i read the article <A HREF="http://www4.tomshardware.com/howto/20021109/index.html" target="_new">how to build a pc for tv</A> and although i got some good information, i would like to take it to the next step. i'm looking to build a computer that can be used for any recent pc game, that can also play any media file format including dvds, which has 5.1-7.1 audio output, and which can output video through component connectors to my hdtv. the MB and CPU aren't really of concern right now. what i would like to know is what video cards are out that have component-out and can perform well, and what sound cards are out that can play 5.1-7.1 with optical out to hook up to my receiver?

so far the SoundBlaster Audigy2 and AIW 9700(or 9800) Pro have seemed to be the answer but i've never done this before and would like any feedback you can offer for this mission of mine. thanks for any info you can offer

ps - what's the difference between the AIW 9700 Pro and AIW 9800 Pro?

as far as sound cards, you could end up getting MB with integrated sound that can handle 5.1 sound via digital out. Could also look for a Hercules sound card like the Fortissimo III if you don't want to go with Creative.

As for Video, I know that ATI All-In-Wonder Radeon cards can connect to a HDTV via componant cables. I am not sure what Nvida has.

GK

Yes, I made it past newbie w00t.

Hercules DigiFire 7.1 has the optical output if my memory doesn't fail me.
The differences between AIW 9700 Pro and AIW 9800 Pro are: VPU, clock speed, memory frequency, price, package, and ultimately performance.

You never know how stupid you are until you have done something stupid enough for you to realize it.
<A HREF="http://www.anandtech.com/mysystemrig.html?id=22996" target="_new">My System Rig</A>

Biostar makes a nice nForce2 board that has integrated nForce APU (via the MCP-T southbridge), a solution that could give you excellent performance while saving you money, power, and a PCI slot. As for output to your TV, ATI does make a component adapter cable, you need to purchase it separately. The AIW 9700 should be fast enough for the latest games at compatable resolutions (1024x768 is nearly perfect for most HDTV sets).

<font color=blue>Watts mean squat if you don't have quality!</font color=blue>

Crash, the Component adapter comes standard WITH the AIW9700 not sure of the 9800. But it's included WITH the 9700. It's a Cable version, whereas the one you buy seperately is a solid once piece small adapter. No need to buy it.

Here's a link to the picture of the cables among the stuff that comes with the 9700, there are no pictures for the 9800 YET.

<A HREF="http://mirror.ati.com/designpartners/media/pc/aiw9700pro.html" target="_new">http://mirror.ati.com/designpartners/media/pc/aiw9700pro.html</A>


If you have trouble cut and paste the link and remove 'mirror' in the address line.


- You need a licence to buy a gun, but they'll sell anyone a stamp <i>(or internet account)</i> ! <font color=red>RED</font color=red> <font color=green>GREEN</font color=green> GA to SK

That's cool. It doesn't come with non-AIW cards nor the AIW 8500 and I wasn't aware that it does come with the AIW 9700.

<font color=blue>Watts mean squat if you don't have quality!</font color=blue>

i want one..

My Score..<A HREF="http://service.futuremark.com/compare?2k1=6258104" target="_new">http://service.futuremark.com/compare?2k1=6258104</A>..Pic's of my pc before I pimped it.<A HREF="http://www.lochel.com/THGC/html/Genetic_Weapon.html" target="_new">http://www.lochel.com/THGC/html/Genetic_Weapon.html</A>