I'm currently running XBMC on a Sandy-Bridge based system and have been really happy. Been thinking about building a secondary unit for a bedroom, and saw this deal this morning:
$99 Combo
I apologize if posting commercial links is frowned-upon here, but it was the easiest way to show the parts/specs.
I have some DDR3, an SSD, and some other random parts in a drawer so realistically I could get this secondary XBMC box up and running for just $99.
The alternate path is to go with another Sandy Bridge system. I have a Microcenter nearby and have priced out a G630/H61 microATX combo for $108 including tax. Add a cheap microATX case for $30 or so, and I'm at about $140.
In terms of usage, if I'm primarily streaming local media (mostly <10mbit 720p/1080p H.264 mkv content + DVD ISOs) with some flash (ESPN3), am I going to notice a big difference between the two setups?
A miniITX box would be cool (versus the microATX alternative), but then there's the fan-noise trade as well.
I guess I'm just asking if there are any major pitfalls I should be aware of with the E350 combo versus a more traditional setup (which I'm used to)?
Between the HTPC, the Boxee Box, a Netgear EVA9150, and an Ouya coming someday, I'm fearful that I'll be on some A&E Hoaders: Buried Alive by Media Streamers show...
$99 Combo
I apologize if posting commercial links is frowned-upon here, but it was the easiest way to show the parts/specs.
I have some DDR3, an SSD, and some other random parts in a drawer so realistically I could get this secondary XBMC box up and running for just $99.
The alternate path is to go with another Sandy Bridge system. I have a Microcenter nearby and have priced out a G630/H61 microATX combo for $108 including tax. Add a cheap microATX case for $30 or so, and I'm at about $140.
In terms of usage, if I'm primarily streaming local media (mostly <10mbit 720p/1080p H.264 mkv content + DVD ISOs) with some flash (ESPN3), am I going to notice a big difference between the two setups?
A miniITX box would be cool (versus the microATX alternative), but then there's the fan-noise trade as well.
I guess I'm just asking if there are any major pitfalls I should be aware of with the E350 combo versus a more traditional setup (which I'm used to)?
Between the HTPC, the Boxee Box, a Netgear EVA9150, and an Ouya coming someday, I'm fearful that I'll be on some A&E Hoaders: Buried Alive by Media Streamers show...