Hey guys,
I’m not new to the media server concept, but this will be the first time I actually go in that direction. I’m not too familiar with the technicalities, but I understand the basics and how to get set up.
For frame of reference, this particular setup will be utilized by two individuals approaching their 70s, and a young adult with a slight learning disability. I’m attempting to simplify their viewing habits by putting all of their media together (hundreds of DVD/BRs, music, home videos, photos) and making it accessible through Plex. They will also utilize Plex and/or the Channels app on Apple TV to record live TV to storage through an HDHomerun with a Comcast CableCard.
The decisions over hardware has me at a bit of a stand-still. Do I go with a tower and internal storage, do I use storage directly attached to my server, or do I attach a NAS or array to my network router? These are a few of the questions I can’t seem to wrap my head around. Ideally, we’re looking for:
- the capability of occasionally having 4-5 simultaneous 1080p transcodes (8000-1000 passmark, if I’m not mistaken)
- a solution that doesn’t leave our data at risk (NAS vs. attached, etc.?)
- a quiet and power-conscious non-Nas server solution (Mac Mini, Alienware Alpha, Dell SFF desktop?)
- storage with at least 4-bays
- simple enough maintenance and/or fixes via a Web UI or desktop app
I would appreciate any help in narrowing down the options beyond this point. I seem to have hit a wall and I can’t tell if it’s a matter of just picking any of the options and going with it, or if there is a legitimate “best” for our use-case. Of course, cost will factor in as well.
Thanks much in advance! I’m looking forward to getting this up and running!
