info on issues useers having a HTPC may have had, instead I get basic puter asembly 101 from one person. Then differant meaings of things like OS, front end, and so on. lol

I have been wanting to replace my cd collection/cd megachangers with an HTPC style music jukebox. I'm recently researching the low end HTPC market - not worrying about gonzo video reproduction or internal tuners, etc. Mostly, I'm just worried about digital audio out, lots of Gigs of storage (300 should do, I figure), decent video reproduction to get the PC screen interface on the computer so that you can operate the cd juekbox programs, etc.

It's still too early to abandon DVD media discs and I already have a PVR from the cable company that I'm happy with.

Considering my needs, I went to ecollegepc.com and checked out some complete systems with DVD burners, 300 Gb hard disks, low end sound and video cards, wireless ethernet and about 512 Ram, to be run on Windows MCE - cost is hovering around $750, including the build, tax and shipping.

If I go with this type of config, I'll let you know my impressions.

Any of you whiz kids think of anything I'm missing?

Adrien, I'm kind of in the same position as you, and have been moving towards HTPC in fits and spurts for a while.

One ongoing frustration I have is control. I guess if you use MCE, that the IR remote is more embedded in the OS and you may not have to worry about it.

I'm not a geek, so I'm having trouble with things like integrating an IR receiver into the HTPC and then using Girder (or whatever). I am also predisposed to NOT use MCE, because I cannot get a deep discount on it, but I can get a good deal on XP. Hey, a hundred bucks is a hundred bucks, right? Especially when I (like you) am not using it as a DVR.

Building an HTPC is probably your best bet.

If you don't know how to build a PC, get a friend who does. You will save a boatload of money.