That's why a HTPC shouldn't be built just because... Not everybody needs one. To me it only makes sense if someone needs total control over video filters, tv recording, and media streaming accross a network etc... HTPC's require a lot of tweaking (that is the price to pay for extreme customization), so if you're not willing to spend that much time then I wouldn't recommend it. HTPC's allow you to design and build a sophisticated home video/audio system for the whole home for a fraction of the cost of a full blown commercial application, but they're more expensive in time taken to set it all up (not a piece of cake).
Also the whole HDTV/HDCP deal complicates the issue (though I'm pretty confident that workaround will be found).
