HTPC Build ~£300

[Shadows1990]

Hi,

I've been looking at getting a HTPC set up under the TV, and I've noticed that the Acer Revo (3610 & 3700) is getting a lot of attention at the moment.
However, I would like something that's a bit more upgradeable, as I've heard the Acer is affected by the BIOS bug (limiting it to 3.75GB, correct me if I'm wrong though).

I don't really know where to start with building a HTPC to be honest, as I've been out of the loop for a fair amount of time with work and Uni.

 

[Shadows1990]

I'll mainly be using it to watch videos from an external hard drive which I'll be connecting via USB.
I've had a quick look around the intarwebs and the price at which I put one together, I could get a Acer Revo 3700 and another external hard drive. Not looking good for the HTPC option

 

[Shadows1990]

If you want it just to watch films then I would recommend buying a media player like the Western Digital HD TV, a lot cheaper, smaller and less hassle. Unless you looking for an all in one system that game record TV, play Blu-Rays, game and watch Youtube etc etc you don't need a custom made HTPC in all honesty.

I've already bought and discarded a WDTV. The fact it can only handle 4 reference frames was a big downer for me, so I gave it to the mother who seems to be getting on better with it. I also found it to be very hit-and-miss with external hard drives.

Tbh, I'll probably be wanting to use YouTube, iPlayer, 4od etc as well at some point. Are they all available as plugins/add-ons for XBMC? As for games, I sometimes play the occasional retro game, but it won't be a biggy if I can't play them on the same box.
I could install Boxee instead if I go down the HTPC/Revo route though which is a plus.