[mythtv-users] Second Opinions on Hardware

[Michael Bunting]

Well, I've decided to finally build myself a PVR and quickly found that 
MythTV was heavily recommended.  Considering this'll also be my first real 
experience with Linux, I'm sure I'm in for quite the learning experience.  
In any case, after doing some research and some basic checking through the 
*immense* mailing list archives, I've put together a preliminary hardware 
list.  Since I'm sure that many out there understand the nuances of this 
better than myself, I was hoping to get a second opinion before spending 
lots of hard-earned cash.

My main criteria for this are:
   - Watch Live TV and record at the same time
   - Play and burn DVDs
   - Living room placement, so it must be very quiet and relatively cool
   - Small form factor would be preferable, but not entirely necessary

Here's what I'm looking at so far, which is likely more than I need:
   - Hauppage PVR-350
   - Intel P4 2.0GHz, 512MB memory
   - Western Digital SATA 200GB hard drive
   - Sony DRU-510A multi-format DVD burner
   - Mandrake 9.2 OS

I'd originally hoped to use a Shuttle SB65G2, though since I'll likely need 
two tuners, its single PCI slot won't be enough.  I've also been looking at 
a CoolerMaster 620, although it's considerably bigger than I'd prefer.  Any 
further recommendations for small form factor cases with enough capacity 
would be particularly appreciated.  Thanks for your help.

   -Michael

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