Entertainment Computer to do it all

[yankie_1132]

I'd like to build an entertainment center computer that will replace these units:

-Bluray/dvd player
-Surround sound system/receiver
-DVR

and have the capability to:
-Watch sat/cable tv
-Connect to game consoles/VCRs/other devices via RCA
-Surf the internet still
-Remote control for TV

All while connected to a nice Plasma/LCD/LED or something.

Pretty much an all in one unit for the livingroom. When I want to watch tv, I can use it. If I want to surf the net, or do computer related stuff, I can.

Any ideas? I am capable of putting it all together, just haven't done the research to see who's done it yet.

 

[diduknowthat]

What's the budget?

You'll need a midrange graphics card, a sound card, a TV tuner, a large hard drive and a midrange dual core CPU. The system wouldn't really be able to function as a receiver as it won't have amps built in. You can either use your sound card to output digital out to a receiver or you can use computer speakers.

If you have the money you'll want to buy a nice HTPC case so it'll blend into the living room set. Also look into low rpm 120mm case fans and passively cooled CPU and GPU for silent operation.

 

[yankie_1132]

budget, i'm willing to spend up to $1k on it since it will replace a few units in place of it, and also be a computer itself. on the tv tuner card, will the quality be as good as connecting it directly to the tv?