AppleTV or MediaCenter Extender Opinions

[tjones0214]

Was hoping to get some input and/or opinions on two slightly different technologies. I'm looking to take advantage of downloadable movies and TV shows. I've currently got DirecTV with the VOD service, but the selection leaves a LOT to be desired. I've got a video iPod that I can use for downloads and connect to my TV, but the downloads are not in HD and the iPod connector has no capacity for HDMI output. I've looked at both the AppleTV and iTunes combo as well as the new LinkSys Media Extender for Vista. Either choice would limit me to iTunes selections or MediaCenter/Amazon selections. The advantage I see right now of iTunes is that they offer a number of downloads in HD. The downside I see of AppleTV is that I'm limited to viewing photos in HD that have to be posted on either .Mac or flickr...I'm a SmugMug user. Any of you guys using either?

[bpjones]

I have an appletv and really like it. Regarding your point about viewing photos-- while you're correct that there are built-in connectors to .mac and flickr, there is also an option of viewing pictures off your local computers. So there would be no need to upload to smugmug, then download to the appletv. This is the way I use mine.

Regarding movies and content, just check on the itunes store to see their selection and that will let you know whether you'll be satisfied with their catalog.

Hope this helps.