[TriLUG] MythTV Front End

[Jason White]

* Lee (elfick at mac.com) [070723 14:35]:
> As I settle into my new domain I am contemplating setting up a MythTV  
> system. I'd like to get some thoughts on what kind of hardware to use  
> for the front end. It should be something as small as possible not an  
> eyesore. I'm leaning towards a mac mini. Thoughts/opinions/suggestions?
> -Lee

HD is the critical component here.  I was running an Athlon 2600+
(1.8ghz, I think) with an Nvidia FX5200 (cheap, but very effective
card) for a couple years until I started the HD thing.  Because HD
wants raw clock speed, I switched to an Intel 3.0ghz P4, and haven't
looked back.  The Athon would studder badly on HD, but the P4 has
no problem.  I still use the same Nvidia card -- works great using DVI
to my HDTV or <gasp> S-video to my analog Trinitron.  

I should also point out that I'm using a HD5000 tuner, and this is all
inside an Antec Overture II case (piano black).  Case looks pleasing
to the eye, except I did unplug the bright blue LED in front, which I
highly suggest, unless you need an extra nightlight.  It's also a very
quiet case (important for a living room location).  Only negative is
that it's pretty flimsy because it's partially made from lightweight
aluminum, but it doesn't move around, so it's not a problem.

Oh, and finally, I'm using a Zenith Silver Sensor antenna for HD OTA.
Wonderful little antenna, but harder to find now -- just picked up
another one on ebay for $20.  (NE Raleigh, ~9m from the main tower,
and UNC/PBS isn't a problem either)

Jason