HTPC - What bits do I need?

[MikeB]

I have a spare e6600 and a 965p DS3 knocking about, also 4gb ram.

Are these feasible building block for HTPC, want something to store DVD's on, plug freeview into etc, what else do I require?, ideally would like to play blu rays on it, so what vga card.

Ta in advance

 

[HEADRAT]

Do you want native HDMI out?

 

[MikeB]

would be good as i intend to site the pc next to the amp, also silent as posibble would be great

 

[HEADRAT]

Just find a passive ATI Radeon HD 3450, that will do the job.

 

[MikeB]

thanks they seem nice and cheap.

So the board, ram and cpu are fit for blu ray as well?, next up is do I need a soundcard and what's the best silent cpu, blu ray drive and case.

Cheers again

 

[HEADRAT]

I'd be tempted to sell your e6600 and get a E5200, less heat so cooling will be easier.

Are you going to be using a AV Receiver, if so the HDMI will supply 5.1 sound to you amp.

HEADRAT

 

[MikeB]

my board doesn't support that CPU , trying to be 'green' and re-use, also trying to be cheap