Cheap HTPC hardware recs

[wotef]

Am I right to think that building a basic HTPC isn't actually that cheap? What would be your minimum specs to be able to enjoy mpeg4 playback on the telly?

Re: hardware MPEG4 players, can they also play SVCDs? Would something like a KISS player be more cost-effective than an HTPC?

[KpeX]

To me, the term 'HTPC' invokes images of unnecessarily expensive cases and accessories that are more nice extras than really necessary. If all you want is to watch MPEG4 ( or anything else ) on your TV and you're within short cable reach of your TV system, then HTPC is not expensive at all. All you really need is a video card with decent TV out (my personal preference would be nVidia) and a sound card that supports whatever audio you need - even good s/pdif cards are as cheap as 20 USD. Also you'll want a video player that has good TV out support - I've had no problems with Zoom Player or Media Player Classic, and I believe BS Player also recently improved TV out support.

IMO PC playback is a much better idea than any of the standalone players, you won't have limitations - you can use all features you want, any ranges of bitrate, any new a/v formats like Matroska or OGM. hth,

[Ramirez]

Well, even though KpeX is right and HTPC really doesn't have to look like one of those shiny boxes with equalizer and remote control, I think it would cool to have something like this in your living room :P (MSI Mega PC (http://www.msi.com.tw/program/products/slim_pc/slm/pro_slm_detail.php?UID=431) probably gonna grab it next week..:D

[KpeX]

Disclaimer: The above recommendations in my first post are primarily intended for poor college students like me :D Ramirez is right toys are fun.

[cult]

check the faqs here:
http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?threadid=31225

[Sirber]

@Ramirez

With this you'll be able to play non-AC3 5.1 tracks? :p :D