I want to build a pc that will be used to stream services like Netflix, playback HD videos from local storage, and play HD audio. Would like the following features:
Networking: Ideally either built-in wireless or ability to add in slot. Need more than wired Lan port. Would like ability to do 802.11AC at some point either built-in or in slot.
Video: Do not need gaming quality video, but will be playing up to 1080p HD videos
Audio: Playback of lossless music and videos with DTS/DD type audio. May add an outboard USB DAC.
Memory: Will be running WIndows 8.1 (not Pro) and would like ability to easily/cheaply expand later
Storage: one 3.5" SATA HD to start, would like to add at least one more later.
Storage: two external 5.25" bays to have DVD or Bluray drives
Case: Do not need or like the typical MicroATX cases and prefer at least a mini or midtower. Looking at ports on the Gigabyte GA-F2A88XN-WIFI/FM2/FM2+ and not sure the cases I prefer will take this board. IT has built-in Wifi/AC and few slots due to size but lots built in
CPU: Don't think I need or can afford quad cores, maybe dual? Need suggestions of some good APUs to save money but have acceptable graphics ability to run the HD videos.
I like this board from Gigabyte going for around $100 USD, but not sure if I can find case to fit it. Not sure if I should be an APU type CPU or use separate CPU & GPU? Seem to find several AMD & Intel chips/boards that use either. Need an HDMI port and DVI to run to Samsung monitor and Tv.
Finally and very important right now: Have to minimize cost and buy one part at a time. Would like something that when assembled will run my HD multimedia nicely. Will connect video via HDMI to HD Tv and audio eventually to stereo or powered speakers.
Networking: Ideally either built-in wireless or ability to add in slot. Need more than wired Lan port. Would like ability to do 802.11AC at some point either built-in or in slot.
Video: Do not need gaming quality video, but will be playing up to 1080p HD videos
Audio: Playback of lossless music and videos with DTS/DD type audio. May add an outboard USB DAC.
Memory: Will be running WIndows 8.1 (not Pro) and would like ability to easily/cheaply expand later
Storage: one 3.5" SATA HD to start, would like to add at least one more later.
Storage: two external 5.25" bays to have DVD or Bluray drives
Case: Do not need or like the typical MicroATX cases and prefer at least a mini or midtower. Looking at ports on the Gigabyte GA-F2A88XN-WIFI/FM2/FM2+ and not sure the cases I prefer will take this board. IT has built-in Wifi/AC and few slots due to size but lots built in
CPU: Don't think I need or can afford quad cores, maybe dual? Need suggestions of some good APUs to save money but have acceptable graphics ability to run the HD videos.
I like this board from Gigabyte going for around $100 USD, but not sure if I can find case to fit it. Not sure if I should be an APU type CPU or use separate CPU & GPU? Seem to find several AMD & Intel chips/boards that use either. Need an HDMI port and DVI to run to Samsung monitor and Tv.
Finally and very important right now: Have to minimize cost and buy one part at a time. Would like something that when assembled will run my HD multimedia nicely. Will connect video via HDMI to HD Tv and audio eventually to stereo or powered speakers.