MythTV vs TiVo3 Redux

OK OK….   I got the not so subtle hint to crank up the MythTV bandwagon. The comparison isn't exactly fair as MythTV is a complete media convergence device and a TiVo3 only handles PVR duties.  Here's my non-complete list of features MythTV has that I doubt the TiVo3 has.  Of course, since I don't have a TiVo3 in the house, this is somewhat of a guess on my part.

1. Web based interface that can be used over the internet or cell phone to review or schedule new programs, stream all content (recorded programs, music, or ripped DVDs), view local weather, and check the overall status of the server.  It is also possible via phpMyAdmin to modify anything in the database.  I would only recommend making this functionality available via an encrypted SSH tunnel.

2. Literally every gaming system is supported via an emulator plugin.

3. Ability to move the recorded content to any other device.  DRM is non-existent.

4. Local weather radar and forecast.

5. Built in web browser.

6. Up converted and de-interlaced DVD player/ripper.

7. Photo gallery with various transition effects.

8. Music player with playlist and multiple visualization effects.

9. RSS news feed reader.

10. Interface to manage your NetFlix account.

11. Interface for audio and video phone calls using standard VOIP protocols.

12. Caller ID on screen pop up.

13. A large selection of themes to choose from.  If you don't like what you see, creating your own or modifying an existing theme is fairly easy.

14. Did I mention that the system is DRM free?

15. A huge community available to help if something goes *boink* in the night.

16. Short of the hardware investment, it is free and open source.  If you don't like certain functionality and you happen to know C++ you can twiddle to your heart's content.  If not, check the feature request list and see if it is already in the works.

Of course, the biggest hurdle to overcome in the MythTV arena is the "fear" of Linux.  I can say up front that although some of the traditional users of Linux can be downright scary looking, in the past few years the OS itself has blossomed nicely.  If anyone is hesitant to take the leap, find a spare hard drive on which to install Linux, or try one of the many "Live" distributions which don't install anything to the hard drive.