Other Newbie Question - Best Digital Format for replay on HD TV

[rosebushr]

Hi, I have a newbie type question. I am sorry if this has already been addressd before. I tried to research it but didn't see any similar threads.

I have many DVDs that I want to digitize and keep on a hard drive to be streamed/replayed via a Media Player (I have both an Apple TV and a WD TV Live Hub). What format do you recommend that I use to rip the DVDs? Is the Apple TV format just as good as any of the others or should I be using something like "to MKV" (or another format)? I want to start a digital collection and do it right the first time. File size versus quality is also a consideration. I want the movie to HD quality good on an large 65" HD TV but I also want the file size to be as small as possible (if that is even an option). I don't want to find out later that I should have ripped the movies in (you name it) format instead. I also dont want to have to rip it one way for Apple TV and another way for WD TV Live (or any other streamer).

Thanks for any replies.

[Jonatan]

What video formats do both devices play?

[crackinhedz]

The WDTV Live Hub should play ISO just fine...doubt the Apple will though.

[GregiBoy]

The bad news!!!

The iCrap throws the whole equation out as it won't play standard stuff and requires weird and wonderful formats especially if connected to a surround sound amp.

A single format that will play fully featured on both is the "Impossible Dream" !!

Honest advice, get rid of the ATV and grab another WD.

[martythebrit]

GregiBoy; Agreed, dump the Apple.

I like MKV because of the subtitle support. MP4 is good too. You need to find a balance between quality and compression that works for you. I would experiment and see how it looks on your television. What's acceptable to you maybe be different than other people.