Help selecting a HTPC video card

[mazeroth]

I have a Hitachi 51" CRT HDTV with HDMI I am going to hook a computer up to. The computer will have an Athlon 64 3000+ 939 in it with a motherboard I have yet to select. I have a gig of Corsair Value Select PC3200 that will be going into it as well. What I'm looking for is a very inexpensive video card that will have good DVI out and will allow me to play mainly sports games on it from a year or two ago at acceptable framerates at 1280x720 resolution. It will also be used for DVD playback.

Can you guys recommend something under $80 that will do the trick? I've seen some used cards in the forums here like an X1600 PRO for $80 that I was thinking about. Anything else I should keep my eye on, like on ebay or the such? Also, any CHEAP motherboard and small case recommendations? I have an Antec 300w I can throw in the case already.

Thanks!

 

[Nextman916]

dual-dvi or just one DVI port?

 

[Wreckage]

Since you are looking at a pretty low video card anyways. You could just get a motherboard with onboard 6150 video.

http://www.newegg.com/Product/Product.asp?Item=N82E16813131014

It has DVI and component HDTV outputs.

 

[ForumMaster]

well, if it is going to be an HTPC, wouldn't you want to spend a little more and get a oassively cooled card? from what you say, you don't require dual link DVI, or do you? and do you need dual dvi ports? the x1600 pro should be fine, but for an HTPC, i would want a passive card. check in on that.

 

[mazeroth]

I went home for Father's Day and just now checked the replies. Thanks so far for all your help!

I do like that mobo+vid card combo with the DVI but I will be using the old video card out of my computer every time I upgrade, so there's no reason to get somethign like that for my situation. Also, the computer will be 10-12ft away behind the television so I won't need something that's passively cooled. Does this open any other windows?

Thanks!

 

[mazeroth]

Help a brother out!

 

[Cookie Monster]

An X1600 pro or 7600GS would do the trick.

If your looking for more cheaper cards, i suggest either the X1300pros OR 7300GT/GS combination.

If your looking for more cheaper cards, integrated solutions like NVs 6150 would do the trick.

Pure Video now offers pure Video HD. Maybe you should check that out sometime.