• We’re currently investigating an issue related to the forum theme and styling that is impacting page layout and visual formatting. The problem has been identified, and we are actively working on a resolution. There is no impact to user data or functionality, this is strictly a front-end display issue. We’ll post an update once the fix has been deployed. Thanks for your patience while we get this sorted.

A good pre-assembled HTPC

D

DeadSeaSquirrels

Senior member
I was thinking about building a good HTPC for myself, since i just moved and got some new furniture and TV. But I don't think I'll have the time to really research a build a good HTPC that is quiet, has the good power, and research on the cases. I was thinking about just buying a pre-built one but I don't really see that many ones offered, and it seems like every one doesn't really give the power, memory, or video card power that I'm looking for. Right now I just want to watch DVDs, maybe surf the internet, and maybe record some HDTV channels, nothing very good. But i want it to be extensible. Are there companies out there that make a good HTPC, what's the most "reputable" one out there? Thanks.
 
Nearly every decent pre-built HTPC I've looked at costs a ridiculous amount compared to building it yourself. Here's a quickie parts list to get you started:

Antec Overture II case - $105
2.4ghz A64 & Biostar motherboard combo - $100
CPU HSF - $30
Arctic Silver 5 - $6
1gb ram - $105
Fanless 128mb 6200 video card - $33
16x DVD burner - $30
400gb hard drive - $110
ATI HDTV card - $90
Windows Media Center 2005 - $110
Microsoft wireless keyboard/mouse - $85

About $800; there are some rebates going on there too. Runs fast, looks awesome, lots of hard drive space, can record HDTV, and includes wireless keyboard, mouse, and remote control. All you need is an afternoon and a screwdriver 🙂
 
Originally posted by: DaveSimmons
Get the Antec NSK2400 or Fusion instead, see the NSK2400 review at www.SilentPCReview.com
Click to expand...

Yeah I put the NSK2400 in my list originally, but it's only for micro-ATX motherboards and the combo deal going on wasn't for a micro-ATX board 🙁 Beautiful case though, if I didn't have a TiVo/XBMC setup I would go for that one.
 
cool thank you very much for all the help, this is a really good start. I think I'll use this as a base. I saw the Zalman case the one that looks like a receiver. That looks awesome, but the price is ridiculously preventative.
 
One more thing, if anybody has ever put one together or is using it right now, are their some specs or rules of thumb I should know. Like make sure to get a video card that has "X" or make sure I have at least 2 GB of RAM, or RAID striping doesn't really improve performance, etc. Stuff like that, any info is appreciated.
 
You must log in or register to reply here.

TRENDING THREADS

Back
Top