I have about $1200 to spend on 2 boxes and I'd like them to be identical. Very basic web serving, simple HTML5 video, light email serving. Looking around NewEgg, I come across:
http://www.newegg.com/Product/Product.aspx?Item=9SIA65C1ZT3064
These use ECC unbuffered RAM which is expensive but I did find 8gb sticks for under $70 each: http://www.newegg.com/Product/Product.aspx?Item=N82E16820613386
I'd still have to add hard drives and more RAM and 2nd GB NICS. I also found out the power supply is non standard so if it goes in order to put in a standard power supply you need an adaptor: http://www.moddiy.com/products/IBM-Lenovo-PSU-Main-Power-24%252dPin-to-14%25...
I haven't purchased hardware in 2 years. I could even use a desktop system versus this "server" class. I feel like by time I add more to each box to make it run perhaps there is a better machine to buy?
Anyway if anyone has any advice I'd appreciate it. These are personal funds, I don't want to make a poor decision.
Jason