HTPC Recommendations

[abranaugh]

Hello,

I am putting together my first HTPC finally. Currently, I am using one of my old computers for DVR features. This HTPC will primarily be a DVR and I will be using 3 extenders throughout my apartment. I am still going back and forth between the echo or some 360's. I have put together a part list:

• Apex MI-008 Mini-ITX Case
• Western Digital Green 3TB HDD
• Samsung 840 120gb SSD
• ]Asus P8H77-I Mini ITX Motherboard
• Intel Core i3-3225 Ivy Bridge Processor
• G.Skill 4GB DDR3 Memory

How does this build look? Everything on newegg comes to $555.94. I already have a Ceton Infinitv 4 in my current computer and I have a copy of Windows 7 Ultimate to use. Also is 4gb enough memory to serve 3 extenders. At most two will be used at one time. This will only be used for a DVR and to use Netflix on.

Is there a better/less expensive mobo/cpu combo that I can go with? I am not deadset on ITX either, I can go to MATX as well.

Thanks for the help!
Adam

[adam1991]

I'd put in 6GB to give Windows plus extenders plenty of headroom. Each extender requires 1GB by itself.

Will you plug this HTPC directly in to your TV, or will you view it via extender? Direct connection may require that you get a separate video card for best performance.

Looks nice, though.

Oh--and (and I hate to say this), go XBox for your extenders. You'll also want Roku or something to serve Netflix on your remote TVs.

[abranaugh]

It would be a direct connection. One of the reasons I choose the processor I did, was for the HD4000, is onboard not enough? The tv is a 50" Panasonic Plasma 1080P.

[foxwood]

I wouldn't build anything with 2x2G of RAM these days - just spend the extra $25 and go with 2x4G.

If you're anywhere near a MicroCenter, they have the slightly newer/faster i3-3245 available instore for $129 -
http://www.microcenter.com/single_produ ... sku=634030

That motherboard seems to be a reasonable balance between low price and good reviews on NewEgg - the only ones significantly cheaper don't have USB 3

[richard1980]

• Apex MI-008 Mini-ITX Case
• Western Digital Green 3TB HDD
• Samsung 840 120gb SSD
• ]Asus P8H77-I Mini ITX Motherboard
• Intel Core i3-3225 Ivy Bridge Processor
• G.Skill 4GB DDR3 Memory

My current HTPC utilizes the same case, motherboard, and CPU as you are proposing. They are all sufficient, though you'll want to ensure you go with the latest driver for the HD 4000 graphics to ensure proper 0-255 RGB levels.

I agree with foxwood on the RAM...4 GB is sufficient, but for the extra money, 8 GB is a better choice.

[abranaugh]

What about this motherboard and memory combo? http://www.newegg.com/Product/Product.a ... 6813130673 It is an MSI Z77IA-E53 motherboard. One difference is the Z77 vs the H77, I am not familiar with the differences in the chipsets or which is better. The MSI motherboard is on sale for $109 and includes 8GB of memory.

[foxwood]

What about this motherboard and memory combo? http://www.newegg.com/Product/Product.a ... 6813130673 It is an MSI Z77IA-E53 motherboard. One difference is the Z77 vs the H77, I am not familiar with the differences in the chipsets or which is better. The MSI motherboard is on sale for $109 and includes 8GB of memory.

Wow - that's quite a deal. I keep telling myself that I don't need to update this box, but I'm tempted....

[abranaugh]

Well I just placed the order for that mobo and ram combo. I also purchased the case today from Amazon. I should be purchasing the rest in a week or so. Im still debating on the processor, should I go with the i3-3225, the i3-3220T or just the i3-3220. It appears the difference in the 3225 has the HD4000 integrated graphics and the other two are HD2500. The prices are as follows: i3-3225 - $130, i3-3220T - $128, i3-3220 - $105.