JackDog, I have the WD TV Live device, and it cost me about $80 or $90 dollars at Office Depot.
http://www.wdc.com/en/products/products.aspx?id=330
Plays every video format. Audio too, as a flac player even, though it's only drawback is gaps between tracks. I like my cds anyway, so it's a non issue. I use a usb hub and connect numerous externals. The menu is user friendly, and it also connects to your wireless network, so you can stream, or surf the web.
I think you would enjoy the ease of this gizmo. It also does slideshows of digital photo albums.
The thing is, it is only HDMI output, so you need a flatscreen TV. There is an analogue output for audio.
Hope this helps a little.
No members have liked this post.