I need advice on a media specific build

TheWolfKiD_

Reputable
Feb 24, 2015
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4,510
I talked my cousin into building a PC (more likely he'll buy the parts and I'll build it). His usage is centered around internet browsing, media playback, ex. music, video (@1080p).. He said he would like to game lightly as well, no need to OC. His budget is in the ballpark of $300-$400. The closer to $300 the better! He only needs 2 specific things, a windowed case and an optical port for his soundbar. I went with a micro-atx MOBO because it seemed appropriate, since he wants this set-up in his living room I figured a small set-up with a little punch would do the trick. Now, I have been troubled looking for a MOBO with an optical port and I've failed to find a small windowed case. Can I get a PCI card with an optical port? if so, how much? He would prefer that the case be as small as possible. For the time being I selected a corsair mid tower in the set up since I couldn't find a small windowed case and I'm at ~$340(!!) without a MOBO. None of the parts are set in stone, have fun. Hopefully the gurus can work their magic with this one.


PCPartPicker part list: http://pcpartpicker.com/p/vB8xCJ
Price breakdown by merchant: http://pcpartpicker.com/p/vB8xCJ/by_merchant/

CPU: Intel Pentium G3430 3.3GHz Dual-Core Processor ($64.19 @ Amazon)
Memory: Crucial Ballistix Sport 4GB (1 x 4GB) DDR3-1600 Memory ($29.23 @ Amazon)
Storage: Western Digital Caviar Blue 1TB 3.5" 7200RPM Internal Hard Drive ($49.89 @ OutletPC)
Video Card: Asus GeForce GT 630 2GB Video Card ($29.99 @ SuperBiiz)
Case: Corsair 350D Window MicroATX Mid Tower Case ($98.96 @ TigerDirect)
Power Supply: Antec EarthWatts Green 380W 80+ Bronze Certified ATX Power Supply ($29.99 @ Newegg)
Optical Drive: Samsung SH-224DB/BEBE DVD/CD Writer ($14.98 @ OutletPC)
Keyboard: Logitech Wireless Touch k400 Wireless Slim Keyboard w/Touchpad ($26.43 @ Amazon)
Total: $343.66
 
So I've found a desirable case, now all I would need is some help picking out the MOBO and feedback on the build in general. Like I said in the former post's, none of the parts (except the case) are set in stone. Do with the build what you please as long as it remains within the budget and works for what is needed.

PCPartPicker part list: http://pcpartpicker.com/p/MbKG6h
Price breakdown by merchant: http://pcpartpicker.com/p/MbKG6h/by_merchant/

CPU: Intel Pentium G3430 3.3GHz Dual-Core Processor ($64.29 @ Amazon)
Memory: Crucial Ballistix Sport 4GB (1 x 4GB) DDR3-1600 Memory ($29.23 @ Amazon)
Storage: Western Digital Caviar Blue 1TB 3.5" 7200RPM Internal Hard Drive ($49.89 @ OutletPC)
Video Card: Asus GeForce GT 630 2GB Video Card ($29.99 @ SuperBiiz)
Case: Xigmatek Aquila MicroATX Mini Tower Case ($67.99 @ NCIX US)
Power Supply: Antec EarthWatts Green 380W 80+ Bronze Certified ATX Power Supply ($29.99 @ Newegg)
Optical Drive: Samsung SH-224DB/BEBE DVD/CD Writer ($14.98 @ Newegg)
Keyboard: Logitech Wireless Touch k400 Wireless Slim Keyboard w/Touchpad ($26.43 @ Amazon)
Total: $312.79