external HD to play divx on TV

[cactushugger]

Hey guys, I am trying to find a way to play avi's from an external hard-drive on a TV. So far I've found 2 ways: I can buy an enclosure like this: http://www.pc4usa.com/detailSales.asp?ProductID=163&Catn=4&scatn=52
and then connect it straight to the dvd through rgb or s-video to play divx files.

or
I can use a regular external hard-drive and connect it to a dvd-player through usb. I'm planning to get a Philips DVP642 soon - will I be able to connect this player to an external HD? And would that work well?

Alright, so which of these do you think I should buy? Keep in mind that I want a fairly fast HD with plenty of space - something like 300GB or more. And of course I want the files to play as smoothly as possible.
Thanks in advance,
cactus

[mastersmurfie]

I have this one:

http://www.mvixusa.com/

I convert my DVDs to Divx (or XviD, depending on my mood...)

I LOVE it!!!

Plays all my Divx, XviD, Vob, mpeg (1 and 2), mp3...Everything!!

Choose any size HD that you want...I currently use a 200GB Hitachi as my drive...

[cactushugger]

ok, I've decided to go for one of these media enclosures. But which one? I'm trying to decide between a few popular ones:

1. Mvix MV-4000U ($190) and Mvix MV5000U ($220)
2. Al Tech Mediagate MG-35 ($170)
3. Modix HD-3510 ($200) and HD-3520 ($240)

Do you guys have any experience with these? The qualities I look for is the ability to play all encoded videos, an easily navigable menu, speed, and quietness. Also, if you know of any other good ones, tell me please.

[jliles]

Hi,

I haven't used them personally (I use a modded XBOX myself) but lots of people in the AVS forum have. There are threads and info dedicated to these players that might give you the info you need.

http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/forumdisplay.php?f=39

Julie

[handyguy]

Yeah, XBMC can do it.

Why are you getting a 642? Why not get a 5960, it can play divx loaded on a hd through its USB port. Its about $69 at CC.