2nd htpc build

[intertan]

I am using my current htpc build as a pc as I know have only mt tablet and phone to do my computer work.

Now this will give me the opportunity to get part of my future plans going. My plan is I want everything in a server rack then go to all the components and tv's.
I am looking for a server case and the hardware to accompany it, 2U-4U but smaller is better.
All I am looking to play for the most part anything I can throw at it. AVi big and small mkv, blu-ray iso when/if xbmc gets to the point it can have menus and so on.

I don't know is I should look at an imbedded intel or amd or somehow get a case that I can fit a single slot nvidia gpu that I might be able to twist sideways to fit into a 2U case.

what are your thoughts?

[stream78m]

Why do you need a server sitting in a rack? That is my question.

I will give you my simple setup.

1x qnap nas (2-bay arm processor) this makes no noise and could sit anywhere.
2x xbmc front end devices. One acting as tvheadend server.

Thats it. As for advice on front end devices. Stick to anything with an inbuilt nvidia or intel graphics card. Stay away from AMD as the linux drivers are not well supported. Perhaps look into an Intel NUC , there are a few people talking about these devices and they have an inbuilt intel graphics card.

[intertan]

there are a few reasons
1. my mounts I have don't have much room to fit anything behind the tv
2. all my other equipment will be in the rack
3. my theater htpc will need more power as I am also planning on emulators (not openelec). will be noise.
4. I don't want to see any sort of equipment in the rooms, I am spending extra cash to get some high end speakers that are hidden in the wall's and ceiling of my house. Not the theater.