Hmm, X3+HD3200 seems to be the best solution. (Or E5200+HD4550 but HD4550 is not avaliable here).
I forgot to say that HD 4550 is not released yet, expected on September 30.

I have downloaded all the new drivers / patches and the same problem occurs. I overclocked my processor (C2D E6420) to 2.6 ghz, but the same thing happens:

My CPU is pegged at 100% and won't let up for a second when TMT is running. Any suggestions?

The second I double click on the TMT icon, my CPU spikes. It won't quit spiking until I restart my computer. If the Radeon doesn't perform much better (if any) than the GeForce for Blu-Ray, do you think my best bet would be to upgrade my CPU?

The spiking is very weird. I tried it with the discs "21" and "Smart People" and got the exact same result every time.
You have to fix the spike problem. 2.6GHz is fast enough, upgrading CPU won't fix it. Doesn't uninstalling both driver and TMT then reinstalling them fix the problem? Have you tried PowerDVD (the trial version is fully functional)? The last resort may be clean reinstall OS.

so you recommend these instead of what I proposed?

Thanks

so you recommend these instead of what I proposed?
Depends on your needs (LPT, 7.1 LPCM etc.).

First, terrific guide. Thanks.

I have some questions. :P

Is PAP required to bitstream DTS-MA/DTHD for rips/m2ts without AACS? If the stream is not protected, I suppose output untouched LPCM or bitstream should be doable without PAP given a proper software player?

Is bitstream possible for other containers such as TS or mkv?

If I don't care about GPU/hardware assisted video decoding,a quad core Intel cpu should be able to handle 100% of the bluray today?

Does smooth output 1080p23.97/24/25/30 or 1080i50/60 have anything to do with decoding or just a issue of communication between software and IGP HDMI drivers?

Is PAP required to bitstream DTS-MA/DTHD for rips/m2ts without AACS? If the stream is not protected, I suppose output untouched LPCM or bitstream should be doable without PAP given a proper software player?

Is bitstream possible for other containers such as TS or mkv?

If I don't care about GPU/hardware assisted video decoding,a quad core Intel cpu should be able to handle 100% of the bluray today?

Does smooth output 1080p23.97/24/25/30 or 1080i50/60 have anything to do with decoding or just a issue of communication between software and IGP HDMI drivers?
First, there is no player that bitstreams TrueHD/DTS-HD MA, AACS or non-AACS. Second every player downsamples audio to 16bit/48kHz, AACS or non-AACS. (The only exception is TMT bundled with Xonar HDAV1.3.) Third, bistreaming TrueHD/DTS-HD MA requires a proprietary interface, not supplied by Windows, according to CyberLink. So discussing bitsreaming these formats is almost meaningless right now.

A quad-core, or even a dual-core of higher clock, can handle BD without HA.

Smooth playback of 1080p/24 does not depend on decoding (easy), but on player, driver, OS etc.

First, there is no player that bitstreams TrueHD/DTS-HD MA, AACS or non-AACS. Second every player downsamples audio to 16bit/48kHz, AACS or non-AACS. (The only exception is TMT bundled with Xonar HDAV1.3.) Third, bistreaming TrueHD/DTS-HD MA requires a proprietary interface, not supplied by Windows, according to CyberLink. So discussing bitsreaming these formats is almost meaningless right now.

A quad-core, or even a dual-core of higher clock, can handle BD without HA.

Smooth playback of 1080p/24 does not depend on decoding (easy), but on player, driver, OS etc.



Thanks for the swift reply.:)

So the hardware is ready, what lacking is the software ( decoder, player, driver, and OS).


Why current player would downmix to 48khz/16bit for unprotected stream/container is beyond me.

Because they are on to us and know there is no such thing as a "protected" stream anymore (if there ever was)? :D

(Still, I don't see why they'd let themselves get locked into a license agreement like that for unprotected material. Seems weird to me.)

Because they are on to us and know there is no such thing as a "protected" stream anymore (if there ever was)? :D

(Still, I don't see why they'd let themselves get locked into a license agreement like that for unprotected material. Seems weird to me.)


Is it that hard to write a third party driver for bitstream?

I am still using a SoC 8635 based HDMI 1.3 streamer. It seems to me I have to wait at least another year for them to sort this mess out on the HTPC.
Things really have not changed much from a year ago.

Here is a picture of S14V (http://www.homemedia.fr/i/imgs/5116.jpg). The main difference between S16V and S14V is that PSU is vertically laid in S16V so that there is more space for a ATX mb. I am not sure if Zipang fits or not.

Here is a picture of a S16V case (http://i27.tinypic.com/i3av77.jpg). This mobo is fitted with a Ninja Mini CPU cooler. I cannot find the answer.

Hello:

I recently bought a new LG GGC-H20L and tried to run a Blu-Ray disc with TMT. The end result was stuttering video that was painful to watch. When viewing the CPU Performance in Task Manager, it was at 100%

I currently have a Core 2 Duo E6420 with a NVidia GeForce 8600 GTS (256 MB) in my HTPC.

My first question is: Do I need to do anything software related to fix the problem, or is it time to upgrade? I have hardware accelleration enabled in TMT.

If it's time to upgrade, I want to make damn sure my upgrades offer a flawlwess Blu-Ray experience. Not so much perfect audio (I realize the whole HDMI lossless audio issue), but definitely video. I don't do any gaming on this system; ONLY HTPC duties.

I was thinking of a small upgrade to a Core 2 Duo E8500 and an ATI Radeon HD 4850 (512 mb - Asus) to ensure no problems with my Blu-Ray playback.

Any comments on this upgrade would be much appreciated. Let me know if this is enough (or if it's overkill - pplease add suggestions for hardware). If I can get away with only upgrading the video card, let me know.

I am ready to make a purchase and need some advice.

Thanks

My current system is a C2D E6400 (2.133Ghz), XP, Radeon HD 3450 and Pioneer Blu-ray player. I can get stuttering trying to play the infamous 'killa.sampla.x264 file unless I use Media Player Classic - Home Cinema version.

Renethx: can you suggest a cheap performance case (normal case, don't have to be a htpc case) say around 100$ for your atx, high end, intel on the for the updated latest recommended systems? thanks

Renethx: can you suggest a cheap performance case (normal case, don't have to be a htpc case) say around 100$ for your atx, high end, intel on the for the updated latest recommended systems? thanks
- COOLER MASTER RC-690-KKN1-GP (http://www.newegg.com/Product/Product.aspx?Item=N82E16811119137) (my favorite case)
- Antec Nine Hundred

After reading this thread from pretty much starting with page 1 (and re-reading many posts! :) ), I think i'm finally ready to build a new HTPC to go with the new Plasma sitting in the bedroom... Props to Renethx for all of the insights and recommendations and the ongoing contributions that benefit all of us.

My objectives are to do SD/HDTV (probably some post processing involved), DVD, BR (mkv and BR drive in near future - Black Friday? :)), 5.1, all through Meedio front end (still TBD), music, and possibly light gaming (ie, emulators, not COD4).

Picked up NSK2480 from Fry's with a rebate and now looking to fill it up...

Original plan (pretty much Renethx' Mid Range AMD system with Mb upgrade):
CPU x3 8750
Mb gigabyte GA-MA78GPM-DS2H
Cooler Scythe SCSK-1000 100mm Shuriken CPU Cooler
HDD WD 320G Green HDD
memory A-DATA ADQVE1A16K DDR2-800 2 x 1GB Kit
OS WinXP

No GPU - per Renethx, this MB/CPU combo should handle everything i need it to, no?

So Fry's runs an add today, with the x4 9750 and GA MA78GM S2H Mb about the same price as my chosen pair above...

Am i better off with the Fry's deal or going with the original game plan? If I add a GPU later, would that favor the original plan or the Fry's deal?

TIA!

My objectives are to do SD/HDTV (probably some post processing involved), DVD, BR (mkv and BR drive in near future - Black Friday? :)), 5.1, all through Meedio front end (still TBD), music, and possibly light gaming (ie, emulators, not COD4).

Picked up NSK2480 from Fry's with a rebate and now looking to fill it up...

Original plan (pretty much Renethx' Mid Range AMD system with Mb upgrade):
CPU x3 8750
Mb gigabyte GA-MA78GPM-DS2H
Cooler Scythe SCSK-1000 100mm Shuriken CPU Cooler
HDD WD 320G Green HDD
memory A-DATA ADQVE1A16K DDR2-800 2 x 1GB Kit
OS WinXP

No GPU - per Renethx, this MB/CPU combo should handle everything i need it to, no?

So Fry's runs an add today, with the x4 9750 and GA MA78GM S2H Mb about the same price as my chosen pair above...

Am i better off with the Fry's deal or going with the original game plan? If I add a GPU later, would that favor the original plan or the Fry's deal?
X3+GA-MA78GPM-DS2H is slightly better in gaming (because of SidePort memory; an extra core of X4 is less important in gaming). X4 is better for CPU intensive tasks (e.g. transcoding). X3 is better in power consumption (15W-20W less at idle). There are two Phenom X4 9750, 125W (HD9750XAGHBOX) and 95W (HD9750WCGHBOX). Make sure to get the 95W version if you go with 9750.

I'm thinking of going with the following configuration (this is the low end Intel config.). My goal here is to play mainly 1080P blu ray rips that will be hosted on my media server. Will the following configuration be able to handle that? I've been hearing that the G45 chipset doesn't handle 1080p at 24? Should I hold out for the upcoming ATI 4550?

CPU: Pentium Dual-Core E5200 2.50GHz Socket 775, $84.
Motherboard: ASUS P5Q-EM Intel G45
Memory: A-DATA ADQVE1A16K DDR2-800 2 x 1GB Kit, $34.
Graphics Card: GMA X4500HD (integrated in the motherboard chipset), $0.
HDD: Using a 300GB sata disk I have unused right now.
Case: Antec NSK1480, $105

I'm thinking of going with the following configuration (this is the low end Intel config.). My goal here is to play mainly 1080P blu ray rips that will be hosted on my media server. Will the following configuration be able to handle that? I've been hearing that the G45 chipset doesn't handle 1080p at 24? Should I hold out for the upcoming ATI 4550?
No 24Hz playback support yet (or forever). I haven't tested HD 4550, but if it works as advertised, then no IGP can compete with it (except power consumption and price [except G45]). HD 4550 is expected by the end of this month. I will do comparison test betweeh HD 4550 and IGPs once I get hold of it.

No 24Hz playback support yet (or forever). I haven't tested HD 4550, but if it works as advertised, then no IGP can compete with it (except power consumption and price [except G45]). HD 4550 is expected by the end of this month. I will do comparison test betweeh HD 4550 and IGPs once I get hold of it.

There isn't anything that has 24hz playback? I have a Samsung A650 set that does 120hz (via AMP). Will this be something I'd notice as a problem?

The problem could occur with any TV supporting 24Hz.

My compliments on this topic, it has a huge amount of information in it!
Like many, I've been working on my configuration for months now, and I think I settled on a final config now.
With all the experts here, I figured I'd run it by you guys, see if I forgot anything, or am missing better options.

Antec Veris Media Fusion Remote MAX
Be quiet Dark Power PRO 450W
GigaByte EP45-DS3
Intel Core 2 Duo E8400 3.00GHz Boxed
Scythe Ninja 2
Kingston 4GB(2 x 2GB), PC2-6400, DDR2
Asus EAH4670/DI/512M
Samsung HD252HJ - 250GB HDD
Pioneer DVR 20X DL Sata

I'll be running either XBMC or Mediaportal.
Fire away :)

Like many, I've been working on my configuration for months now, and I think I settled on a final config now.
With all the experts here, I figured I'd run it by you guys, see if I forgot anything, or am missing better options.
Check the compatibility of Ninja 2 with Fusion Max. (Ninja 2 may be too tall.)

No 24Hz playback support yet (or forever). I haven't tested HD 4550, but if it works as advertised, then no IGP can compete with it (except power consumption and price [except G45]). HD 4550 is expected by the end of this month. I will do comparison test betweeh HD 4550 and IGPs once I get hold of it.

Why would the 4550 be any different than the 4850 in terms of 24p playback? All ATI, it appears, have audio drift when used with TMT, right? Then 4550 will have the same issues, I assume?

I have also been reading this thread for a while and am about to make two HTPC's. Used for BR, MKV HD, DVD...
motherboards I am considering
GA-EP35-DS3P ~$100
GA-EP45-DS4R ~$100
GA-EP45-DS4P ~$130 open box item
Any real advantage to choosing one of these?

Planning to use an E8400 for the processor.
Planning to use either HD4650 or HD4550 for the video card. If the HD4550 is good enough I will go with that.
I haven't researched Cases much yet.

Hi guys,

I don't get it.. i just bought this cable from monoprice:
http://www.monoprice.com/products/product.asp?c_id=102&cp_id=10201&cs_id=1020105&p_id=558&seq=1&format=2
http://images.monoprice.com/productlargeimages/5581.jpg

and it also don't work w/ my TV (Samsung LN40A650). When i plug it in, it's not recognized by my TV. However, the other cable works..

This is the second cable i bought that don't work. So are there different type of VGA cable???

This one works however:
http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3085/2887229473_34b721cc20.jpg

Hi guys,

I don't get it.. i just bought this cable from monoprice:

and it also don't work w/ my TV (Samsung LN40A650). When i plug it in, it's not recognized by my TV. However, the other cable works..

This is the second cable i bought that don't work. So are there different type of VGA cable???

This one works however:

Well at monoprice they have VGA and SVGA, that might be a place to start?

Well at monoprice they have VGA and SVGA, that might be a place to start?

What do you mean?

Last time i got a VGA cable, and now a SVGA cable. Both don't work. The SVGA one i got from monoprice. Someone said VGA and SVGA use the same cable..

The only working cable is one i got from work's monitor :) but i thought all vga/svga cables are the same?

VGA is VGA is VGA. Is the video card you are using in some way "unique"? I ask this because some trader's use different graphics devices and may therefore also use an odd "pin out" on the "work" cable. If the card and the cable BOTH came from work, then that would explian why only those two work together.

To easily resolve this all you need to do is to pick up a $15 ohm meter @ any radio shack and simply map out the pin-outs on each end of a standard cable (either of the ones you got online) and then do the same thing on the "custom" cable you got from work. I would be willing to bet you "dollars to donuts" that the pinout on the blue one is NOT standard and therefore the card you are using is also probably NOT standard and that would explain why none of the standard cable work, right?

VGA is VGA is VGA. Is the video card you are using in some way "unique"?

.....

I would be willing to bet you "dollars to donuts" that the pinout on the blue one is NOT standard and therefore the card you are using is also probably NOT standard and that would explain why none of the standard cable work, right?

Hi ndabunka,

I have not done anything with the laptop/graphic card. All i did was plug one end of the VGA cable to the TV and leave the other end loose. So the "black" cable, when i plug it to the TV, it is not recognized (i cannot switch to PC mode). When i plug the "blue" cable, the TV detects it right away, and i can switch to PC mode, even tho it's a black screen (no feed).

So i'm not sure it has anything to do with the video card I'm using. However, if you want to know, FYI, i also did try to connect the video card/laptop to the other end of the cable, and in the "blue" cable case, i get image, but not for the "black" one. but i guess this is irrelevant of the problem.

I have also been reading this thread for a while and am about to make two HTPC's. Used for BR, MKV HD, DVD...
motherboards I am considering
GA-EP35-DS3P ~$100
GA-EP45-DS4R ~$100
GA-EP45-DS4P ~$130 open box item
Any real advantage to choosing one of these?
GA-EP45-DS4R? I don't see this model number at GIGABYTE site. The main difference between EP35-DS3P and EP45-DS4P is

- The two PCIe x16 slots work at (16,4) (PCIe 1.1) in EP35, while at (16,-)/(8,8) (PCIe 2.0).
- 8 SATA ports in EP35, 6 SATA ports in EP45
- One Gb LAN in EP35, two Gb LAN in EP45
- EP45 supports Dolby Home Theater (for S/PDIF users)

So each board has its own advantages and disadvantages.

GA-EP45-DS4R? I don't see this model number at GIGABYTE site.

Sorry I meant GA-EP45-DS3R. I am leaning towards this board because it seems to have everything that I need for a great price. Thanks for all the information renethx, it is greatly appreciated.

Alright, the time has come. I want to put my order in tonight or early tomorrow so I get the components early next week. I've decided not to wait on the new Radeon cards and stick with the motherboard I have now. As always, suggestions for improvement are welcome. I'm actually quite pleased with the price and I believe I can afford $50-100 in upgrades should it seem like a good idea. The wish list is right here (http://secure.newegg.com/WishList/PublicWishDetail.aspx?WishListNumber=12887567) however the components are listed below.


Case: Antec Black M FusionRemote (http://www.newegg.com/Product/Product.aspx?Item=N82E16811129046) with 350W PSU.

Mobo: GIGABYTE GA-EG45M-DS2H (http://www.newegg.com/Product/Product.aspx?Item=N82E16813128353)

Processor: Intel Pentium E5200 (http://www.newegg.com/Product/Product.aspx?Item=N82E16819116072)

RAM: 4GB of G.SKILL (2x2GB) (http://www.newegg.com/Product/Product.aspx?Item=N82E16820231122)

HDD: WD800JD 80GB, 7200RPM drive (http://www.newegg.com/Product/Product.aspx?Item=N82E16822135106) (note for upgrade consideration: I use a Drobo for storage, don't need a massive primary drive)

Cooler: Scythe Ninja Mini (http://www.newegg.com/Product/Product.aspx?Item=N82E16835185046)

LITE-ON DVD burner, SATA connected

ADESSO Wireless KB with trackball (http://www.newegg.com/Product/Product.aspx?Item=N82E16823166079)

Alright, the time has come. I want to put my order in tonight or early tomorrow so I get the components early next week. I've decided not to wait on the new Radeon cards and stick with the motherboard I have now. As always, suggestions for improvement are welcome. I'm actually quite pleased with the price and I believe I can afford $50-100 in upgrades should it seem like a good idea. The wish list is right here (http://secure.newegg.com/WishList/PublicWishDetail.aspx?WishListNumber=12887567) however the components are listed below.
Ninja Mini (H115mm) does not fit Antec Micro Fusion (H120mm including feet).

Ninja Mini (H115mm) does not fit Antec Micro Fusion (H120mm including feet).

Good catch! Will the retail HSF work?

Good catch! Will the retail HSF work?
If 'retail' means the cooler bundled with the retail box CPU, then yes. You should first try it before looking for a retail (I mean third-party) cooler.

If 'retail' means the cooler bundled with the retail box CPU, then yes. You should first try it before looking for a retail (I mean third-party) cooler.

Yeah, I mean the bundled cooler. I read somewhere in this thread that the Ninja was much quieter, but hopefully the stock cooler will be fine.

Other than that, do you see anything wrong with that build?

EDIT: I'm comfortable in about $80 of an upgrade. Best spent on processor?

renethx and other knowledgeable posters,

First, thank you for this thread. I learned a ton going through it. I am ready to build my first HTPC, but I would really appreciate feedback on this build before I pull the trigger tonight and order all of the parts.

This PC will mainly just be used for streaming audio and DVDs from my server. It's possible that I will put a Blu-Ray drive in later on (already have a PS3 though).

Case - SILVERSTONE SUGO SG02B-F
MB - Foxconn A7GM-S AM2+/AM2 AMD 780G HDMI Micro ATX
Memory - Kingston 2GB (2 x 1GB) 240-Pin DDR2 SDRAM DDR2 800 (PC2 6400)
CPU - AMD Athlon X2 4850e 2.5GHz Socket AM2 45W
HDD - Western Digital Caviar SE16 WD5000AAKS 500GB 7200 RPM
PSU - SeaSonic SS-350ES 350W ATX12V
OS - Vista Ultimate 32-bit

Does anyone see any possible problems with this build? Any and all advice would be appreciated.

EDIT: I will be adding the Radeon HD 4550 as soon as it becomes available.

renethx and other knowledgeable posters,

First, thank you for this thread. I learned a ton going through it. I am ready to build my first HTPC, but I would really appreciate feedback on this build before I pull the trigger tonight and order all of the parts.

This PC will mainly just be used for streaming audio and DVDs from my server. It's possible that I will put a Blu-Ray drive in later on (already have a PS3 though).

Case - SILVERSTONE SUGO SG02B-F
MB - Foxconn A7GM-S AM2+/AM2 AMD 780G HDMI Micro ATX
Memory - Kingston 2GB (2 x 1GB) 240-Pin DDR2 SDRAM DDR2 800 (PC2 6400)
CPU - AMD Athlon X2 4850e 2.5GHz Socket AM2 45W
HDD - Western Digital Caviar SE16 WD5000AAKS 500GB 7200 RPM
PSU - SeaSonic SS-350ES 350W ATX12V

Does anyone see any possible problems with this build? Any and all advice would be appreciated.

EDIT: I will be adding the Radeon HD 4550 as soon as it becomes available.

Yeah, that sounds pretty good to me. Personally I'd bump to 4GB since RAM is so dirt cheap right now.

Yeah, that sounds pretty good to me. Personally I'd bump to 4GB since RAM is so dirt cheap right now.

So Radeon HD 4550 and the 4850e will be plenty for video playback?

Edit: I'm an idiot. Just after I post this I find this post: http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showpost.php?p=14657208&postcount=3288
Guess I should have read every page of this massive thread.

Yeah, that sounds pretty good to me. Personally I'd bump to 4GB since RAM is so dirt cheap right now.

How does 4GB of Kingston RAM for $35 sound (at Frys.com) (http://shop4.frys.com/product/5622671)?

How does 4GB of Kingston RAM for $35 sound http://shop4.frys.com/product/5622671"?

Very nice. Rebates always make me worry, though. Any experience with Kingston rebates?

I am just looking for some opinions regarding a setup that I am looking to purchase. I reviewed the basic setups that Renethx posted and built upon them. Key things I am looking to accomplish are Blu Ray playback, HD recording via Clear QAM, SD with NTSC, and moderate post processing for SD and HD. These will be used with a 61" Samsung while home and a 26" while at school.
Concerns- Heat, PSU, Tuner, Fiji or not?
Will be running Vista Home Premium and 2 - 1.5Tb Seagates (once in stock)

Sorry for asking the same question that everyone else asks over and over again, but I've read this thread, a lot of other sites and threads on this forum, and I'm still not exactly sure what to buy. I feel like I know a lot more than I did last week about HTPCs, but I still don't have the specific knowledge I need to make a purchase. I would really appreciate the help though, since I'm ready to buy (already bought the cheap 4gb ram on frys.com).

I plan on exclusively watching ripped TV shows (720i and 1080i) and movies (1080p). I don't care about bluray or HD DVD playback or gaming at all. I was thinking of getting an E8400 and a P5Q board, but now I am thinking that might be overkill. Is there a go-to board/proc for these specific requirements?

As far as case goes, I figure I will need a remote as well, so is it a better deal to get the Antec Fusion case that comes with the remote, or should I get the NSK case that everyone likes and buy a remote (the cheap 25$ microsoft remote seems standard, or do I want something else?)?

One last thing I'm confused about is storage. Most cases I believe fit 2 HD, is there a standard hard drive to buy? WD or something else? Should I buy 1TB drives? And as far as expansion ability, I've seen cheap PCI express cards that it looks like you can plug external hard drives into via SATA connection - is this pretty easy/non taxing on a system to do if I end up needing more space later?

I also have a few questions about the setup. I'm thinking about getting some speakers to go with this as well - I'm not an audiophile to it seems like the logitech z-550s will fit the bill. However, the review I read on them was from 2007 - are there any better/cheaper speakers that will sound good and not require a receiver now?

And as far as connecting them goes - how does that work? Can I run HDMI from computer to TV (I assume this carries audio and video) and then run S/PDIF from TV to speakers? And then whichever inputs the TV is accepting, whenever I select this particular input (whether it be HDMI from computer, HDMI from set top box, Wii, or DVD player) the sound will come out of the speakers? Is this a good idea or am I way off on how to do the whole audio thing?

Thanks for any help on setup ideas that people have.

Key things I am looking to accomplish are Blu Ray playback, HD recording via Clear QAM, SD with NTSC, and moderate post processing for SD and HD. These will be used with a 61" Samsung while home and a 26" while at school.
Concerns- Heat, PSU, Tuner, Fiji or not?
Will be running Vista Home Premium and 2 - 1.5Tb Seagates (once in stock)
The system should be good for your purposes. I can't comment on the chassis/PSU as I have no hand-on experience with that. Not sure about Fiji.

I plan on exclusively watching ripped TV shows (720i and 1080i) and movies (1080p). I don't care about bluray or HD DVD playback or gaming at all. I was thinking of getting an E8400 and a P5Q board, but now I am thinking that might be overkill. Is there a go-to board/proc for these specific requirements?

As far as case goes, I figure I will need a remote as well, so is it a better deal to get the Antec Fusion case that comes with the remote, or should I get the NSK case that everyone likes and buy a remote (the cheap 25$ microsoft remote seems standard, or do I want something else?)?

One last thing I'm confused about is storage. Most cases I believe fit 2 HD, is there a standard hard drive to buy? WD or something else? Should I buy 1TB drives? And as far as expansion ability, I've seen cheap PCI express cards that it looks like you can plug external hard drives into via SATA connection - is this pretty easy/non taxing on a system to do if I end up needing more space later?

I also have a few questions about the setup. I'm thinking about getting some speakers to go with this as well - I'm not an audiophile to it seems like the logitech z-550s will fit the bill. However, the review I read on them was from 2007 - are there any better/cheaper speakers that will sound good and not require a receiver now?

And as far as connecting them goes - how does that work? Can I run HDMI from computer to TV (I assume this carries audio and video) and then run S/PDIF from TV to speakers? And then whichever inputs the TV is accepting, whenever I select this particular input (whether it be HDMI from computer, HDMI from set top box, Wii, or DVD player) the sound will come out of the speakers? Is this a good idea or am I way off on how to do the whole audio thing?
Basically any of my recommendations is good for your purpose. In case HA does not work for 1080p, you may want to go with Core 2 Duo E7300 or higher, or Phenom X3/X4.

Either Fusion or NSK2480+MS remote is good. The difference is that you can turn on (not just wake up from sleep) the system with Fusion.

Basically you can use any HDD of any size. Larger size is recommended if you store HD contents. Adding an external enclosure (USB, IEE 1394, eSATA, or PCIe card+eSATA) later is easy/non taxing.

Not sure about speakers. This thead (http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?t=1060812) may interest you.

As for connection, it depends on each TV model; read your TV manual. You can always connect HTPC to TV by HDMI (video only) and connect to the digital speakers by S/PDIF (optical/coaxial).

Here is a picture of a S16V case (http://i27.tinypic.com/i3av77.jpg). This mobo is fitted with a Ninja Mini CPU cooler. I cannot find the answer.
Thanks for the picture!
I am planning to install the same heatsink in my P5Q-EM/S16V combo.
Can you please post pictures with the the heatsink fan and the Lite-On Blu-ray DVD ROM installed?
What are your MB/CPU temperatures at idle/load?

Thanks!

OK, Renethx (as a student of the master) and someone else earlier who asked me to post the PC Completed and in the rack. It is below.

In taking these pics, I noticed the shelves needed to be leveled (which I have now done) and the wiring is a mess. I will dress it out once I finalize shelf spacing and clean everything. I also note the grubby finger marks and the empty shelves. I originally put in this rack what is now a lot of old legacy equipment. I had a VCR, Laser Disk Player, large CD changer, and two cable boxes. Note to anyone, an operating HTPC eliminates a ton of equipment and wiring. I also run wiring from the upstairs DVD changer.

Since my reliable, bullet proof, great sounding B&K receiver doesn't have any HDMI switching, a bunch of the wiring is for a hidden HDMI switch. Thankfully, the wiring is completely unnoticable except when flashing with a digital camera. You all get to see the ugly stuff.

A few things about the Silverstone case. 1st note the too bright power LED. The little USB dongle is for the wirelss Gyro mouse and Keyboard. I'll stick it somewhere later. The Case is very deep and you need a really deep space to put it in. My cabinet is about 45 inches deep so no problem but the rack pulls out and swings and the PC barely clears it upon spinning. I would warn someone to not put the PC right above an egg cooker like the B&K receiver or any other hot running power amp, etc... My rack has large fans, temp controlled to the exact left of the receiver and my shelves are particle board and have no vent slots (Thus no shelf heat issues that would occur with metal racking). For this reason, my temp runs cool but I'd beware of ventilation.

I should never of purchased the little HP WHS server. It is not expandable enough and at some time, I will need to go to one of Renethx rack Home Server storage sytems. So, eventually I see this rack being full of the HTPC, a Receiver with HDMI switching, a back up Blu Ray player, The Tivo (or not depending on better TV Tuner Options), Surge and line protector, Server Solution, and a gaming platform.

So here it is......

http://i116.photobucket.com/albums/o15/Stealthwine/BKandPC.jpg

http://i116.photobucket.com/albums/o15/Stealthwine/FullRack.jpg

Hi ndabunka,

I have not done anything with the laptop/graphic card. All i did was plug one end of the VGA cable to the TV and leave the other end loose. So the "black" cable, when i plug it to the TV, it is not recognized (i cannot switch to PC mode). When i plug the "blue" cable, the TV detects it right away, and i can switch to PC mode, even tho it's a black screen (no feed).

So i'm not sure it has anything to do with the video card I'm using. However, if you want to know, FYI, i also did try to connect the video card/laptop to the other end of the cable, and in the "blue" cable case, i get image, but not for the "black" one. but i guess this is irrelevant of the problem.

Sorry if I wasn't clear. My question is "Where did the video card you are trying to use ORIGINALLY come from?" In other words, is this a video card you got from work that might be a "special" card? Or is it a card you bought from a local retail brick and mortar store like Best Buy?

Hello All,

First off, thanks Renethx and others for all the useful info you've compiled here.

Second, I've got a list of components I'm thinking of getting and would like feedback. I haven't assembled my own computer in almost a decade, so here goes:

My goals (parroting many others) are HD DVR (OTA signal), stored video (mostly dvds ripped as .iso), some gaming (though, nothing major and less important), maybe blu-ray.

cpu: Phenom x3 8750
mobo: GA-MA78GPM-DS2H (using on-board video/sound)
case: Antec Fusion Black
tuner: Avertv Combo PCIE(M780)
also I'm planning to have an optical drive and one, maybe two HDs.

As far as memory is concerned, I'm inclined to go higher, rather than lower (which for 32 bit OSes means <4GB). If I install 4GB, there won't be any negative except for the partial GB that doesn't get used, right? How about memory speed? I can get 4GB 1066MHz (2x2GB) for $80. There's an odd note in the "memory support list" for this mobo though, and I'm not sure what to make of it: "Note: Due to AMD AM2+ CPU limitation, DDR2 1066 is only supported by 1 dimm per channel." Is this anything to worry over?

Next, is it worth overclocking? As configured, the stock heatsink is fine, right? if I do overclock, will there be heat/power concerns beyond a new heatsink?

If I wanted to also use this box as network file storage for the other machines in the house, how much would that impact someone watching TV?

The last question then is which OS should I use? I tend to prefer XP to Vista. I have XP Media Center running on an old machine and it seems fine. Are there reasons to not use the 64bit versions of windows? The drivers seem to be available. Is something like Linux/MythTV worth considering?

Thanks again for any feedback/suggestions you may have!

Hello All,

First off, thanks Renethx and others for all the useful info you've compiled here.

Second, I've got a list of components I'm thinking of getting and would like feedback. I haven't assembled my own computer in almost a decade, so here goes:

My goals (parroting many others) are HD DVR (OTA signal), stored video (mostly dvds ripped as .iso), some gaming (though, nothing major and less important), maybe blu-ray.

cpu: Phenom x3 8750
mobo: GA-MA78GPM-DS2H (using on-board video/sound)
case: Antec Fusion Black
tuner: Avertv Combo PCIE(M780)
also I'm planning to have an optical drive and one, maybe two HDs.
Get 4GB 1066MHz (2x2GB) for $80. Actual memory size used for applications is ~3.2GB under 32-bit OS, but there is no negative effect. "DDR2 1066 is only supported by 1 dimm per channel" means that you can't add another set of memory modules later to increase memory size. But 4GB is enough for your purpose.

You don't need to do OC. The stock cooler is fine, possibly except noise. You can replace the cooler at any time later. So you shouldn't worry.

You can stream media and watch TV at the same time with no problem.

If you buy a new OS, then go with Vista (32-bit or 64-bit).

Sorry if I wasn't clear. My question is "Where did the video card you are trying to use ORIGINALLY come from?" In other words, is this a video card you got from work that might be a "special" card? Or is it a card you bought from a local retail brick and mortar store like Best Buy?

Hi ndabunka,

Video card? I have no taken any video card from work.. i am using my laptop's video output, which is a Mobile Intel 945 Express Chipset. I only took the VGA "cable" from work.. not video card.

And i think that whichever video card i use does not matter, since the problem happens with the TV.. The TV does not recognize the cable (the one from monoprice, not the one from work). And this is before i hook the cable to my laptop.

So i don't think it's a problem of video card or video output settings, so i'm wondering if there's different type of VGA cables?

I'm looking for a full height & width case. Better fit & finish and just moderately priced are important.

Hi,

I finally decided to buy the following components;

AMD X2 5000+ (65W)
Gigabyte GA-MA78GM-S2H
2GB Kingston DDR2 800Mhz
500GB Seagate Sata2 HDD
400W Asus psu
USB Wireless Stick (125mbps)
APlus GL-3 Case
Microsoft MCE Remote & Keyboard

I'll add a graphics card later, possibly HD4670 or HD4830, when avalible in Turkiye.

Any possible problems with the configuration?

I just bought the Silverstone LC20 Black...full size ATX $179.00 Lots of room, and runs cool.

I'm trying to put together an HTPC with as much bang-for-the buck as possible, and after reading through the recommended systems on page 85 through to the most current post in this thread, I'm still a little confused as to why the Intel/Intel system is considered the "best all-in-one solution of video" when compared to the AMD/AMD system using a Phenom processor. I've read the small print under those system's descriptions and a whole lot of posts here, and am just not seeing the difference. FYI, I don't have a religious preference of Intel vs AMD, and my priorities are high quality HDMI HDTV output, "trouble-free (heh)" Blu-Ray, and reasonable post-processing performance. I will likely use Windows XP SP3, and possibly Ubuntu Linux as neither of those will cost me anything.

Is there an advantage of a system built from an Intel E5200/G45 over a Phenom/780G? Is there a deficiency with either one? (I've noticed the pass-through issue on the Intel system and that won't affect me). I'm missing some detail - please edify me!

Thanks!!

I just bought the Silverstone LC20 Black...full size ATX $179.00 Lots of room, and runs cool.
It's a good size - 16.9"W X 16.9"L X 6.7"H. http://www.silverstonetek.com/products/p_contents.php?pno=lc20&area=usa
Running cool is vital. The pictures of the case make it look unattractive. Does it look better in person?

Have you seen the Thermaltake VC4000SNS? It's a little larger - 16.9"W X 17.8"L X 6.7"H. http://www.thermaltakeusa.com/Product.aspx?C=1328&ID=1432#Tab1

It's a good size - 16.9"W X 16.9"L X 6.7"H. http://www.silverstonetek.com/products/p_contents.php?pno=lc20&area=usa
Running cool is vital. The pictures of the case make it look unattractive. Does it look better in person?

Have you seen the Thermaltake VC4000SNS? It's a little larger - 16.9"W X 17.8"L X 6.7"H. http://www.thermaltakeusa.com/Product.aspx?C=1328&ID=1432#Tab1
I really liked the Silverstone LC18 the best... but the :eek:650.00 price tag made it a no brainer.
The HTPC i'm building will be buried in the rack of my home theater....not visible.I will be using a remote control. I was looking for an all black case to blend in....the thermaltake only comes in silver?

Is there an advantage of a system built from an Intel E5200/G45 over a Phenom/780G? Is there a deficiency with either one? (I've noticed the pass-through issue on the Intel system and that won't affect me). I'm missing some detail - please edify me!
- Smooth video playback: On a par. Acutally Phenom/780G has more power than E5200/G45; CPU usage at playing back Resident Evil: Extinction with TMT with HA off is 100% with E5200/G45, 75% with X3 8450/780G.
- Post-processing: On a par
- Audio: G45 supports multichannel LPCM, while 780G does not. If you use an AVR supporting HDMI, this may be a major drawback of 780G.
- Power consumption: +15W at idle/BD playback with Phenom/780G

A better alternative to Phenom/780G would be Athlon x2/780G/HD 4550 (Hybrid CF) that supports multichannel LPCM (still consumes ~+15W).

Hi ndabunka,

Video card? I have no taken any video card from work.. i am using my laptop's video output, which is a Mobile Intel 945 Express Chipset. I only took the VGA "cable" from work.. not video card.

And i think that whichever video card i use does not matter, since the problem happens with the TV.. The TV does not recognize the cable (the one from monoprice, not the one from work). And this is before i hook the cable to my laptop.

So i don't think it's a problem of video card or video output settings, so i'm wondering if there's different type of VGA cables?

As I stated, there should not be any difference. All VGA and SVGA cards should be the same. You need to use a $14.00 Ohm meter from Radio Shack to understand how the pins are wired. This is a VERY simple process for a 15-pin VGA interface.

I'm an AMD CPU newbie...

Is the 9150e > 8450? Specifically for use in the GeForce 8300 motherboard, for HD decoding. Or should I go with the 9650, and deal with the extra watts?

I'm an AMD CPU newbie...

Is the 9150e > 8450? Specifically for use in the GeForce 8300 motherboard, for HD decoding. Or should I go with the 9650, and deal with the extra watts?
IMO X3 8450 is the best choice for 8200/8300 (in terms of processing power, power consumption and price). The point is HyperTransport 3.0. The number of cores or processor frequency is less important.

Caution before you jump on 8200/8300.

1. Post-processing is weak even with Phenom processor.
2. No support for 5.1 LPCM, so no sound from the rear speakers if you use TMT (unless the movie has a 7.1 sound track). PowerDVD is ok because it supports Dolby Pro Logic IIx.

IMO X3 8450 is the best choice for 8200/8300 (in terms of processing power, power consumption and price). The point is HyperTransport 3.0. The number of cores or processor frequency is less important.

Caution before you jump on 8200/8300.

1. Post-processing is weak even with Phenom processor.
2. No support for 5.1 LPCM, so no sound from the rear speakers if you use TMT (unless the movie has a 7.1 sound track). PowerDVD is ok because it supports Dolby Pro Logic IIx.

I know... I just am trying to fiind a real 24p solution. Since ATI @ 24p with TMT doesn't quite work, I want to try the nVidia @24p with TMT and see if, in fact, it works.

So while the 9150e is more expensive, is it better than the 8450, or is the 8450 still better?

As I stated, there should not be any difference. All VGA and SVGA cards should be the same. You need to use a $14.00 Ohm meter from Radio Shack to understand how the pins are wired. This is a VERY simple process for a 15-pin VGA interface.

When i find out how the pins are wired, what do i do next? (Or what could i do?)

When i find out how the pins are wired, what do i do next? (Or what could i do?)

I expect that the standard cables that you got from the different sources are correctly built. Therefore, it sounds like you will need some type of custom cable built to match the blue one you "got from work" so that you can return it to work.

So, test the pin outs on the blue one. Compare those to the pin outs on the standard VGA cables and then order a custom built cable that matches your blue one from work. It may cost you $30 but it would work. Now, as to why your pin outs are odd.... can't even guess at this point. Have you tried to change out the video card (if that's even possible)

If the pit outs on the ordered cables are exactly the same as those on the blue one, then you've got something else going on (like interference?)

As a point, this is not really the proper forum for questions on vga cables so I'll leave my comments here and recommend that you look elsewhere for a more detailed discussion about your cable issues (Have you even called the cable providers you bought those through to ask their opinions or what you should do? Since they make them, they have probably ran into these types of issues before.

I know... I just am trying to fiind a real 24p solution. Since ATI @ 24p with TMT doesn't quite work, I want to try the nVidia @24p with TMT and see if, in fact, it works.

So while the 9150e is more expensive, is it better than the 8450, or is the 8450 still better?
As for 24p, there will be no difference between 9150e and 8450 (the number of cores, frequencies and power consumption have nothing to do with 24p).

i have biostar 790gx mobo, 2x m780 pcie combo tuner. i want to know can i put one of the two tuner on the second gfx slot ( slave gfx slot) and not pcie 1x slot or not. does it really matter if i put it on pcie 1x or pcie 8x slot.

i have biostar 790gx mobo, 2x m780 pcie combo tuner. i want to know can i put one of the two tuner on the second gfx slot ( slave gfx slot) and not pcie 1x slot or not. does it really matter if i put it on pcie 1x or pcie 8x slot.
If you put something on the second PCIe x16 slot (electrically x8), then the first PCIe x16 slot automatically slows down to x8 (enough bandwidth for video playback though). 790GX has only 22 PCIe lanes (and 4 lanes for A-Link Xpress II).

As for 24p, there will be no difference between 9150e and 8450 (the number of cores, frequencies and power consumption have nothing to do with 24p).

Okay, but what about overall? I'm just trying to fiind out if I'm buying a generally better processor with the 9150e, or if the 8450 is better overall? Beyond simply 24p.

More simply: Is there anything at all the 8450 is better at compared to the 9150e?

Again, I don't understand the AMD CPU's, as I've been an Intel guy.

More simply: Is there anything at all the 8450 is better at compared to the 9150e?
Price ($104 vs $175). 9150e is even pricier than AMD's highest desktop processor X4 9950 Black Edition ($174).

....the thermaltake only comes in silver?
You're right - predominantly silver w/ vertical black accent band. Another model VB8000BNS http://www.thermaltakeusa.com/product/chassis/desktop/bach/vc8001bns.asp they show is solid black but is tarted up with some purple LED accent lights. I've written them to find out if the lights can be turned off.

Another thing I noticed in the specs on both the Bach & Mozart cases is that they are not liquid cooling capable. That brings up a whole other issue. At what point should we all consider the need to look into that alternative method of cooling. I'm sure we all agree that cool is good and quiet is better for HTPC's. Wikipedia comments "Water cooling not only allows for quieter operation and improved overclocking, but with improved heat handling capabilities hotter processors can be supported."

Price ($104 vs $175). 9150e is even pricier than AMD's highest desktop processor X4 9950 Black Edition ($174).

So is price it? And at newegg it's more like 89 vs 149, but the point is valid.

Not sure why I'm unable to get a direct answer to this seemingly simple question... Is the 9150e technically better than the 8450, or is there any technical reason the 8450 is better?

If you put something on the second PCIe x16 slot (electrically x8), then the first PCIe x16 slot automatically slows down to x8 (enough bandwidth for video playback though). 790GX has only 22 PCIe lanes (and 4 lanes for A-Link Xpress II).

this is what i have in my htpc:

AMD phenom 9850 with bf92 heatsink.
4 GB of DDR2-800
biostar 790gx
onboard 3300 video ( later 4350 or 4550 video card)
2 x 1 1 TB Seagate HD
1 x 160 GB seagate
1 x 250 GB seagate
2 x m780 HDTV tuner

right now i am putting 2 x tuner on 2 pcie 1x slot. i know that is correct. the heatsink is just touch the top of the cover. if i am not using any graphic card, can i plug one of the tuner on to gfx slot or not.

So is price it? And at newegg it's more like 89 vs 149, but the point is valid.

Not sure why I'm unable to get a direct answer to this seemingly simple question... Is the 9150e technically better than the 8450, or is there any technical reason the 8450 is better?
Techinically (I mean from the viewpoint of CPU architecture and pure CPU performance) they are almost identical.

The "e" version is just a cherry-picked die that runs stably at a lower voltage. Other than that it deos not differ from any other Phenom X4 processor. And X3 is just X4 with a defective core disabled.

So performance-wise, 9150e is nearly identical with 8450 (1.8x4=7.2~2.1x3=6.3). The only advantage of 9150e is low power consumption (because of low operating voltage/low HT fequency 1.6GHz/low frequency 1.8GHz). The low HT 1.6GHz is even worse than the normal HT 1.8GHz.

I've been reading this forum a lot, and love the guide!

The system i wanna build is based on it.

The components i want are:

PSU LC Power 550W Green Power 140mm V2.2
HD Maxtor SATA-2 500Gb 7.200rpm 32Mb
DVDRW LiteOn LH-20A3H 20x LightScribe Black bulk
Dimm 2048Mb DDR2 Kingston PC2-6400 (800)
Motherboard Asus Skt775 - P5Q iP45
Intel Core2 Duo E8500 3.16Ghz Sk775 6Mb FSB1333 Box
Cooler Zalman CNPS8700 LED
Sapphire ATI Radeon PCI-E HD4850 512Mb GDDR3

The problem is the case.

The Antec Fusion Max isn't available in Portugal (i can only find the Antec Fusion), and some cases i've seen are too small to handle the size of the ATI HD4850.

Can you guys please reccomend me cases that can Handle the size of this ATI Board? I could use as many suggestions as possible, since the choice here in Portugal may be limited.

Thank you in advance!

if i am not using any graphic card, can i plug one of the tuner on to gfx slot or not.
Yes, you can. The x16 slot can be used for any purpose, graphics, TV tuner, SATA controller etc.

excerpts from 07/07/08 posts on page 85
______________________
2. Recommended Systems
¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯
__________
ATX System
¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯
_______
Low-End
¯¯¯¯¯¯¯
Case: SilverStone Lascala LC17 SST-LC17B, $105.
_________
Mid-Range
¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯
Case: Antec Fusion Remote Max, $185.
________
High-End
¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯
Case: Zalman HD160 Plus, $270.
RENETHX - First let me commend you on the extraordinary effort and spectacular system recommendations you have described.

I have been looking for a new full-size case and was wondering if you would comment on the height sizes in your suggested cases in the $100 to $300 range.
6.7" Silverstone $105
4.6" Antec $185
6.3" Zalman $270
I'm just specing out a system and trying to determine present, and cover off future needs. I randomly chose what looked like a large video card, the ASUS EAH4850. It measures 4.37" high. Would I be guessing correctly that other cards might be higher? Is it an issue with such minimal clearances between the card & the case? The Antec looks particularly suspect with less than 1/4" to spare.

In my investigations, I came across some large sized cases from Thermaltake, namely Bach & Mozart models. http://www.thermaltakeusa.com/Product.aspx?C=1328&ID=1432#Tab1 The specifications declared that they weren't liquid cooling capable. From that, could we generalize that all similarly sized (desktop) cases are not liquid coolable? My concern is when going to the next level down the road and trying out over-clocking.

I should have stated up front that I want a desktop style case to blend in with my hdtv set-top box & a/v equipment. Have I been answering my own questions and have to go the tower route?

I randomly chose what looked like a large video card, the ASUS EAH4850. It measures 4.37" high. Would I be guessing correctly that other cards might be higher? Is it an issue with such minimal clearances between the card & the case? The Antec looks particularly suspect with less than 1/4" to spare.

In my investigations, I came across some large sized cases from Thermaltake, namely Bach & Mozart models. http://www.thermaltakeusa.com/Product.aspx?C=1328&ID=1432#Tab1 The specifications declared that they weren't liquid cooling capable. From that, could we generalize that all similarly sized (desktop) cases are not liquid coolable? My concern is when going to the next level down the road and trying out over-clocking.
Basically every card is of the same height. Any HD 4850 card fits perfectly even in Antec NSK2480 (5.75" tall).

Liquid cooling is possible with a normal HTPC case. You just have to place a large reservoir and water pump outside the case. The below is Zalman RESERATOR 2:

http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/attachment.php?attachmentid=120894&stc=1&d=1222652322

- Smooth video playback: On a par. Acutally Phenom/780G has more power than E5200/G45; CPU usage at playing back Resident Evil: Extinction with TMT with HA off is 100% with E5200/G45, 75% with X3 8450/780G.
- Post-processing: On a par
- Audio: G45 supports multichannel LPCM, while 780G does not. If you use an AVR supporting HDMI, this may be a major drawback of 780G.
- Power consumption: +15W at idle/BD playback with Phenom/780G

A better alternative to Phenom/780G would be Athlon x2/780G/HD 4550 (Hybrid CF) that supports multichannel LPCM (still consumes ~+15W).

Thanks very much renethx - you're knowledge is an amazing asset to us HTPC newbies!

Thanks for the picture!
I am planning to install the same heatsink in my P5Q-EM/S16V combo.
Can you please post pictures with the the heatsink fan and the Lite-On Blu-ray DVD ROM installed?
What are your MB/CPU temperatures at idle/load?

Thanks!

I don't own a htpc yet, I found this picture on the net. Here are all the pictures I found of the S16T case.

Configuration
Be Quiet! Dark Power PRO BQT P6-PRO-430W, 430W (ATX12V)
GigaByte GA-P35-DS4
Intel Core 2 Duo E8400
Kingston ValueRAM KVR800D2N5K2/2G 2GB (2x 1GB) DDR2
Lite-ON LH-20A1S 20x (Dual-layer, Retail, Wit)
Samsung Spinpoint F1 HD753LJ, 750GB
Sapphire HD2600XT
Scythe Ninja Mini

Pictures can be found in this thread: http://gathering.tweakers.net/forum/list_messages/1216285/1?data[filter_userids]=-Leon-. That is a Dutch Community. (I live in The Netherlands).

The picture of the case with a Lite-On installed can be found at: http://gathering.tweakers.net/forum/list_message/29637718#29637718

Hope this helps!

Hi all,

I would to get a recommendation on the component for my HTPC. What I want to do with HTPC is to record HD tv broadcast and to play the recorded on my HTPC. I will use PS3 to play Blue ray disc. Would an intel dual core will be enough for what I want to do? Should I go with quadcore?

My other question is about the motherboard. Looks like most motherboard include integrated graphic. If I use a separate graphic card, how do I disable the one that come with the motherboard? should I just not installed the driver for the chipset?
I also heard that intel G45 is having problem playing 24fps material. If a use a separate graphic card, I should not have that problem. Is that correct?

On another note, has there been an easy way to play ripped blue ray movie on PS3 while the file is on HTPC?

thanks,

Hi guys,

I got 3 questions:

1. Does the discrete Radeon HD4650 fits into the Antec NSK1480 ? How's heat generation with that card in that case?

2. If i'm getting the HD4650, which MB do you recommend? (i won't need 780G chipset)

3. If i use the HD4650, how do i pass the sound to the Amp?

Thanks.

What u think of this article? http://www.tomshardware.com/reviews/graphics-blu-ray-video,2030.html

I also heard that intel G45 is having problem playing 24fps material. If a use a separate graphic card, I should not have that problem. Is that correct?


It's not having a problem playing 24fps material per se, it's having a problem playing 24fps material at 24Hz TV/monitor refresh (or 23.976Hz).

There are a bunch of threads around regarding 24Hz. Some people are getting it to work on a discrete card, but my impression is it's a crapshoot.

Renethx, could you suggest a mothorboard + CPU alternative to your server build that has 2 onboard 1ghz NICs?

The 20 drive (30tb!) server I am trying to put together will be used solely for streaming multiple concurrent HD movies to HTPCs and MCE extenders. It does not need to do any rendering, ripping, or converting itself. It will only be used 3-4 hours a day, so I plan to use an areca 1280 board to manage the drives and spin them down after 60 minutes of inactivity. To minimize stress on the whole system, I plan to keep it up 24/7, which also means I'd like to find a MoBo + CPU combination that is very thrifty with power while still meeting the overall streaming and reliability objectives of the system. Any suggestions you have would be most welcome.

seems like the geForce 7xxx for intel mATX board does not support dual channel. How important is dual channel? does it make significant difference?
Should I use 1x2 GB module as oppose to 2x1GB module?

I need your advice on the HTPC system I am building

I have already purchased
Thermaltake DH102 case
Zalman CNPS9500 CPU fan
Enermax MODU82+ 625W (EMD625AWT)

Will like to buy, but need help:D
Motherboard
GIGABYTE GA-X48-DQ6 ( Will an Asus motherboard be better? If yes, which one? I want a full size board)

Core 2 Quad Q9550 2.83GHz Socket 775 (is the best for this system or can I get the next best?)

Graphic card
Radeon HD 4870 X2 (will this fit the Theemaltake DH102?) I am worry about heat and size

CD burner
GGW-H20L (will this fit the Theemaltake DH102 case?)

Sound card
ASUS Xonar HDAV1.3—
I will wait until all bugs are worked out

Thank you in advance

Fred

What I want to do with HTPC is to record HD tv broadcast and to play the recorded on my HTPC. I will use PS3 to play Blue ray disc. Would an intel dual core will be enough for what I want to do? Should I go with quadcore?

My other question is about the motherboard. Looks like most motherboard include integrated graphic. If I use a separate graphic card, how do I disable the one that come with the motherboard? should I just not installed the driver for the chipset?
Dual core is enough.

Just install a discrete graphics card and install the driver for it. Don't install the driver for IGP. That' it. Usually the PCIe slot is the graphics device initialized first.

1. Does the discrete Radeon HD4650 fits into the Antec NSK1480 ? How's heat generation with that card in that case?

2. If i'm getting the HD4650, which MB do you recommend? (i won't need 780G chipset)

3. If i use the HD4650, how do i pass the sound to the Amp and the video to the TV (this is more obvious, dvi->hdmi i guess).

Thanks.

What u think of this article? http://www.tomshardware.com/reviews/graphics-blu-ray-video,2030.html
1. No, unless it's low-profile.

2. Basically any mb is OK. Choose mb according to your needs (Intel/AMD, mATX/ATX, available expansion slots, the number of SATA ports, eSATA ports, IEEE 1394 etc.).

3. Yes, use a (ATI-proprietary) DVI-HDMI dongle.

Renethx, could you suggest a mothorboard + CPU alternative to your server build that has 2 onboard 1ghz NICs?

The 20 drive (30tb!) server I am trying to put together will be used solely for streaming multiple concurrent HD movies to HTPCs and MCE extenders. It does not need to do any rendering, ripping, or converting itself. It will only be used 3-4 hours a day, so I plan to use an areca 1280 board to manage the drives and spin them down after 60 minutes of inactivity. To minimize stress on the whole system, I plan to keep it up 24/7, which also means I'd like to find a MoBo + CPU combination that is very thrifty with power while still meeting the overall streaming and reliability objectives of the system. Any suggestions you have would be most welcome.
Actually this type of professional server configurations is not my territory. A couple of desktop mbs with dual Gb LAN and two PCIe x16 slots (x8,x8; one for graphics and the other for the controller) are: ASUS P5Q Premium, GIGABYTE GA-EP45-DS3R/DS4P/DQ6. Any Intel 45nm dual-core processor should be enough.

seems like the geForce 7xxx for intel mATX board does not support dual channel. How important is dual channel? does it make significant difference?
Should I use 1x2 GB module as oppose to 2x1GB module?
Dual channel makes difference when playing back HD contents with iGPU and playing 3D applications with iGPU or dGPU. 1x2 GB vs 2x1GB does not matter (a pair of modules are necessary for dual channel).

Will like to buy, but need help:D
Motherboard
GIGABYTE GA-X48-DQ6 (Will an Asus motherboard be better? If yes, which one? I want a full size board)

Core 2 Quad Q9550 2.83GHz Socket 775 (is the best for this system or can I get the next best?)

Graphic card
Radeon HD 4870 X2 (will this fit the Theemaltake DH102?) I am worry about heat and size

CD burner
GGW-H20L (will this fit the Theemaltake DH102 case?
Basically either brand is OK. Choose the mb of features that best fits your needs. ASUS P5E Deluxe.

Q9550 is very good in performance/price.

The card length is 10.5 in + power connector (perhaps it fits DH102 if you don't install a HDD in the innermost place). You shouldn't worry about heat. The heat from GPU is exhausted from the card's second slot.

LG drive should fit.

I found some reviews for the HD4550 (GDDR3):

http://www.guru3d.com/article/ati-radeon-hd-4550-512mb-review/
http://www.neoseeker.com/Articles/Hardware/Reviews/hd4550/
http://www.computerbase.de/artikel/hardware/grafikkarten/2008/kurztest_ati_radeon_hd_4550/
http://hothardware.com/Articles/ATI-Radeon-HD-4550-Budget-DX101-GPU/
http://www.techpowerup.com/index.php?72688

An article about the Perfect HTPC GPU:
http://www.anandtech.com/video/showdoc.aspx?i=3420

First - this is amazing thread and i appreciate all the hard work and time that has gone into it. I have read and re-read the thread and have "built" a wishlist system on Newegg. My questions are as follows:

If I want to play all my music (encoded at high bit rate MP3 and currently using ITunes with a dock) on my HT via a new HTPC and wanting to foray into Blueray, would the following system be overkill or am I missing something?

ASUS M3A78-T AM2+/AM2 AMD 790GX HDMI ATX AMD Motherboard
AMD Phenom 9600 Agena 2.3GHz Socket AM2+ 95W Quad-Core
Corsair 520HS PS
Silverstone LC-17 case
4Gig 1066 ram (ocz or other)
Seagate 7200.11 500G HG
LG Black LG Blu-ray/HD DVD-ROM GGC-H20LK
2 - Scythe SY1225SL12L 120mm "Slipstream" Case Fans
Scythe SCSK-1000 100mm "SHURIKEN" CPU Cooler
Anyware GP-IR01BK Windows Vista Infrared MCE Black Remote Control
Windows Vista Home Premium

Do I need a discreet video card to do the blueray playback well?

How will the audio side of the equation work - I am much more interested in good audio than anything to start - can always upgrade video if need be?

Is there a way I can save a bit of cash and do what I would like to do effectively? Would an Intel based option be a better place to look?

Does it make sense to look at something like the ACER X1200 and just buy a nice blueray player to put in the system?

FYI - I have a newer Samsung DLP 50" display and a bunch of high end Denon hardware so if the non-pc-blueray option is best it would be somethin glike a Denon DVD 2500 or equivalent.

I have been researching this for a while and want to move on a purchase soon, but as all of you well know, there are just so many dang choices and decisions?

Thanks in advance for the replies and for all the great work again.

Jason

its the 30th :D, waiting for newegg to show the 4550 in their inventory so i can purchase my next htpc system :D

one a side note, you don't need a receiver to use the HDMI sound from the 4550 right? i can connect the hdmi right to my tv?

thanks

its the 30th :D, waiting for newegg to show the 4550 in their inventory so i can purchase my next htpc system :D

one a side note, you don't need a receiver to use the HDMI sound from the 4550 right? i can connect the hdmi right to my tv?

thanks

You are correct (if you ask me). See http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/HDMI

You are correct (if you ask me). See http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/HDMI

But what if i want to pass the sound from the HD4550 to my Amp, what do i do?

But what if i want to pass the sound from the HD4550 to my Amp, what do i do?

Sorry what is an Amp? Do you mean receiver?

Sorry what is an Amp? Do you mean receiver?

I second that question. Also asked that in another thread. Is there a way to just have HDMI Audio sent from the videocard to the receiver and video sent to the projector via a splitter or other means? I am reluctant to use a passthrough from the receiver to the projector.

I second that question. Also asked that in another thread. Is there a way to just have HDMI Audio sent from the videocard to the receiver and video sent to the projector via a splitter or other means? I am reluctant to use a passthrough from the receiver to the projector.

I guess you have to use a HDMI 1.3 splitter. A quick search gave me this link: http://sewelldirect.com/Gefen-1x5-HDMI-13-Splitter-Distribution-Amplifier.asp

An other option is available if your tv has audio out options.

Do I need a discreet video card to do the blueray playback well?

How will the audio side of the equation work - I am much more interested in good audio than anything to start - can always upgrade video if need be?

Is there a way I can save a bit of cash and do what I would like to do effectively? Would an Intel based option be a better place to look?

Does it make sense to look at something like the ACER X1200 and just buy a nice blueray player to put in the system?
As for video, no. For audio, the onboard chip supports only stereo LPCM, DD and DTS. If you want 7.1/5.1 LPCM, you need a discrete video card. Right now HD 4550/4650/4750/4850 are recommended.

You can choose a cheaper AMD 780G mb such as GA-MA78G-DS3H ($87; the difference is slower graphics core and no RAID 5 support). If you are going to add a discrete card, you can go with Intel. See my low-end or mid-range ATX Intel/Intel system.

Acer X1200 is good for BD playback and supports 7.1 (no 5.1) LPCM. Phenom is recommended, however.

I am patiently waiting for someone to be selling the HD 4550 card.
If anyone finds it available please post.

/me points to renethx

I am patiently waiting for someone to be selling the HD 4550 card.
If anyone finds it available please post.

i want to know which one is better for htpc:

Amd Phenom 9850 + 790gx vs. OEM 45w X2 BE-2400 + 4550 video card + 790gx board


and i want to know which one is better for server uses?

Phenom 9850 vs. OEM 45w X2 BE-2400

i want to know which one is better for htpc:

Amd Phenom 9850 + 790gx vs. OEM 45w X2 BE-2400 + 4550 video card + 790gx board
That's exactly the question I have right now. As I get hold of HD 4550 (don't know when it will be available; maybe mid-October?), I will test and report the results (PQ, CPU usage, power consumption etc.). As HD 4550 does not support Hybrid CrossFire, there is no reason to stick to 780G/790GX. Pentium Dual-Core E5200 + HD 4550 + P43/P45 should be equally well (or better).

and i want to know which one is better for server uses?

Phenom 9850 vs. OEM 45w X2 BE-2400
Depends on your usage. If you do parity calculation, transcoding etc., X4 9850 is better. If you just archive media files and streaming them to a HTPC, X2 will be enough.

OEM 45w X2 BE-2400
2 GB of DDr2-800
Biostar TF7050-M2

right now i am trying to decide with psu or case? i want to know 480watt psu good for a server or not. or should i get at least 500 watts for it.

OEM 45w X2 BE-2400
2 GB of DDr2-800
Biostar TF7050-M2

right now i am trying to decide with psu or case? i want to know 480watt psu good for a server or not. or should i get at least 500 watts for it.
How many drives are you planning to use? Power consumption at start up is the max. Very roughly

- system: 100W
- HDD: 30W per disk

Add them. For a 20 HDD system, 700W is necessary.

I guess you have to use a HDMI 1.3 splitter. A quick search gave me this link: http://sewelldirect.com/Gefen-1x5-HDMI-13-Splitter-Distribution-Amplifier.asp

An other option is available if your tv has audio out options.

450$? .. there should be cheaper solutioons...

Originally Posted by BackLash83
You are correct (if you ask me). See http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/HDMI

But what if i want to pass the sound from the HD4550 to my Amp, what do i do?

Regarding the amp question. If you build a PC with 5.1 or 7.1 out (There are of course the "lossy" and "lossless" formats, one doesn't need a receiver just a 5.1 or 7.1 amplifier. You would have your HTPC do all the switching, DVD and Blu Ray playback, tuner card feed, music, games, whatever. Volume would be controlled by the HTPC.

The problem here is that many cards and onboard audio require further volume control. All any of us will need in the future is an amplifier with a simple HDMI 3 or 4 port switch (for perhaps a game console or Cable Box/Tivo/Sat Tuner and additional volume manipulation. You may want the 7.1 analog in to the amp as well for the HTPC audio. The problem is that no manufacturers have yet to make such a device. What we have now are receivers that often manipulate audio and video and provide a host of redundant systems to the HTPC. So, for those who mention amplifier only, I don't think this option is ready for prime time yet. (Perhaps a business opportunity for someone willing to design a simpler device). DVDo makes a number of Video processor devices but Digital Audio is pass through and does not process or support any of the latest audio formats.

I have always been in the camp of less crap is always more and simple elegant electronics trump an overengineered monster of a product. If you have a PC that literally does everything, a simple 7.1 PreAmp/Amp combo would be ideal coupled with a video DVI or HDMI out from the PC. Do you really need a receiver with AM/FM/HD Radio/XM Radio/Legacy RCA Plug/S-VHS Switching/Toaster/Ginzu 2 when all you want is power, a switch for other devices, and possibly digital audio processing?

Perhaps there is another thread for such a product?

Why have an HTPC control the volume when that's such a trivial function that a receiver can do? The more one has an HTPC do, the less stable it becomes and the bigger the impact when it breaks. Besides, isn't it better to control volume in the analog domain as opposed to controlling it digitally? Also, you'll need another volume control anyway for any other stand alone devices used, like a PS3 or Xbox.

I guess I have a different definition of "simple" and "less is more" than others. For me, it means if a stand alone can do it, then use it. If a stand alone can't do it, then have the HTPC do it. I'm sure my wife would just love it if she couldn't even control the volume when watching live tv because it's audio ran through the htpc and it broke.

Is there any reason not to buy the GA-EP35-DS3P motherboard? I was looking at the GA-EP45-DS3R, but I can get the older DS3P for about $20 cheaper. I am looking just for HT use, no games, will be buying an E8400(cpu) and most likely HD4550(graphics) or better (possibly HD4650). Anyway, I have read a lot of poor reviews for the GA-EP45-DS3R lately on newegg and the $20 more for that board is with a rebate... Not a big fan of those. The rebate offer ends today, so if I can't decide then I guess it will have to be the older P35 chipset board.

Thanks for any input

Why have an HTPC control the volume when that's such a trivial function that a receiver can do? The more one has an HTPC do, the less stable it becomes and the bigger the impact when it breaks. Besides, isn't it better to control volume in the analog domain as opposed to controlling it digitally? Also, you'll need another volume control anyway for any other stand alone devices used, like a PS3 or Xbox.


I must not make much sense so.... Here I go....

I totally agree, Volume controlled by a PC is lame. What I suggest is that today’s receivers have a ton of legacy crap on them, do more than they should so they don't do what we want well and a greater cost in receiver usually equates to more stuff, more inputs, more complexity; therefore more potential problems. What a good HTPC needs is an Integrated Amplifier (Old school I know) with fantastic clean power, switching for Audio and Video HDMI plus perhaps one 7.1 analog audio in and final processing for all "Lossy" and "lossless" tech. That would be my idea of simple. Let the HTPC be the source and just give enough input for a couple of other sources; such as a gaming machine or Tuner Box/Sat Box/Tivo. You might also need a few toggle power switches for a screen or lights but again you might accomplish this with the PC. Ditch all or most of the crazy legacy junk.

In it's absolute simplest form an HTPC with HDMI out (supporting Dolby True HD and DTS HD) only needs a not yet built Integrated Amp with audio decoding, HDMI video decoding/enhancing? and a volume control. No such animal exists to my very limited knowledge. What we have now are giant Denon's and Integra's with a combination of somewhere north of 200 input configurations. What would be nice is a fantastic 125 wpch, well built, simple high end integrated amplifier with a great cost/quality ratio. No one seems to be building these.

Again, probably not the right venue but now that I built the PC, it sure would be nice to add a solution that is not some overbuilt thing that does 250 things that I don't even care about. Seriously, have you looked at the back panel of Denon's flag ship? Who really needs that many old style inputs? To bring my point home, go look at the new Arcam FMJ AVR600. The manufacturer claims more than 100 input/output and control connections.

Me thinks the complexity is designed to get consumers to hire custom installers, not to actually make good sound and switch sources simply...

Again, if there is a great simple power/volume/processing solution to an HTPC, let me know.

Why have an HTPC control the volume when that's such a trivial function that a receiver can do? The more one has an HTPC do, the less stable it becomes and the bigger the impact when it breaks. Besides, isn't it better to control volume in the analog domain as opposed to controlling it digitally? Also, you'll need another volume control anyway for any other stand alone devices used, like a PS3 or Xbox.


I must not make much sense so.... Here I go....

I totally agree, Volume controlled by a PC is lame. What I suggest is that today’s receivers have a ton of legacy crap on them, do more than they should so they don't do what we want well and a greater cost in receiver usually equates to more stuff, more inputs, more complexity; therefore more potential problems. What a good HTPC needs is an Integrated Amplifier (Old school I know) with fantastic clean power, switching for Audio and Video HDMI plus perhaps one 7.1 analog audio in and final processing for all "Lossy" and "lossless" tech. That would be my idea of simple. Let the HTPC be the source and just give enough input for a couple of other sources; such as a gaming machine or Tuner Box/Sat Box/Tivo. You might also need a few toggle power switches for a screen or lights but again you might accomplish this with the PC. Ditch all or most of the crazy legacy junk.

In it's absolute simplest form an HTPC with HDMI out (supporting Dolby True HD and DTS HD) only needs a not yet built Integrated Amp with audio decoding, HDMI video decoding/enhancing? and a volume control. No such animal exists to my very limited knowledge. What we have now are giant Denon's and Integra's with a combination of somewhere north of 200 input configurations. What would be nice is a fantastic 125 wpch, well built, simple high end integrated amplifier with a great cost/quality ratio. No one seems to be building these.

Again, probably not the right venue but now that I built the PC, it sure would be nice to add a solution that is not some overbuilt thing that does 250 things that I don't even care about. Seriously, have you looked at the back panel of Denon's flag ship? Who really needs that many old style inputs? To bring my point home, go look at the new Arcam FMJ AVR600. The manufacturer claims more than 100 input/output and control connections.

Me thinks the complexity is designed to get consumers to hire custom installers, not to actually make good sound and switch sources simply...

Again, if there is a great simple power/volume/processing solution to an HTPC, let me know.
It's the 'more is better' syndrome of our collective society me thinks. I don't need more, I just have to 'have' more. And the CE industry knows this all to well I'm afraid because, after all, they are driven by the demand. :rolleyes:

I must not make much sense so.... Here I go....

I hear you now. I do think it's pretty funny that new receivers have the ability to switch between so many different types of inputs. Does anyone who is buying those high-end receivers actually use composite or s-video anymore? Still though, I'd much rather have my stand-alone receiver do the switching and audio decoding then bring that functionality into the HTPC. MS, hardware vendors and/or driver writers would just find a way to screw it up (plus, it would probably be expensive). I just don't subscribe to the one-box-to-do-everything philosophy because when it breaks, you (or your wife and kids) are SoL until it's fixed. When my htpc breaks, which is very rare but still, the only thing they loose is the ability to watch movies from our library. I'm kinda more along the lines of the unix philosophy when it comes to my home theater. Use a bunch of different simple devices that only do one thing really well.

Looking for opinions on my planned HTPC build. So far this is set to be my main machine but will also be networked with a Laptop and a windows home server machine in the future.


Parts wish list so far:

SILVERSTONE Black Aluminum / Steel LC13B-E ATX HTPC Case
HIS Hightech H487F512P Radeon HD 4870 Video Card
ASUS Rampage Extreme LGA 775 Intel X48 ATX Intel Motherboard
AVerMedia AVerTV Combo PCIe MCE ATSC/NTSC/QAM Tuner Card w/MCE Remote
ASUS Xonar HDAV1.3 (unsure on this but most likely will be my choice)
Intel Core 2 Quad Q9650 3.0GHz 12MB L2 Cache LGA 775 95W Quad-Core Processor

yet to decide on ram but will be at least 4GB
also will have at least a single 750GB internal hard drive
Blu-ray drive (are multi-drives made that also burn CDs, DVD-R's?)
PSU is still to be decided on.

Basic uses will be for PVR/Media playback, Some gaming (FPS and RTS type games), Internet browsing and communications. Os will be Vista 32 or 64bit (unsure if 64bit is worth it)

I was going for more top end stuff to extend the life of the machine for as long as possible, hopefully usable\relevant to at least 2012.

I own the LG Blu-ray burner, which also burns CDs and DVDs. It's a good choice.

Looking for opinions on my planned HTPC build. So far this is set to be my main machine but will also be networked with a Laptop and a windows home server machine in the future.
...
I was going for more top end stuff to extend the life of the machine for as long as possible, hopefully usable\relevant to at least 2012.
An alternative path is buy cheaper components now and build a new system in 2010. You would be more satisfied with the performance of the newly-built system than the expensive, but obsolete system during the period of 2010-2012 (20-30% CPU power increase). Instead of:

- Q9650: $570
- Rampage Extreme: $390
- DDR3-1600 2 x 2GB: $200
- total: $1160

buy

- Q9550: $314
- P5Q-E: $155 (or GA-X48-DS4: $220 if you need CF x16)
- DDR2-1000 2 x 2GB: $73
- total: $547

and save money for a Nehalem system.

An alternative path is buy cheaper components now and build a new system in 2010. You would be more satisfied with the performance of the newly-built system than the expensive, but obsolete system during the period of 2010-2012 (20-30% CPU power increase). Instead of:

- Q9650: $570
- Rampage Extreme: $390
- DDR3-1600 2 x 2GB: $200
- total: $1160

buy

- Q9550: $314
- P5Q-E: $155 (or GA-X48-DS4: $220 if you need CF x16)
- DDR2-1000 2 x 2GB: $73
- total: $547

and save money for a Nehalem system.

Good point but I figured as I bought the things I was looking at over the next few months the prices would be dropping on there own. Although price is not as much of a concern for me as I went high end for my last PC build and its still going strong 5 years later. I could go cheaper and keep doing rebuilds as newer tech comes along but I would rather just do something now and then 4- 5 years later see whats out there. Maybe windows 7 will become a stable platform by then.

Good point but I figured as I bought the things I was looking at over the next few months the prices would be dropping on there own. Although price is not as much of a concern for me as I went high end for my last PC build and its still going strong 5 years later. I could go cheaper and keep doing rebuilds as newer tech comes along but I would rather just do something now and then 4- 5 years later see whats out there. Maybe windows 7 will become a stable platform by then.
Then you may want to wait for the Core i7 processor (Nehalem; to be released in mid-November).

- Core i7 940 2.93GHz, $562
- ASUS Rampage II Extreme (http://www.nordichardware.com/news,8173.html) or P6T Deluxe Intel X58 chipset ATX
- DDR3-1600 2 (or 3) x 2GB

http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/attachment.php?attachmentid=121049&stc=1&d=1222836364

In my previous post above on pg 121, I asked the following

"If I want to play all my music (encoded at high bit rate MP3 and currently using ITunes with a dock) on my HT via a new HTPC and wanting to foray into Blueray, would the following system be overkill or am I missing something?

ASUS M3A78-T AM2+/AM2 AMD 790GX HDMI ATX AMD Motherboard
AMD Phenom 9600 Agena 2.3GHz Socket AM2+ 95W Quad-Core
Corsair 520HS PS
Silverstone LC-17 case
4Gig 1066 ram (ocz or other)
Seagate 7200.11 500G HG
LG Black LG Blu-ray/HD DVD-ROM GGC-H20LK
2 - Scythe SY1225SL12L 120mm "Slipstream" Case Fans
Scythe SCSK-1000 100mm "SHURIKEN" CPU Cooler
Anyware GP-IR01BK Windows Vista Infrared MCE Black Remote Control
Windows Vista Home Premium

Do I need a discreet video card to do the blueray playback well?

How will the audio side of the equation work - I am much more interested in good audio than anything to start - can always upgrade video if need be?"

I was hoping for a more definitive yes or no to the overkill question - thanks for the quick response but my follow up questions are...

If I am looking for a solution that was a bit smaller in form factor and wanted to have the best option without a discreet video card - what mobo/processor would you recommend? Again - to play HQ music and blue ray.

Also - are there any easy solutions for an upgrade to the X1200 that don't require a power supply upgrade? If adding a blueray and video card are a good choice - how much will that tax the 275 watt PS?

Thanks again.

If I am looking for a solution that was a bit smaller in form factor and wanted to have the best option without a discreet video card - what mobo/processor would you recommend? Again - to play HQ music and blue ray.

Also - are there any easy solutions for an upgrade to the X1200 that don't require a power supply upgrade? If adding a blueray and video card are a good choice - how much will that tax the 275 watt PS?
The answer depends on: Do you want 7.1 LPCM over HDMI? How much do you want to spend on mb/processor?

The second question is a bit unclear. An upgrade to X1200 from what?

275 PSU is good enough.

Then you may want to wait for the Core i7 processor (Nehalem; to be released in mid-November).

- Core i7 940 2.93GHz, $562
- ASUS Rampage II Extreme (http://www.nordichardware.com/news,8173.html) or P6T Deluxe Intel X58 chipset ATX
- DDR3-1600 2 (or 3) x 2GB



Thanks again for your info. I was looking at pictures on both boards and want to make sure on a few things. I'm not noticing many PCIe 1X slots as I think I would need at least two or more for the sound and TV cards. Can these be put into one of the other slots and still function? As for the video card I have read that the HD4870 is rather large and tends to block access to the slot next to it. This may again limit what the board offers and I want to make sure the layout will allow for this card and be put into the HTPC case. As each of these boards is to me really geared for the over clocker high end Gamer I may wait even longer for something that is more middle ground for home theater use as well. Unless of course I could still use everything I listed out and still grow (IE: Multiple tuner cards). I want to move away from the old PCI slots as from my limited understanding they are slower and I want to limit potential bottlenecks. Also the PCIe 1X slots allow for smaller cards which allow for better airflow if my thinking is correct.

Thanks again for your info. I was looking at pictures on both boards and want to make sure on a few things. I'm not noticing many PCIe 1X slots as I think I would need at least two or more for the sound and TV cards. Can these be put into one of the other slots and still function? As for the video card I have read that the HD4870 is rather large and tends to block access to the slot next to it. This may again limit what the board offers and I want to make sure the layout will allow for this card and be put into the HTPC case. As each of these boards is to me really geared for the over clocker high end Gamer I may wait even longer for something that is more middle ground for home theater use as well. Unless of course I could still use everything I listed out and still grow (IE: Multiple tuner cards). I want to move away from the old PCI slots as from my limited understanding they are slower and I want to limit potential bottlenecks. Also the PCIe 1X slots allow for smaller cards which allow for better airflow if my thinking is correct.
Unless you need SLI capability on the HTPC mobo, you might look at this ASUS P5QL-E (http://www.zipzoomfly.com/jsp/ProductDetail.jsp?ProductCode=10008898&prodlist=celebros). It's on sale too! This uses the P43 chipset, but should work just as well for an HTPC. I justed ordered one myself because I wanted to move to the Intel platform and don't need the dual video slots for SLI. However, it does have two smaller PCI-e slots as well as 3 PCI slots for other cards you might want to add. I ordered a Q6600 to go with and 2 sticks of 2GB DDR2 RAM. It does not have any onboard video, but I'm using a new ASUS 4850 graphics card anyway.

Just wanted to mention another alternative. :)

Just to quote for ease of answering...

The answer depends on: Do you want 7.1 LPCM over HDMI? How much do you want to spend on mb/processor? I don't need 7.1 today and will probably update the system by the time I do. I am currently running a pretty high end 5.1 system and won't be changing that due to room constraints and preceived need.

I don't mind spending some money if it's well spent. I would like to keep the system at about $1100 or so and if that means doing it in ATX versus M-ATX or whatever, then I will as I have the room. I just like the IDEA of a smaller form factor IF the quality of output is there for a similar amount of money.

The second question is a bit unclear. An upgrade to X1200 from what? This is where my lack of knowledge really plays a bigger role. The X1200 has a cd-r and no discreet video, and a 275 watt power supply. It has 2 open slots (once the silly modem is removed) but the following was written by another user...

"Also, there's a sticker that says "if removed, warranty void" covering access to inside the case. So, if you were planning on using that extra PCIx slot, or upgrading to a bluray drive, or adding more RAM, etc... you can forget about the warranty."

Regardless of the warranty issue - can the X1200 be upgraded enough with a blueray drive and video card to do what I would like? What would some suggested parts be if I went that route? Again, just to play blueray, no encoding.

Thank you again - this is lots of fun and very informative.

Thanks again for your info. I was looking at pictures on both boards and want to make sure on a few things. I'm not noticing many PCIe 1X slots as I think I would need at least two or more for the sound and TV cards. Can these be put into one of the other slots and still function? As for the video card I have read that the HD4870 is rather large and tends to block access to the slot next to it. This may again limit what the board offers and I want to make sure the layout will allow for this card and be put into the HTPC case. As each of these boards is to me really geared for the over clocker high end Gamer I may wait even longer for something that is more middle ground for home theater use as well. Unless of course I could still use everything I listed out and still grow (IE: Multiple tuner cards). I want to move away from the old PCI slots as from my limited understanding they are slower and I want to limit potential bottlenecks. Also the PCIe 1X slots allow for smaller cards which allow for better airflow if my thinking is correct.
The three x16 slots work at x16,x16,x0 or x16,x8,x8. The upper tiny slot is x1 (intended for the bundled cheap sound card, though). So if you insert a 2-slot graphics card in the first x16 slot, you can still use one x1 device and two x1-x8 devices. If the three x16 slots can work at x8,x16,x8 (need confirmation), then you can insert a 2-slot graphics card in the second x16 slot and sill use two x1 devices and two x8 devices.

Look at this page (http://www.expreview.com/news/hard/2008-09-28/1222586500d10113.html) for other X58 mbs. In the GIGABYTE mb, you can use four x1-x8 devices in addition to a 2-slot graphics card.

The answer depends on: Do you want 7.1 LPCM over HDMI? How much do you want to spend on mb/processor? I don't need 7.1 today and will probably update the system by the time I do. I am currently running a pretty high end 5.1 system and won't be changing that due to room constraints and preceived need.
OK, my real question is: which do you want to use, S/PDIF (with or without bit-perfect) or 5.1 LPCM over HDMI or even analog?

Great article, but I should mention that the Ballistix RAM has had a history of compatibility problems with Gigabyte boards.

OK, my real question is: which do you want to use, S/PDIF (with or without bit-perfect) or 5.1 LPCM over HDMI or even analog?

S/pdif with BP - would be preferable. I am driving all the audio to the receiver and all the video to my HD TV.

Just for reference - I have a Denon AVR 5800 - with a Mark Levinson 5 channel amp so no HDMI switching on the audio side at all. But I want 1080P on the video side and very clean audio.

The whole reason I started this process was to get a PC in the audio set-up so I am not fumbling with CD's. I originally looked at Escient, but I have a one large room loft style space and don't need multi-room control for music at this time.

Hope that helps. And again - this is great!

Thanks for this great - but truely overwhelming thread :). Been reading for two weeks and I really tried to figure this out but am still getting lost between what I really need at the end and all these features being discussed here...

I currently have an Onkyo SR606 receiver, an Optoma HD72 projector hooked up to it via HDMI and a DVD player going into the Onkyo via HDMI. I have a 5.1 speaker system on the Onkyo and am not planning to extend that that to 7.1 or beyond. I would like to add a HTPC to rip/watch Blueray discs and DVDs and listen to ripped music from a different HTPC(see below). I would like to connect the new HTPC to the receiver via HDMI cable.
The existing HTPC has lots of disk space and is located in a different part of the house. I mostly use to rip CDs and listen to music, but I also want to use it to store the movies ripped from the new HTPC. So the new HTPC does not need lots of disk space.
So I have 3 questions:
1. Is the lowend Intel configuration on page 85 sufficient for a good movie experience with the rest of my setup? I know 'good' is subjective. I mean no stuttering, decent sound, ...
2. Do I only need one HDMI cable from the pc to the receiver or do I need another cable for the sound?
3. Should I wait for one of these new cards that everybody seems to be waiting for and build a system with that?

Thanks very much for your advice!

S/pdif with BP - would be preferable. I am driving all the audio to the receiver and all the video to my HD TV.

Just for reference - I have a Denon AVR 5800 - with a Mark Levinson 5 channel amp so no HDMI switching on the audio side at all. But I want 1080P on the video side and very clean audio.

MicroATX system:

# CPU: Phenom X3 8450 or 8750
# CPU Cooler: Scythe NINJA MINI SCMNJ-1000
# Motherboard: GIGABYTE GA-MA78GM-S2H AMD 780G chipset microATX
# Memory: A-DATA ADQVE1A16K DDR2-800 2 x 1GB Kit
# Graphics Card: onboard video
# HDD: Western Digital WD6400AAKS 640GB SATA (or whatever)
# OD: LG Blu-ray/HD DVD-ROM GGC-H20LK
# PSU: Corsair VX450W CMPSU-450VX
# Case: Antec Fusion Remote Black
# OS: Windows Vista Home Premium

ATX system:

Just change mb to GIGABYTE GA-MA78G-DS2H (or GA-MA790GP-DS4H) and the case to Fusion Remote Max.

You can add a graphics card later when you want 5.1/7.1 LPCM.

The above system is better than Acer X1200 (better video playback, better expandability)

1. Is the lowend Intel configuration on page 85 sufficient for a good movie experience with the rest of my setup? I know 'good' is subjective. I mean no stuttering, decent sound, ...
2. Do I only need one HDMI cable from the pc to the receiver or do I need another cable for the sound?
3. Should I wait for one of these new cards that everybody seems to be waiting for and build a system with that?
G45 is good, but the Radeon HD 4550/4670 graphics card is better (you can install it in any system). HDMI carries both audio and video.

This is one great thread. Thanks renethx for creating it and keeping it alive.

I was thinking of building the lower end amd/amd setup with a added Radeon 4550.

But I found a awesome deal for the Intel e7200 CPU and ended up buying that processor.

I was thinking of a)still getting the 4550 but getting a cheaper mb OR b) getting the mb you suggested (matx system) and forgetting about the 4550.

Do you think either configuration will be enough to watch/record broadcast HD, playing BD/ripped BD, and other non-gaming functions?

Components I have so far:
e7200
Antec NSK2480 (PSU strong enough?)

also on hand a eVGA 9600GSO (different project)

Getting next

a TV Tuner
a BD-ROM drive
Microsoft Remote Control and Receiver for Media Center PC with Windows
1 HD 500+gb
DDR2-800 2 x 1GB Kit

Thanks for any inputs or suggestions

This is one great thread. Thanks renethx for creating it and keeping it alive.

I was thinking of building the lower end amd/amd setup with a added Radeon 4550.

But I found a awesome deal for the Intel e7200 CPU and ended up buying that processor.

I was thinking of a)still getting the 4550 but getting a cheaper mb OR b) getting the mb you suggested (matx system) and forgetting about the 4550.

Do you think either configuration will be enough to watch/record broadcast HD, playing BD/ripped BD, and other non-gaming functions?
Obviously HD 4550 is better than G45.

- any decent G31/G33/G43/G45 mb (e.g. GA-G31M-S2L)
- Radeon HD 4550

Obviously HD 4550 is better than G45.

- any decent G31/G33/G43/G45 mb (e.g. GA-G31M-S2L)
- Radeon HD 4550

In terms of recording and playing back hdtv(1080i) am I going to see any difference between a 4550/G31 or 4550/630i or even a 9500gt/g31 or 630i compared to a g45 mainboard (assuming same cpu). I may add blueray later.

Those sort of combination's are/will be the same price where I am.

In terms of recording and playing back hdtv(1080i) am I going to see any difference between a 4550/G31 or 4550/630i or even a 9500gt/g31 or 630i compared to a g45 mainboard (assuming same cpu). I may add blueray later.

Those sort of combination's are/will be the same price where I am.
G45 is good enough for 1080i. An advantage of IGP is a lower power consumption (say, -10W to -20W). Pure video processing power of HD 4550 is perhaps better.

Hi, I am looking at upgrading my aging Athlon XP 1800 machine to a blu-ray enabled HTPC.

What I want to be able to do is pass the video to my Plasma TV using HDMI.
And pass the Audio to my AV Amp using SP/DIF and let the AV Amp do the surround processing if possible.

I have the following components on my list:

CPU: AMD Athlon 64 X2 Dual Core 4850E AM2 - Retail with Fan
MOBO: Gigabyte GA-MA78GM-S2H
Memory: GeIL 2GB (2x1024MB) PC2-6400 800Mhz Black Dragon Dual Channel Kit
Blu-Ray: LG GGCH20L Super Multi Blue Blu-ray Disc and HD DVD-Rom Retail Kit
OS: Windows Vista Home Premium

What do you think?

Also I have already starting ripping my DVDs and CDs to the HTPC so I don't have to go hunting for the discs etc when I want to play them. I usually rip with no compression so I don't loose any quality in picture and sound.

So will I also be able to rip Blu-ray and HD DVDs to the hard drive the same as I have been doing with DVDs?

I have a stupid question:
1. What does a chipset on a motherboard do? is it only for doing graphic? Since most people will install a discrete graphic card, why would mfg waste money and put one on their motherboard?

Okay, another question...
I am trying to nail down a case, considering Silverstone LC20, Grandia GD01, ect...
I would like one with a remote for obvious reasons, but have a questions about the media versions of these cases. Do you HAVE to run the iMedian software to get the LCD to work, or is there some SDK or such that allows you to populate that with information you want? I am not so sure that I will want to be running that as my software, so what do people do with these cases? What if you run TMT or something else, how does the LCD integrate with that software?

Thanks

I have a stupid question:
1. What does a chipset on a motherboard do? is it only for doing graphic? Since most people will install a discrete graphic card, why would mfg waste money and put one on their motherboard?

Because if the chipset on the motherboard is capable of hardware acceleration and provides decent video quality, then there's no need for a discrete graphic card in a HTPC. This results in less heat, potentially smaller / better looking case, less power consumption, and currently, one of the few ways to get 7.1 LPCM sound out to your receiver.

Hi, I am looking at upgrading my aging Athlon XP 1800 machine to a blu-ray enabled HTPC.

What I want to be able to do is pass the video to my Plasma TV using HDMI.
And pass the Audio to my AV Amp using SP/DIF and let the AV Amp do the surround processing if possible.

I have the following components on my list:

CPU: AMD Athlon 64 X2 Dual Core 4850E AM2 - Retail with Fan
MOBO: Gigabyte GA-MA78GM-S2H
Memory: GeIL 2GB (2x1024MB) PC2-6400 800Mhz Black Dragon Dual Channel Kit
Blu-Ray: LG GGCH20L Super Multi Blue Blu-ray Disc and HD DVD-Rom Retail Kit
OS: Windows Vista Home Premium

What do you think?

Also I have already starting ripping my DVDs and CDs to the HTPC so I don't have to go hunting for the discs etc when I want to play them. I usually rip with no compression so I don't loose any quality in picture and sound.

So will I also be able to rip Blu-ray and HD DVDs to the hard drive the same as I have been doing with DVDs?

I got almost the same setup and I am in the process of building it.
My memory is Corsair.
I would recommend Scythe Ninja Mini cooler if you can fit it in your HTPC case.

I am not sure about BD and HDDVDs as they take lots of space - most people rip them into MKV

Full rips of HD sources 'as is' is doable, but will take between 25 and 50 gig of space each. So, unless you have loads of space, or better still, a seperate media server, you'll need to look into a different format as fooit notes, or keep the discs.

I have a stupid question:
1. What does a chipset on a motherboard do? is it only for doing graphic? Since most people will install a discrete graphic card, why would mfg waste money and put one on their motherboard?

A chipset is essentially the other (non-CPU) chips on the motherboard needed for a PC to operate. In FSB architectures, this includes a northbridge to interface with the memory and a southbridge which interfaces with both the northbridge and all of the other I/Os (in non-FSB architectures the memory controller on the northbridge has moved to the CPU).

The northbridge's proximity to memory also happens to make it a good place to put graphics capabilities, and even on non-FSB architectures that's where they get placed.

So, to answer your basic question, motherboard makers have to put chipsets on the motherboard. For an extra $5-15 they can put a chipset on the board with graphics capabilities.

How much is HD3650 chip better than onboard HD3200?
In short is it worth to add an ASUS EAH3650 SILENT/HTDI/512M videocard to Gigabyte GA-MA78GM-S2H mobo?

I am not sure about BD and HDDVDs as they take lots of space - most people rip them into MKV

Full rips of HD sources 'as is' is doable, but will take between 25 and 50 gig of space each. So, unless you have loads of space, or better still, a seperate media server, you'll need to look into a different format as fooit notes, or keep the discs.

Thanks for the reply.

I had forgotten how big they would be.
DVDs are manageable at 6-8Gb a go.

How lossless is .MKV?
How would I rip to .MKV, AnyDVDHD??

With DVDs I have been ripping them to VOBs and I even have the menu structure etc. Is this possible with BluRay?

Thanks for the reply.

I had forgotten how big they would be.
DVDs are manageable at 6-8Gb a go.

How lossless is .MKV?
How would I rip to .MKV, AnyDVDHD??

With DVDs I have been ripping them to VOBs and I even have the menu structure etc. Is this possible with BluRay?

MKVs are 15-35GB each. They're just the movie portion of the BD. If you want smaller, you need to recode to something else, and lose some quality.

mkv is not a codec - its a container that houses "unlimited" video and audio in one file - its compression can be anything as long as you can decode it

Do you HAVE to run the iMedian software to get the LCD to work, or is there some SDK or such that allows you to populate that with information you want?
This post (http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?p=14660461#post14660461), and iMON VFD API (http://www.soundgraph.com/Eng_/Supports/BoardView.aspx?topMenu=4&leftMenu=1&subMenu=1&dataID=32&currentPage=2&searchFiled=BoardID&searchString=)

Thanks renethx for this great thread. I am waiting to hear more about the 4550 when you can evaluate one.

renethx, just wanted to chime in and say thanks for the ongoing effort in creating and updating this thread and original post. I know how time-consuming it can be, since new devices and tech are constantly coming out, some of which skew or change an entire build list.

Hi,

I need your advice on the HTPC system I am building. I am having a hard time deciding on a motherboard, I suffer from the same ailment that most people do (I want the best, fastest and newest,) a perfect systems that will last a longtime. I was almost ready to get the GIGABYTE GA-X48-DQ6 but I stated reading about the ASUS Rampage Extreme LGA 775 Intel X48 ATX and I got excited about that one, in my mind I know it will be more that what I will need from a motherboard (I am not a really big into games, but I like to play some,) them I read about this card ASUS M3N-HT DELUXE/Mempipe( http://www.asus.com/products.aspx?modelmenu=1&model=2097&l1=3&l2=149&l3=646&l4=0)
and it seam to meet all I need and wants, but is not an Intel system and all my readings tells me that and Intel is the way to go. Does anyone have this card? I know I will either buy and Asus or a Gigabyte, I personally do not care if it is and Intel (I just heard in this threats I read that is the way to go) if you can guide me on at full size board I will be grateful. If the ASUS M3N-HT DELUXE/Mempipe ends up being the board that seems to meet my needs, what will be the best processor, for the GIGABYTE GA-X48-DQ6 I was going to get Core 2 Quad Q9550 2.83GHz Socket 775 and the Radeon HD 4870 X2 as the graphic card of choice, but with this SLI compliant card and they recommend GeForce 9800 GTX and GeForce 9800 GX2 for the Graphic card? And what about the processor?


I have already purchased already
Thermaltake DH102 case
Zalman CNPS9500 CPU fan
Enermax MODU82+ 625W (EMD625AWT)
GGW-H20L CD burner

Thank you in advance

Fred

Im getting my CPU and CPU Cooler soon. Since it's the first time im not using the stock cooler im wondering if there is any need to clean the cpu before you put the cooler on, EVEN THOUGH the cpu wasnt attached to the stock cooler to begin with.

This post (http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?p=14660461#post14660461), and iMON VFD API (http://www.soundgraph.com/Eng_/Supports/BoardView.aspx?topMenu=4&leftMenu=1&subMenu=1&dataID=32&currentPage=2&searchFiled=BoardID&searchString=)

Thank you very much renethx, it is greatly appreciated. Awesome job with this thread.

well newegg has the sapphire hd 4550 in stock...
http://www.newegg.com/Product/Product.aspx?Item=N82E16814102799&Tpk=radeon%204550

sapphire product page: http://www.sapphiretech.com/us/products/products_overview.php?gpid=260&grp=3

when are the cards with the hdmi port on the card going to come out???...

edit also, if i buy this card, do i need a specific dvi->hdmi dongle for the sound to work? or would a dvi->hdmi cable i bought from monoprice work as well?

thanks

I'm glad the card will have a component video output, exactly what I need! :)

I need your advice on the HTPC system I am building. I am having a hard time deciding on a motherboard, I suffer from the same ailment that most people do (I want the best, fastest and newest,) a perfect systems that will last a longtime. I was almost ready to get the GIGABYTE GA-X48-DQ6 but I stated reading about the ASUS Rampage Extreme LGA 775 Intel X48 ATX and I got excited about that one, in my mind I know it will be more that what I will need from a motherboard (I am not a really big into games, but I like to play some,) them I read about this card ASUS M3N-HT DELUXE/Mempipe( http://www.asus.com/products.aspx?modelmenu=1&model=2097&l1=3&l2=149&l3=646&l4=0)
and it seam to meet all I need and wants, but is not an Intel system and all my readings tells me that and Intel is the way to go. Does anyone have this card? I know I will either buy and Asus or a Gigabyte, I personally do not care if it is and Intel (I just heard in this threats I read that is the way to go) if you can guide me on at full size board I will be grateful. If the ASUS M3N-HT DELUXE/Mempipe ends up being the board that seems to meet my needs, what will be the best processor, for the GIGABYTE GA-X48-DQ6 I was going to get Core 2 Quad Q9550 2.83GHz Socket 775 and the Radeon HD 4870 X2 as the graphic card of choice, but with this SLI compliant card and they recommend GeForce 9800 GTX and GeForce 9800 GX2 for the Graphic card? And what about the processor?
The current highest-end chipsets are:

Intel

- Intel X48 (CF)
- Intel X58 (both CF and SLI [the support for SLI depends on each mb]; November)
- nForce 780i/790i SLI

AMD

- AMD 790FX (CF)
- nForce 780a SLI

The current best processor is Core 2 Quad. But its position will be superseded by Nehalem (http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?t=940972&page=85#NextIntel) with X58 chipset in November. If you want the fastest and the greatest that lasts long, choose Nehalem and X58. See this post (http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?p=14780603#post14780603). ATI HD 4870 X2/HD 4870 is a better choice in that it supports 7.1 LPCM over HDMI.

Im getting my CPU and CPU Cooler soon. Since it's the first time im not using the stock cooler im wondering if there is any need to clean the cpu before you put the cooler on, EVEN THOUGH the cpu wasnt attached to the stock cooler to begin with.
Then you don't need to clean it (just remove dust with a lint-free cloth).

well newegg has the sapphire hd 4550 in stock...
http://www.newegg.com/Product/Product.aspx?Item=N82E16814102799&Tpk=radeon%204550

sapphire product page: http://www.sapphiretech.com/us/products/products_overview.php?gpid=260&grp=3

when are the cards with the hdmi port on the card going to come out???...

edit also, if i buy this card, do i need a specific dvi->hdmi dongle for the sound to work? or would a dvi->hdmi cable i bought from monoprice work as well?
$60 is a bit pricey. The estimated price was $45 for 256MB and $55 for 512MB. I am not sure if this card comes with a DVI-HDMI dongle. If not, you have to buy one ($10+$7 shipping) (http://www.newegg.com/Product/Product.aspx?Item=N82E16814999010). A generic DVI-HDMI dongle does not carry audio for ATI cards.

HIS HD 4670 $77 (http://www.newegg.com/Product/Product.aspx?Item=N82E16814161249) may be a better choice (apart from low-profile vs. full height) if you have to buy a dongle. (For example, read AnandTech article (http://www.anandtech.com/video/showdoc.aspx?i=3420&p=6). Power consumption of 4550 is almost identical with [or even larger than] that of HD 4670 at idle and perhaps at BD playback.)

can someone give me some advice please? I've yet to build my system and have the following sitting in a cupboard waiting my case to be in stock...

XFX 8600GTS
Q9550 (2.8Ghz)
Asus P5Q Deluxe
4GB RAM
120Hz 1080p TV

I've read that the 8600GTS doesn't fully support hardware acceleration whereas the 4000 series of ATI cards do. (http://www.missingremote.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=2564&Itemid=230&limit=1&limitstart=1)

I only want to play media files - blu-ray, DVD, MKV etc etc. No games. My question is, for the best HD experience would I notice a difference between the 8600GTS and an ATI HD4650? Should I just stick with what I have? Would the CPU just take over and do just as good a job as the 4650? I've also read about stuttering with 24p playback. Any help is appreciated!

MicroATX system:

# CPU: Phenom X3 8450 or 8750
# CPU Cooler: Scythe NINJA MINI SCMNJ-1000
# Motherboard: GIGABYTE GA-MA78GM-S2H AMD 780G chipset microATX
# Memory: A-DATA ADQVE1A16K DDR2-800 2 x 1GB Kit
# Graphics Card: onboard video
# HDD: Western Digital WD6400AAKS 640GB SATA (or whatever)
# OD: LG Blu-ray/HD DVD-ROM GGC-H20LK
# PSU: Corsair VX450W CMPSU-450VX
# Case: Antec Fusion Remote Black
# OS: Windows Vista Home Premium

ATX system:

Just change mb to GIGABYTE GA-MA78G-DS2H (or GA-MA790GP-DS4H) and the case to Fusion Remote Max.

You can add a graphics card later when you want 5.1/7.1 LPCM.

The above system is better than Acer X1200 (better video playback, better expandability)


Ok, so here's where I think I am ending up... just need some help with a MB choice.

GIGABYTE GA-MA790GP-DS4H or
ASUS M3A78-T AM2+/AM2 AMD 790GX

and
Phenom X3 - 8750 or
X4 9600
and which cooler would you suggest for either.

Both systems would be ATX in a silverstone LC17 case

Everything else is nailed down as
4 gig 1066 ram
corsair 450 or 520 PS
seagate 7200.11 HD's
LG Blue ray
Vista
and some remote for vista media center

Any last thoughts?

Hi

I've decided to add some more memory to my Media Server. And im just wondering if these fit:

I already have these in my computer:
Corsair TWIN2X 6400 DDR2, 1024MB CL5 Kit w/two matched CM2X512A-6400 Dimm's

And im not looking for an overkill here.. So i thought another 1024MB would do just fine, does these fit:
Corsair XMS2 6400 DDR2, 1024MB PC6400 64Meg x 8, CAS 5-5-5-15, 800MHz, 240pin ?

If not, can you please find something that does fit? from:
http://www.komplett.no/k/kl.aspx?bn=10605

(MB: Asus P5B-V)

Thx.

I've read that the 8600GTS doesn't fully support hardware acceleration whereas the 4000 series of ATI cards do. (http://www.missingremote.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=2564&Itemid=230&limit=1&limitstart=1)

I only want to play media files - blu-ray, DVD, MKV etc etc. No games. My question is, for the best HD experience would I notice a difference between the 8600GTS and an ATI HD4650? Should I just stick with what I have? Would the CPU just take over and do just as good a job as the 4650? I've also read about stuttering with 24p playback. Any help is appreciated!
Basically hardware decoding is necessary only for H.264. The other two formats are easy to decode for a dual/quad core processors. 8600 GTS is good enough for your purpose.

There is not much difference of image quality between NVIDIA and ATI. Someone prefer NVIDIA and some ATI for various reasons (for example read this thread (http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?t=1036539) and this thread (http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?t=1049857).)

which cooler would you suggest for either.

Both systems would be ATX in a silverstone LC17 case
The height of the cooler must be <= 134mm. Check my list of Side-Flow Heatsink for a Desktop Case (http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?t=940972#CPU). Xigmatek, Zalman or ZEROtherm.

Hi

I've decided to add some more memory to my Media Server. And im just wondering if these fit:

I already have these in my computer:
Corsair TWIN2X 6400 DDR2, 1024MB CL5 Kit w/two matched CM2X512A-6400 Dimm's

And im not looking for an overkill here.. So i thought another 1024MB would do just fine, does these fit:
Corsair XMS2 6400 DDR2, 1024MB PC6400 64Meg x 8, CAS 5-5-5-15, 800MHz, 240pin ?

If not, can you please find something that does fit? from:
http://www.komplett.no/k/kl.aspx?bn=10605

(MB: Asus P5B-V)
Basically any DDR2 memory module will work. Just check the memory compatibility list of your mb.

Hey guys I have been reading this practically all day and have been trying to educate myself about it all, but there seems to be alot of old\misinformation. Basically, I originally was planning on just doing a htpc for some web surfing. A PS3 serves up most my media anyways.

BUT SUPPOSING I wanted a htpc that was hddvd\blu compatible with 24 fps and bittreaming of truehd, dtshd (and 7.1 lpcm obviously), I am little confused about what I need.

I see the new Xonar card purports to bitstream those, correct?

Can that card handle 1080p streams if the graphics work is done by integrated like a G45 mobo? even in 24fps?

I think I have a handle on the other stuff, but I want to understand what I would minimally need for bitstreamed hd audio.

Thanks in advance!

Reed

BUT SUPPOSING I wanted a htpc that was hddvd\blu compatible with 24 fps and bittreaming of truehd, dtshd (and 7.1 lpcm obviously), I am little confused about what I need.

I see the new Xonar card purports to bitstream those, correct?

Can that card handle 1080p streams if the graphics work is done by integrated like a G45 mobo? even in 24fps?

I think I have a handle on the other stuff, but I want to understand what I would minimally need for bitstreamed hd audio.
Xonar HDAV1.3 and X-Fi HomeTheater 7.1 (both in Q4 2008) are the only solutions for bitstreaming HD audio in near future. You just need one of these cards and any graphics card (or IGP) that can handle HD contents.

The height of the cooler must be <= 134mm. Check my list of Side-Flow Heatsink for a Desktop Case (http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?t=940972#CPU). Xigmatek, Zalman or ZEROtherm.

thanks - the Ninja Mini is my choice... Any other feedback to the MB and CPU questions from my post?

I will def. post once I get all the stuff and put it all together - this thread is absolutely fabulous - thanks so much.

Xonar HDAV1.3 and X-Fi HomeTheater 7.1 (both in Q4 2008) are the only solutions for bitstreaming HD audio in near future. You just need one of these cards and any graphics card (or IGP) that can handle HD contents.

IGP is...? integrated graphics? So would a G45 mobo work? Im sorry this is all so basic. I am quite a noob. And with just integrated, it could 24hz too?

Thanks for your quick response

IGP is...? integrated graphics? So would a G45 mobo work? Im sorry this is all so basic. I am quite a noob. And with just integrated, it could 24hz too?
Yes, IGP = ingetrated graphics processor. Basically you should be be able to use any GPU (discrete or integrated) that meets your requirements.

G45 has problems in 24p.

Basically any DDR2 memory module will work. Just check the memory compatibility list of your mb.

So it doesnt matter that it's just one chip, and not a pair? As long as both are DDR2 PC6400?

So it doesnt matter that it's just one chip, and not a pair? As long as both are DDR2 PC6400?
Three modules work fine (Intel Flex Memory Technology: "Facilitates easier upgrades by allowing different memory sizes to be populated and remain in dual-channel mode."). Even you can use DDR-667 or DDR2-533 (but then the other two modules will also run at 333 or 266MHz).

A brief review on this technology is

- Tom's Hardware - Intel Flex Memory Technology (June 19, 2004) (http://www.tomshardware.com/reviews/intel-stakes-vision-pc-future-775-launch,830-28.html)

I have a Gigabyte GA-p965-DS3 rev 1.0 motherboard with an E4300 CPU. I just purchased an E5200. Will it work in the existing motherboard? If so, what advantages do I gain by moving to the GA-EP43-DS3L? Memory is 2x1GB DDR-2 800.

I have a Gigabyte GA-p965-DS3 rev 1.0 motherboard with an E4300 CPU. I just purchased an E5200. What advantages do I gain by moving to the GA-EP43-DS3L? Memory is 2x1GB DDR-2 800.
GA-P965-DS3 rev 1.0 does not support 45nm processors (http://www.gigabyte.com.tw/Support/Motherboard/CPUSupport_Model.aspx?ProductID=2314).

Hey guys I have been reading this practically all day and have been trying to educate myself about it all, but there seems to be alot of old\misinformation. Basically, I originally was planning on just doing a htpc for some web surfing. A PS3 serves up most my media anyways.

BUT SUPPOSING I wanted a htpc that was hddvd\blu compatible with 24 fps and bittreaming of truehd, dtshd (and 7.1 lpcm obviously), I am little confused about what I need.

I see the new Xonar card purports to bitstream those, correct?

Can that card handle 1080p streams if the graphics work is done by integrated like a G45 mobo? even in 24fps?

I think I have a handle on the other stuff, but I want to understand what I would minimally need for bitstreamed hd audio.

Thanks in advance!

Reed

I would carefully read the Xonar thread before purchasing one. It's basically a disaster. Bitstreamming only works with XP (I believe True HD is still broken) and it can't pass through 24p.

Hey guys I have been reading this practically all day and have been trying to educate myself about it all, but there seems to be alot of old\misinformation. Basically, I originally was planning on just doing a htpc for some web surfing. A PS3 serves up most my media anyways.

BUT SUPPOSING I wanted a htpc that was hddvd\blu compatible with 24 fps and bittreaming of truehd, dtshd (and 7.1 lpcm obviously), I am little confused about what I need.

I see the new Xonar card purports to bitstream those, correct?

Can that card handle 1080p streams if the graphics work is done by integrated like a G45 mobo? even in 24fps?

I think I have a handle on the other stuff, but I want to understand what I would minimally need for bitstreamed hd audio.

Thanks in advance!

Reed

Do not buy the Xonar (yet). See my sig for more details and links.

I want to thank members of this link for guiding me in search for a HTPC system that I hope to be able to enjoy for months to come. I have purchased the following:

Case: Thermaltake DH102 case
CPU Fan: Zalman CNPS9500 CPU fan
Power supply: Enermax MODU82+ 625W (EMD625AWT)
Motherboard: GIGABYTE GA-X48-DQ6
And Core 2 Quad Q9550 2.83GHz Socket 775
HDD: Western Digital WD6400AAKS 640GB SATA
Memory: G.SKILL F2-8000CL5D-4GBPQ DDR2-1000 2 x 2GB Kit,
Graphic card: Sapphire HD 4870 X2
CD burner: GGW-H20L (will this fit the Theemaltake DH102 case?)
Sound card (I will wait until all bugs are worked out) ASUS Xonar HDAV1.3

I hope to get all the pieces together no later than this Friday and work to put it together this weekend. I will most humbly request to anyone out there that has a similar system, if you can share with me your lessons learn and any pit falls that you have encounter, this way I might have the good fortune from your experience to avoid similar frustration.

After this rollercoaster of what hardware i should buy, I have move to the software purchase, I believe I will like to use Vista 64, I read that a number of people that do not like Vista and prefer XP, some is just because they are comfortable, some argue that Vista is full of bugs, I believe all bugs will be worked out eventually like all other software in the industry, but I do like to have someone advice me from the commercial\logistic perspective if I should stick to and architecture that is going away (XP) or take the plunge and go for Vista and if I go for Vista why stick with 32 and not move to 64?

I also see a number of HTCP movie\music management software, given the system I will be building, what is the best software that will make my life easier in managing internet viewing, audio, video management and ripping cd’s


Thank you in advance
Fred

Hello everyone,

Fist I want to say thanks to everyone, especially Renethx, for this amazing thread. I’ve been following it for a while and I’m finally ready to build a new HTPC.

This will the first time I’ve built my own PC and my first HD HTPC. These are the components I’m leaning towards. I’d appreciate any and all feedback.

Case: Silverstone LC20M. I was also debating about the Thermaltake Mozart but from what I’ve read I think installing components into the Silverstone will be easier
MOBO: GIGABYTE GA-EP45-DS4P -I’ll need S/PDIF output for at least the next 6 months
CPU: Core 2 Duo E8200 2.66GHz Socket 775
CPU Cooler: ZEROtherm BTF90 – Is this necessary from the start or should I just see how loud my HTPC is when I’m done building it?
Graphics Card: HIS H467QS512P Radeon HD 4670
Are there any notable differences between Hightech, ASUS or other manufacturers?
Memory: 2-4 Gigs. Kingston 2GB (2 x 1GB) 240-Pin DDR2 SDRAM DDR2 800 (PC2 6400) I haven’t given much thought to speed, latency voltage etc. If I need to please let me know.
HDD: Probably 2 WD or Seagate drives in the 640- 750 GB range.
Optical: LITE-ON DH-4O1S BD-ROM Drive
Capture Card: Hauppauge HD PVR
PSU: Corsair VX450W CMPSU-450VX
OS: Vista Home Premium
Other Peripherals: I’m just going to use items I already have, I just need to make sure everything is compatible with Vista.

I’m not committed to any of these components. I’d be willing to spend a little more if I was going to get much better performance, and I’m also willing to cut back if it won’t drastically reduce performance. Basically I’ve pick components that I feel offer good balance between performance, value and that hopefully won’t be obsolete in the for some time.

One question about installing the OS:
Should I use a smaller HDD? Or should I just partition one of my HDD? If I partition the drive should I keep the OS and programs on 2 different partitions? How much space should I allocate?

Thanks for all the suggestions and help.

Tom

I spec'ed out a new HTPC build for myself about 3 months ago. The attachment displays what I'm proposing. Basically, I want Blu-Ray playback and for SD DVD playback I want to be able to do whatever I want with FFDSHOW to improve the picture quality. Can educated people here confirm whether what I am proposing fits the bill here or not? If you feel I should change something please let me know because this is my best attempt at building something stable and powerful.

The only other addition to mention here is that I am considering the Silverstone LC20M as my case which adds a little over $200. The total cost for this build is a little pricier than I hoped for at around $1400 but my hope is that you get what you pay for in this case.

Thanks for any help.

My ancient all-purpose PC died on Friday evening so I have to replace it ASAP. What I need is a PC that will be able to either decode HDTV streamed from my Linux Myth front/back-end in the living room or decode HDTV from the HDHomerun there. Also I need to be able to do web programming development (compiling Java, web server, database) as well as general purpose Office apps (mainly WP & Excel, maybe some Access and VBA), also photos, and playing CD music, and i plan on reusing 2 21" CRTs, one for watching HDTV and the other for everything else.

Here's what I've decided on (let me know if anything seems out of whack):

I'm going to swap the hard drive with the 750GB WD Caviar I currently have in my HTPC.

Antec Performance One P182 ATX Tower (already bought)
CORSAIR CMPSU-450VX 450W ATX12V V2.2 80 PLUS Certified Active PFC Power Supply - Retail (http://www.newegg.com/Product/Product.aspx?Item=N82E16817139003)
ASUS P5Q Pro LGA 775 Intel P45 ATX Intel Motherboard - Retail (http://www.newegg.com/Product/Product.aspx?Item=N82E16813131299)
Intel Core 2 Quad Q6600 Kentsfield 2.4GHz LGA 775 Quad-Core Processor Model BX80562Q6600 - Retail (http://www.newegg.com/Product/Product.aspx?Item=N82E16819115017)
CORSAIR 4GB (2 x 2GB) 240-Pin DDR2 SDRAM DDR2 800 (PC2 6400) Dual Channel Kit Desktop Memory - Retail (http://www.newegg.com/Product/Product.aspx?Item=N82E16820145184)
ASUS EN9500GT OC/DI/512M GeForce 9500 GT 512MB 128-bit GDDR3 PCI Express 2.0 x16 HDCP Ready SLI Supported Video Card - Retail (http://www.newegg.com/Product/Product.aspx?Item=N82E16814121271)
HITACHI Deskstar 7K1000 HDS721010KLA330 (0A35155) 1TB 7200 RPM 32MB Cache SATA 3.0Gb/s Hard Drive - OEM (http://www.newegg.com/Product/Product.aspx?Item=N82E16822145167)
SAMSUNG Black 22X DVD+R 8X DVD+RW 16X DVD+R DL 22X DVD-R 6X DVD-RW 12X DVD-RAM 16X DVD-ROM 48X CD-R 32X CD-RW 48X CD-ROM 2MB Cache SATA 22X DVD Burner - OEM (http://www.newegg.com/Product/Product.aspx?Item=N82E16827151171)

Total: about $715 (less with discounted shipping on group)

Will XP Pro work, or do I have to either buy XP MCE (is that what it is?) or Vista Home Premium?


Here's a link to my HTPC: http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?t=917531&highlight=

Graphics Card: HIS H467QS512P Radeon HD 4670
Are there any notable differences between Hightech, ASUS or other manufacturers?

There are differences and sometimes the differences are significant.

For example with the HD2600XT and Pro, Diamond's version had a major problem where some of the chips required for hardware decoding of video were prone to overheating (gaming was fine). Also these cards had very small and very noisy cooling fans on them.

HIS on the other hand, typically makes high quality ATI cards and if you pick up one with an "IceQ" cooler, you will be extremely impressed at how silent it is. I run the HIS 3870 IceQ (none overclocked) video card in my HTPC and it is absolutely impossible (for me anyway) to hear the fan on that video card during video playback. I'm not even certain I can hear it when playing GPU intensive games.

One thing you might consider is ATI certifies 3rd party cards and only card that they certify will they fully stand behind as far as driver issues. You can check ATI's certification list on their web site. Note that there are many cards not listed, including my HIS 3870 IceQ. For my 3870 I confirmed it was using a reference ATI design before I purchased it (even though ATI hasn't specifically "certified" it).

Does anyone know if Windows Home Premium 64-bit has any problems with my hardware 2 posts above? It looks like Office 2003 is compatible. Does it allow 32-bit applications to run in a 32-bit box?

CPU Cooler: ZEROtherm BTF90 – Is this necessary from the start or should I just see how loud my HTPC is when I’m done building it?

Graphics Card: HIS H467QS512P Radeon HD 4670
Are there any notable differences between Hightech, ASUS or other manufacturers?

One question about installing the OS:
Should I use a smaller HDD? Or should I just partition one of my HDD? If I partition the drive should I keep the OS and programs on 2 different partitions? How much space should I allocate?
First you should use the stock cooler. You can add a retail cooler at any time later.

H467QS512P is currently the quietest card.

You can install OS in a small drive or a partition (say 100GB). Programs should be installed in the same partition as OS.

After this rollercoaster of what hardware i should buy, I have move to the software purchase, I believe I will like to use Vista 64, I read that a number of people that do not like Vista and prefer XP, some is just because they are comfortable, some argue that Vista is full of bugs, I believe all bugs will be worked out eventually like all other software in the industry, but I do like to have someone advice me from the commercial\logistic perspective if I should stick to and architecture that is going away (XP) or take the plunge and go for Vista and if I go for Vista why stick with 32 and not move to 64?

I also see a number of HTCP movie\music management software, given the system I will be building, what is the best software that will make my life easier in managing internet viewing, audio, video management and ripping cd’s
Vista 64 (the only disadvanage of 32-bit is that it supports up to 4GB memory; actually around 3.2GB for applications), Windows Media Center with some plug-ins (http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?t=1032611) (in particular My Movies), TotalMedia Theater (I think it works with Vista 64) or PowerDVD 8 Ultra. If you are unfamiliar with Media Center, there are several guides (this book (http://www.amazon.com/Everything-Windows-Vista-Media-Center/dp/0071498648) is for a novice; The Green Button (http://thegreenbutton.com/) is one of the best online guides).

I spec'ed out a new HTPC build for myself about 3 months ago. The attachment displays what I'm proposing. Basically, I want Blu-Ray playback and for SD DVD playback I want to be able to do whatever I want with FFDSHOW to improve the picture quality. Can educated people here confirm whether what I am proposing fits the bill here or not? If you feel I should change something please let me know because this is my best attempt at building something stable and powerful.

The only other addition to mention here is that I am considering the Silverstone LC20M as my case which adds a little over $200. The total cost for this build is a little pricier than I hoped for at around $1400 but my hope is that you get what you pay for in this case.
H467QS512P ($86 after rebate) instead. Do you need two optical drive? Antec Fusion Remote Max ($178) is another good choice (easier to build).

Does anyone know if Windows Home Premium 64-bit has any problems with my hardware 2 posts above? It looks like Office 2003 is compatible. Does it allow 32-bit applications to run in a 32-bit box?
Your hardware will work fine with Vista Home Premium 64-bit.

Vista 64 (the only disadvanage of 32-bit is that it supports up to 4GB memory; actually around 3.2GB for applications)...

I don't understand if you are for or against Vista 64.

I think I'll try Ubuntu and Myth and probably use a small drive for XP Pro to do a dual boot.

http://www.newegg.com/Product/Product.aspx?Item=N82E16827106073

save yourself a few $$ and get the lite-on with lightscribe


I spec'ed out a new HTPC build for myself about 3 months ago. The attachment displays what I'm proposing. Basically, I want Blu-Ray playback and for SD DVD playback I want to be able to do whatever I want with FFDSHOW to improve the picture quality. Can educated people here confirm whether what I am proposing fits the bill here or not? If you feel I should change something please let me know because this is my best attempt at building something stable and powerful.

The only other addition to mention here is that I am considering the Silverstone LC20M as my case which adds a little over $200. The total cost for this build is a little pricier than I hoped for at around $1400 but my hope is that you get what you pay for in this case.

Thanks for any help.

Any suggestions on water-cooling the new graphic cards & tying it into the other case components to provide a complete solution? Most of the reviews complain of the excessive heat that is not vented out of the case. They also describe loud noise during 3D processing.

hey guys,

this thread has been so helpful, thanks a lot!!!

Im thinking of taking the plunge and building a htpc, so here are my specs, please tell me what you think. It will be used for ripping / storing Blu rays and music. I have an onkyo 606 amp and will be connecting it to the amp via 1 hdmi cable.

Case: Antec Fusion Remote Veris Black MATX
http://www.ebuyer.com/product/148791#

PSU: SilverPower 400W PSU - 2x PCI-E 2x SATA
http://www.ebuyer.com/product/146369

GPU: Sapphire HD 4670 512MB GDDR3 Dual DVI TV Out PCI-E Graphics Card
http://www.ebuyer.com/product/149184

RAM: Corsair 2GB Kit (2x1GB) DDR2 800MHz/PC2-6400 XMS2 Memory Non-ECC Unbuffered
http://www.ebuyer.com/product/98710

Mother Board: ASUS P5E-VM HDMI iG35 Socket 775 onboard VGA 8 channel audio mATX Motherboard
http://www.ebuyer.com/product/142654

Processor: Intel Core 2 Duo E7300 2.66GHz Socket 775 (1066FSB) 3MB L2 Cache Retail Boxed Processor
http://www.ebuyer.com/product/150186

Chip Cooler: ZALMAN CNPS 8000 Socket 754, 940, 775 & 939 CPU Cooler
http://www.ebuyer.com/product/116411

HDD x2: Samsung SpinPoint F1 HD103UJ 1TB Hard Drive SATAII *32MB Cache* - OEM
http://www.ebuyer.com/product/143288

Blu Ray Drive: LG Electronics Blu-Ray & HD-DVD-Rom Combo 16x DVDRW Black SATA - Retail Box With Software
http://www.ebuyer.com/product/139985

Keyboard: Keysonic Black Micro Wireless Bluetooth Keyboard with TouchPad
http://www.ebuyer.com/product/145519

Will the case be ok (temp wise, space etc)? Also, if the mobo has an hdmi out for video, does that mean that as soon as it boots (post, bios etc) it will be displayed on my plasma via hdmi?

Any help/ suggestions appreciated

Thanks guys

Any suggestions on water-cooling the new graphic cards & tying it into the other case components to provide a complete solution? Most of the reviews complain of the excessive heat that is not vented out of the case. They also describe loud noise during 3D processing.
For example, Zalman RESERATOR 2 (http://www.zalman.co.kr/ENG/product/Product_Read.asp?Idx=184)?

m thinking of taking the plunge and building a htpc, so here are my specs, please tell me what you think.

Will the case be ok (temp wise, space etc)? Also, if the mobo has an hdmi out for video, does that mean that as soon as it boots (post, bios etc) it will be displayed on my plasma via hdmi?
The cooler is unnecessary (and CNPS8000 is a bit louder).

You can't use the mb's HDMI (no two graphics devices of different brands can coexist). Just connect the graphics card's HDMI (via the bundled dongle) to your AVR. HDMI carries both video and audio. Then connect your plasma to AVR's HDMI out and your speakers to AVR.

For example, Zalman RESERATOR 2 (http://www.zalman.co.kr/ENG/product/Product_Read.asp?Idx=184)?Should we start looking into modifying our bar fridges as lower cost alternatives?:)

Originally Posted by sunshine108j
After this rollercoaster of what hardware i should buy, I have move to the software purchase, I believe I will like to use Vista 64, I read that a number of people that do not like Vista and prefer XP, some is just because they are comfortable, some argue that Vista is full of bugs, I believe all bugs will be worked out eventually like all other software in the industry, but I do like to have someone advice me from the commercial\logistic perspective if I should stick to and architecture that is going away (XP) or take the plunge and go for Vista and if I go for Vista why stick with 32 and not move to 64?

I also see a number of HTCP movie\music management software, given the system I will be building, what is the best software that will make my life easier in managing internet viewing, audio, video management and ripping cd’s

Vista 64 (the only disadvanage of 32-bit is that it supports up to 4GB memory; actually around 3.2GB for applications), Windows Media Center with some plug-ins (in particular My Movies), TotalMedia Theater (I think it works with Vista 64) or PowerDVD 8 Ultra. If you are unfamiliar with Media Center, there are several guides ( this book is for a novice; The Green Button is one of the best online guides).

I am using Vista 64 Ultimate and I would validate Renethx on the Software he mentioned. I am using Arcsoft TMT, Vista Media Center, My Movies MC Plug In, AnyDVD HD, and the Slysoft Virtual Clone Drive. All work with Vista 64. All have Vista 64 programs or in the case of AnyDVD HD a 64 helper executable? I did have problems with Daemon Lite and had to uninstall and go with the Virtual CloneDrive freeware instead. The Daemon Lite - AnyDVD HD mysteriously gummed up everything. So, for what it's worth, I would recommend Vista 64 if you intend to build a more future proof machine but I am far from an expert.

The cooler is unnecessary (and CNPS8000 is a bit louder).

You can't use the mb's HDMI (no two graphics devices or different brand can coexist). Just connect the graphics card's HDMI (via the bundled dongle) to your AVR. HDMI carries both video and audio. Then connect your plasma to AVR's HDMI out and your speakers to AVR.

So how do I cool the cpu?

ALso, you say use the gpu's hdmi....say I have just formatted and have no drivers installed, and its the first bot without an os installed, will the hdmi on the gpu (say the hd 4670) still work, and display POST and bios etc?

Thanks

I'm about to purchase one of the recommended Liteon DH-4O1S-08 BluRay players and understand that it comes with some playback software, perhaps CyberLink's PowerDVD. My questions:

1. What software actually comes with it? (Model, Version, etc.). I've looked at NewEgg and can't really tell.
2. Is it worth buying the retail version of this drive with the included software, or would I be better off buying the OEM software-less version and buy the software separately?
3. If so, what minimum software (and version) do I need to reliably play BluRay on Windows XP SP3 in full (1080p) resolution?

Just trying not to buy the drive, wait for it to arrive, install it, and say "Oh crap, I still can't play BlueRays until I buy xxxx software".

Thanks for the help!

I'm about to purchase one of the recommended Liteon DH-4O1S-08 BluRay players and understand that it comes with some playback software, perhaps CyberLink's PowerDVD. My questions:

1. What software actually comes with it? (Model, Version, etc.). I've looked at NewEgg and can't really tell.
2. Is it worth buying the retail version of this drive with the included software, or would I be better off buying the OEM software-less version and buy the software separately?
3. If so, what minimum software (and version) do I need to reliably play BluRay on Windows XP SP3 in full (1080p) resolution?

Just trying not to buy the drive, wait for it to arrive, install it, and say "Oh crap, I still can't play BlueRays until I buy xxxx software".

Thanks for the help!


Suggest you buy the OEM drive and the software separately, if you can. The OEM software that comes with the drive isn't updated as frequently and the retail/download version.

Also, you can choose PDVD or TMT after trying both to see which one you like better, as opposed to being forced into PDVD. (I prefer TMT.)

H467QS512P ($86 after rebate) instead. Do you need two optical drive? Antec Fusion Remote Max ($178) is another good choice (easier to build).

Thanks! Is that video card as powerful as the 4850? I really want to be able to do what I want with ffdshow and SD DVDs. I do two optical drives just out of convenience since there isn't much more cost.

If I get a ATI 48xx series card (4670 or 4550, I want a cool card for some light gaming), does it make sense to go for an HTPC chipset or am I better off getting a cheap G33/P43 motherboard instead?

Thanks! Is that video card as powerful as the 4850? I really want to be able to do what I want with ffdshow and SD DVDs. I do two optical drives just out of convenience since there isn't much more cost.

renethx, I just took a look at comparisons between the ATI 4670 and the ATI 4850 and it appears to me the 4850 wins out in all respects. If I don't find the cost to be a big deal between these two cards wouldn't the 4850 be a better choice of video card?

So how do I cool the cpu?

ALso, you say use the gpu's hdmi....say I have just formatted and have no drivers installed, and its the first bot without an os installed, will the hdmi on the gpu (say the hd 4670) still work, and display POST and bios etc?
I mean 'the cooler' = the cooler in your list. E7300 runs cool and the stock cooler is enough. Or use Scythe Ninja Mini without fan.

Yes. The initial display device is by default the device inserted in the PCI Express and you will see the POST screen in the display connected to it.

renethx, I just took a look at comparisons between the ATI 4670 and the ATI 4850 and it appears to me the 4850 wins out in all respects. If I don't find the cost to be a big deal between these two cards wouldn't the 4850 be a better choice of video card?
The only difference between 4670 and 4850 is

- memory bus width: 128-bit vs 256-bit
- the number of stream processors: 320 vs. 800

4670 is powerful enough for video playback and you will waste extra stream processors of 4850 (they are used for 3D rendering). 4850 also consumes 40W extra power at idle.

If I get a ATI 48xx series card (4670 or 4550, I want a cool card for some light gaming), does it make sense to go for an HTPC chipset or am I better off getting a cheap G33/P43 motherboard instead?
If you use a discrete card, you don't need an IGP. (A problem is that there is no G33/G43 chipset mb as good as, say, ASUS P5E-VM HDMI/P5Q-EM, and P43 is limited to ATX; G43 has a memory limitation [only 2 DIMMs]).

The only difference between 4670 and 4850 is

- memory bus width: 128-bit vs 256-bit
- the number of stream processors: 320 vs. 800

4670 is powerful enough for video playback and you will waste extra stream processors of 4850 (they are used for 3D rendering). 4850 also consumes 40W extra power at idle.

Thanks renethx. However, I guess I'm still a little confused. When you say "powerful enough for video playback" are you only referring to BD playback? My primary concern is around SD DVD playback with high-end post processing. Are you saying that between these two cards you won't notice a difference in either case?

Thanks renethx. However, I guess I'm still a little confused. When you say "powerful enough for video playback" are you only referring to BD playback? My primary concern is around SD DVD playback with high-end post processing. Are you saying that between these two cards you won't notice a difference in either case?
Video playback includes both HD and SD. My claim is mainly based on HQV and HD HQV scores.

If you use a discrete card, you don't need an IGP. (A problem is that there is no G33/G43 chipset mb as good as, say, ASUS P5Q-EM, and P43 is limited to ATX; G43 has a memory limitation [only 2 DIMMs]).

Thanks, this is the kind of answer I was looking for, i.e. the limitations of the old chipsets. My goal was to keep the cost approx the same, i.e. I was trying to save by getting a cheap motherboard. I will look at the P45 boards if I get a video card, or hopefully the Nvidia 9300 will be good enough.

The only difference between 4670 and 4850 is

- memory bus width: 128-bit vs 256-bit
- the number of stream processors: 320 vs. 800

4670 is powerful enough for video playback and you will waste extra stream processors of 4850 (they are used for 3D rendering). 4850 also consumes 40W extra power at idle.

There are other differences between these cards when it comes to HD audio output. I took this straight off of ATI's website. In my book the only way to go is 4850 for a HTPC unless you want to use a IGP like the 8200/8300 or G45. The below reason is why the "PowerColor PLAY! HD4850 512MB GDDR3" has HDMI and Display Port native (It was meant for HTPC). The 4800 series cards support the more important audio features over HDMI and Display Port. The DTS-HD and True-HD might not be supported at the moment by software but this is a DRM issue not a card issue for the 4800 series. I have spent the last week researching a HTPC build and I just came across this information tonight. I was almost dead set on using a 4600 series card until I found this information on ATI's website. A 4800 series card is overkill for HTPC, which is why IGP are so appealing right now because they offer the same HD audio potential without the noise or heat. However, a discrete graphics card is a better solution if you are going to build a HTPC in a larger case because upgrading a graphics card is much easier than swapping out a whole motherboard every year they come out with a new and improved IGP. Also, the power of this card will expand the potential of your HTPC. If your build includes a small form factor case then go with IGP for sure.

4600 Series ATI Cards
HDMI output support
Supports all display resolutions up to 1920x1080*2
Integrated HD audio controller with up to 2 channel 48 KHz stereo or multi-channel (7.1) AC3 enabling a plug-and-play cable-less audio solution*4

4800 Series ATI Cards
HDMI output support
All display resolutions up to 1920x1080*2
Integrated HD audio controller with support for stereo and multi-channel (up to 7.1) audio formats, including AC-3, AAC, DTS, DTS-HD & Dolby True-HD*4, enabling a plug-and-play audio solution over HDMI

Sometimes the manufacturer's product information pages contain mistakes. :) The fact (confirmed by me and many other users) is:

- Every HD 4350, 4550, 4600 Series, 4800 Series card integrates HD audio controller supporting up to 7.1 channel LPCM, AC3 and DTS bitstreams.

- The support for bistreaming Dolby TrueHD and DTS-HD Master Audio is unclear. Whether the card supports it or not, there is no software player that sends HD audio bitstreams to the card.

Ok, I need some help. I currently have the following setup:

P4 2.4 overclocked to 3.2
2.5GB ram
SAPPHIRE 100219L Radeon HD 2600XT 256MB 128-bit GDDR3 AGP 8X HDCP Ready Video Card
Lite-on DH-4O1S-11 Blu-Ray drive

Video playback is falwless but I currently cannot get hdmi audio to work on this 2600XT card. SPDIF works fine using the onboard Realtek AC97 audio. I believe it is because the sound card is not included with this model of card. When I try to install the ATI HDMI Audio driver, I recieve a message stating that there are no supported devices installed. If somebody could please confirm this I would greatly appreciate it.

If that is the case would replacing this card with the Asus AH3650 AGP card give me the ability to play my Blu-Ray titles using TrueHD and DTS-HD? My receiver is an Onkyo TX606. I don't want to waste my money upgrading the card if I cannot gain anything over using a SPDIF connection.

Thanks,
Brian

I currently have the following setup:

P4 2.4 overclocked to 3.2
2.5GB ram
SAPPHIRE 100219L Radeon HD 2600XT 256MB 128-bit GDDR3 AGP 8X HDCP Ready Video Card
Lite-on DH-4O1S-11 Blu-Ray drive

Video playback is falwless but I currently cannot get hdmi audio to work on this 2600XT card. SPDIF works fine using the onboard Realtek AC97 audio. I believe it is because the sound card is not included with this model of card. When I try to install the ATI HDMI Audio driver, I recieve a message stating that there are no supported devices installed. If somebody could please confirm this I would greatly appreciate it.

If that is the case would replacing this card with the Asus AH3650 AGP card give me the ability to play my Blu-Ray titles using TrueHD and DTS-HD? My receiver is an Onkyo TX606. I don't want to waste my money upgrading the card if I cannot gain anything over using a SPDIF connection.
Are you using a ATI-proprietary DVI-HDMI adapter? Do you use HDMI 1 of Onkyo TX606? (Otherwise you can't get audio.)

Currently there is no TrueHD and DTS-HD bitstream solution. These audio formats are decoded to multichannel LPCM by a software player and sent to the audio device. HD 3600/3800 series does not support multichannel LPCM audio over HDMI. Only HD 4350/4550/4600 Series/4800 Series support it.

Sometimes the manufacturer's product information pages contain mistakes. :) The fact (confirmed by me and many other users) is:

- Every HD 4350, 4550, 4600 Series, 4800 Series card integrates HD audio controller supporting up to 7.1 channel LPCM, AC3 and DTS bitstreams.

- The support for bistreaming Dolby TrueHD and DTS-HD Master Audio is unclear. Whether the card supports it or not, there is no software player that sends HD audio bitstreams to the card.

Has anyone tried emailing or calling AMD technical support for graphics to find out why the 4800 series has additional specifications for HD audio??? I found a pre-sales customer support number, but I cannot find a pre-sales email address. If you have one please post it. I would like to ask them this question. If these specifications are in error they need to be fixed.

Yes, I am using the ATI adapter. Yes, I am plugged into Port1 (DVD) on the Onkyo TX606.
Sorry for my ignorance, but will the receiver be able to play the TrueHD and DTS-HD tracks or will they be "converted" to DD?
All I'm really looking for is the ability to play TrueHD and DTS-HD on my Onkyo from my HTPC and have the pretty little light on my Onkyo show TrueHD or DTS-HD. I'm not really concerend if it a true lossless format, etc.

Thanks again,
Brian

Sorry for my ignorance, but will the receiver be able to play the TrueHD and DTS-HD tracks or will they be "converted" to DD?
No PC solution can send audio in the TrueHD/DTS-HD format to the receiver right now. The current best digital audio solution is

- TrueHD/DTS-HD MA -> multichannel LPCM -> HDMI -> receiver

You will need HD 4xxx card or G45/GeForce 8200/8300 mb for this solution. The second best digital audio solution is

- TrueHD/(DTS-HD MA) -> multichannel LPCM -> DD or DTS -> HDMI or S/PDIF -> receiver

The third solution is

- TrueHD/DTS-HD MA -> multichannel LPCM -> stereo LPCM over HDMI or S/PDIF -> receiver

The upcoming (Q4 08) ASUS Xonar HDAV1.3 and Auzentech X-Fi HomeTheater 7.1 sound cards are expected to be able to send TrueHD/DTS-HD MA bitstreams to the receiver.

First, big thanks to renethx for the updated recommendations, very helpful for a newb like me (and obviously huge amount of work)


I'm a PS3 owner looking to put a new HTPC system together, how could/would i alter the recommendations to fit the following:

- smooth playback of 1080p MKV. files (highest priority)
- quality audio output
- DVR capability
- start with significant amount of storage for HD movies/music/photos ... (1 Tb?) and be expandable without having to add separate storage device
- general home use (web browsing, word/excel etc.)
- a stylish look is better but not extremely important

* ideally there would be 2 display output? (ability for one user to watch a file on my plasma while another user is web browsing/word processing) -- this would be very cool but it depends on cost; i could set-up my current older system for non-HT uses


I'll use the PS3 to play actual BDs and gaming (i orginally wanted the system to double as a gaming rig but i can't justify the cost -- i'm not a huge gamer anyway, i just like the option:))

I'm a PS3 owner looking to put a new HTPC system together, how could/would i alter the recommendations to fit the following:

- smooth playback of 1080p MKV. files (highest priority)
- quality audio output
- DVR capability
- start with significant amount of storage for HD movies/music/photos ... (1 Tb?) and be expandable without having to add separate storage device
- general home use (web browsing, word/excel etc.)
- a stylish look is better but not extremely important

* ideally there would be 2 display output? (ability for one user to watch a file on my plasma while another user is web browsing/word processing) -- this would be very cool but it depends on cost; i could set-up my current older system for non-HT uses
Please look at the low-end/mid-range ATX system recommendations. These systems should meet your requirements, possibly except for storage space. These HTPC cases support 4-6 HDDs (6TB-9TB if you use 1.5TB HDDs). If you need more storage space without adding external storage, choose a tower case. Two display outs is normal in the current graphics cards.

No PC solution can send audio in the TrueHD/DTS-HD format to the receiver right now. The current best digital audio solution is

- TrueHD/DTS-HD MA -> multichannel LPCM -> HDMI -> receiver

You will need HD 4xxx card or G45/GeForce 8200/8300 mb for this solution. The second best digital audio solution is

- TrueHD/(DTS-HD MA) -> multichannel LPCM -> DD or DTS -> HDMI or S/PDIF -> receiver

The third solution is

- TrueHD/DTS-HD MA -> multichannel LPCM -> stereo LPCM over HDMI or S/PDIF -> receiver

The upcoming (Q4 08) ASUS Xonar HDAV1.3 and Auzentech X-Fi HomeTheater 7.1 sound cards are expected to be able to send TrueHD/DTS-HD MA bitstreams to the receiver.

This is where it gets confusing for readers. Just because you can "send LPCM via HDMI" doesn't mean that you will get the TrueHD/DTS-HD sound from ANY of these solutions. Rather, they are simply alternate ways to get LPCM audio INTO your receiver so what you REALLY have is:
1. If you want audio via HDMI
2. If you don't care about HDMI and have either Coax or Optical you can use S/PDIF
3. If you don't have HDMI nor digital inputs on your receiver then your ONLY choice is to go straight analog (i.e. stereo)

In brief...Don't even BOTHER trying to get TrueHD via an HTPC at this point in time. Let the other "bleeding edge" users work out the bugs in the 4xxx series ATI cards and/or the G45 bugs (for Intel users) before you even bother going down that road. Simply sit back and watch the threads with those titles and maybe (in 3 or 6 months) there will be an audio solution

Yes, I am using the ATI adapter. Yes, I am plugged into Port1 (DVD) on the Onkyo TX606.
Sorry for my ignorance, but will the receiver be able to play the TrueHD and DTS-HD tracks or will they be "converted" to DD?
All I'm really looking for is the ability to play TrueHD and DTS-HD on my Onkyo from my HTPC and have the pretty little light on my Onkyo show TrueHD or DTS-HD. I'm not really concerend if it a true lossless format, etc.

Thanks again,
Brian

As you can see, this won't happen with the cards currently on the market today. Even the "much touted" 4xxx series can't do this (even though they say they "should" be able to do this).

And to expand upon your other post. You are correct that the 2600 series does not support audio. However, as you now see, no other series will give you the True-HD formats (today). I have a 3650 and I use S/PDIF (like most others do).

Getting up on a soap box...
The PRIMARY reason I do this (and probably always will) is two-fold.

1. I have a 7.1 receiver that has a serial interface on it. This is ESSENTIAL to me because my HTPC controls the receiver via that serial interface and THAT is the primary function of my HTPC. This Yamaha receiver was a $1,000 receiver when it was new (3 years ago) and it still delivers everything BUT the newer TrueHD and DTS-formats. However, it DOES have the higher audio bit-rate capacities that conform to these two newer terms (96/24 ES NEO6) so essentially, I think I can also get those on this system once but will never see any additional lights indicating anything beyond DTS).

2.This receiver doesn't have HDMI anywhere on it. I (like MOST others) obviously don't route our video through the receiver but rather have direction connections between the source (HTPC, DVD Player, etc) directly to our displays. The same software that controls the receiver also controls the output to which device via which interface (all from a touch screen VERY similarly to a high-end AMX or Crestron system).

Thanks everybody for the explanations. I'll have to make do with what I have for now. I'll just upgrade my system when the time is right. I was trying to get the "most bang for the buck" from my P4 system. My 2600xt card did not come with the adapter (now I know why) so I ordered the adapter directly from ATI. I was under the impression that all of the 2600xt cards had audio on the card, but I guess not.
I've read some articles that say they are listening to TrueHD over analog connections from the HTPC? What exactly does this mean? Is it as simple as installing a el-cheapo analog pci sound card?
I'm just looking into all options. :)

Thanks,
Brian

Thanks everybody for the explanations. I'll have to make do with what I have for now. I'll just upgrade my system when the time is right. I was trying to get the "most bang for the buck" from my P4 system.
I've read some articles that say they are listening to TrueHD over analog connections from the HTPC? What exactly does this mean? Is it as simple as installing a el-cheapo analog pci sound card?
I'm just looking into all options. :)

Thanks,
Brian

That's option #3 (from above) and it does not provide TrueHD. Rather, it downgrades the audio just like all the others.

Still downconverted over analog, or they're using MadFLAC on ripped content. If you can get it working over analog, you can get it working over HDMI-- in both cases, you're sending LPCM. The only difference is where the D-to-A conversion is done: in a sound card, or in your receiver.

Ok, cool. You guys rock.

Thanks,
Brian

* ideally there would be 2 display output? (ability for one user to watch a file on my plasma while another user is web browsing/word processing) -- this would be very cool but it depends on cost; i could set-up my current older system for non-HT uses

As renethx said, it is possible to do this, but if you are using Media Center there is a problem where when MC is maximised on your plasma, your mouse is frozen. There are a couple of workarounds for this, that may or may not work for you. My suggestion is that if you have another PC just sitting there, it will be much less hassle to use it for the surfing and word processing. Have it set up and working that way and then if you want to get adventurous, give it a try, knowing that you can easily revert to the setup that was working.

Renethx,

I would like to build a media server using my existing parts:
Motherboard:Intel DG965WH w/ Onboard Video
CPU:E4300
Memory:CORSAIR XMS2 DDR2-800 2x1GB
PSU:Corsair 520W
HDD: 6 Various 500gb-1.5TB
OS: Windows XP
Case:Antec 9 Hundred

The New parts:
Case:Norco 4020
SATA Controller:Supermicro AOC-SAT2-MV8

Will this setup work? Do I need any accessories for this case, like longer Sata/power cables? How many hard drives could the 520W PSU support?

Thanks,
qt

Renethx: What's the main differences for purely HTPC use if I buy a 780G board vs adding a Radeon 4x50 card to my Asus M2N-E? More specially, I am trying to keep my HTPC low-powered, which one is lower powered? And is the performance and quality difference noticeably significant on my HDTV? Thanks!

I would like to build a media server using my existing parts:
Motherboard:Intel DG965WH w/ Onboard Video
CPU:E4300
Memory:CORSAIR XMS2 DDR2-800 2x1GB
PSU:Corsair 520W
HDD: 6 Various 500gb-1.5TB
OS: Windows XP
Case:Antec 9 Hundred

The New parts:
Case:Norco 4020
SATA Controller:Supermicro AOC-SAT2-MV8

Will this setup work? Do I need any accessories for this case, like longer Sata/power cables? How many hard drives could the 520W PSU support?
Yes, it will work fine. As your PSU has only 4 SATA connectors, you will need SATA power adapters (http://www.google.com/products?q=SATA+power+adapter).

Each HDD consumes ~30W at startup. The other components consume ~100W in total. So you can use up to:

(520-100)/30=14 HDDs

Renethx: What's the main differences for purely HTPC use if I buy a 780G board vs adding a Radeon 4x50 card to my Asus M2N-E? More specially, I am trying to keep my HTPC low-powered, which one is lower powered? And is the performance and quality difference noticeably significant on my HDTV? Thanks!
- HD 4xxx supports 7.1 LPCM over HDMI, while 780G stereo LPCM.
- HD 4350 and 780G+Athlon are weak in post-processing.
- HD 4550 and higher, and 780G+Phenom are good in post-processing.
- M2N-E+Athlon+graphics card consumes roughly 10W-20W more power than 780G+Athlon+onboard video at idle and video playback.
- M2N-E+Athlon+graphics card consumes roughly the same power as 780G+Phenom+onboard video at idle and video playback.

My recommendation is add HD 4670 (http://www.newegg.com/Product/Product.aspx?Item=N82E16814161252) to M2N-E. This is the quickest way to get the best video/audio available today with reasonably low power consumption.

- HD 4xxx supports 7.1 LPCM over HDMI, while 780G stereo LPCM.
- HD 4350 and 780G+Athlon are weak in post-processing.
- HD 4550 and higher, and 780G+Phenom are good in post-processing.
- M2N-E+Athlon+graphics card consumes roughly 10W-20W more power than 780G+Athlon+onboard video at idle and video playback.
- M2N-E+Athlon+graphics card consumes roughly the same power as 780G+Phenom+onboard video at idle and video playback.

My recommendation is add HD 4670 (http://www.newegg.com/Product/Product.aspx?Item=N82E16814161252) to M2N-E. This is the quickest way to get the best video/audio available today with reasonably low power consumption.


Thanks, Renethx.

I am curious though, why did you not suggest the cheaper Radeon 4350?
I also noticed that none of the current 4670 are fanless?

Thanks, Renethx.

I am curious though, why did you not suggest the cheaper Radeon 4350?
I also noticed that none of the current 4670 are fanless?
HD 4350 is a perfect solution for BD+7.1 audio and recommended for this purpose.

First post as 'm reading my way through this thread and other very interesting threads. great community you have here.

I am about to build my first HTPC (not my first DIY pc) after a year experience with the Popcorn Hour A100. Main purpose of the HTPC is playing my lossless music collection (about 2000 CD's) and watching 720p and 1080p MKV content (and some SD content). I've added a BR Disk player to the setup to replace my standalone DVD player and to be able to watch BD's. This last one is not one of the main purposes (yet), just added value.

I hope you can give a little feedback on the setup before all parts are ordered.

Case: OrigenAE S10V Black
MoBo: Gigabyte GA-MA78GM-S2H
CPU: AMD Phenom X3 8750
CPU Cooler: Scythe Shuriken
PSU: Be Quiet Dark Power Pro 450W
DDR: 2x Kingston ValueRAM 1GB DDR2-1066 CAS7
HDD: 2x WD Caviar RE2-GP 1TB
ODD: Sony NEC Optiarc BC-5600S
TV: Digital Everywhere FloppyDTV DVB-C with Alphacrypt Multicrypt CI Module
OS: Vista Home Premium SP1 MCE

Connected through HDMI to:
Marantz SR6001 Black A\V and
Mordaunt Short Genie 5.1 speakers

AV Receiver connected through HDMI to my Panasonic PV70F

For those who'd like to know why I'm leaving the Popcorn Hour? It is just not it. Stereo playback of my lossless music collection is just dramatic. Sound is bad and browsing through your collection is a slow pain in the a**. Just had to many issues with playback of HD files (also due to bad coding). I just wanted something that does a bit more for me. And I like the process of DIY :D

Thanks in advance, I'm back to reading ;)

I am about to build my first HTPC (not my first DIY pc) after a year experience with the Popcorn Hour A100. Main purpose of the HTPC is playing my lossless music collection (about 2000 CD's) and watching 720p and 1080p MKV content (and some SD content). I've added a BR Disk player to the setup to replace my standalone DVD player and to be able to watch BD's. This last one is not one of the main purposes (yet), just added value.

I hope you can give a little feedback on the setup before all parts are ordered.

Case: OrigenAE S10V Black
MoBo: Gigabyte GA-MA78GM-S2H
CPU: AMD Phenom X3 8750
CPU Cooler: Scythe Shuriken
PSU: Be Quiet Dark Power Pro 450W
DDR: 2x Kingston ValueRAM 1GB DDR2-1066 CAS7
HDD: 2x WD Caviar RE2-GP 1TB
ODD: Sony NEC Optiarc BC-5600S
TV: Digital Everywhere FloppyDTV DVB-C with Alphacrypt Multicrypt CI Module
OS: Vista Home Premium SP1 MCE

Connected through HDMI to:
Marantz SR6001 Black A\V and
Mordaunt Short Genie 5.1 speakers

- The HDMI audio of the 780G chipset is limited to stereo LPCM (and DD/DTS bitstream) and does not support bit-perfect (48kHz only). If these matter for you, add a Radeon HD 4550 card.

- DDR2-1066 is overkill. DDR2-800 is enough.

Is there any one who uses the suggested graphics card on page 85, the Radeon HD 4850 who also uses the projector Panasonic PT AE-2000E?

I cant get my PJ to accept the DVI-HDMI output of my HTPC wich I built after the suggestions in this thread.

(Have tried different resolutions and timings that the PJ should accept, but still get nothig! Have also checked that both cable and PJ works with other sources.)

Any help is welcome!:o

I couldn't understand why Renethix recommended the Radeon 4670 on an Intel/Intel midrange system until I found this today: ATI vs. NVIDIA Once Again: 4670 vs 9500 GT & 9600 GSO (http://www.anandtech.com/video/showdoc.aspx?i=3405&p=7). The 4670 simply blows away the 9500GT in performance and is very low power.

Unfortunately I already ordered the 9500GT on Monday - my outdated slug of a PC died on Friday and I spent the weekend crash course researching, reading every post from the recent recommendations (p. 43?) to present. I thought it strange to recommend an (AMD) ATI card with Intel/Intel and preferred nVidia because of the lack of Linux driver support with ATI. I couldn't find any comparisons of the 4670 on Tom's hardware and figured it might have been an outdated card, however, found out it's the opposite - a card just released last month. I figured the 9500GT was a fairly close equivalent of the 4670 and while LPCM, important because it's a lossless compression, I hadn't heard of until this thread, and don't think it's used on regular DVDs (DD5.1) or HDTV (DD5.1). My needs were a general purpose and software development computer that could also function as a front end for viewing HDTV on a 2nd monitor (most likely to catch the weather and news). The HDTV content would either be streamed from my HDHomerun or from my Myth HTPC (mainly for HDTV timeshifting). I doubt there will be extended viewing on this PC in my bedroom office - I'll go sit down in the living room to watch an entire show, football game, or the occasional DVD from my HTPC. The other consideration was to be able to listen to and burn audio CDs. Hopefully I'm not going to miss out on anything by going with the 9500GT rather than the 4670. Hell, the 9500GT is already way superior to the G35 integrated video in my HTPC. My only other concern was configuring a relatively silent and cool and lower power consuming PC and looked at the silent 8600GT Silent which might have worked in my Antec P182 with 3 120cm fans?

First post as 'm reading my way through this thread and other very interesting threads. great community you have here.

I am about to build my first HTPC (not my first DIY pc) after a year experience with the Popcorn Hour A100. Main purpose of the HTPC is playing my lossless music collection (about 2000 CD's) and watching 720p and 1080p MKV content (and some SD content). I've added a BR Disk player to the setup to replace my standalone DVD player and to be able to watch BD's. This last one is not one of the main purposes (yet), just added value.

I hope you can give a little feedback on the setup before all parts are ordered.

Case: OrigenAE S10V Black
MoBo: Gigabyte GA-MA78GM-S2H
CPU: AMD Phenom X3 8750
CPU Cooler: Scythe Shuriken
PSU: Be Quiet Dark Power Pro 450W
DDR: 2x Kingston ValueRAM 1GB DDR2-1066 CAS7
HDD: 2x WD Caviar RE2-GP 1TB
ODD: Sony NEC Optiarc BC-5600S
TV: Digital Everywhere FloppyDTV DVB-C with Alphacrypt Multicrypt CI Module
OS: Vista Home Premium SP1 MCE

Connected through HDMI to:
Marantz SR6001 Black A\V and
Mordaunt Short Genie 5.1 speakers

AV Receiver connected through HDMI to my Panasonic PV70F

For those who'd like to know why I'm leaving the Popcorn Hour? It is just not it. Stereo playback of my lossless music collection is just dramatic. Sound is bad and browsing through your collection is a slow pain in the a**. Just had to many issues with playback of HD files (also due to bad coding). I just wanted something that does a bit more for me. And I like the process of DIY :D

Thanks in advance, I'm back to reading ;)

roma, where are you sourcing the ODD Optiarc BC-5600S? I have the S10V (I love it by the way) and I think in a couple of months I might be in the market for a BD slot loader, curious where you found this... looks like a nice setup by the way, enjoy!

Hi guys,

I've just built a nice htpc with the GA-MA78GM-S2H for a friend.

Problem is, the tv it will connect to only has S-Video and RCA inputs.

Yeah, I f@cked up :p

What can I do now?

I guess my choices are:

-Buy an adapter (VGA to S-Video)
-Buy a video card with a S-Video outpout (which one?)
-Buy another motherboard

Please advise (an online retailer would be great too)

And thanks a lot!

I've just built a nice htpc with the GA-MA78GM-S2H for a friend.

Problem is, the tv it will connect to only has S-Video and RCA inputs.

Yeah, I f@cked up :p

What can I do now?

I guess my choices are:

-Buy an adapter (VGA to S-Video)
-Buy a video card with a S-Video outpout (which one?)
-Buy another motherboard
The cheapest and best way is buy a video card. Sapphire HD 4550 (http://www.newegg.com/Product/Product.aspx?Item=N82E16814102799) (a S-video cable is not included). Or HD 3450 (http://www.newegg.com/Product/ProductList.aspx?Submit=Property&Subcategory=48&Description=&Type=&N=2010380048&srchInDesc=&MinPrice=&MaxPrice=&OEMMark=0&PropertyCodeValue=679%3A36593) (a lot cheaper; no 7.1 LPCM, low post-processing performance)

Thank you so much for all you've done!

Is there any reason not to just wait a little while longer for more HD 4550 models (like fanless, HDMI output ones) to come out? I just pulled the ripcord on an order for of a 780G + 4850e system and plan to add one once something better (and hopefully cheaper) than the Sapphire HD 4550 comes out. Just a few more weeks, right ... or is there something I should know?

Is there any reason not to just wait a little while longer for more HD 4550 models (like fanless, HDMI output ones) to come out? I just pulled the ripcord on an order for of a 780G + 4850e system and plan to add one once something better (and hopefully cheaper) than the Sapphire HD 4550 comes out. Just a few more weeks, right ... or is there something I should know?
A fanless HD 4550 card may be eventually released, but I don't know when.

roma, where are you sourcing the ODD Optiarc BC-5600S? I have the S10V (I love it by the way) and I think in a couple of months I might be in the market for a BD slot loader, curious where you found this... looks like a nice setup by the way, enjoy!

renethx, thanks for your reply. I could get the 1066 memory for a good price. Maybe it is overkill, but I guess it couldn't hurt. It is on the MoBo's rev. 1.1 supported memory list.

excise I found the BD player in Germany. At Alternate.de. It isn't cheap, around $ 380,00 including posting and package within Europe. I believe it's the version for Dell OEM and Packard Bell OEM.

Good to hear you like the S10V. I'm still waiting for some final parts so have to be a bit patient before I can enjoy it.

Just built my computer a couple of days ago! Thanks for the guide renethx!

At first the fans were extremely noisy. I determined that the BTF90 was the major factor and set it to "Silent" in the BIOS. Its much quieter now and the CPU temp has not climbed past 90 degrees Fahrenheit since.

The computer is still louder than I would like, however, and I think the cause is the fan on my ASUS HD4670 graphics card. Is there a way for me to adjust its fan settings?


Here's my full setup:

Motherboard: ASUS P5Q Pro LGA 775 Intel P45 ATX Intel Motherboard
Processor: Intel Core 2 Duo E8400 Wolfdale 3.0GHz LGA 775 65W Dual-Core Processor
CPU Cooler: ZEROtherm BTF90 92mm Silent UFO CPU Cooler
Video Card: ASUS EAH4670/DI/512M/A Radeon HD 4670 512MB 128-bit GDDR3 PCI Express 2.0 x16 HDCP Ready CrossFire Supported Video Card
Hard Drive: Western Digital Caviar SE16 WD6400AAKS 640GB 7200 RPM SATA 3.0Gb/s
DVD Drive: LG 20X DVD±R DVD Burner
Power Supply: CORSAIR CMPSU-520HX 520W
Memory: CORSAIR XMS2 2GB (2 x 1GB) 240-Pin DDR2 800
Operating System: Microsoft Windows Vista Home Premium SP1 32-bit
Case: Zalman HD160 Plus

Thanks

The computer is still louder than I would like, however, and I think the cause is the fan on my ASUS HD4670 graphics card. Is there a way for me to adjust its fan settings?
Catalyst 8.10 (2008/10) drivers will add manual fan control (http://www.google.com/search?q=catalyst+%228.10%22+manual+fan+control). Another fix is replace the cooler with a third-party cooler (e.g. Zalman; check this thread (http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?t=1059559)). Or replace the card with H467QT512P or H467QS512P.

Catalyst 8.10 (2008/10) drivers will add manual fan control (http://www.google.com/search?q=catalyst+%228.10%22+manual+fan+control). Another fix is replace the cooler with a third-party cooler (e.g. Zalman; check this thread (http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?t=1059559)). Or replace the card with H467QT512P or H467QS512P.

I just simply take the stock fan and use the heatsink.Then I add a silent 80mm case fan to cool the heatsink. It works well.

Hi, I'm about to buy this wireless keyboard as suggested from the guide:

Adesso 2.4 GHz RF Wireless Mini Keyboard w/Optical Trackball WKB3000UB, $70

I was just wondering if I can wake my computer up from suspend mode with it. I searched google but couldn't find much. Thanks for any help.

Here's what my htpc's like:
case - Antec minuet 350
mobo - DG45ID
cpu - e7200
memory - Kingston 4gig
os - Vista ultimate sp1 x64
software - XBMC

I was just wondering if I can wake my computer up from suspend mode with it. I searched google but couldn't find much.
You can wake the system from the S3 state by any USB device.

Geez, I've read and read, but can't seem to wrap my mind around all the issues (especially wrt HD audio)...

I'm looking to build an inexpensive HD HTPC for the (almost sole) purpose of watching Blu-Ray movies (and up-converted DVDs). I'd like to rip the few BDs I own to my media server (I'll be ripping more DVDs, too) so I can watch them all on demand, but I don't mind if ripping BDs takes a while.

So, here's what I already have...
Antec 430 case
Win XP (Vista fanboys - please don't bother.)
J. River Media Center (strongly preferred over XP or Vista MCE)
PowerDVD Ultra 8
2 x 300GB PATA drives
And here are the things I've decided on for sure...
LG GGC-H20L BR drive
Intel E5200 CPU

The motherboard and video card is where it breaks down, though...
Since Intel has opted to cripple their motherboards (inability to play Blu-Ray) under XP, a G45 board is out. So the Abit I-N73HD is looking pretty good, I guess.

The questions I have are...

Will *anything* get me TrueHD/DTS-HD? I won't need it right away, but I do want the option later. I don't care if it's over HDMI, though - running the extra S/PDIF cable is not a big deal to me.
Is the HD 4670 the best video card for me? Or will the HD 4350 do?
Are there any issues with the GeForce 7100 chipset?
Are there any known (XP) driver issues that would (be the only thing to) sway me toward Vista?

Many thanks for your time and consideration.

The questions I have are...

Will *anything* get me TrueHD/DTS-HD? I won't need it right away, but I do want the option later. I don't care if it's over HDMI, though - running the extra S/PDIF cable is not a big deal to me.
Is the HD 4670 the best video card for me? Or will the HD 4350 do?
Are there any issues with the GeForce 7100 chipset?
Are there any known (XP) driver issues that would (be the only thing to) sway me toward Vista?

Many thanks for your time and consideration.
There is no solution for TrueHD/DTS-HD bitstream yet (at least in US). 7.1 LPCM is the best solution right now. The upcoming (Q4 2008?) ASUS Xonar HDAV1.3 and Auzentech X-Fi HomeTheater 7.1 are expected to support it.

HD 4350 supports 7.1 LPCM, but is slightly weak in post-processing. HD 4550 is very good in this respect. Or wait for GeForce 9300/9400 chipset motherboards (released on October 15). AMD's graphics HD 4550 or higher is supposed to support "Enhanced DVD upscale" but it seems that the driver is not ready yet.

GeForce 7100 or Intel G31/G33/G43 chipset with HD 4350/4550, or the upcoming GeForce 9300/9400 chipset with integrated graphics is a good choice for BD+7.1 LPCM.

Unlike Intel, AMD and NVIDIA graphics work fine under XP (AFAIK).

There is no solution for TrueHD/DTS-HD bitstream yet (at least in US). 7.1 LPCM is the best solution right now. The upcoming (Q4 2008?) ASUS Xonar HDAV1.3 and Auzentech X-Fi HomeTheater 7.1 are expected to support it.

HD 4350 supports 7.1 LPCM, but is slightly weak in post-processing. HD 4550 is very good in this respect. Or wait for GeForce 9300/9400 chipset motherboards (released on October 15). AMD's graphics HD 4550 or higher is supposed to support "Enhanced DVD upscale" but it seems that the driver is not ready yet.

GeForce 7100 or Intel G31/G33/G43 chipset with HD 4350/4550, or the upcoming GeForce 9300/9400 chipset with integrated graphics is a good choice for BD+7.1 LPCM.

Unlike Intel, AMD and NVIDIA graphics work fine under XP (AFAIK).Thanks, renethx. (You know, some day, I fully expect the Pope to make you the Patron Saint of HTPC Builders!)

I don't understand what "LPCM" means... Why is it inferior to "bitstream"? (Or is it just another way of saying (compressed) DD/DTS?)

Also, (not sure how closely you follow this stuff, but) any idea whether those 9x00 mobos will support PATA? (If they're going to drop it and only support SATA, there'd be no point in me waiting.)

I don't understand what "LPCM" means... Why is it inferior to "bitstream"? (Or is it just another way of saying (compressed) DD/DTS?)

Also, (not sure how closely you follow this stuff, but) any idea whether those 9x00 mobos will support PATA? (If they're going to drop it and only support SATA, there'd be no point in me waiting.)
LPCM is a raw, uncompressed audio format. Today's PC lacks the support for TrueHD/DTS-HD MA bitstream because of the lack of PAP and a proper Windows API. So the software player decodes them into LPCM and send it over HDMI. Compressed TrueHD/DTS-HD MA and uncompressed LPCM decoded from them are essentially identical. However LPCM is further downsampled to 16bit/48kHz by the software player (please read this post (http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?p=13872683#post13872683) to see why). But then it would be hard for most people to tell the difference between 24bit/48kHz and 16bit/48kHz.

GeForce 9300/9400 mbs support PATA drives natively.

I just finished assembling my new PC. Last thing I put in was the video card. It's an Asus 9500GT and came with an S/PDIF cable. If I was to use this as an HTPC and connect digital coax cable from the MB S/PDIF coax output to my DD 5.1 audio receiver and connect video to my HDTV monitor's DVI input (no HDMI - it's 5 years old), then do I not want to hook up the video card's S/PDIF cable? Will hooking up the video card S/PDIF cable bypass the coax S/PDIF output on the motherboard?

If I was to use this as an HTPC and connect digital coax cable from the MB S/PDIF coax output to my DD 5.1 audio receiver and connect video to my HDTV monitor's DVI input (no HDMI - it's 5 years old), then do I not want to hook up the video card's S/PDIF cable? Will hooking up the video card S/PDIF cable bypass the coax S/PDIF output on the motherboard?
No, you don't have to connect the motherboard internal S/PDIF connector to the card' S/PDIF connector by the supplied cable. Doing so means the singnal from the video card carries both video and audio (from the mb's audio codec), but that's useless unless you connect the video card to a receiver supporting HDMI.

Ya' know, I'm really surprised by Antec with there Fusion Remote Max case. They only have one 5.25 " external bay which I can understand since so many don't have the need for two (albeit I do) but no 3.5" bay for a card reader or a floppy? That seems so obvious to me. At that price I would think they would include the power supply as well. I mean the great Sonata case sells for $79 and it is a great case and it includes he power supply.

Oh well, Silverstone is probably going to get my business this time with the LC20M Lascala.

Seems like they are going away from 3.5" external slots. My NSK2480 only has 2 5.25" slots, and my P182 has 4 5.25" slots, but only 1 3.5" slot. I guess they figure the floppy is dead (USB drives) and most people only use DVD/CD drives. I have a 3.5" Zip drive that I pulled out of an old PC to put in my P182 along with my floppy drive. Luckily, it had a 5.25" bracket to fit in the larger slot. I'm not impressed with the P182 drive rail system - my DVD drive and floppy drive both aren't flush with the bezel and protrude out no matter how I adjust the rails.

I'm not impressed with the P182 drive rail system - my DVD drive and floppy drive both aren't flush with the bezel and protrude out no matter how I adjust the rails.
Haven't had such problems with my P182 and Sony NEC Optiarc AD-7190A.

So the software player decodes them into LPCM and send it over HDMI. Compressed TrueHD/DTS-HD MA and uncompressed LPCM decoded from them are essentially identical. However LPCM is further downsampled to 16bit/48kHz by the software playerSo, when my receiver sees this LPCM stream, will it recognize it as TrueHD or DTS-HD and handle it properly? (I realize you don't know what receiver I have or will have, but in general...)

Ya' know, I'm really surprised by Antec with there Fusion Remote Max case. They only have one 5.25 " external bay which I can understand since so many don't have the need for two (albeit I do) but no 3.5" bay for a card reader or a floppy? That seems so obvious to me. At that price I would think they would include the power supply as well. I mean the great Sonata case sells for $79 and it is a great case and it includes he power supply.

Oh well, Silverstone is probably going to get my business this time with the LC20M Lascala.

There's an entire separate thread on HTPC cases I have been recently responding to. I also need 2 5.25" drives and Ahanix D.vine D4 is a fairly nice black case WITH two drive, VFD (don't think it has a remote) for $129 + $20 for shipping. It also doesn't come with the PS but that's $50 cheaper than the LC20M and it looks like similar quality. Two downsides though, the VFD is a parallel interface (while others are all now USB) and the dual fans that come with it are only 60mm (whereas the LC20M is 120mms). I have found the LC20M for as low as $179+shipping. I almost made the mistake of ordering the $139 LC20B form Newegg but then realized that model (no M) doesn't come with the VFD, IR nor the Remote. I wan the VFD and IR but the remote might be a paperweight in my design since all controls are handled via IP (rather than IR)