Would the baseline mini make a good home server for a couple of iPads and Tvs that support DLNA?
I was also thinking of using it as a downloader and encoder with my turbo 264HD.
is it really worth upgrading to mac osx server?
Also might want to look into a Synology NAS.
Yes it would be fine. There is no need to upgrade to the OSX Server. However, should you decide that the server software is important to you, you can add it to any base OSX install for 49.99 thru the Mac App Store. You might also find that the base Mini might be on par with your Turbo 264HD and may not even need it anymore.
tried that load of rubbish always restarting and too slow.
Hmm. Before the update to DSM 4.3 the other day, my Synology had been up for 91 days. Can't disagree with the slowness, though.