[al2002]

Hi Guys,

Family pressure compels me to to set up a media server for family use   . 

An internet search has led to the following programs being  shortlisted : J. River, XBMC, and Media Portal. Are any forum members using any of these programs? if so, user feedback would be greatly appreciated .

The goal is to have a media server that is tucked away in a closet. This will stream media files stored on  hard drives attached to the server, and a NAS  box, to small HTPCs (ION2, Intel Atom, mini ITX board) acting as clients. UPnP compatibility is important. Medial files will be mostly CDs ripped to hard drives, and a small collection hi-res audio files, 24/48 now, higher sample rates in the future, and DVD ripped to the HD. The ability to record  HD TV shows and stream them over the network for time- shifted viewing is essential.

Comments and suggestions are welcomed.

Thank you .

[Vincent Kars]

I think you should look for a certified DLNA server
DLNA is becoming the de-facto standard for streaming AV
It is a superset of UPnP

Before spending any money, you might simply try a PC running Win7 with media sharing on. The Win media sharing is DLNA compliant.
If this fulfils your requirements, a server running WHS (Win Home Server) will probably do.
If you want a NAS running Linux, have a look at TwonkyVision, a mature DLNA server.