First HTPC

[mquicks]

This is my first build of any type of computer so I am looking for some advice. I would like to build an HTPC. Looking to build a copy of the NinX Ultimate HTPC for around $700.00.

http://www.ninx.com/nianhothpchu.html

I changed the mobo and dropped the graphics card because I will not use the HTPC for gaming. I am looking to use the HTPC to play back blu-rays, use Boxee to stream DVD ISO files from HP Media smart server and browse the internet with a wireless key board.

I would like to know if the components I have chosen will function together as a unit to display 1080p HD thru HMDI to a 52 Sony LCD TV. Will I be able to bitstream DTS HD and Dolby True HD to my receiver for decoding? Will this Setup when combined with Windows 7 media center allow for easy internet surfing and media play back. Is this overkill for what I want to do? I am willing to go cheaper but don’t want HTPC to be obsolete in a few years.

Any help would be appreciated!!!

Listed below are the parts that I selected for my first build.

Antec Black Aluminum / Steel Fusion Remote Black Micro ATX Media Center / HTPC Case
http://www.newegg.com/Product/Product.aspx?Item=N82E16811129054

ASUS P7H55-M PRO LGA 1156 Intel H55 HDMI Micro ATX Intel Motherboard
http://www.newegg.com/Product/Product.aspx?Item=N82E16813131623

Intel Core i5-650 Clarkdale 3.2GHz 4MB L3 Cache LGA 1156 73W Dual-Core Desktop Processor
http://www.newegg.com/Product/Product.aspx?Item=N82E16819115220

GeIL 2GB (2 x 1GB) 240-Pin DDR3 SDRAM DDR3 1333 (PC3 10660)
http://www.newegg.com/Product/Product.aspx?Item=N82E16820144246

Western Digital Caviar Green WD6400AADS 640GB 32MB Cache
http://www.newegg.com/Product/Product.aspx?Item=N82E16822136527

LG Black 10X BD-ROM 16X DVD-ROM SATA Internal Blu-ray Disc Combo
http://www.newegg.com/Product/Product.aspx?Item=N82E16827136183

 

[Starges]

Nice HTPC

 

[shortstuff_mt]

The dual-core i5 chips don't offer a good price/performance ratio. I would ditch the i5 for an i3 and use the money saved to step up to 4GB of RAM.

http://www.newegg.com/Product/ComboDealDetails.aspx?ItemList=Combo.350421 $219.98 (Intel i3 530 + Asus P7H55-M PRO combo)

G.SKILL 4GB (2 x 2GB) 240-Pin DDR3 SDRAM DDR3 1333 (PC3 10600) Dual Channel Kit Desktop Memory Model F3-10600CL9D-4GBNT $98.99

 

[mquicks]

I have been told the i5 is over priced and more than likely drop it for the i3 combo. Just want to make I can bitstream with the i3.

Will the additional RAM help improve system performance?

 

[shortstuff_mt]

Yes, you can bitstream with the i3. The i3 is plenty powerful for a HTPC.

http://www.anandtech.com/cpuchipsets/showdoc.aspx?i=3704&p=3

You don't want to run Windows 7 with 2GB of RAM unless you absolutely have to.