the best set up for encoding

[TheCheesemo]

i want a PC to encode video to DVD player format, then burn it.

I don't want to wait long for the dvd to encode and burn, i also don't want to spend too much money.

im looking at less than a grand... alot less if i can.

i asking for advice on mainly: CPU, RAM, and MOBO.

thank you in advance.

[Soopafresh]

Get a barebones system for $150, then add RAM, a CPU, and a Hard Drive with a DVD Burner

Barebones $150
http://www.newegg.com/Product/Product.aspx?Item=N82E16856110081

CPU $170
http://www.newegg.com/Product/Product.aspx?Item=N82E16819115030

Hard Drive $120
http://www.newegg.com/Product/Product.aspx?Item=N82E16822148288

RAM $45
http://www.newegg.com/Product/Product.aspx?Item=N82E16820211066

DVD Burner $30
http://www.newegg.com/Product/Product.aspx?Item=N82E16827129018

That's around $520 Total. Add a low end video card for $50 if you have a flat screen and need DVI

[TheCheesemo]

quad core is overkill?

[Soopafresh]

Get an 8 Core. The Mac Pro can run XP and only costs $4500

You can see the performance scores for different processors here:

https://forum.videohelp.com/topic336716.html

http://www.techarp.com/x264_Benchmark/gfx/results_intel_big.gif

Yes, a Quad Core will be faster IF your encoding software can take advantage of it. The size of the L2 cache is very important. Your proc should have 4MB minimum, regardless if it is Duo or Quad core. For a quad, the cost will be more and you'll need faster RAM and a better power supply. You'll be getting closer to your $1000 limit.

Good Quad Core Mobo- DFI Blood Iron

http://www.newegg.com/Product/Product.aspx?Item=N82E16813136038

[TheCheesemo]

what kind of difference are we looking at. I could live with under or at an hour of actual encoding and burning time.

[Soopafresh]

Under an hour? That would mean 60fps encoding speed on a 1pass encode. You'll want a high end Quad core.

Accept 1.5 -2 hrs to make it in your budget.

Look at the column on the right - "Time to Encode 2hr movie"

http://www.techarp.com/x264_Benchmark/gfx/results_intel_big.gif

[TheCheesemo]

oh, well.. ok.