HTPC

[Matt]

I am thinking of upgrading my HTPC, which has this spec at the moment:
- AMD XP2400
- 1gb RAM
- 2x 160gb, 1x 500gb HDD
- 2x tv cards
- 1x soundcard
- cheap graphics card
- no dvd

Here is what i am looking for:
- CPU
- CPU cooler
- Motherboard (onboard sound + graphics)
- RAM

It needs to be capable of playing 720p easily, and running vista perfectly. The budget is about £150, but it can all be second hand if needed. The motherboard can be any size really, but needs 2x pci slots for the tv cards, and must have no fans on it! The only fan should be for the cpu.

The CPU needs to be low wattage, and run cool as well.

Please let me know if you have any ideas, or whether i am asking a bit too much!

Thanks

 

[Katoom]

Have a look at the AMD 780g boards. Only one PCI-e tho on the Gigabyte board. Could you sell the two cards then buy one dual tuner?

Have a look in the Home cinema section.

 

[Matt]

This is what i am thinking of going for:

- Gigabyte MA78GM-S2H
- AMD X2 5050e
- Scythe Mini Ninja
- Crucial 2x 1gb RAM

Does that look ok? Approx cost is £165, which isn't too bad. Though i am debating whether getting the Ninja is worth it, and might just lose it and save £30.

 

[Grimley]

That should run 1080p easily let alone 720p. & the ninja is worth it.