Recomendations for HTPC

[EricRobins]

I have decided to buy a barebones kit for building a HTPC.

I would like to keep the budget, including OS, memory hard drive, and DVD drive to under $750. (I plan on getting a BR drive, but not right now, maybe Xmas.)

I want HDMI (preferably) off the motherboard, so that it is more likely to carry the audio signals to my A/V rcvr.

I think I am looking at the Q6600 and Q6700 for processors. Are the Quad Core AMD's (Phenom?) ok? Should I stick with XP or can I use Vista? I am not willing to wait until Windows 7 is out.

[dave29]

I would buy this mobo(I have one)
http://www.newegg.com/Product/Product.aspx?Item=N82E16813128363
you will not need a seperate graphics card with this mobo, or a similiar one.
For HTPC, definately use Vista Ultimate or home premium.
The Q6600 is overkill for HTPC.
An E7200 would be more than enough. If you feel froggy, get the E8400.

[Lowry666]

Hello,
I just picked up a pc last week to use in my ht. http://www.staples.com/office/supplies/p4_eMachines-EL1210-09-Desktop-PC_261891_Business_Supplies_1_10051_FEATURED:SC3:C G71
It is small, VERY quiet and although I am not a Vista fan, it works very well with my theater and does everything I need it to do. I got a nice Microsoft wireless keyboard and mouse combo for it and I am extremely satisfied with it. Check it out and see what you think, it's an inexepensive solution and you could go ahead and get a br player too.
Good luck with whichever route you go, and if you build one, post what you bought and how you like it. I am curious to see what you come up with, as I might follow your lead.

Take care,
Lowry

P.S. The emachines does have an HDMI out, with audio on the HDMI.