[mythtv-users] recommendations?: energy efficient FE/BE system

[James Miller]

Hello all. Since I have a tax refund coming soon and my Myth box 
(combination FE/BE, currently running Mythbuntu 12.04) is getting a bit 
long in the tooth, I'm seriously considering an upgrade. I'd like to ask 
here for recommendations for a replacement system, whether that be in the 
form of a pre-built box, or individual hardware components. I live in the 
US, btw, and do have experience putting together computers from parts. I 
do plan on installing the OS myself--likely a newer version of Mythbuntu.

The main needs I will have are for a DVI video output (I use for display 
an older 39 inch monitor that does 720p and has only DVI port), capacity 
for at least 2 hard drives--preferably internal, and low power 
consumption. I'm kind of indifferent to HD TV, so high-end display 
capabilities are a low priority for me. As far as capture devices go, I'm 
leaning toward an HDHomerun of one or another stripe. I currently have 3 
inputs: one for OTA and two devoted to cable. I'd like to keep that 
arrangement. I should be able to budget around 500 for this upgrade and I 
already have a new 1TB SATA drive to incorporate. I also plan to keep this 
as a combination FE/BE box.

I've done a little preliminary research and found, for example, this 
pre-built box: 
http://www.logicsupply.com/computers/hardware-line/commercial/mc600b-10/. 
Anyone have any opinions on that low-power unit as a Myth FE/BE box?

I realize I could economize by buying parts separately and putting them 
together myself and am prepared to do that. The problem is that I don't 
have much experience with or knowledge about energy-efficient components 
and will need to start more or less from scratch in determining what 
energy-efficient components will go together and will be compatible with 
Myth. So if anyone has recommendations for components, or can point me to 
some site(s) where such can be identified and/or bought, I would be happy 
to know about them.

In any case, recommendations and advice on these subjects will be much 
appreciated.

Thanks
James