Potential HTPC Upgrade -- Is it worth it?

I've perused around the forum quite a bit over the years, but I've never really needed to post as most (read: all) of my questions were answered just through reading, and some simple extrapolating. However, I now find myself with a more unique, and not so black-white question.

Should I upgrade my HTPC or not?

Here's the scenario: Once upon a time, my gaming-machine died, and my original HTPC plans were turned into a gaming-htpc hybrid. I've recently purchased and assembled a brand new gaming machine, and was now considering making it my full-time HTPC again. The components are:


Due to the heat produced by both the CPU and the processor, I put in a Scythe Shuriken heatsink/fan. This had the adverse affect of leaving no room for a CD drive (or even the support arm across the top of the case).

Now, with this system starting to show it's age, should I upgrade instead of starting fresh with this setup?

I was contemplating replacing it with an i3-2120, a Z68 motherboard, and 8GB of Ram, leaving out a dedicated GPU. It's likely that I'd get a new SSD, and keep the old HDD for storage (I have loads of storage space on a NAS, though, so it's a moot point). I'd possibly have to buy a newer lower wattage PSU that's rated at 80Plus Bronze/Silver/Gold, but I'd have to take a look at mine, as I truthfully forget what it's rated at. I'm very happy with the case, and would be keeping it. Also, I'd use the stock cooler, and would regain the ability to re-use the 5 1/4" bay, if I so choose.

So what are some opinions from some of you more experienced HTPC users? Either way, I'll be starting with a fresh install, so I'd like to do it with the right equipment first. That's removed my desire to "try it now, and if the heat/noise/performance isn't there, then upgrade!", despite knowing that would likely be the best thing to do (I've read THAT enough times on the forums). I will not be doing any gaming (aside from some awesome NES/SNES gaming with the kids), and believe the i3's integrated graphics to be more than sufficient for any video playback I'd be doing. The SSD (which I could get in either case) would be a nice noise reduction and performance boost. Overall, the system would be cleaner inside, have more airflow, use less power, generate less heat, generate less noise, and performance should be slightly higher for HTPC purposes. Also, I'd get a BD drive to put in it.

What are your thoughts? Is this a good idea, or would I just be throwing money away? Lets here it, personal opinion and completely subjective views welcome!

Hey Captain_Video, thanks for the reply.

I realize from using the current setup is more than adequate to playback all video I have now. However, like I said, heat, power consumption, and possibly noise are things that would be nice to reduce. I know I won't save the cost of a new machine in power, but I'd imagine the newer build would be quicker, quieter, and generate less heat. Basically, I'm on the fence. Though I know I've come off as "Convince me to buy it!", I am more suggesting "I think it's a good idea, am I possibly overlooking anything? What will I lose? What will I gain? Would this be throwing money away?".

Regarding the SSD, I've got loads of space with my NAS. Due to having no optical drive, I've ripped all my content from DVD and stored it on the NAS. The benefit to this is I can play it on my PC, or on my PS3.

Also, I've read through the Assassin's guide (and done quite a bit more research myself, but honestly, thank you for mentioning it). It's a great guide that would have saved me a bunch of time if I'd found it a bit early. I'd likely opt for an i3-2120, and a SSD for the OS (Mushkin, based on everything I've read), but other than that, my findings were spot on with his, and he makes solid recommendations.

I had no idea about the i3-3225. That's exactly the type of information I'm looking for, thanks. I doubt I'd replace the GPU with anything other than the onboard if I were to build a new system, as I realistically have no need for one.

Regarding the SSD and performance, I've heard/seen the best reviews on the Mushkin Chronos drives are not only the fastest but (on paper) are some of the most reliable.

Thanks again!

I concur. The Mushkin Chronos reliability isn't that great, but the Chronos Deluxe is rated just under the Intel/Samsung drives (user reviews). Read/Write speeds are some of the highest on SSD's, too. The intel's would be a great choice though. Since I'll be waiting for the i3-3225 now, I'll have some time to mull it over.

I'm always willing to admit I'm wrong, and here, it looks like I'm wrong. I had no idea about the Intel 330 rebate. Also, I'll read that article before commenting further. Thanks for the information, Zon2020!