Planning a HTPC

[tomj528]

Hi everyone,

I'd like to build a HTPC that I can use to record OTA digital tv (2 ATSC tuners) with a hardware encoding capture card. I've been looking at the Hauppauge Wintv-HVR-2250. I have a very basic setup with a 7 year old sony tube tv that has a good picture so I'd like to use it for a few more years until I get a lcd or plasma. I'd like to output the sound directly to a set of Logitech surround sound speakers right out of the onboard sound\sound card. I don't need a blueray dvd although I would get one later after I upgrade the TV. I've been interested in the things that I've read about Linux and MythTV and would like to get compatible hardware in case I want to give it a try at some point. I would also like to stream online videos (youtube and HULU), play MAME, EASports games, play DVDs and store movies and entire TV Series' (from DVD's) for on demand playing.

I welcome your suggestions.

 

[rwpritchett]

A few questions:

#1 Budget?
#2 Storage requirements? (do you plan on storing DVD's and maybe BD's on the HDD)
#3 Encoding? (quad-core vs. dual core)
#4 What video inputs does your TV have? Component?

 

[tomj528]

A few questions:

#1 Budget?
#2 Storage requirements? (do you plan on storing DVD's and maybe BD's on the HDD)
#3 Encoding? (quad-core vs. dual core)
#4 What video inputs does your TV have? Component?

1. Budget wise I'd like to stay as far under $1000 as possible although I realize that it won't be a lot under $1000.

2. I do plan on storing some DVD's mostly complete seasons of a few shows. I was thinking about 2 - 1GB drives set up in RAID 1 so I have a backup.

3. I'm completely open to the point, although I'd like to strike a nice balance between a quick, smooth machine and cost. I don't have to have the fastest PC possible, just one that does the job really well.

4. My TV has both composite and S-video inputs.

Thanks for your help.

 

[not moose]

http://www.newegg.com/Product/Product.aspx?Item=N82E16811163117

This is a great case to consider, decent cooling and a hidden bay.

 

[tomj528]

http://www.newegg.com/Product/Product.aspx?Item=N82E16811163117

This is a great case to consider, decent cooling and a hidden bay.

not moose,

This is the EXACT case that I've been looking at. I'm glad for the thumbs up on it...good to know I'm on the right track!