Hi guys

I am looking into a Elan home system for the distribution of audio and video from a closet to multiple rooms in a new build apartment. The system would have 6 source inputs (cable, Internet radio, sat tv, media streamer, etc)

So the question is about media streamer. I was thinking of mozaex since kaleidiscape is too expensive. But then discovered htpc. Can a htpc do all that mozaex or kaleidiscape can do?

That's a tall question to ask. It all depends on the HTPCs head end software. It also depends on you technical ability to program control into the HTPC software.

I would say if your computer savy (Linux included) and don't mind extensive programming and some trail and error; an HTPC may save you a few $ and provide more customization.

If you don't want a project... get the "off the shelf" solution.

+1

a HTPC is a great option for the more tech savy client. There are a couple HTPC builds that are getting close for me to start experimenting with for clients but not quite yet.

a well built HTPC with server system offers unlimited options for the tech savvy and creative