Filed under: Gaming, Video, Open Source
PS3 Media Server transcodes and remuxes in real time
For a while now I've been using MediaLink ($20) from Nullsoft to stream video from my Mac to my PS3, but last evening I discovered that I had some MKV (Matroska container) files that I wanted to stream but which the PS3 doesn't natively support. Naturally I assumed I'd have to convert the files and Googling around did turn up a method for doing so using QuickTime Pro. Even beyond the need for QuickTime Pro, however, it is also a somewhat time-consuming process. That's when I ran across a brilliant piece of open-source software called PS3 Media Server.PS3 Media Server is a cross-platform Java application (and, unfortunately, it looks like it), which not only streams video from your Mac to your PS3, but also utilizes the open source Mplayer/FFmpeg backend packages to transcode / remux media in real time. What this means is nothing short of remarkable: you no longer have to convert supported media (MKV/FLV/OGM/AVI) ahead of time for playback on the PS3. I was able to stream a 720p MKV file without a hiccup (though I do have both my Mac and PS3 connected to the router via ethernet cable). Being impressed at the performance I decided to try it with a 1080p movie trailer I had downloaded from Apple and after a brief blip about 10 seconds in it streamed beautifully as well. (Note that both of these files were already H.264, which the PS3 does natively support, so I believe the PS3 Media server was only remuxing and not actually transcoding.)
PS3 Media Server is a free download over at Google Code (donations requested). There's also a Mac-specific beta (pictured above) that offers more features (including iTunes and iPhoto library support). Overall I'm shocked by how well it has worked with what I've thrown its way (which is admittedly limited). Highly recommended.
![TUAW [Cafepress]](http://www.blogsmithmedia.com/www.tuaw.com/media/tuaw-cafepress-promo.png)
Reader Comments (Page 1 of 3)
nickux said 11:37PM on 7-06-2009
I did the same thing- had Medialink and it barely worked- got the google app months ago and couldn't be happier. It's been around for awhile. It's definitely worth checking out.
Reply
Andrew said 11:47PM on 7-06-2009
I've had Medialink since it came out, and about 6 weeks ago I found PS3 Media Server - it has worked with literally everything I've thrown at it, both SD and HD. My PS3 is on a wireless G network, and my MacBook Pro is on a separate wireless N network, and I haven't had any problems. If you have media and a PS3, you can't go wrong.
Reply
Landry said 12:16AM on 7-07-2009
If you pick up an Apple Airport Express you can plug the PS3 into the N network over Ethernet and enjoy faster streaming rates for HD content.
julian said 12:12AM on 7-07-2009
Guess I'm getting a ps3 no need for an apple tv
Reply
Roberto Felgueiras said 10:13AM on 7-07-2009
that's the decision I made at christmas, and I've never been happier. The only drawback is you can't use your iPhone/iPod touch as a remote like you can with the TV, very small price to pay.
blusuedeshoes215 said 11:51PM on 7-06-2009
This looks pretty cool- too bad I don't have a PS3... yet. I'd love to have a version for the 360 though. Do you know if this will handle straight DVD rips (folders of VOBs)?
Reply
Kururugi said 7:16AM on 7-07-2009
PS3 Media server works with 360.
balls said 6:52PM on 7-07-2009
PMS is a DLNA Compliant Media server.
So it works with the 360, and any other DLNA clients.
Freeze said 12:12AM on 7-07-2009
How long until USB 3.0 hits the market?
Reply
Freeze said 12:15AM on 7-07-2009
I'm not sure where that above comment came from!
I just wanted to thank Mat for the wicked share.
Reply
achiu said 12:20AM on 7-07-2009
Hm, I must be the only one who wasn't able to get it to work; even after opening the specified ports and forcing the IP. Oh well, guess it's back to Tversity on Boot Camp for me :(.
Reply
G said 1:20AM on 7-07-2009
Make sure your PS3 is not "occupied" running Folding@Home or anything else. It won't be recognized if so. I also thought PS3 Media Server wasn't working at first because it would not find the PlayStation. Once I got past that, though, it's been great.
Scuba Steve said 12:21AM on 7-07-2009
shame its only for the Intel's tho my main server's a good old PowerPC.
Reply
Zach said 12:26AM on 7-07-2009
Just tried the app...works fantastic for me (with a little set up of course :)
Reply
ijohnjones said 12:27AM on 7-07-2009
Had to set mine to force the IP Server, but once I did that it was like magic. All my stuff shows up on the PS3 and I have never played much with the Photo section much until now that it sees my iPhoto library. Very nice!
Reply
Cello said 12:58AM on 7-07-2009
Looks impressive, I will try it out.
The only thing that might make me stay with Plex is the fan noise of the PS3, which is really annoying at times. I can handle it when playing games (usually short sessions), but not for playing movies.
Reply
nikobe said 5:19AM on 7-07-2009
That's weird as my PS3 is silent, as are my friends ones. I've turned mine on by accident (someone sat on the remote) and I didn't realise even though I was sat near it.
Check the vents are clear and its not near anything warm, only reason it would be that loud is if its overheating.
Cello said 5:29AM on 7-07-2009
I will check that, thanks.
I have been using my PS3 rarely for playing MGS4, and fans go crazy after a few minutes of gameplay.
Moose said 4:41PM on 7-07-2009
Got to echo what nikobe said... if those vents are blocked, even partially, you could really be killing the PS3. Mine is almost totally silent too, and I would expect your should be too if there are no other hardware issues.
Luke3114odo said 1:26AM on 7-07-2009
The best ps3 media server out there, been using the pc version for 6 months, shagrath the main man has been updating it often, it even plays iso's , supports DTS and is very fast and powerful, hopefully it stays that way, it's one of the best things about the ps3 and if more people knew about it they would be buying ps3's which is the far superior console.
Reply