It's a far nicer improvement over previous generation HTPC motherboards thanks to the newer processors and 800 MHz DDR2 support. You can find the DG35EC bundled with a Core 2 Duo E8400 processor for $270.00 at places like Tigerdirect. The Intel DG35EC m-ATX Motherboard has been seen around for about $85 or less. Either way, it's finally money very, well spent. So, if your current HTPC has been burdened by some pretty big processes and seems slower than normal, it's probably time to consider the Intel DG35EC Motherboard.