Do you want to do anything else besides play .avi files? nope, pretty much just avi files. Will the .avi files be located on the HTPC, another computer, or centrally? not sure yet, im kinda throwing an idea around for a NAS
How are the speakers connected to the TV? Will they be connected to the computer? To play off a computer dont the speakers need to be set to the computer? i dont know how i would attach a HT surround sound system to a computer. Through a receiver? i want a reciever somewhere in the mix How many channels? prob 5.1 What type of audio output to do you need? What type of video output do you want to use? not quite sure what you mean on these last to questions, if you mean video as in like 1080p, yes id like to be able to do 1080p, but i might grab a bluray player for the hidef stuff