Budget HTPC GPU question

[mattlef]

Hey guys,

I'm using an old Dell as a budget HTPC. It has an older D540 cpu, which is more than what i need if i want to use the GPU for video with xbmc.

The question i have, is what would be the cheapest, but most effective GPU that features HDMI?
I was thinking an HD5450 might do the trick? Right now im using an old 6100 and it can push 720p, but beyond that nothing. Maybe a nVidia 210 would work better?

[Arinoth]

I have the DDR2 HD5450 in my old HTPC and it has no problems playing back 1080p at all. I think because I have the DDR2 version it takes a second or two for the sound to load when playing a 1080p movie/file but that's normally not a big deal to me.

[mattlef]

How are the audio capabilities? Any issues?

[Arinoth]

None whatsoever. I had it hooked up via hdmi to my receiver and never had any audio issues.

[mattlef]

I just realized. i have a HD3650

Do you think that would be enough horsepower to push 1080p? I know I'll have to continue to use my onboard (bleh) audio
Or do you think it would just be worth it to get a GPU that has hdmi?

[SugarJ]

Your 3650 should work, I used to use a 3450 in a Ubuntu box with no issues.

[mattlef]

Originally Posted by SugarJ

Your 3650 should work, I used to use a 3450 in a Ubuntu box with no issues.

Beauty. now i just need to find a DVI-VGA adapter locally. Hopefully someone has one dirt cheap.

[MARSTG]

I have the DDR3 Radeon HD 4550 and works just fine. 1080p MKVs and blu-rays with no issue.

[Silvgearx]

I use a passive 3450. Fully decodes 1080p. Downside is you can only play 1 movie at a time.