I want to try to set up a Raspberry Pi I have as a smart TV box and I was hoping I could find some advice.

My main requirements are:

  • can run Moonlight
  • can be controlled from a Bluetooth game controller (that should also work in Moonlight)

What would be nice:

  • can run VLC or Plex or something
  • can support AirPlay
  • can be used for some actual streaming services like Netflix

Any suggestions?

  • @tty5
    1•7 months ago
    • No SBC that I know of can handle 4k 120Hz HDR output, so getting the most of moonlight is not possible.
    • Low latency decode requires some work to get running
    • AV1 encode/decode has even more latency, do you will be running higher bitrate h264, which in turn means wired network connection is recommended.
    • Streaming services limit 4k and/or HDR access on a lot of content to locked devices. E.g. Netflix only guarantees 720p sdr when watching in a browser - how much more you get depends on the deal with the copyright holder.

    Tl;dr; a long, active fiber HDMI cable + USB over IP might be cheaper, better and easier. That’s what I ended up buying despite the cable length being 60m (200ft).

    • @merthyr1831
      3•7 months ago

      Idk where you assumed 4k 120hz HDR from the post?

      • @tty5
        0•7 months ago

        4k 120Hz HDR is what current gen consoles can output right now and what is becoming common even on mid-range TVs (quality of HDR aside). I’d expect you’d want most of that experience or future-proof solution that would allow that when you get a new TV.

        • @[email protected]
          2•7 months ago

          I don’t think there’s a single thing they actually output that’s 4k/120. High refresh rates are downscaled, and high resolutions have lower refresh rates.

      • @CouldbealeotardEnglish
        -3•7 months ago

        What do you mean “powerful monitor”. It just needs to display a picture.

          • @CouldbealeotardEnglish
            -3•7 months ago

            Then you need a more powerful PC. What do you mean a more powerful monitor? I don’t even understand what that means.