semi-HTPC machine

[adams828]

Okay so here's the deal:

I want to put together a HTPC machine. I scrapped together some old parts and it works, but not very well (pIII - 833). The system will record TV, but only at low quality.. once pushed, either the video lags, or the audio distorts.

So my question is, what is the minimum system specs I can get away with? I'm really only interested in recording/watching shows, not planning on doing any time-shifting, etc.

I'd rather build my own system, but in terms of cost, is it worth it to just wait for Dell to have some cheapo P4 system?

THanks!

 

[adams828]

 

[Todd33]

If you have a hardware encoder card like the DVR-150/250 you should be fine with a slow CPU. What are you recording with?

 

[adams828]

Hm my roomate picked up the card.. I think it's the ATI wonder?

Would the DVR-150 work with the pIII 833 or would I still need a faster processor?