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Which NAS motherboard to choose from

#1
Hi,

I have been recently speed running through your videos in YT and is a subscriber (Love your videos). I am still confused on which motherboard + processor, started with the thought of going for a cheap motherboard + processor combo of topton from Ali Express, specifcally this https://vi.aliexpress.com/item/1005006393122396.html. I found it from one of your video. Looking at getting the black. The case I currently liked was the one which wolfgang shared recently over here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Jr5MjhgPz_c

The main reason I am going for intel is because for now I'll be running emby in my NAS till I get a NUC or any other mini PC. I read intel's quick sync performs really well in transcoding. So my confusing was to either go for a mother board + processor combo or buy them seperate. Also since I will eventually move emby out of NAS to a mini PC, should I get an AMD processor for ECC support?

My budget is around 500-700 CAD for the whole setup, excluding the HDD for NAS.
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#2
Thank you for subscribing and for your kind words about the channel—it’s always great to hear from viewers like you! Let me help you break down your options and figure out the best setup for your NAS needs within your budget.

Intel vs. AMD: Which to Choose?
Intel (Quick Sync for Transcoding)

Intel’s Quick Sync Video is excellent for hardware-accelerated transcoding, which is ideal for running Emby or Plex.
If you’re planning to use your NAS for media streaming, an Intel i3/i5/i7 or even Celeron processors (depending on budget) with Quick Sync support is a great choice.
The Topton combo you’re considering is solid and comes with an integrated processor, which makes the build simpler. Just ensure it supports the number of drives you need and has enough expansion options.
AMD (ECC Memory Support)

If you’re planning to use ECC (Error-Correcting Code) memory for improved data reliability and protection, AMD processors like the Ryzen Pro series or EPYC are worth considering.
Since you’re eventually moving Emby to a mini PC, AMD could future-proof your NAS for tasks that benefit from ECC, like running ZFS or handling critical data.
Keep in mind that AMD setups are usually more flexible but may require a separate GPU for transcoding tasks.
Motherboard + Processor Combo vs. Separate Components
Combo Boards (e.g., Topton):

Pre-built combos like the Topton are cost-effective and often include a compact form factor with low power consumption.
Ideal for a streamlined build with fewer compatibility headaches.
Downsides: Limited upgradability and potentially lower quality components (depends on the seller).
Separate Components:

Buying separate allows you to hand-pick components with better longevity, performance, and expandability.
For your budget, you could pair an Intel i5-12400 or AMD Ryzen 5 5600G with a Mini-ITX or Micro-ATX motherboard.
Downsides: Slightly higher cost and more time spent ensuring compatibility.
Case Recommendation
The case Wolfgang shared in his video is a fantastic choice—it’s compact, supports multiple drives, and has a clean design. Just ensure it has good airflow for your planned setup.

Other great options include:

Fractal Design Node 304: Compact, supports 6 drives, and has excellent build quality.
SilverStone DS380: Supports 8 hot-swappable drives, ideal for NAS builds.
Cooler Master N400: Budget-friendly with room for multiple drives.
Budget Breakdown (500-700 CAD)
Here’s a potential build to guide you:

Intel-Based Setup:

CPU: Intel i5-12400 (Quick Sync support) – ~220 CAD
Motherboard: ASRock H670M-ITX/ax – ~150 CAD
RAM: 16GB DDR4 3200MHz (non-ECC) – ~80 CAD
Case: Fractal Node 304 – ~120 CAD
PSU: Corsair SF450 – ~90 CAD
Total: ~660 CAD
AMD-Based Setup (ECC Support):

CPU: AMD Ryzen 5 5600G – ~200 CAD
Motherboard: ASRock B550M Pro4 (ECC support) – ~150 CAD
RAM: 16GB DDR4 3200MHz (ECC) – ~120 CAD
Case: SilverStone DS380 – ~180 CAD
PSU: Seasonic Focus 550W – ~100 CAD
Total: ~750 CAD
Final Thoughts
If your immediate focus is on Emby and transcoding, the Topton combo or an Intel-based build with Quick Sync is the better option.
If you want a future-proof NAS for data integrity and ECC support, consider the AMD setup.
Both setups can be tailored to your needs while staying within your budget.
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