CPU, Video Card, Sound Card and Mobo

These components are all tightly linked in requirements, so let's consider them together.

CPU

It looks like a 1080p file takes some power to render. There's a few recommendations:

• 3GHz dual-core minimum
• Get a fast video card instead, and these guys agree
  

Basically, it appears that any new processor will cut it. Maybe check out lower power ones to save on power and heat.

Video Card

The video card might make a big difference. I'm leery about hardware acceleration, as new formats may not be supported. I suppose it would help in the short-term, and maybe alot of the current formats will be used in the future. Maybe I should think about the video card being somewhat disposable.

Based on the MythTv.org site, it doesn't look like acceleration is much of an option. This is probably just as well.

Basically, I think I can pick one well supported by Linux with the proper outputs and I'll be good to go. I think I should be thinking about an HDMI output, since I want 1080p options. Maybe VGA instead? To be continued...

Sound Card

Integrated sound might be enough, since I only want digital output anyway. One thing to consider is Bit Perfect Digital Audio Playback. Check the forums to see if there's more info on that.

Motherboard

It needs to fit the case, and support the CPU I choose. An onboard NIC would be useful, and maybe integrated sound with digital SPDIF/Coax/Toslink. Don't buy an Asus, cause they blow up on you.

Check out the standby and/or low-power options. Also, fan control might be a good idea so it can automagically crank them up with required.

Power Supply

Quiet, powerful and high quality. The OCZ has spoiled me forever, but it's noisy. Look at the Zalman ones, or maybe one that matches the case. Check the efficiency too, since it'll be on alot.