Attn computer geeks...I need some recommendations

Hey fellow geeks,
Over the last few years, I've not done a good job of keeping up with how the various manufacturers are keeping up with the technology.  I used to really like Asus motherboards and nVidia video cards, but don't know how they compare to the competition these days and if they have maintained a decent quality reputation. 
The other day, I picked up a new HDTV tuner for my HTPC...only to find out that my computer was way insufficient to run it (my original HTPC - 8 years old now...upgraded a bit along the way)  So long story short, I'm in need of building a new HTPC.  I'm starting with a tuner and a few TB of hard drives.  My budget is about $500 for the rest.
I only buy Intel CPUs and need something that's a quad core (it's recommended to have a core per extender) which is clearly going to be the most expensive single part of this  I was looking at this case , 8 GB of system memory, something about like this for Blu-Ray.  I really have no preference on video cards, but would prefer to have a dedicated video card vs. integrated.  I'm not really stuck on any one of those components that I listed and would be interested in hearing your recommendations.  So to recap, My budget is roughly $500 and I need
Motherboard
Blu-Ray
Quad core Intel CPU
4 - 8 GB Memory (more than 8 GB is just a waste on an HTPC)
HTPC Case
Video card - (should have HDMI out)
Any recommendations?  Any help is greatly appreciated.
--AJ

 

I can't remember where I saw it, but I saw a video of some CPUs when they took the heatsink off.  The idea was to see how the CPU reacted, protected itself, your computer, etc.  The Intel CPUs all did a pretty good job of shutting down without burning up, but the results were mixed with the AMD chips...with one AMD virtually bursting into flames.  Now it was probably from an Intel fanboy, but I've heard that the AMD chips run hotter as a general rule and heat doesn't mix well with HTPCs as they aren't always in areas where they get the best air flow.  I'm sure they're fine for most purposes, but I just prefer Intel.
--AJ

 

I've been using Windows Media center since it was released back in 2003 I think.  The current machine (Dell Dimension 4700) was purchased in late 2004.  I've had various tuners in it over the years, upgraded the hard drives, memory and video card, but still running the original motherboard and P4 Hyperthreading CPU.  I use XBox 360s (2) as the extenders with the main Media Center machine running Windows 7.  I was really surprised when that old Dell took Windows 7 without any issues at all.
I tried XBMC on my old XBox and really liked it.  Really customizable and lots of neat features.
--AJ

 

Good feedback Andy.  I've always heard good things about Gigabyte boards...and that seems to be a common theme so far.  Sounds like I just have to pick a motherboard model now.

 

I think I've decided on a configuration...and came pretty close to being on budget.
Case
Power Supply
Memory
Motherboard
Quad Core CPU with Integrated Video
Blu-Ray RW Drive
So between rebates and discounts, the total price shipped to my door is just under $517.
I really like the case.  All of the integrated media card reader options, USB, and general look & feel.  I think it does a nice job of looking more like an electronic component than a PC.
I ended up going with integrated video vs. a stand alone card for a few reasons...cost, limited number of slots on the mobo due to being Micro-ATX form factor, fewer components to create heat and require cooling, and I read that the HD 3000 integrated video is actually pretty good.  It only ended up being $20 more than a slightly slower quad core CPU so it helped to keep the cost down.
With the Micro-ATX form factor requirement on the motherboard, it really cut the number of options.  There was a Gigabyte motherboard, and a couple of Intel motherboards.  The Intel options had a few features that I liked a bit better (external SATA, etc.) and I figured that I would get the best compatibility by keeping it all Intel.  The idea is stability as I have no plans on overclocking.
The power supply was cheap and rated well by reviewers...and if it's too loud, I may end up getting a different one, but for $17, how can you argue with the price.
The memory is a bit more expensive than some of the other options, but it's also got a lower CAS latency that's the perfect speed for the North-bridge on the motherboard and built in heat-sinks.
The Blu-Ray drive is a RW for just a few dollars more than a read only...and was able to be combined with the CPU for a combo discount.
All in all, I feel pretty good about the choices.  Everything is matched up pretty well.  We'll see how it all comes together when the parts show up next week.  If it ends up being a little loud, I'll start removing fans and putting in solid state coolers, but I thought I would give it a shot first to see what it sounded like as-is.  I'll post some pics when I get it all assembled.
--AJ

 

Nice case...I like it a lot!
--AJ

 

Parts are in, HTPC assembled and finishing up Windows install. I'll snap a few pics tomorrow.

--AJ