I'm looking to add one or more frontends to my current setup of a single frontend/backend machine. I've been eyeing the Shuttle SN21G5 as a possible candidate for several reasons:

1. Size/Looks - it is a very nice looking box that is only 7"x8"x12".

2. Price - around $200 for case, power supply, and motherboard (with integrated video and audio). I already have an Socket 939 Athlon 64 3700+ that I can use. I'll just need 1 GB RAM and a hard drive.

Expandability is not an issue as I have 4 tuners in my backend. Can't see adding more anytime soon...

The question is going to be whether or not this is going to work for HDTV. I've read about people using this for SD, but not HD. I'll be connecting to a 720p LCD display. Does anyone know if there are any issues with this product for HD (especially driver issues)?

Thanks,
Chris Fox

Well I decided to give it a shot and was successful.

I added to the Shuttle SN21G5:

Athlon 64 3700+
Corsair 1GB Value Select DDR-3200
old 20 GB hard drive
old DVD-ROM

The case looks great. The fan nosie is pretty minimal, so I think it be fine in the noise department with the wife. It is very loud on boot, but quickly dies down.

I can only get analog audio out of the soundcard, but that is fine for my application. VGA only out is also ok for me. I bought a Sceptre 20" HD LCD (1368x768 native). Will work out great in the kitchen.

Initial tests playing back HDTV are good...

Hope this helps...

Chris