building a htpc

[jjj807]

I picked up a micro atx case at a computer show today. It has 2 hdd bays and 2 optical drive bays, what parts do iu need to build a htpc that is cheap and efficient. I just want to record basic cable programs and play dvds. Can anyone suggest a good mobo and tv tuner card? Thanks

 

[mshan]

You will need a tv capture card that accept clear Qam (non-encrypted).

Don't know what current recommendation is, but I used to see the Hauppauge PVR-150 recommended a lot, perhaps with Windows Media Center as operating system.

 

[boomhower]

An AMD system would be my pick. 780 based motherboard and a cheap X2 or phenom depending on the budget. PVR150 is a great card, I used on myself for a while. The integrated video on the AMD side is superior to intels. You do not need a a lot of horsepower for an HTPC so I would go the AMD route, should be cheaper as well.