[gregcss]

I want to do one of two things 1. By a synology ds111 and internal hdd (cost around $300) OR 2. Build a micro pc and use vortexbox or similar OS for around the same cost as option 1.

I haven't really been able to find parts to build a micro PC and not entirely sure what I need. I assume CPU, MOBO, RAM, power supply, hdd, and case. I just need power and a network port, no need for video, audio, or other ports. I should be able to remote into the micro PC in the same way I remote into my Verizon router, right?

For this reason I am considering buying the ds111 and be done with it but, I think the micro pc would provide more processing power for the money.

[TomS]

You might take a look at the Alix thread. Sounds a lot like what you're trying to do.

[jeffh]

Logic Supply has some very nice cases and MB to build a fanless PC

http://www.logicsupply.com

[wushuliu]

Maybe

http://www.amazon.com/Foxconn-Dual-core-Barebone-System-R30-D4/dp/B004XLFP9I/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1321680190&sr=8-1

A big problem will be hdd cost. The Thailand floods have affected a HUGE portion of hdd manufacturing and now hard drive prices are 2-3x what they were before the floods. This is anticipated to be the case through next year...

[Noseyears]

The guys at geeks dot com have a nice selection of computer for people on a budget. A core i3 pc is awesome for a music server.

A SSD drive would be nice, but they are expensive.

[RichP714]

MP3car.com has a good selection of parts; at least the forums are good for ideas when setting up a micro PC.

I ended up with an aopen.com chassis (mac mini size, just a bit wider than a DVD-ROM drive) and separate power supply, then added a touch screen.

I bought the components from ebay; very good price and reliable so far (going on three years)

[gregcss]

Thanks for all of the suggestions . I'll review them to see what will work best.

[mcoaggie]

What do you guys do for power? My pc is fanless with HDMI, digital coax out (P5E-VM HDMI) switching ps makes alot of noise on the line.  Originally built for a home theatre pc but now only plays music.  (My wife didn't like rebooting the TV).    The only thing I've found with enough power is Seasonic X-400 Fanless. 

[barkerpj]

Check out the CAPS V2.0 build on computeraudiophile.com

a bit more expensive but it sounds great