Need expert advice....

[BorisDBlade]

I found mythbuntu while searching for free dvr/pvr software. I run ubuntu 8.04 on my laptop but xp pro on my desktop. My desktop is the one I want to convert into an htpc. It's original design was gaming, but I've converted a lot of my dvds to avi/divx and filled up a 750gb drive. Instead of wasting dvds and burning them to play in my divx player, I'd rather have my computer connected. But having a windows interface with a keyboard and mouse isn't practical in a large living room.
Here's where I need expert help, first computer specs:

intel core 2 duo a 2.4ghz each
asus p5n32-sli deluxe (has spdif/digital coax out)
2 x xfx 7900gt in sli
2gb 800mhz ddr2
creative xfi fatality 1 gamer edition sound card
combined 2tb space over 3 disks (not in any raid)

I don't have a tv tuner card yet, will be added later for free ota HD TV
TV is a 42" LG LCD with 1080p

2 questions: video drivers compatible with sli/is it enough for real-time HD?
Second question: Should I use the onboard audio or the creative card to connect to 5.1 surround sound (does creative even have good xfi drivers for linux?)?

Any help is appreciated and thanks in advance.

[jaakan]

I found mythbuntu while searching for free dvr/pvr software. I run ubuntu 8.04 on my laptop but xp pro on my desktop. My desktop is the one I want to convert into an htpc. It's original design was gaming, but I've converted a lot of my dvds to avi/divx and filled up a 750gb drive. Instead of wasting dvds and burning them to play in my divx player, I'd rather have my computer connected. But having a windows interface with a keyboard and mouse isn't practical in a large living room.
Here's where I need expert help, first computer specs:

intel core 2 duo a 2.4ghz each
asus p5n32-sli deluxe (has spdif/digital coax out)
2 x xfx 7900gt in sli
2gb 800mhz ddr2
creative xfi fatality 1 gamer edition sound card
combined 2tb space over 3 disks (not in any raid)

I don't have a tv tuner card yet, will be added later for free ota HD TV
TV is a 42" LG LCD with 1080p

2 questions: video drivers compatible with sli/is it enough for real-time HD?
Second question: Should I use the onboard audio or the creative card to connect to 5.1 surround sound (does creative even have good xfi drivers for linux?)?

Any help is appreciated and thanks in advance.

support for SLi on Linux was added to nvs ( Non-open )drivers I think 2 years ago

NVIDIA Linux SLI
http://www.phoronix.com/scan.php?page=article&item=338&num=1

if your motherboard has a digital out and your connecting to an extrenal decoder ( PRO/PRE or Receiver ) I'd just use that

What i think is that you should the configuration as simple as you can.

but if you have the time try both sound cards and with and without SLI