Downloading
When it comes to downloading media files such as movies and TV shows, there are two tried and tested protocols (methods) of doing so; BitTorrent and Usenet. These two protocols are completely different in the way they work and the programs that you will need to use are also very different. Below are the best programs suited for the job for both BitTorrent and Usenet.
Transmission (BitTorrent)
This is the only BitTorrent client you need for your Mac, which is exactly why I’m not recommending any other BitTorrent applications. It is a lightweight program, it looks good and, to quote their website, “it was setup by default to just work.” Other BitTorrent clients are confusing, have numerous options (which most basic users don’t require) and can utilize a lot of memory when in use. Considering that you will want to keep your BitTorrent application open 24/7, regardless of if you are a casual or power user, simplicity and efficiency is meaningful.
Price: Free!
Website: Link
Transmission: Tutorials & Featured Posts
(2011.08.25) BitTorrent Tutorial with Transmission
SABnzbd+ (Usenet)
This ‘application’ with a crazy name is a very robust Newsgroup client that is accessed through your web browser and can automate nearly every aspect of your Newsgroup downloads. It is also somewhat difficult to use without taking the time to set it up properly, which is why I do not suggest beginners start out with this application (although if you are up for the challenge, please review the tutorial below that will walk you through it, step by step). Because of it’s complexity and it’s ability to work in tandem with other applications, programs and websites, once you are able to tweak its numerous options, you can really turn your Media Center into a media downloading powerhouse. Some of the more advanced features that this site covers will require that you use SABnzbd+.
Price: Free!
Website: Link
SABnzbd+: Tutorials & Featured Posts
(2011.09.24) Installing & Configuring SABnzbd+
Unison (Usenet)
This is by far the easiest Newsgroup application to use, hands down. It also costs $29.00, but comes with an ample free trial to let you test it out. This program will download your files from Usenet and also unpack them for you, which is a time saving feature that was added in the newest version. I could go into the features, but the real appeal of this application is how easy it is to use. If you are new to Usenet, start here. I have purchased and happily used this program for well over a year and never looked back. While I have personally moved to SABnzbd+ for my Media Center, I still use Unison on my personal computer for the one or two odd files I want to download without having to go through SABnzbd+.
Price: Free Trial / $29.00
Website: Link
