HTPC Help on building a new system. I'm going digital...

Hi everyone,

I'm not sure if this is the best place to post this question or not. If it isn't please let me know more appropriate sites/forums. If it is....

I'm planning on building a new system but want some solid advice on what components I should get based on my specs. My specs:

1) Should be SMALL, compact, and sleek. I like the Shuttle cases so something like this would be nice. The smaller the better and I'm really hoping to find something with a modern, sleek design.

2) Large (RELIABLE) storage capacity. It would be nice to have 2 drives in the system, however, if the case is too small to allow for this I can live with just having one. I will probably go with a Seagate drive, unless you can recommend more reliable drives. I need space for music and possible for video if I install a DVR (ATI makes good software for this?).

3) Solid DVD burner. One question I have regarding burns. Can I take a particular Region encoded DVD, rip it, and then burn it to a different Region. For example, take a Region 2 disc and burn it to Region 0 so I can be played everywhere? I would think it’s possible. I’ll also be using it to create an archive of my CD collection (over 300 discs to rip so the quicker the better). A friend suggested I use EAC for the software.

4) Good sound system. I’d like my computer to also be my stereo. Recommendations of sound cards, speakers, etc. would be nice. I have a pretty small room where all this will be but I’d like it to be loud enough to fill up the entire 2 bedroom apartment and sound really good. I'd like to get a good sound without using a receiver but will get one if need be.

5) Remote control for DVR, sound levels, changing channels, DVD controls, etc.

6) Quiet. This is really one of the least important specs on my list but the quieter the system is the better.

Those are really the main things. All I have right now is an old laptop. The big reason I’m building this system is to archive my music collection (hopefully as quickly as possible). I'd also love to get rid of my VHS tape collection if you have suggestions on converting and storing that media (how much space would a VHS tape up anyways?). As far as a processor goes, I'll probably take AMD over Intel since I think they are better chips. Thanks in advance for your feedback….