Fighting Obsolescence : Stereo System

If you've got a spare computer sitting around and/or you've got a stereo system that you're not using very often, you can put together a music jukebox.  The great thing about a computer controlled jukebox is that you can remote control it via Remote Desktop (RDP), leave the audio output at the computer and, viola, centralized control over music.

Components:

• Stereo System.  I've got the Sony CMT-RB5, a 3 piece stereo system.
• Any laptop that can still decode MP3s, play CDs, etc.  The good thing about this, is that the major hurdle in this case isn't the MP3 decoding.  That's a low CPU overhead task for any Pentium generation processor.  In my case, I've got an HP Compaq Evo N410c.
• 3.5 mm Male to 2 RCA Male Audio Cable
• Software:  Windows Media Player, Foobar2000, Winamp, Musicmatch Jukebox, etc.
• Or service:  Pandora, Spotify, Last.fm, etc.

I have the HP Compaq Evo N410c sitting on top of a cooling pad because if I close the lid, the computer overheats and locks up.  With the cooling pad, I can close the lid without worrying about the computer hanging from overheating.

NOTE:  Be sure to set the audio to "Leave at remote computer".  Below is a screenshot of mRemote.

Or if you're using Microsoft Remote Desktop.