HTPC build for video streaming and light gaming CPU/Motherboard question

[imnomyth]

Another HTPC thread... Hi guys, I'm about to build a HTPC for my living room. My main PC is in the basement and will be used as my PLEX and/or Mezzmo server for local content. I have used it with my WDTV boxes with great success for the past 2-3 years, but I'm ready for an upgrade. I usually prefer Intel CPU's, but I'm looking for suggestions on which CPU to use for my situation. It will be mostly used for streaming local content via ethernet connection as well as Netflix and some Hulu, but it would be nice to be able to play some PC games on occasion without adding a graphics card. Another point to consider is that I have a lot of Bluray rips that I would like to stream DTS-MA audio with. I'm leaning pretty hard on the i5 right now simply because I'm very happy with the way my i7 build has performed, but I want opinions of the i3 in such a build as well as AMD CPU's. Oh, and a motherboard recommendation would be great also. Looking at Mini ITX as well as Micro ATX. I am a big fan of ASUS, but I just had an issue with an ASUS board shorting out so I'm also looking at MSI, ASRock and Gigabyte.

 

[CTurbo]

Can't recommend anything without a budget and list of parts you do NOT need.

 

[imnomyth]

Specifically I am looking for a CPU that will run windows 7 or 8.1 with xbmc and plex as well as being capable of light gaming without the need for a graphics card. CPU budget <$250. I need a motherboard capable of dtsma audio with hdmi output. Budget <$150. Obviously, I will need a psu, ram, a case, and eventually a capable remote, but my questions are specifically for recommendations for a CPU and motherboard.