Hey guys, After reading the 'shorts' on kit that doesn't require a full review (a rather nice little side feature, though I think it may keep y'all busy, and needs a good way to be searched through), I remembered an idea I've had since redesign. HTPC has taken off in a big new way, particularly with the upcoming release of intel's VIIV (the "take your digital rights and beat you with them while you sleep") chip. I have seen review of HTPC cases tossed in hardware, a forum section dedicated to the idea grow and grow and grow, and now saw a short but sweet Hauppage review just tossed callously into this 'shorts' bin. I understand, but I think we could be missing a market here. How about an HTPC section alongside hardware, modding, etc. It could review software (of which there's not many good, unbiased reviews), feature how-tos, and review cases and hardware. I consider bit-tech a great resource, and I would love not to have to go offsite for this stuff...and we have some very knowledgeable people both on staff and in the forums that could really add to this. Anybody who has an opinion on this, please post below until someone maybe puts a poll on the top.
I agree with your points mate, but classing HTPC under 'Hardware' doesn't mean you will need to go offsite for that kind of content - we cover home theatre stuff like we do the many other areas of technology. The new menu structure was chosen for its simplicity, and the new Search function is there for people who don't want to browse around. The forum area is ideal for people who want to discuss stuff, seek advice and help each other, but if we added HTPC to the top menu, then there is probably an equal case for adding maybe another half dozen options as well - we chose to move away from the kind of design that has dozens of links on their menu because you often can't see the wood for the trees on those. There are dedicated HTPC sites, so anyone *really* keen on that stuff will no doubt frequent those sites. Since we serve the wider geek community, our coverage is likely to remain as it is: individual reviews of various components, and the occasional feature / grouptest. For example, Wil has a Media Center article in production right now. So thanks for the suggestion, but we will look to maximise our HTPC content from within the existing structure.
Makes sense. I politely disagree, I honestly think that it could be a useful addition...as the market increases, so will the "general geekery" that becomes interested in the product. Right now, the concept of "great for HTPC use" doesn't really come into most reviews, etc, and other things can be completely skipped over. However, I trust that you have an idea in mind, and I hope that wil's upcoming article will be a healthy how-to and a mini-review of the softwares and hardware available. As always, I leave the idea in your hands in hopes that it gets integrated as you see fit.
