studying up for a new HTPC build

[Cr0nJ0b]

Hey guys,

I've been building me own PCs for years, but I've never had a successful HTPC build...Generally, I've been using old parts from old builds and I just haven't been able to get it right....so here I am looking to do things right the first time.

I'm planning to get a new Plasma TV (Samsung 59" D8000) and a new Denon 3312CI receiver. Once I get them, I would like to add a robust HTPC that's ultra quiet.

Most of my data will be streaming from an infrant NAS or another server on my network, all wired GigE.

Requirements:
Quiet
affordable (not looking to break the bank)
Cool ( will be in a cabinet)

Uses:
iTunes, for sync, and play
winamp for play
Playlist editing
some games, not sure how that would work, but I'd like to try.
internet
playing streaming movies,

OS:
Windows 7 Ultimate

I'm just looking for some recommendations on hardware like Mobo and CPU, GPU etc...even case.

I was looking at Atom stuff, but I think that might be too slow for most of my needs...but I'm looking for advice here.

thanks

 

[Brainonska511]

For case, I'd suggest the SilverStone ML03, if you go mATX: It's cheap and well constructed. Also fairly quiet if you use quiet 80mm fans. I have a review here: http://forums.anandtech.com/showthread.php?t=2165244

If you go mITX, consider a smaller case.

As for processors and boards: an Athlon II X2 with maybe an HD4250 board (integrated graphics) would be sufficient for almost all your tasks, but since you suggest gaming, you'll probably want something a little beefier.

 

[dma0991]

For the CPU and motherboard you could go for a cheap AMD E-350 but if you want to use it in a longer term getting the upcoming AMD Llano would be great. The Llano would have more performance than the E-350 and with a socket type mounting you can upgrade the APU in the future. The Llano has Husky cores and the Zambezi is not Llano, just ignore the last four.

To go with the Llano APU you have a very nice mITX board from ASRock.