[hamann4242]

Hello

I'm going to build a HTPC. It will be running XBMC in Windows 8. It will be used for 1080p 2D playback and .FLAC audio through HDMI to my receiver(needs to be hdmi 1.4)

Here's the hardware i found suitable, am I correct?:


CPU:Intel Core i3-4340 Haswell, 3,6ghz dualcore with HD 4600 graphics

Cpu coolerScythe Big Shuriken 2 Rev.

RAM:Crucial Ballistix T DDR3-1600 DC - 8GB

Case: SilverStone Grandia SST-GD05B Black

PSU: Corsair CX430M - 430W PSU

HDD: Western Digital WD Green - 3TB

SSD: Samsung 840 EVO SSD - 120GB

Motherboard: ASUS H87M-PRO (C2) - Haswell


My main concerns are if the i3 is to weak compared to i5, and do I need a dedicated graphics card?

[p750mmx]

Hello

[cut]

My main concerns are if the i3 is to weak compared to i5, and do I need a dedicated graphics card?

Hello, no and no, you don't

[hamann4242]

Thanks.

I have another concern now. How about H81 vs H87 motherboard?

There are some intel features on the H87

RST12 and Smart Response Technology. Are those needed?

[p750mmx]

Quote: If you're building a function-limited HTPC or desktop machine, consider H81, but favor H87 for its higher build-quality.

[dagatech]

I just picked up a B85 board, pretty good so far. A few more ports than the H81, but a bit cheaper than the H87. You lose the onboard RAID controller though.