I've been doing a fair amount of research on what components would be ideal for building a media center PC, but I'm still unsure. I don't want to wait around for things to load, but I also don't want it to be overkill. Here's what I do want:

Conservative power consumption
Runs cool (I don't want a second heater in the room)
Quiet
1080p video output (will have a Blu-Ray drive, also HD movies on hard drive)
Able to deliver 1080p with being overtaxed
Solid audio output (HTPC -> Onkyo Receiver -> Bose Acoustimass 5)

I want this unit to perform, but I don't think it really needs to be bleeding edge. It won't be used for gaming, just movies and music and such. What components should I purchase for this build? What components will have the best performance:cost ratio?

Thank you for your help.

For Clarification:

This PC will be used for playing movies from the Blu-Ray drive and from the hard drive. I do not have cable TV and will not be recording TV shows. Just playing existing movies and music. I also do not plan on overclocking this unit. It will run at default speeds

I'm looking to spend less than $800 but can go higher if necessary to get the desired performance. I'm looking to get all new parts and will be purchasing them using US Dollars right here in the good old USA. I do not have a brand preference.

I have searched many threads on this issue, but most of them are pretty dated. I need more current recommendations. I will be building this machine in two months.

check out my thread on Energy Efficient Desktops, not far below yours . I'm also looking for the ultimate machine for running Mythbuntu

Just to reiterate what I already posted in v@ny@'s thread:

I like the sound of the nVidia Ion, but I don't know that I want to wait. Is this thing supposed to be a massive step forward? The last thing I want to do is spend money just before something awesome comes out.

I did some research on the nVidia Ion and found that it consumes a fair amount more power than a 945GM/E-based system.

Toonses82,

If you want full 1080p, you'll want to wait for ION.