After posting a few questions to the local Madison Linux User Group (MadLUG) I have gotten some very interesting input. First of all I have found out that I need to learn more about framebuffer vs non-framebuffer (whatever the latter is called) and additionally since the TV is HDTV (is that how you would put it?) I might be able to use resolutions higher than the previously thought 640×480 or the little higher seven-hundred-by-something with the S-Video. Here is a link that was posted by one of the members: http://www.digitalconnection.com/FAQ/HDTV_4.asp.
Plus I am thinking of waiting longer on the hardware purchase since one MadLUG member mentioned that he has successfully used his P2 450MHz for video playback. On a side note: two weeks ago I actually cancelled the cable service because it was just too adictive. Usually I would end up spending way too much time in front of the TV, I am talking at least one movie every night and 2+ on Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays! Since the cable has been cancelled I don’t think I really need to setup the Recording (R) part of the PVR/DVR right away 🙂
I have also been told to checkout the AVS Forums so I will be spending some time on there now. Let’s see how it goes…