I am looking for some advice on a build for an HTPC that primarily will be running as a Plex player. It will only ever be used on a single 4K TV, Samsung Q90T 85" I don't use it for gaming, so only one screen. Most use is BR and 4K UHD movies, and HD Audio music.
In order of importance to me:
So all that said: I currently use a ZeBox with an Nvidea 1050T video chip. The biggest issue is the box is starting to bluescreen 1-4X a day after a fresh re-install of Windows 10. The other issue is the video playback is very often not smooth. I don't think its my 9 series samsung tv and the network is hard wired. I can only assume its this HTPC.
Thanks all in advance.
In order of importance to me:
- Able to play back 4K HVEC completely smooth in at least 10bit color.
- Full bit rate 7.1 HD Audio, uncompressed from a UHD movie (but i don't think this is actually an issue).
- Quiet
- Compact - sit on a shelf with other audio gear.
So all that said: I currently use a ZeBox with an Nvidea 1050T video chip. The biggest issue is the box is starting to bluescreen 1-4X a day after a fresh re-install of Windows 10. The other issue is the video playback is very often not smooth. I don't think its my 9 series samsung tv and the network is hard wired. I can only assume its this HTPC.
- Of course if anyone just has advice of a specific integrated unit... I'm all ears for such a device. However the only devices I have seen that function as an HTPC, and have real integrated video cards 1060 and above are the ZeBox and they are both pricey and hard to find in the USA. Integrated units are smaller, sleeker, fit in a living room rack better etc.. Always open to a suggestion if someone has one.
- What is the min video card that will achieve smooth playback of 4K UHD? I'm willing to buy whatever this is, but with the cost of GPU's I really don't want to over-buy either. is 3 GB enough or do you need 4? 6?
- Any suggestions on a MB / Case combo? Consider size, noise etc...
- Once you have a good GPU, how much CPU do you need? My brain says i5, if for no other reason that Windows seems to grind away in an i3, updates take forever etc..
Thanks all in advance.