Recommended AMD processor

[senile]

I am looking for a dual core low power TWP AMD processor for my home entertainment PC. It has a AM3+ motherboard and currently a semprom single core which is struggling with media. Which CPU would you recommend for me?

[Jonboy]

Sho, I think your best bet would be the most powerful dual-core Phenom II available, namely the Phenom II X2 565, which uses 80W. If you're willing to sacrifice another 45W though, you could get a Phenom II X4 955 quad core model which would be much better with the media. Pricing is largely irrelevant, you're talking a few hundred rands difference.

[IcePick88]

Jonboy is on the money.

Get the Phenom II X2 565. More then enough for a media centre.
Even have a look at the one I have. Also good enough and cheaper.

[KALSTER]

Are the Athlon IIs not good enough? As far as I know, the cheapest duel core Athlon II will be more than fast enough for HD playback etc.

[senile]

Are the Athlon IIs not good enough? As far as I know, the cheapest duel core Athlon II will be more than fast enough for HD playback etc.

The problem is the PSU is rated at 150w. It's a non-standard Antec design for mini-itx chassis so cannot be upgraded. And finding a sub 95W Athlon II is difficult.

At the moment the system is running a 250Gb system disk, 1.5Tb media disk and Semprom 45W cpu for which I have calculated total usage to about 130w. I am concerned that an Athlon II will make the PSU explode