HTPC (or Mac Mini?)

[therealpigdog]

Simples ... do I get a Mac Mini and enjoy the fact that it will very simply integrate with my ipod/iphone lifestyle and look really pretty or do i get an HTPC? I want to use it to act as a server for all my music, rip and play dvd's and surf t'interweb. I've got sky+ so don't need a pvr, but might be useful for transfering tv and films to the ipod.

By my reckoning if I went down the HTPC route for the same money as a mac mini I could get a Blu-Ray drive, tv tuner and a whole lot more storage space (and not have to suffer external drives). It would also probably be easier to use as an additional computer and remote access work on the few occassions when Mrs. TRPD is on the laptop.

My worry is that I'm not technically minded and want something very simple to run and sync with my ipod. Is there such a thing as an idiot-proof HTPC? Any suggestions on where to look also gratefully received.

Cheers

[phucks1976]

mac mini every time , sold my htpc too noisy and always overheating the mac mini controlled beautifully by the mini remote. If your not too worried about 1080p then you can get the end of line old one for £391 from the apple store.