A computer device selected as a media server is connected to a consumer electronic (CE) device over multiple media transfer channels. The multiple media transfer channels together with an improved media transfer protocol allow for efficient, real-time transfer of different types of digital media, in various combinations, for playing on the CE device. Each type of media is transferred over its own dedicated channel according to its individual data rate. The improved media transfer protocol allows the data to be transmitted in either an asynchronous mode or a synchronous stream or timestamp mode depending on whether synchronization is desired. A dedicated control channel allows for the transfer of control information from the CE device to the media server as well as for resynchronizing media position of the server upon a change in play mode of the corresponding media.