Hi folks, my machine just died so it's time to shop for a new one, and might as well kick the tires on distros at the same time. Can anyone give my their recommendations (and stay-away-froms) for a microATX factor board/chip combo that will work well for setting up a linux audio workstation to be used with a Presonus Firepod?

Anyone have experiences to share re the Ubuntu Studio 9.10 and the Firepod? ( or other presonus firewire cards ).

thanks
Iain