Advice for Hi-End HTPC Gaming build

holyindian

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Hi all,

I am aware HTPC and Hi-End do not go hand in hand, but this is a PC that will be used for Gaming as well, like 60% media, and 40% gaming. Will be hooked on to a 85" 4K TV.
So I have already brought a GTX 1080 TI Founders Edition GPU.. now need to settle down with a CPU. Should I go with an AMD build or Intel?
I was thinking either a Ryzen 1700 or a Kaby Lake i7 7700k build.
Pls guide.. I'd also like to have a 8 slot for memory on the motherboard as well.

I am already set on Memory modules and a CPU cooler.. need help with the CPU and the motherboard.
 
Solution
Nice case, Yea I would probably go with the 7700K, Noctua NH-D14, Z270 MATX motherboard, etc... A single 1080 ti will handle most games on high-ish settings @4K/60 FPS.

There is also Coffeelake which is coming out in about a week.

holyindian

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At present only 32GB. But I did read someone its always nice to get a mobo with 8 slots, as it just gives you an option to add more memory if you need for future VR based games.
I think most 8 slot memory motherboards cost the same as 4 slots? Or maybe a bit more? Do i loose something if i go with a 8 slot board?
 
Well mixing RAM chips can lead to instability problems, so getting RAM now, and then RAM later, could add problems. Also, getting 8 slots running well usually needs high quality RAM as it is more stress on the CPU controller, etc. Also more consumer level chips only do a max 64GB anyways. Get 2x16 for now if you want 32, and if you ever feel the need for 64GB before you CPU is outdated anyways, even with 4 slots, you'd be better off doing 4x16 vs 8x8.
 

holyindian

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getochkn, i like your suggestion. Thanks.
So in your opinion what CPU and mobo should i go with. I'll take your suggestions as the final commandment in my htpc build.
And do u think that a tighter timings for a memory makes sense.. or doesnt matter.. whats ur preferred speed? I am told 3000mhz is best bang for the buck?

Note: I read amd ryzen's software/firmware is kinda buggy atm?
 

WildCard999

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What case are you going with? When thinking HTPC I thought of something such as the Node 202 and a ITX motherboard which would only support 32gb of RAM. Well if your going with a bigger system such as MATX then yes a 2x16gb setup with 2 slots to spar would be best.
 

holyindian

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WildCard999 I am using a Silverstone CW02 HTPC case.
Here is my old build thread
http://www.avsforum.com/forum/26-home-theater-computers/1442960-build-pics-my-i7-2600k-htpc-build-silverstone-cw02-case.html

The new high end 4K HTPC build is my 2nd build in this case.
I've measured the GTK 1080 TI Founders Edition card, it should fit in my case.
I might use the same Cooling Tower that i have currently in my htpc , the Thermalright Silver Arrow. Also will use the same PSU from my previous build.
 
Quite possible the CPU cooler won't fit on todays new motherboards unless you can buy a new mounting kit from Thermalright or whatnot, different spacing, different back piece, either Kaby Lake or Ryzen usually need a new cooler or adaption kit at the least to work with.
 

holyindian

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Here is a pic of my media server/rac

U4Tj40K.jpg
 

holyindian

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How's the coffeelake compared to the kaby Lake? I can wait for about a month or two, if a good processor is going to be released.
I waited for Fury GPU, and was very displeased. hence went ahead and brought the GTX 1080 TI GPU.
 

holyindian

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I have the Denon 4311CI, but with this htpc build, i will be upgrading the AVR as well to the Denon AVR-X6300H, both have the same 140W of raw power built around Audyssey XT32 room correction. Waiting on a good deal. as of today the x6300h is for 1500 usd, on SD its posted for 1300 just today, hopefully around black friday we shud see it close to 1000 usd.
The 4311CI is not 4K.. hence need to upgrade.
 

holyindian

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You are right, its wise to wait until coffeelake hits the market.
Any insider word, on when this might be?

Oh i see now, its 8th oct. gosh.. i am on a hangover,, and the weekend is getting started.. lol