After reading lot of articles on internet and multiple threads on HiFi Vision, I seemed to have formed some understanding on what are the possible options if one was to setup a good media experience in living room.
HTPC sure sounds a better option if one wants to use analog speakers like me.
I checked the prices of the components on almost all websites to see if I can make a great HTPC under 15k. I seem to be getting there.
Plus if one really takes the route of a Media Player like HiMedia (7k) + HDD (3K) + Sound Converter (DTA) (5K) - it comes at around same price.
Check this cart which I made at SMCInternational.in for HTPC:
Name SKU Price Quantity / Update Subtotal
Corsair DDR3 2GB VS2GB1333D3 G
crVS2GB1333D3 G 750.00
1,500.00
Msi E350IA-E45--AMD Fusion Platform
E350IA-E45 6,600.00
6,600.00
Cooler Master Elite 100
Cooler Master Elite 100 3,200.00
3,200.00
Lenovo Multimedia Remote with keyboard N5901
LenovoN5901 1,699.00
1,699.00
WD Caviar Green 1TB SATA Desktop Hard drive (WD10EARS)
WD10EARS 2,650.00
2,650.00
Subtotal: 15,649.00
Tax Total: 0.00
Total: 15,649.00
The only thing I can optimize is perhaps the Lenovo Keypad, but then again I will have to shell some money either on Wireless KB/Mouse or some IR Remote. BTW, can someone bless this rig?
One other thing which is luring me is the b-rad (wdlxtv) on WD TV. In 6k, one can get WDTV HD from SMCInternational and the use an existing external drive to get going. The 5.1 problem still doesn't get solved but I have been very impressed on the capabilities I saw for this on Youtube and other places
For people who are not aware of all the websites and options, I am listing down what I have learned from here or know (maybe some search crawler will pick up and bring people here) (No Particular order - search everywhere and choose where you get best deal):
1. Primeabgb.com - Has decent number of items but shipping costs are a bit on higher side
2. TheITDepot.com - More number of items on the website. You can get some exotic items like cable management solution etc. Shipping costs are reasonable. Packing is decent. They do charge you 2-3% for credit card payments (same as PrimeAbGb)
3. Ebay.in - No brainer
4. DigitalBay.co.in - Found this through here. Nice options for media frenizes
5. ICCWorld.com, ShopYourWorld.com, vpost - Buying in US and getting it delivered to India
6. SMCInternational.in - Was not aware of this, but looks like they have the cheapest items. The only place where Ebay.in sometimes topples these sites is on no credit card charge and options of availing EMI
7. Detna.com - If you looking to purchase HiMedia and other players
8. Other Websites:
Computer Warehouse Online - Buy Computers, Computer Parts, Computer Accessories, Laptops and Electronics ,
Xtreamer india : Xtreamer is being sold in India by Xtreamer India
There are numerous others too like letsbuy but no one gives very competitive pricing. Please add more if you know so that we have pleothra of options when we look for components
I stay in Hyderabad, I have found that by getting stuff delivered at home typically saves me a good amount as the online costs are lower than CTC (Local IT Hub) and I also save on the time/petrol I spend going there. Shops located in Mumbai, Chennai - Cities with ports seem to offer best deals. Though I have seen some bangalore and delhi seller also giving competitive pricing. No point going to local IT Hub when you have tomshardware, anandtech, hifivision and other websites to guide you and other great indian sites to buy directly from.
Only word of caution: Online shopping is addictive esp if you are a tech enthusiast.
Cheers
hyeah: Would love to pick it up in my next visit there.
