I have setup HTPC for HD for quite sometime. The most important factor is the fan noise from the system. This is the no issue with the machine. DS3 is good enough. Also, 8600GT or 3950 will do nicely (remember to get custom low noise fan). Look for PSU with low db. 450w to 500w is good enough. If possible, get video card with HDMI so you don't need to spend another 100++ for the DVI to HDMI convertor. TV card is only needed if you want to record and watch our crap TV on your HDTV.