Best video card for an HTPC

[NoGooD]

Howdy,

 

I'm converting one of my old computers into a makeshift Home Theater PC and wondered if anyone has a setup already in place or follows the HTPC scene enough to recommend a cheap, dependable video card that can carry audio + video over HDMI and output in 1080p. The case it's going in is a mid-tower so low profile isn't a must. Also I would prefer the design to be fanless, but it isn't a requirement. My case fans will likely drowd out anything coming from the video card.

 

Also this computer will not be used for gaming. It'll be connected to a 47" TV and used solely for the purpose of watching/listening/streaming media.

 

Here's the build, and don't laugh, lol. Okay..you can laugh, I realize it's probably a bit overkill.

Mobo:Intel dx48bt2
CPU: Q9770 Extreme
RAM: 8GB Corsair XMS3
PowerSupply: Antec Earthwatts 650watt
DVD Drive: Currently looking for a Blu-Ray drive..make a recommendation

 

Here are some of the video cards I'm currently looking at. I really don't want to spend more than around $75 USD

http://www.newegg.co...N82E16814121473

 

http://www.newegg.co...N82E16814102960

 

http://www.newegg.co...N82E16814500213

 

http://www.newegg.co...N82E16814500222

[Quovadis]

I would say the ATI HD 5450 is more than enough (I was playing MW2 at high with that card) and can be bought for 50$ it supports 1920x1080 and is especially made for that type of use.

Edit : Forgot to precise I am talking about the 1Gb version

[TulsaGeoff]

Article here points to a 6570 as the best $75 htpc card along side the 430GTX. http://www.anandtech...pus-shootout/16

 

With the current deals tigerdirect has the card for $50 with the rebate factored in.: http://www.tigerdire...2623&CatId=7005 The XFX version should also have a lifetime warranty as well. That's only 5 minutes of research but looks to be a better deal than the poster above

 

I cant believe they still sell 8400gs's LOL It was never a great card like the 8600gt was...

[NoGooD]

Thanks for the response guys.

 

@QuoVadis: Good to know it's working well for you. Have you had a chance to hook that computer up to a HDTV in order to test out its video playback?

 

@Tulsa: I read that article about a week ago for a few impressions of whats the best "bang for your buck" cards out there. It seems as though the 6570 and the 430 are both getting top billing for their price range.

 

I think I'm going to just check 8400gs's off my list for good though. I think your the third person I've spoken with whose laughed at that card, lol. I've never dealt with XFX, but they seem to have a good rep. I'll certainly check them out.

[TulsaGeoff]

Id get that card for $50 while you still can. The forums at the audio video science website will be the best source of info. http://www.avsforum....isplay.php?f=26

[Elf]

The prices are going up and down right now so good luck man

[bah]

yea i totally agree.. :S