New Build; Suggestions/Ideas Welcome

I've been really considering an HTPC build lately. I have been reading threads in this section over the last few weeks and its really making me consider pulling the trigger. I have some ideas on what I want as far as function goes but need some suggestions and reviews on some things.

It's going to be budget oriented, want to keep it around $400 (of course less is better but at the same time this budget might go up as well.) I want it for mostly playing hd content (blu-rays to mkv's,) streaming media from netflix and other pc's in the house, music (have a nice flac collection/higher res vinyl rips and live music ect..) and then I want it to replace my lousy DVR (must be able to record at least two HD streams.)

I'm in no rush to build this so I will be piecing things together and want to look out for good deals and pieces.

1. Case suggestions; what works well for you, looks nice and will fit well sitting next to a receiver? I've seen several with a PSU's included/built in. Are these decent/quality psu's? Or should I avoid these and find a dedicated psu (suggestions?)

2. Processor/Mobo: I'm thinking AMD with integrated graphics, only needed for HD video; I dont see me playing anything other than basic games/emulators. Must have HDMI out for the tv.

3. Tuner: what works well and gets solid reviews? I've checked with local cable companies and they do have cable cards, so that shouldnt be an issue. I want to be able to watch/record HD stations on the tv.

4. RAM, I'm sure 4gigs is plenty for this setup. Which ram is the best value and fit for a HTPC build?



I'm going to keep an eye out for a 64gb ssd drive for the boot drive (Windows7 64 bit on and to keep software and the like on.) Then I will get a 1-2TB hdd for media and dvr storage. I already have a X-Fi Titanium I will use for the sound card. Then for the optical drive, I will pick up a blu-ray drive (maybe burner depending on price)

What can you suggest, what should i be on the look out for and do you need to know anything else? Also, I have a microcenter local to me and am a fan of the usual online stores as well.
Edited by Rambleon84 - 2/29/12 at 9:10am

Yeah, I'm going to keep an eye on the ssd's. If I can get one cheap enough (seems like several have been dropping in price lately) I will but its a want not so much as a need. You are right about the ram, if its not much of a price difference, it wont hurt to have extra.

I have heard good things about that card as well, just not sure if its overkill or I would appreciate having the capabilities to record four shows at once. Still need to research those more and see what else would be good at a lower point of if thats the way I want to go.

How would that Intel chipset compare to something like amd's llano?
http://www.newegg.com/Product/Product.aspx?Item=N82E16819103955
Anyone have any llano mobo suggestions?

So i will really have to look at the PSU reviews when buying a case, to see if getting one with vs without is a better idea. Id need about what, 350watts?

So if going llano (i dont foresee me needing a dedicated video card) something higher like a tri- or quad core A6 would be best. Yeah, I saw the 64gig Crucial M4s sold out yesterday from new egg for about $65, so i will have to keep a look out for some deals. I may just skip the ssd for the time, i'll have to think about it.

I'll check out the cable cards and cases too. decisions....
Edited by Rambleon84 - 2/29/12 at 12:30pm

Trog, that looks pretty solid, I tend to agree with Deebs on the ram and I'm not a huge fan of that case either but you delivered a pretty solid build for that price.

I have a feeling getting a solid tv card is going to make me have to bump my budget up some. I may have to start puling the trigger and start buying some of these parts soon.