HTPC build with existing parts

[naiserie]

So I believe that my msi k8gm2 has finally died, and am looking to replace the MB, CPU, and RAM, everything else from the previous machine should be fine.

I haven't really been keeping up with latest bang/buck mobo/cpu/ram for the htpc market, so looking for MB suggestions that will specifically have:

-on board 7.1 audio (spdif preferred)
-on board video for 1080p decoding
-hdmi would be nice

The machine is used exclusively for WMC and don't need to OC at all. The psu, capture card, HDD, etc from the dead machine are all fine, just need a new MB (and CPU and RAM since 939 is out of the question at this point).

Cost isn't really a huge concern, but for this kind of machine, I don't think I need anything super exorbitant. Microcenter has some decent looking deals for CPU/MB combos, but does anyone have any guidance?

TIA!

 

[veri745]

You looking for a particular form factor: ATX, microATX, mini ITX?

If you want onboard video, Radeon 4250 IGP's are pretty good for HTPC's. There have also been some reviews of the newer Zacate mini ITX boards that are coming out soon, or I'm sure that Sandy Bridge graphics would work for you.

 

[Emulex]

i just get a cheap refurb asus since it has slic 2.1 (quad core q8300) and throw it into antec micro fusion 350. my refurb asus came with an okay geforce 220 which can offload the cpu. i ditched it for a GT430 since i wanted full sequential 3D otherwise it was dandy without it. the onboard cpu required alot more power with XBMC playing a full blu-ray rip.

got it off cowboom/ebay $185 for complete win7 asus box c2q8300,8gb,geforce 220,etc. ditched the box, $79 antec microfusion 350, $50 for Geforce 430. $25 for lenovo remote.

go used and go cheap.

 

[naiserie]

You looking for a particular form factor: ATX, microATX, mini ITX?

If you want onboard video, Radeon 4250 IGP's are pretty good for HTPC's. There have also been some reviews of the newer Zacate mini ITX boards that are coming out soon, or I'm sure that Sandy Bridge graphics would work for you.

yeah, it'll be going into an antec nsk2480, probably would've helped to mention that.

thanks for the tips!