2014-04-11, 21:16
Hi guys,
I'm looking to build my first HTPC and was looking for some guidance. To preface, I live in a small apartment in Manhattan with just a tv cabinet, so I'm planning on integrating a 3tb HDD within my HTPC case since I don't think it makes since to have a NAS sitting next to my HTPC.
For the CPU, I've begun looking into the Silvermont vs Kabini architectures. Specifically, the J1900 and Athlon 5350. My question is, if I'm primarily going to just run Couch Potato + Sickbeard + XBMCbuntu with no live tv/pvr/ripping/3D/gaming, what are the pros and cons to each? I'm currently planning to use Ace as my skin. From what I've read already:
Silvermont:
10w TDP = passively cooled & less energy usage
Kabini:
Slightly better CPU performance
Much better GPU performance
Would I notice any better experience on the Kabini to justify the power? Does XBMC use the GPU to run the GUI? That would be one of the primary benefits of a better gpu that I can think of.
If the Silvermont can run the GUI and background programs just as smoothly, I'd choose it. I know both can play H264 just fine.
Thanks for the help!
I'm looking to build my first HTPC and was looking for some guidance. To preface, I live in a small apartment in Manhattan with just a tv cabinet, so I'm planning on integrating a 3tb HDD within my HTPC case since I don't think it makes since to have a NAS sitting next to my HTPC.
For the CPU, I've begun looking into the Silvermont vs Kabini architectures. Specifically, the J1900 and Athlon 5350. My question is, if I'm primarily going to just run Couch Potato + Sickbeard + XBMCbuntu with no live tv/pvr/ripping/3D/gaming, what are the pros and cons to each? I'm currently planning to use Ace as my skin. From what I've read already:
Silvermont:
10w TDP = passively cooled & less energy usage
Kabini:
Slightly better CPU performance
Much better GPU performance
Would I notice any better experience on the Kabini to justify the power? Does XBMC use the GPU to run the GUI? That would be one of the primary benefits of a better gpu that I can think of.
If the Silvermont can run the GUI and background programs just as smoothly, I'd choose it. I know both can play H264 just fine.
Thanks for the help!
