Xserve custer Vs. G5 boxes

Just wondering if anyone is running an AJA IO FCP suite on an xserve instead of a G5 box? Basically is even possible, or worth considering?

We've got our dealer looking at this for us, but I'd be very interested in hearing of any pro's and con's from some of the people here (and generally getting a second opinion.)

We're already running the IO / G5 / Maeda setup listed bottom of page (listed Mac 1), but an option may be putting together 2 new suites based around a central racked cluster - something along the lines of this:

2 x 2Ghz Xserve (2Gb RAM each) - one to run each FTP suite
3 x 2Ghz Xserve custer nodes (2Gb RAM each)
2 x AJA IO LD - one to run each FTP suite
1 x Maeda 960 Gb 10 bay RAID (split into 2 x 5 bay setups - one for each suite)

2 x 23" apple HD displays
2 x SDI PAL JVC monitors

The thinking behind this is that it allows the existing G5 box to go over to being a Maya workstation. The headed Xserves then share the RAID, creating 2 FCP AJA IO suites, with the option of bring all 5 Xserves online at night for Maya and Shake rendering. We've got several months of 20 min per frame Maya to render and composite - so the idea of servers is appealing for stability.

It sounds neat - and space saving (all rack mounted etc) but will it work?..

I'm aware of the issues of connecting apple displays to Xserves, and the fact that we'll need to add standard Panther to systems to run FCP, but any other thoughts would be appreciated.

The other option is just to go for 5 of the new 2.5 Ghz G5 boxes and daisy chain at night - this may be easier, cheaper and more flexible in the long run.

So, any thoughts?

Luke Wilmot

I would go with all g5 desktops. You will have room for audio cards and be more future proof. the xserve is intended to fit in a small space and use less power but they are loud and need a server closet, also limited expansion. At night you can just add the desktop g5s to the render farm for DVD studio, shake, after effects, maya, lightwave others.
Read this thread if you have questions.
http://www.creativecow.net/forum/read_thread_content.php?postid=&highlight=...

Adam