[transistor]

Hi everyone. This is my first post.
I've been using XBMC on my MacBook Pro and I really like it, so I've decided to build an HTPC to put it there.

I've been reading the forums and the options seem too many, each with their own pros and cons, my head is going to explode, hehe!

I want to build my own, what would you recommend?
- Motherboard
- Processor
- PSU (external would be nice, to avoid heat)

Requirements:
- Play 1080p from MKVs and BluRay, perfectly
- HDMI, DVI
- 7.1 audio, any output is ok
- Completely or very, very quiet operation
- I want to run XBMC Live or Ubuntu from a flash drive (USB) and put my media in external HDD and other computers on the network.
- Run a BitTorrent client
- Maybe mobo+processor+psu for a total of around $300 usd?

Anything else I need to consider/know?

Thank you!

[poofyhairguy]

Your requirements make you a perfect fit for an ION box. Either a custom built box based on a Ztoac mobo or something like a Acer Revo can give you what you want for the price you want.

[teaguecl]

Also look at pre-built ION systems, specifically the Shuttle XS350. It's not out yet, but they keep promising "real soon"! It sounds like it would fit your needs, assuming it's delivered meeting our expectations.

[transistor]

Thank for the recommendations.

How about the Gigabyte GA-880GMA-UD2H?
Seems like a pretty advanced mobo and within my budget.

And how about a AMD Athlon II X2 255 Socket AM3 part. 3.1GHz dual-core for this mobo?

Any experiences with these two?
Thanks