Hello... I'm a new member as of about 10 minutes ago, and I have some questions.

I have a number of dvd's that I've backed up to mpeg and avi files so I can watch them on my laptop when we're traveling. But, I'd like to just use these backed up files and burn them to a standard dvd for playing the lot of them on a "set top" box.

First, can I convert the larger mpeg files to .avi's, and what software should I use?

Second, what kind of software and media should I use for burning to the discs? And, is there any specific divx standard I should use?

Third, what (hopefully inexpensive) options do I have for a quality, reliable, "set-top" device do I have?

Fourth, are there any questions I should be asking that I'm completely missing because of my innexperience?

Then, on the other issue, has anyone heard of or used www.gomusic.ru? It's a russian music mp3 download site... looks interesting, but I don't know.

Master Zach

1) AutoGK (Freeware) http://www.autogk.me.uk/ does a great job
2) Nero is the most popular, often supplied with CD/DVD writers.
3) This http://www.pixmania.co.uk/uk/uk/5305...vd-player.html
is a DVD player MPEG4 capable, and also allows you to plug in an external USB disc and play all the stuff on it, so no need to burn DVD's. Not bad for £22!

What players are available vary a little depending on what country you are in but there are plenty of cheap ones available. Just look for ones that say they are multiformat. I would just try googling "multiformat dvd player" just to get an idea of what is avalable, maybe call a few local stores and ask what they carry if you want to buy locally. You can look up both reviews and info on what they can play here.
http://www.videohelp.com/dvdplayers
there are 894 listed that can play dvd-/+r and can play divx and or xvid. Some are only available in some countries though.
http://www.videohelp.com/dvdplayers?...Submit2=Search

IF you want to go really cheap, you might want to look for a jsi player if you can find one. They kind of have a reputation for playing anything. I got mine for about 35$ on clearance (not one of the models listed on video help) and it will play anything you throw at it including nero digital (model js5113, I think it is discontinued though). It also has a usb port for viewing pictures, but I found that it will play anything from a usb hard drive as long as the files are in the root directory (no subdirectories) and it is formated fat32.