Stream/AirPlay to Apple TV

[Kemik]

Hi all,

I'm thinking of making a HTPC. My choice is between a stock build with XBMC (via Ubuntu) or use Plex/XBMC on a Mac mini. Edit: The HTPC is attached to the TV in the living room. An Apple TV is then in a bedroom.

My question is, can a stock Apple TV receive an AirPlay stream from XBMC or Plex? If not can it receive a stream via an ordinary Media Server setup? I would prefer for the Apple TV to be able to view the full library on the HTPC and then they can select what to stream from the box. The idea being two people could be streaming different things form the unit.

Thanks

 

[Kemik]

If you're getting a Mac Mini, just add all of your content to iTunes on the Mini and hook the ATV up to iTunes.

You could cut out the middle-man and just connect the Mini directly to your TV via HDMI and use Plex/XBMC as a UI.

Alternatively, you could jailbreak the ATV and install XBMC/Plex on it, then direct it to your stored media on the Mini...

There are all sorts of options but if you're getting a Mac Mini anyway, it sort of makes the ATV redundant, unless you want multiple ATVs running off a single Mac Mini or you prefer the UX of the ATV...

Sorry, I should have been a bit clearer. The HTPC will be attached to the TV in the living room. The library will be displayed on the TV directly. The Apple TV is in the bedroom.

 

[Kemik]

Thanks for the suggestions guys.

It seems there is no flexible solution for this. The issues that keep appearing are:

• Video must be on iTunes on the Mac mini to be picked up by the Apple TV. This means manually converting the video for use on iTunes and then manually adding it to the library. Part of the point of the HTPC project was for automatic downloads when available and all I'd need to do is switch on whatever I want to watch the videos on and away I go.
• The alternative is jailbreaking the Apple TV 2 and then setting up a 2nd installation of XBMC. I'll then need both installations (one on mini, one on Apple TV) to access the central library located on the mini.
• Use AirParrot or the likes to VNC/mirror the screen from the mini to the Apple TV. This would remove the ability for someone to use the mini in the living room at the same time as using the Apple TV in the bedroom (shared house).

My current debate between a mini and a part-build running Linux with XBMC seems pointless until I can overcome the restriction with the Apple TV. Maybe the Apple TV will have to do without...

 

[Kemik]

My suggestion is a proper airplay solution and does not use mirroring!

But unfortunately requires me to have to use my hone every time I want to watch anything.

I'll probably end up jailbreaking the Apple TV and installing XBMC on a cheaper part-build than the Mac mini.