2010-12-01, 18:45
I've put it off long enough. Time to build an HTPC. Let me outline the constrictions, then ask the questions:
1. Trying to do this as inexpensively as possible (aren't we all?) while finding the balance of quality.
2. Files played back will all be rips of my DVD's converted with Handbrake at native resolution. The main goal is to have an easy to use movie jukebox for my family so we don't have to play the "where did the kids hide the DVD?" game anymore. I don't do Blu-Ray rips yet, may in the near future.
3. TV is a DLP, 720p.
4. Will not be doing any internet content (don't have broadband).
5. This machine will not be doing ripping / converting - have a Mac Pro workstation for that. Content will be stored locally on the HTPC (leaving a Mac Pro on for streaming is just wrong on so many levels)
6. Plan on using XBMC Live to keep it as lightweight as possible, so I know that Nvidia is my choice for graphics hardware.
My questions:
1. Does processor make a difference in all of this? I'm thinking of using the Asrock Ion 330 board, but am not adverse so upgrading to an LGA775 board w/Geforce 9300 and Celeron 3400 if it will make a significant difference in quality.
2. Along those lines: if a Geforce GT430 or GT220 is going to offer significantly better picture quality than an ION or 9300, I am not adverse to upgrading that as well. I have looked up the HQV of all these chipsets, but am not sure such scores are relevant under XBMC Live.
I see three options:
1. An ION 330 board is $150,
2. A ZOTAC GF9300-G-E with Celeron 3400 is is $174
3. An ECS H55, Core i3-540, and Zotac Low-profile GT430 is $280. (the only reason I am considering this last option is because it's upgradable down the road)
I already have a 500GB 3.5" HDD, Apex MI-008 Case w/power supply.
Based on what I'm going to do, what would you recommend? Thanks in advance for all help.
1. Trying to do this as inexpensively as possible (aren't we all?) while finding the balance of quality.
2. Files played back will all be rips of my DVD's converted with Handbrake at native resolution. The main goal is to have an easy to use movie jukebox for my family so we don't have to play the "where did the kids hide the DVD?" game anymore. I don't do Blu-Ray rips yet, may in the near future.
3. TV is a DLP, 720p.
4. Will not be doing any internet content (don't have broadband).
5. This machine will not be doing ripping / converting - have a Mac Pro workstation for that. Content will be stored locally on the HTPC (leaving a Mac Pro on for streaming is just wrong on so many levels)
6. Plan on using XBMC Live to keep it as lightweight as possible, so I know that Nvidia is my choice for graphics hardware.
My questions:
1. Does processor make a difference in all of this? I'm thinking of using the Asrock Ion 330 board, but am not adverse so upgrading to an LGA775 board w/Geforce 9300 and Celeron 3400 if it will make a significant difference in quality.
2. Along those lines: if a Geforce GT430 or GT220 is going to offer significantly better picture quality than an ION or 9300, I am not adverse to upgrading that as well. I have looked up the HQV of all these chipsets, but am not sure such scores are relevant under XBMC Live.
I see three options:
1. An ION 330 board is $150,
2. A ZOTAC GF9300-G-E with Celeron 3400 is is $174
3. An ECS H55, Core i3-540, and Zotac Low-profile GT430 is $280. (the only reason I am considering this last option is because it's upgradable down the road)
I already have a 500GB 3.5" HDD, Apex MI-008 Case w/power supply.
Based on what I'm going to do, what would you recommend? Thanks in advance for all help.
