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Hey everyone,
So I have an old gaming computer I would like to convert to an HTPC. Here are the current specs:
CPU: AMD Opteron 146
Mobo: DFI Lanparty UT Ultra-D
GPU: eVGA Nvidia 8800GTS 320mb 650/950
PS: OCZ Powerstream 520W
RAM: 2GB Crucial Ballistix PC3200
The only major problem with this PC right now is that the 8800GTS only has two DVI outputs on it, I need an HDMI output that can carry the video and audio to my system.
Which GPU would you all recommend? I am looking for something cheap but good enough to do full 1080p and HD audio. What about a Geforce GT 210?
Also I will need to add some storage capacity, I was thinking of going with a 2TB WD green or blue, any input on this?
Finally, the current fans are quite loud, any advice for some quiet 80mm fans?
Thanks a lot.
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nickr
Retired Team-Kodi Member
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The 8800 would work for video with a simple dvi-hdmi cable, but no audio unless it is one of the few cards with a spdif header. But a new card will definitely support hdmi audio. Gt221/220/520/610 all come fanless and will do what you want.
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I remember reading about people have trouble with the GT210 and passing the HD audio, is that still an issue?
What about the WD 2TB Green?
Any input for quiet 80mm fans?
Thanks
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You can also consider AMD, they have passive cards as well and recent XBMC builds can bitstream in Linux if that is a requirement. I had a fanless 5450, it was a bit temperature sensitive but for $10 I can't complain too much. Step up to a 6450 if you want 3D support.
Alternatively, looks like your mobo has a coax out port. You can get a DVI-HDMI cable for video and run coax out for audio, assuming you have a receiver or something that has a coax input.
I'd probably go for a WD Red over WD Green these days, if price were no object.
Quiet 80mm fans: check out NewEgg, Scythe is pretty good IIRC, but there are others as well.
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Yeah I thought about using the coax output but I would rather just pass it through hdmi for simplicity.
I will take a look at the AMD cards, thanks.
WD Red is a bit too pricey I think I will go with the Green.
I will take a look at those fans also.
Thanks.
Any other advice?
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I have a couple of WD green, and they're great. Of course if you plan on using them for anything else besides storing stuff (media), well...they ain't that speedy to say the truth. I got a cheap SSDfor the OS plus all programs I need to use, and it works like a charm.
My only complaint is they take a while to spin up, but that's because I actually set them to spin down. But if you don't, what's the point of buying one?
As for the cooling, that really depends on where you physically are. I always shop on quietpc.com, in the UK (I'm in France).
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What I am really trying to decide right now is whether I should go with a geforce gt 210 or 610? The 610 is 5$ more than the 210, should I just get the 610?
