Building HTPC - need audio help?

Question

I'm building a HTPC. This is a small form factor PC, so this has to come into consideration.

In the next 6 months I will be adding a blu-ray drive to this as well, so take that in consideration as well.

Here is my current setup:

Sony SXRD 50A2000 (great TV):

- 2 HDMI ports

Pioneer 7.1 Receiver (VSX-816):

- NO HDMI ports

- 2 component inputs

- 1 optical, 1 coax

- Analog inputs

Right now, I am looking at the 8500GT low-profile video card to handle video processing and use an HDMI cable from here to the TV. This should handle video fine.

As for audio, since I don't have HDMI on my receiver, I'm a little lost on what I should do. If I use optical, I won't be able to send out the new lossless formats on blu-ray disks. Therefore, I was wondering if there are any low profile cards that do analog out and what product you recommend, or are there any other options for this?

Also, do PCs do a good job of decoding PCM, DTS HD MA, etc?

Any ideas are greatly appreciate

Answer 1

First of all; quality and digital video recording are some of the advantages of HTPCs.

One of the main disadvantages is the cost; because while buying these materials you'll spend a lot.

I'm adding three links where you can learn/share experiences with others about HTPCs.

Answer 2

Get the latest ATI video cards instead of that nVidia one. They have a DVI-to-HDMI converter so can handle HD video and audio signals. They also have buily-in HDCP so you don't need to worry about that.

Answer 3

I don't think you are going to be able to low profile card with the number of analog outputs you are looking for. Have you looked around at the usb sound cards that are now available?