lower power versus faster processor

[rsqdivr]

quick recommendation question:

for a freeNas media server, I think the most resource intensive content I'd be serving is streaming video to htpc(s) in the house. I intend to use a server motherboard (with ECC). With that said, I'm torn between using a lower powered i3 2120T (35W), versus a faster, newer xenon. I'm not sure the extra power/money is worth it considering the usage. I'd appreciate any suggestions. Thanks.

 

[joeschmuck]

It depends on your playback devices and your media. If you have media that is compatible with your playback devices then you do not need transcoding and can use a slower CPU. If you need to transcode then a faster CPU will help you out. I personally prefer to ensure all my media is in a compatible format so the end device can handle any work required. This could allow you to use Plex without transcoding or MiniDLNA which doesn't transcode at all. I am using both MiniDLNA and Plex. I'm only using Plex because I wanted to play with it and it does work well.

P.S. I think the i3 would be fine for transcoding but you should ask a Plex thread about that.

 

[Michael Wulff Nielsen]

I use a Core i3 4130 for some light transcoding (1080p mkv to ipad/iphone) and that works extremely well.