Need Opinion On New Motherboard

[gtannenb]

I am building a new machine that I want to try to build with limited funds. My goal is to use it as part of my entertainment center, with the main goal of playing MP3s, DVD's and video capture. I have all the parts except for the motherboard, CPU and case. I have seen many cheap cases so that is not an issue. I am looking for suggestions on a relatively cheap motherboard that can work with this. The machine will not be used for gaming so it does not need to be the newest and best. I was thinking about a Socket A motherboard since AMD chips are cheaper and I always had luck with them. I got 256mb of SDRAM for free after rebate so I was hoping that I would be able to use it on the new motherboard. Rather not spend the money on DDR ram. I also got a 4 channel sound card for $4.99 at Compusa.

I am basically looking for a motherboard that does not have a built in soundcard or video. I will take them if the price it reasonable but I don't need them.

Anyone have any suggestions on a motherboard that will fit my needs?

Thanks,

Glen

 

[mechBgon]

#1 advice, don't cheap out on the power supply, and don't judge them by their wattage ratings alone. You might want to get an ECS K7S5A motherboard.

 

[Kuroyama]

If you're looking for cheap then watch the refurbished motherboards at NewEgg. They've got AMD CPU's running as low as $31, with free shipping.

The refurb motherboards are pretty much cleared out right now, but they get new stock every few days. For instance, looks like they had a $29 mobo that takes SDRAM and has free shipping. With you running SDRAM I wouldn't worry too much about the chipset. You probably have the IDE cables with the Hard Drive and CD, but make sure about that because the refurb motherboards often don't come with anything but the board itself. I've got two refurb boards from them and neither had any trouble.

If you buy a refurb then make 100% sure that it'll take SDRAM and the processor you purchased. Newegg's refurb policy is to only allows exchanges for the same item, no refunds.

 

[Cerb]

Just get a K7S5A, no refurb, it's only $60 for the USB 2 one!
Get other stuff, cheap AMD (not a Duron*) chip and HSF, and a 300w Enlight, Enhance or Enermax PSU (I've had two bad experiences with Sparkles, while they are as cheap, and no bad Enlight, Enhance, or Enermax).
If you want a cheap and good case & PSU combo, get the Evercase w/ the Enhance 300w.


* Durons are cheaper, but the performance difference, even in normal uses like web browsing, is quite noticeable.