Where can I get myself a HTPC?

Hygro · 15-09-2007 11:06am #1

I've always been fascinated by the idea of having all my entertainment from one source.

At the moment the best I can do is burn divx files to a disc and watch them on a divx dvd player ... and most recently stream files from my pc through my PS3 (which let me tell you, wasn't great atal since PS3 only handles MPeg format files which mean that the picture was pants).

Anyhoo I digress. Can anyone point me in the direction of how to get my hands on a HTPC (either by some place that sells them, or, with my limited PC knowledge, I can set one up myself) as I will be getting a new TV in the next few weeks and Ideally I'd like to have the whole media player set up running by then (if possible).

Cheers

Keith:D

8T8 · 15-09-2007 11:39am

Most are self built sometimes with specialist parts but there are occasional retail models you can acquire from the likes of like Sony or Alienware but they also come with a hefty price tag.

OcUK sell two systems that are HTPC's. You can find two more on Komplett.

If building a HTPC then most go for a case that looks like AV gear or easily easily concealable plus low noise.

If you have any spare parts you can throw one together yourself pretty easily as the hardware isn't that demanding.

Hygro · 15-09-2007 1:01pm

Cheers 8T8.

Wow, didn't realise they'd be so pricey.

I was hoping to spend 600 maximum on one ...

Conor108 · 15-09-2007 1:46pm

You could build one yourself for around that. Make sure you get HD components though.

Like this - Abit f-190HD

It may seem daunting but check How Stuff Works for a good tutorial. Blu Ray drives are 200-ish

Krusty_Clown · 15-09-2007 2:17pm

This crowd: http://www.ankermann-pc.com/en/ do some low cost shuttle systems, that might fit your bill, starting at 450 euro. You would need to add a TV card, MCE remote etc.

Hygro · 15-09-2007 4:55pm

Hey hey (sorry, couldn't resist)

Thanks Krusty,

What else would I need to get for this system. You mentioned a TV Card and a remote ... anything else?

I'm completely new to this game so sorry if my questions seem stupid.

Krusty_Clown · 15-09-2007 7:56pm

As mentioned, you need a TV card, the type is dependent on your TV source.
I use a Hauppage PVR-500MCE for my analog NTL signal (has dual tuners)..

Secondly, recommended would be a Microsoft MCE remote control and IR receiver (sold as a bundle). Here on Komplett for 39 euro. You'll also need Media Centre 2005 or Vista equivalent.

That's really it, apart from the obvious, TV, TV source, some cables and something to pipe the sound through.

Where can I get myself a HTPC?

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