Thoughts on this HTPC?

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  • dane_peterson
    dane_peterson Posts: 1,903
    edited July 2009
    All right, after spending essentially every free moment of my last 72 hrs, I took the plunge!

    Here's what I went with:
    Case - Antec NSK1380 ($60 - P/U locally)
    Mobo - ASRock 780G w/ 128MB Onboard Memory w/ HDMI ($70)
    CPU - The new AMD Athlon II X2 250 Regor 3.0Ghz 65w ($87)
    GPU - Sapphire RADEON 4670 512MB ($65)
    DVD/R - Samsung 22x Burner w/ LightScribe ($26)
    HDD - Samsung Spinpoint 1TB 32MB ($85)
    MEM - G.SKILL 2X 2GB DDR2 1066 ($50)

    The GPU was probably the least important purchase of the lot, but I do plan to do a little bit of Starcraft 2 when it's released. At which point I may have to invest in a CPU cooler, but we'll see...

    Would love to hear people's thoughts!
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  • LessisNevermore
    LessisNevermore Posts: 1,519
    edited July 2009
    Looks good.
    I've never heard of ASRock mobo's. (that doesn't mean much, lol)
    Looks like it has the goodies, though.

    2 things:
    I would double up on the memory. 4GB
    I would add a second HDD just for the OS and programs. Rob one from a current computer, if need be. If and when you ever have to format and reinstall.....yikes.(I had how many movies on there?!?!;)) The Antec case will hold 2 HDD's, but no more. You could always go with an external for more storage, and to keep the heat down.
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  • dane_peterson
    dane_peterson Posts: 1,903
    edited July 2009
    I ordered two 2GB sticks... so got 4GB! Might pick up another GB or two if I can find some on the cheap locally. Especially since I'll be running Windows 7.

    I will eventually get another HDD. Just didn't have the funds for it just yet.

    As for format/reinstall... I'm not familiar with that, being a Mac guy. Care to enlighten me?
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  • LessisNevermore
    LessisNevermore Posts: 1,519
    edited July 2009
    dane_peterson wrote: »
    As for format/reinstall... I'm not familiar with that, being a Mac guy. Care to enlighten me?

    Used to be a bi-annual ritual back with Win98....Look up OS rot.
    I lost many a weekend reinstalling software, and anything stored on those drives without a backup was long gone. It doesn't seem to be an issue with XP, (got one box running since '02 without issue) and for me, Vista seems pretty stable too.


    Out of curiosity, if you're a mac guy, why not go with an airport? (or whatever they call their media server box):D
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  • dane_peterson
    dane_peterson Posts: 1,903
    edited July 2009
    The Apple TV? I looked into it... the major issue is compatibility. It's truly designed to be paired exclusively with iTunes. Which is fine if I had all my files in iTunes, but I certainly won't. On top of that, I don't want to tie up my only computer with streaming files while I'm watching a movie. (Macbook)

    I also considered the Mac Mini. With a few upgrades, it would be a sleek, attractive and capable option. I would have gone this route had it not been for financial reasons. It's simply much cheaper to build a better computer for less. If it were my everyday computer, I'd hands-down select OSX. But I can tolerate Windows for my media server.
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  • dane_peterson
    dane_peterson Posts: 1,903
    edited July 2009
    Needless to say, the dresser's getting a little crowded!

    Ended up picking up an Antec Fusion Remote Max case for $80 locally instead. Wanted to have a little extra space... but this thing is a GIANT!

    All parts arrive Thursday. I'm pretty excited. I realize this is probably of little interest to most ClubPolk guys, but this is certainly the most significant "upgrade" to my rig in a long time.
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  • cnh
    cnh Posts: 13,284
    edited July 2009
    Doesn't the TV get hot sitting on the receiver like that? Looks like some nice stuff...for your set up.

    Your thread led me to download google's free PS3 Media Server to my PC/XP laptop which was then able to stream to the PS3 and seemed to be able to play a 4.5 gig ISO file off the laptop's drive? I'm not sure exactly what the Media Server is doing but it is transcoding the ISO file as it streams?

    Good luck with the set up.

    cnh
    Currently orbiting Bowie's Blackstar.!

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  • dane_peterson
    dane_peterson Posts: 1,903
    edited July 2009
    Stuff may get moved around. I haven't quite figured it out yet. I might even just build a platform for the TV so the equipment has clearance underneath the display.
    Just installed the PSU into the case a moment ago. I'm amazed at the number of cables, but the case is well laid out. Can't wait to fiddle with this Thursday night.
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  • Face
    Face Posts: 14,340
    edited July 2009
    Nice case, I have the same one. It's pretty quiet, but I installed sound deadening material to the top(not blocking the vents). If you need extra cooling, you can reverse the fans on the back and side, and also install a fan in the extra slot up front. It will keep things nice and cool, at the expense of only a few more dB.
    "He who fights with monsters should look to it that he himself does not become a monster. And when you gaze long into an abyss the abyss also gazes into you." Friedrich Nietzsche
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  • dane_peterson
    dane_peterson Posts: 1,903
    edited July 2009
    Good to know, thanks Face.

    Got this fully-assembled and running Windows 7 last night. As of a few moments ago, I got MediaPortal installed with the StreamedMP skin plug-in. I'm giddy with excitement! The layout and interface of this Front-End app is incredible. I think the other plug-in is "Moving Pictures"? which DLs photos and info for your media. GORGEOUS.

    I'll try to post some screenshots later.
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  • kawizx9r
    kawizx9r Posts: 5,150
    edited July 2009
    Ah Dane, great to hear that youre liking the setup:D wonder who talked you into that haha j/k
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  • rallyshark
    rallyshark Posts: 417
    edited July 2009
    dane_peterson wrote: »
    Cool, but the interface is a concern for me. Which this product will lack...
    I don't think I'm doing the "quote" part right, but I'm talking about the lacie.

    This seems pretty cool to me to, but then I read it can't play ISO/.VOB files. Is that correct? Wouldn't that mean conversion hell?

    Congrats on the new PC set up by the way. I've read this entire thread and have found a lot of useful info as I'm thinking of doing the same thing in the near future:) I tried the PS3 media server route, but found that to be too much of a pain in the ****, and couldn't ever get it work quite right. I think this is the way I need to go as my 400 disc changer only has about 50 slots left:( Very good read!
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  • dane_peterson
    dane_peterson Posts: 1,903
    edited July 2009
    Glad you were able to gain something from my thread. Though I'm still a noob, please don't hesitate to PM with any questions. I've used a few people for resources here, and would like to return the favor to others.
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  • jinjuku
    jinjuku Posts: 1,523
    edited July 2009
    dane_peterson wrote: »
    All right, after spending essentially every free moment of my last 72 hrs, I took the plunge!

    Here's what I went with:
    Case - Antec NSK1380 ($60 - P/U locally)
    Mobo - ASRock 780G w/ 128MB Onboard Memory w/ HDMI ($70)
    CPU - The new AMD Athlon II X2 250 Regor 3.0Ghz 65w ($87)
    GPU - Sapphire RADEON 4670 512MB ($65)
    DVD/R - Samsung 22x Burner w/ LightScribe ($26)
    HDD - Samsung Spinpoint 1TB 32MB ($85)
    MEM - G.SKILL 2X 2GB DDR2 1066 ($50)

    The GPU was probably the least important purchase of the lot, but I do plan to do a little bit of Starcraft 2 when it's released. At which point I may have to invest in a CPU cooler, but we'll see...

    Would love to hear people's thoughts!

    You may want to consider a Scythe CPU cooler if your case will allow for it's height. I have had a HTPC running with a fanless CPU cooler for 2 1/2 years now. It's great.

    Check out the My Movies server/client/MCE plug-in for your DVD juke management. It is a KILLER piece of software. Also make the purchase for Any DVD/HD. Install that in conjunction with My Movies and the My Movies piece will rip your DVD's for you. You may occasionally have to go out and get the artwork manually. That is the only caveat that I have found how ever.
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  • cnh
    cnh Posts: 13,284
    edited July 2009
    rallyshark wrote: »
    I don't think I'm doing the "quote" part right, but I'm talking about the lacie.

    This seems pretty cool to me to, but then I read it can't play ISO/.VOB files. Is that correct? Wouldn't that mean conversion hell?

    Congrats on the new PC set up by the way. I've read this entire thread and have found a lot of useful info as I'm thinking of doing the same thing in the near future:) I tried the PS3 media server route, but found that to be too much of a pain in the ****, and couldn't ever get it work quite right. I think this is the way I need to go as my 400 disc changer only has about 50 slots left:( Very good read!

    I started using the PS3 media server myself. No problems streaming ISO files--in 5.1 (only issue is router speed...you need a reasonable streaming speed at least a few gigs/second? Also streams lossless WAV files perfectly!) Not sure what problems you had, and I'm no computer Wiz...by any means!

    Dane...pics?

    cnh
    Currently orbiting Bowie's Blackstar.!

    Polk Lsi-7s, Def Tech 8" sub, HK 3490, HK HD 990 (CDP/DAC), AKG Q701s
    [sig. changed on a monthly basis as I rotate in and out of my stash]
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  • SivaNevets
    SivaNevets Posts: 303
    edited July 2009
    ATI has much better HD picture quality than Nvidia (difference is pretty huge to me), if you do not do any gaming, ATI 4350 is the best choice. ATI 4xxx series has build in HD audio passes audio thru HDMI make things a lot easier.
    Front: Martinlogan ESL
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  • dane_peterson
    dane_peterson Posts: 1,903
    edited July 2009
    SivaNevets wrote: »
    ATI has much better HD picture quality than Nvidia (difference is pretty huge to me), if you do not do any gaming, ATI 4350 is the best choice. ATI 4xxx series has build in HD audio passes audio thru HDMI make things a lot easier.

    This is what I've heard, which is why I didn't do NVIDIA. The 4670 is working quite well for me (though I don't have any graphic-intensive games installed quite yet)

    cnh, I'll try to get some updated pics up with the interface I'm using. Right now, my keyboard is an eyesore (using an old white wired keyboard--free from the parents) I tried a wireless keyboard/mouse, and the mouse range SUCKED!! (Logitech S520, in case anyone cares. Couldn't be more than 5ft away from the receiver)

    I'm going to save for a well-received keyboard with integrated mouse ball. I've got my eye on a couple... don't have the links handy ATM though.

    jinjuku, I'm curious about the fanless cooler, actually. I watched my first full-length film with the HTPC last night, and the fans were a little on the loud side for me... going to look into this! (DEFINITELY have the clearance... the case is like 8" tall)
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  • LessisNevermore
    LessisNevermore Posts: 1,519
    edited July 2009
    Dane, I'm using this with my HTPC, though it is designed for the PS3.
    It's bluetooth, I'm using it about 18' away. (range is ~30')

    http://www.logitech.com/index.cfm/gaming/playstation_3/keyboards/devices/3616&cl=us,en
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  • jinjuku
    jinjuku Posts: 1,523
    edited July 2009
    dane_peterson wrote: »
    This is what I've heard, which is why I didn't do NVIDIA. The 4670 is working quite well for me (though I don't have any graphic-intensive games installed quite yet)

    cnh, I'll try to get some updated pics up with the interface I'm using. Right now, my keyboard is an eyesore (using an old white wired keyboard--free from the parents) I tried a wireless keyboard/mouse, and the mouse range SUCKED!! (Logitech S520, in case anyone cares. Couldn't be more than 5ft away from the receiver)

    I'm going to save for a well-received keyboard with integrated mouse ball. I've got my eye on a couple... don't have the links handy ATM though.

    jinjuku, I'm curious about the fanless cooler, actually. I watched my first full-length film with the HTPC last night, and the fans were a little on the loud side for me... going to look into this! (DEFINITELY have the clearance... the case is like 8" tall)

    Also look at they Gryo Motion MCE remote and keyboard. It's like a Wii controller in that you simply hold down a button and move the remote to control the mouse.
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  • Ender
    Ender Posts: 603
    edited July 2009
    SivaNevets wrote: »
    ATI has much better HD picture quality than Nvidia (difference is pretty huge to me), if you do not do any gaming, ATI 4350 is the best choice. ATI 4xxx series has build in HD audio passes audio thru HDMI make things a lot easier.
    dane_peterson wrote: »
    This is what I've heard, which is why I didn't do NVIDIA. The 4670 is working quite well for me (though I don't have any graphic-intensive games installed quite yet)

    cnh, I'll try to get some updated pics up with the interface I'm using. Right now, my keyboard is an eyesore (using an old white wired keyboard--free from the parents) I tried a wireless keyboard/mouse, and the mouse range SUCKED!! (Logitech S520, in case anyone cares. Couldn't be more than 5ft away from the receiver)

    I'm going to save for a well-received keyboard with integrated mouse ball. I've got my eye on a couple... don't have the links handy ATM though.

    jinjuku, I'm curious about the fanless cooler, actually. I watched my first full-length film with the HTPC last night, and the fans were a little on the loud side for me... going to look into this! (DEFINITELY have the clearance... the case is like 8" tall)

    ??? Where did you hear ATI is better than NVIDIA for HD decoding?

    http://www.hardforum.com/showthread.php?t=1427788

    This is almost one of the most popular HTPC builds around. Super quiet and really cool running due to onboard audio and onboard graphics (HDMI via onboard Nvidia card and mobo audio). Just mobo, cpu, ram, power supply, case, hsf, good to go. No need for separate graphics card, no need for sound card. Which means no super loud fan driving you nuts while watching movies or listening to music. And no lagging while watching HD content. Oh and it's cheap because it's an AMD build.

    Nvidia is fine. Just make sure you get the card that's right for you. There are iffy cards in the ATI lineup too (but of course, ATI is a great competitor to Nvidia).
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  • SivaNevets
    SivaNevets Posts: 303
    edited July 2009
    Ender wrote: »
    ??? Where did you hear ATI is better than NVIDIA for HD decoding?

    http://www.hardforum.com/showthread.php?t=1427788

    This is almost one of the most popular HTPC builds around. Super quiet and really cool running due to onboard audio and onboard graphics (HDMI via onboard Nvidia card and mobo audio). Just mobo, cpu, ram, power supply, case, hsf, good to go. No need for separate graphics card, no need for sound card. Which means no super loud fan driving you nuts while watching movies or listening to music. And no lagging while watching HD content. Oh and it's cheap because it's an AMD build.

    Nvidia is fine. Just make sure you get the card that's right for you. There are iffy cards in the ATI lineup too (but of course, ATI is a great competitor to Nvidia).


    i first read it somewhere but didnt think its a big deal.
    my previous ATI XT1800 got problems so I replaced it with Nvidia 8800ultra.
    i was watching an 1080p movie with 1800 halfway with my gf. after I replaced the new nvidia card, we keep watched the movie for a while, then I said to her "you find out any difference in picture quality from my old card?" she replys 'yes i didnt want to make u feel bad but the new one really sux'

    im not saying how good ATI is but Nvidia does suck very much in PQ compare to ATI. thats why im getting a new HTPC for the single reason of PQ (i already have most used of the parts though). The only reason I bought the Nvidia is becasue 8800 sereis is the lastest soft moddable card to workstation series (Quadro)
    Front: Martinlogan ESL
    Center: Martinlogan Stage
    Rear: Martinlogan Motion 4
    Sub: Martinlogan Grotto-I
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    PC 2 Channel: Polk LSI7
    Headset: Grado RS2 + Grado RA1 amp
    Mic: Neumann KMS605

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    MM6501 components
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  • SivaNevets
    SivaNevets Posts: 303
    edited July 2009
    i cannot find the link anymore, but the what ive observed is very similar to the following
    http://www.firingsquad.com/hardware/ati_nvidia_xgi_mainstream_video_quality_comparison/page5.asp
    ATI
    16.jpg
    Nvidia
    17.jpg

    not to say XT1800 & 8800 r not the same generation. theres no real improvement from Nvidia 8k series to GX2xx series.

    the best way is get an HD4350 to make a test
    Front: Martinlogan ESL
    Center: Martinlogan Stage
    Rear: Martinlogan Motion 4
    Sub: Martinlogan Grotto-I
    Receiver: Pioneer Elite SC 1523K

    PC 2 Channel: Polk LSI7
    Headset: Grado RS2 + Grado RA1 amp
    Mic: Neumann KMS605

    Car Audio
    2002 MB C240 Sedan
    MM6501 components
    MM840 sub
    MB Quart Onyx 4.60 (1/2 to components, 3/4 bridged to sub)
    Pioneer 8200BT HU
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