Need Feedback on HTPC Build

jonepner

Honorable
Aug 12, 2013
7
0
10,510
Here's my current parts lineup for an HTPC that will use an HDHomerun box and an XBox360 as an extender to my HD TV that only takes Component in.

My main Goals: Watching Live TV without cable, DVR recording and Playback, playing downloaded video files, watching Netflix, YouTube, etc. playing music located on other PC's in the home network. Maximum resolutions required are 720 / 1080i, the TV doesn't take 1080p.

http://pcpartpicker.com/p/24gVV

CPU: AMD A6-3500 2.1GHz Triple-Core Processor ($62.99 @ SuperBiiz)
Motherboard: Gigabyte GA-A55M-DS2 Micro ATX FM1 Motherboard ($58.98 @ SuperBiiz)
Memory: Crucial Ballistix 8GB (2 x 4GB) DDR3-1600 Memory ($69.99 @ Newegg)
Storage: Western Digital Caviar Green 1TB 3.5" 5400RPM Internal Hard Drive ($73.98 @ Newegg)
Case: nMEDIAPC HTPC 1000B HTPC Case ($79.58 @ Newegg)
Case Fan: SilenX EFX-09-15 42.0 CFM 92mm Fan ($10.99 @ Newegg)
Case Fan: SilenX IXP-34-08 10.0 CFM 60mm Fan ($11.99 @ Newegg)
Power Supply: Antec EarthWatts Green 380W 80+ Bronze Certified ATX Power Supply ($48.98 @ Newegg)
Operating System: Microsoft Windows 7 Home Premium SP1 (OEM) (64-bit) ($99.99 @ Newegg)
Total: $513.48


Also adding a Terk Antenna http://www.newegg.com/Product/Product.aspx?Item=9SIA0AJ13D2835

Any Ideas to help make this more efficient or to lower the cost?

Any suggestions for a WMC compatible remote?

Do I need Windows 7 PRO instead of home?

Should I consider an SSD for the boot drive?




 
Solution

diazalon

Honorable
May 12, 2013
764
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11,160


On pcpartpicker there is no price for a few things do you own these?
If not then for around $350 this would do better:
http://pcpartpicker.com/p/24hIq
1. The pentium produces less heat and is still very able to stream 1080p video
2. You can add a dedicated gpu later for gaming or something
3. Does not use a dead socket
4. You can use an HTPC software like XBMC and save money not getting windows.
Ask if you want anything changed!!

EDIT: Just saw the total cost on the post not on pcpartpicker so the budget is $500?
I can do a $500 one if you would like
 
Solution

jonepner

Honorable
Aug 12, 2013
7
0
10,510


Thanks!
I'd like to keep the budget as small as possible, using integrated graphics on CPU. I want to use WMC because I believe it works better for Tuner's like the HDHomerun, is that not so?
First time using PC Part picker, so I may have messed up something.