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Looking for small PC, need Advice.

Gillbot

Gillbot

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I was looking at getting a Compaq Ipaq based PC to play MP3's through my stereo but i'm wondering if there is a better option out there?

I have considered the Dell Optiplex GX240 since it has a rather small footprint but also has PCI slots. This would allow me to toss in my old PCI ATI All In Wonder Card and allot it to do TV duty also.

My main concern with the system is size as I want to hide it somewhere in my entertainment center but room there is scarce to begin with. It's primary duty will be MP3 play but I'd like to add TV out and a remote to allow easier control as opposed to always having to use remote desktop or the like. This would allow the system to be more stand alone as opposed to having other PC's on as well.

Any thoughts on onther flexible SMALL systems? Prefer low cost also since this will be an overpowered MP3 player basically. That was the main attraction to the Ipaq, which can be had on ebay for $20-50. I'd just like to add tv out so I can view the occasional dl'ed clip on the tv, it will not be used for a TIVO like device so I don't think I need loads of power.
 
Are you opposed to building a micro ATX system. They make some really small mATX cases. Plus you'll be able to use an AIW card.
 
I'm not opposed to anything except cost.

I have a PCI AIW Pro but I'm not very familiar with the card and I was informed it would not do TV-out. (I thought they did?)

Other than that, I'm not particular. I just want small and cheap. The Ipaq's can be had really cheap off of ebay but they lack TV out, which I could survive with but I don't prefer.
 
Realistally you are going to spend about $400 on a system, so ask yourself if that is worth it over a $20 mp3 player.

You could get a creative Zen Media ($200 after monster $250 MIR) and $20 remote control as another option.
http://www.zipzoomfly.com/jsp/ProductDetail.jsp?ProductCode=380020
http://www.nextag.com/buyer/productm.jsp?product=68886095
It has a 20GB hard drive and TV out.

Not a real attractive option, but just another idea. If you want ideas piecing together a system, just say the word, but keep in mind the pricetag.
 
Yeah, I think it's just not gonna happen for the price I want to pay.

I think if I hit the used market and pick/choose, I could probably do better but i'd end up with a larger system.
 
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