Help me choose a card for my HTPC!

[|MaguS|]

So I want to turn my HTPC into a gaming capable HTPC. I am currently using an onboard gpu that just wont cut it. I want a single card solution that will be able to pass audio through HDMI aswell as video. If it can't then it's no good for me...

I was thinking about getting the 4870 1GB or a GTX 260 but I don't know the performance they will provide at 1080p. Im not an AA ***** so as long as it can play most games smoothly, I would be happy. I don't want to spend more then $250 and I don't care for multiple card support.

Do you all think I could find a GTX 280 at that price? Lowest I found new was $300 or used for $275.

[Xion X2]

So I want to turn my HTPC into a gaming capable HTPC. I am currently using an onboard gpu that just wont cut it. I want a single card solution that will be able to pass audio through HDMI aswell as video. If it can't then it's no good for me...

I was thinking about getting the 4870 1GB or a GTX 260 but I don't know the performance they will provide at 1080p. Im not an AA ***** so as long as it can play most games smoothly, I would be happy. I don't want to spend more then $250 and I don't care for multiple card support.

Do you all think I could find a GTX 280 at that price? Lowest I found new was $300 or used for $275.

My 260 works great as a blu-ray equipped HTPC. Using PowerDVD 8. I'm using a sound card, though, so I can't speak for the HDMI audio.

[|MaguS|]

Don't have any interest in playing Blu-Ray on my HTPC since I have a PS3.

[Blacklash]

I like this HD 4870 1Gb for 230usd or 205usd with rebate:

http://www.newegg.com/Product/Product.aspx?Item=N82E16814127400

It has a good cooler on it too.

[Toss3]

I'd get a GTX 260 if you're gonna use it for a HTPC. :) Drivers are better and it supports Ycbcr over hdmi.

[boredgunner]

I like this HD 4870 1Gb for 230usd or 205usd with rebate:

http://www.newegg.com/Product/Product.aspx?Item=N82E16814127400

It has a good cooler on it too.

The GTX 260 (CORE 216) is a better choice over the 4870 since it wins in most benchmarks, uses less power, and it runs cooler.