HTPC Build

[thecorwin]

I’m thinking about building a new HTPC and wanted to know what you think. Im still trying to decide what motherboard to go with but Im leaning towards the zotac.

Motherboard:
http://www.zotac.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=300&Itemid=425
or
http://www.jwele.com/motherboard_detail.php?419

CPU:
http://www.newegg.com/Product/Product.aspx?Item=N82E16819115037
or
http://www.newegg.com/Product/Product.aspx?Item=N82E16819103298

Memory:
http://www.newegg.com/Product/Product.aspx?Item=N82E16820227195
or
http://www.newegg.com/Product/Product.aspx?Item=N82E16820227251

Its primary use will be HD (1080p) video playback but it will also be used for web browsing and music. For now I only use HDMI for video and send all the audio through the digital out. Thanks in advance for all your help/suggestions.

 

[NeilFarted]

it all depends on your requirements. If your priority is price, then go to the zotac and an AMD cpu. If quality is your priority, i'd look at the gigabyte 9200/9300 boards and an intel chip.

btw, that second memory link is for laptop memory, not desktop memory.

 

[thecorwin]

Im looking at HD playback quality. Both motherboards are mini Itx - the zotac is intel and the j&w is amd. The j&w also uses laptop memory.

 

[NeilFarted]

Im looking at HD playback quality. Both motherboards are mini Itx - the zotac is intel and the j&w is amd. The j&w also uses laptop memory.

i think HD playback quality is negligible between the newer chipsets like 780g and the geforce 9300.
I think it really comes down to personal preference, ati vs nvidia and amd vs intel. If you're planning on building a really small form-factor case, then obviously the j&w would be your best option.
I don't think you would go wrong with either of your two options.