And remember that most expensive is not necessarily the same as "has best support in Linux and AOS"...
I'm using a 7500, no problems. Many others are using 8x00, not too much fuss. Use 9x00 -> Gotta run latest and hottest of unstable software to get any support...
About Mandrake: If you manage to get it installed (cheating is ok, so you can install elsewhere and move over afterwards). The important bit is the kernel, which Mandrake can't give you anyway. Only amigaone-linux.sourceforge.net can help there...
