I'm looking to purchase a new server. I am new to the hosting and linux world with primaerily end user experience. I am thinking about an XTR but a number of people have suggested going with an intel box with either Plesk or Ensim.

Any thoughts on the current XTRs or the other choices would be helpful.

Cobalt's are great choices for new server administrator. Another advantage is that a great deal of third party software is produced freely for the cobalt with easy to install packages, which you will not have with generic linux boxes.

Although the XTR is a good server, from what I remember it is a bit pricey in comparison to other Cobalt servers. Depending on your needs, you might consider the Cobalt RAQ 550, which provides comparable power.