Help on bulding a media server

[johnrus]

The last system I built was over 2 years ago so, I am sure many things have changed.
I want to build a system that will serve as a media server and allow me to watch HDTV on it.

I am leaning toward an Intel Q9XXX I want plenty of power but the i7 seems a bit too expensive.
I am open to motherboard venders with the following needs: ATX, 6 SATA hot plug connections,
2 PCI X16 slots and 3 PCI slots, Gigabit ethernet, DDR2 1600 FSB.

The new ATI 4770 video card will be used to drive my 22" display and hdmi connection to my 42'
flat screne tv.

The OS will br vista Ultimate or Windows 7 I am not sure about the PVR software or the best method of media control. The pc's will be connected with cat6 cable and a gigabit switch.

If my list is out in left field any and all suggestions are welcom and appreciated.

Thanks,
John

 

[n3f0ur]

These meet your requirements. There are others, but they either miss one feature you need or are more expensive.

DFI LP LT X48-T2R LGA 775 Intel X48 ATX Intel Motherboard - Retail
http://www.newegg.com/Product/Product.aspx?Item=N82E16813136046

DFI LANPARTY DK X48-T2RS LGA 775 Intel X48 ATX Intel Motherboard - Retail
http://www.newegg.com/Product/Product.aspx?Item=N82E16813136047

Foxconn BlackOps X48 LGA 775 Intel X48 ATX Intel Motherboard - Retail
http://www.newegg.com/Product/Product.aspx?Item=N82E16813186144

DFI LP DK X48-T2RSB PLUS LGA 775 Intel X48 ATX Intel Motherboard - Retail
http://www.newegg.com/Product/Product.aspx?Item=N82E16813136054

Go with Q9550 which has more cache than the lesser quads.

As for PVR/TV card, look for ones with ATSC / ClearQAM tuners. I'd stay away from USB. Hauppauge comes with basic software for PVR, TV viewer, etc.

http://www.newegg.com/Product/ProductList.aspx?Submit=ENE&N=50001772%2040000047%201148542844&name=ATSC%20%2f%20ClearQAM%20%2f%20NTSC&SpeTabStoreType=0