TV Tuner + Graphics cards: Combined vs. Separate (1 Viewer)

[Jeff Jacobson]

I am going to be building a new PC. I need some advice about TV Tuner/Capture cards. Should I get a Graphics/Tuner combo (e.g., one of the ATI All-in-Wonder cards) or should I get separate graphics and tuner cards.

For the moment, I don't need HDTV support, but may get an HDTV card in the future (before the FCC Broadcast Flag goes into effect). Are there any compatibility issues I'll need to worry about when it's time to upgrade to an HDTV card?

 

[Gabriel_Lam]

I'd personally go separate, but they're both great ways to go these days, and you'll get supporters either way.

 

[Jeff Jacobson]

Why do you prefer separate cards?

(This is the motherboard that I plan on getting, if it makes a difference.)

 

[Gabriel_Lam]

I prefer separates, because I like the TV tuner cards. The quality is better (slightly) with the philips 9-bit or cognexant 10-bit chips. It's a small difference, but every little bit counts, especially if your display is high quality.

It also gives you a wider range of graphics cards to choose from, and often at better costs.

 

[Scott L]

Separate cards definitely support more options. If you want the best quality the Hauppauge PVRs are always getting rave reviews, from people who've had many cards even.

A separate HD-tuner card shouldn't have any compatibility issues with an AIW.

 

[DaveNel]

I would also go separate, The graphics would be the same either way. But if the Tuner ever goes out chances are the video card also will then you will be replacing 2 components .

 

[Jeff Jacobson]

Okay, I think I'll go the separate route. What you guys have said makes sense.

I'm thinking about getting this capture card: Hauppauge PCI TV/FM Tuner Card, Model "WinTV-dbx(WINTV401)" -RETAIL Is this a pretty good one?

 

[Scott L]

This one's better. Link, wish they'd go down in price!

 

[Ashley-_-C]

I did a whole bunch of reseach and you can strech you $$$ further buying getting each of them seperately

Im refering to high ends like the 9800PRO AIW

 

[Jeff Jacobson]

So does the 401 card only let you use its own software?