Well after configuring a million different "self build" options on various mini itx sites I gave up and bought a 2.0Ghz March 09 mac mini, I have to say its WAY better than the previous generation (1.8Ghz '06). In practical terms the thing is essentially silent. I have pretty good ears (although I'm...

many thanks for your advice, I feel a lot better about spending the extra cash knowing that somebody who has a long term interest in this stuff thinks its the best option. I got quite excited initially about the prospect of all the mini-itx stuff but perhaps its not quite where i need it to be just ...

I already own a pre March 2009 mac mini which I use in my smallish tv room, and can say that the only time you know its on is when you're seeking in an HD movie (1080p through PLEX). Anyway the reason for my post, I want a new media PC for playing music and feeding my projector (in my big lounge). W...