View Full Version : Media Centre P.C Build
realg123
Jul 21st, 2012, 09:28 AM
Hey everyone.
I haven't build a computer in quite some time. I have a budget of around $500-700 and I would like to build a really nice media centre that could play all my media files flawlessly.
I would appreciate some help in deciding what parts to purchase. As I've been out of the loop for quite some time. I would most likely need helping in someone directing me to all the right parts. From the case/motherboard/ram/hard drives and optical drives. If links could also be provided for the parts that would be great!
Thanks
ah802
Jul 21st, 2012, 10:32 AM
I don't think people are going to do the web research for you and come-up with your 'ideal' package... Since you've been out of the loop for a while, I suggest taking a gander at http://forum.xbmc.org/forumdisplay.php?fid=112 with your budget you're probably looking at one of the lower end builds with as much mass storage as the remaining budget will tolerate.
balance
Jul 21st, 2012, 01:04 PM
Depends on what you want, if you just want to play media files just get a media player like asus, dlink box, wd tv link etc
audit13
Jul 21st, 2012, 03:30 PM
Check this out: http://www.avsforum.com/f/26/home-theater-computers
number8888
Jul 21st, 2012, 11:06 PM
Do you actually need a HTPC or are you okay with hosting files on your main computer and just stream it to your TV?
TheDonkey
Jul 22nd, 2012, 05:11 AM
Depending on where you live, and what form factor you're looking for, you can pick a used PC up for super cheap.
For $92, I got an AMD X2 5000+ (I think), mobo, 400 watt PSU, and horizontal/HTPC friendly case (I already had hard drives). It runs XBMC perfectly and even the on-board graphics handles menu navigation and 720p video perfectly, if you want 1080p, you can pick up a 6450 for around $20-30 on NCIX with rebates.
If you just want a playback device, then Apple TV 2's go for around $100-150 and are a nice power-friendly playback device with a remote in the box. Jailbreaking and installing XBMC is super easy now.
realg123
Jul 23rd, 2012, 05:09 PM
Thanks everyone. At the moment I have an original xbox setup with XBMC, along with ATV and WDTV
I was looking to build an HTPC so I could do much more.
Donkey everyone is trying to sell their apple tv 2 around here for $230+ I seen people trying to sell them for over $300
I appreciate all the links/advice