X-Box (non 360) Modding

I'm now getting an old Xbox, so I can go ahead and mod it in order to turn it into what you'd consider a media center / codefree HD DVD player.

So much for the intention. You guys got any advice on how to actually do that...?
Other than "dude, use google"

Jam it back in, in the dark.

Cool, thanks I'll pester you with questions when the thing's arrived.

There's nowhere I can't reach.

Okay additional question: is it possible to unlock the HD capabilities (since i have it hooked up with a component cable) with softmodding, or is that something i need to go hard-mod on the thing?

This thing is sticky, and I don't like it. I don't appreciate it.

Kewl. Thx.
Still need some components for pulling it off... Mainly the Action Replay thingy. Splinter Cell shouldn't be too hard to find in some used game bargain bin...

I am a dolphin, do you want me on your body?

Question:
Is it possible to use one of these USB-Controller switches instead of an memory card thingy?
Basically because the controllerport / USB adapter is a lot cheaper...

I was speaking idiomatically.

Amazon.com: PC USB to XBOX Adapter for Xbox Linux Use a Mouse & Keyboard: Video Games This.

Goes into the controller port, to attach USB stuff into there.
Dunno, I read descriptions where it said that this could also be used to plug USB storage media into the 'box, which is basically what I need to transfer the "corrupted" softmod safe files.
Or do do I absolutely need a memory card for that?

What kind of toxic man-thing is happening now?