Suggested HW for an STB HTPC

[syversen]

Anyone have suggestions on what to use for a set top box (STB) home theater PC (HTPC)? I've settled on the PVR250, now I just need everything to go with it!

I'm probably going to go with a Seagate Barrucuda for quietness, although they are slightly (~15%) more expensive then the cheaper/est alternative big HDs out there.

I'm still debating on mobo's (how many PCI slots, features, etc.), necessary processor speed, quiet case, etc. I've checked out some of the HTPC/AV/quiet forums but I've had trouble getting any real concensus and especially ideas that aren't substantially more expensive.

[JasonJoel]

I went with the Seagate Barracuda IV's and LOVE them. It is noticeably quieter than 'normal' hard drives.

Best extra couple bucks you can spend in my opinion, if you are already buying a new HD that is.

That coupled with the quiet Zalman PS and the quiet Zalman CPU cooler, and you really have to strain to hear the machine at all (and that is in a completely quiet room). With ANY background noise at all you can't hear it at all - period.

Jason

Originally posted by syversen
Anyone have suggestions on what to use for a set top box (STB) home theater PC (HTPC)? I've settled on the PVR250, now I just need everything to go with it!

I'm probably going to go with a Seagate Barrucuda for quietness, although they are slightly (~15%) more expensive then the cheaper/est alternative big HDs out there.

I'm still debating on mobo's (how many PCI slots, features, etc.), necessary processor speed, quiet case, etc. I've checked out some of the HTPC/AV/quiet forums but I've had trouble getting any real concensus and especially ideas that aren't substantially more expensive.