Recommend compatible hardware

[Michael Barkowski]

Hi there, just joining the list.

I am an applications engineer for Freescale and as such I get to use
Linux every day at work.

I'm interested in exploring all manner of home video editing (yes,
really - I have a baby daughter), graphic design and typography, web
design (PHP/CSS/Javascript), music composition, and garage band audio
stuff on Ubuntu at home.

I always find Ars Technica's System Guide interesting, eg.
http://arstechnica.com/guides/buyer/guide-200803.ars

However, I always wish there were a Linux-centric one.

I am currently looking for a low-end but feature-packed system, to
switch from an iMac G5 iSight to an equivalent PC that will run Ubuntu
for say $750+tax including LCD.

Must haves:
- video capture from my MiniDV camcorder (IEEE 1394)
- audio capture via mic port.
- Rock-solid DVD playback
- DVD burning
- 802.11g or higher
- 3D graphics
- Better performance than Mac OS X 10.4 on 1.9 GHz PowerPC G5 with 1GB RAM.

If I go with a laptop it has to be at least 15.4" screen.
I think I'll be running 32-bit since I think I want to install Bibble Pro.

I looked at the DELLs.  One thing that concerned me is that they don't
mention that DVD burning is working.  Is it?  Anyone with experience
on these systems?

Anyway, if anyone wants to comment, that would be great.  I know it's
on me to do the research and there's various stuff out there.

best regards,

-- 
Michael Barkowski
http://www.abriskwok.net