I'm looking to get into Linux, deciding to devote a new box to it. I understand some motherboards are not a friendly as others. Can anyone tell me of their builds and help me avoid the busts or point to a updated motherboard hardware list.

Decide which version of Linux you want to install. Then I would pose this question in the forums on that systems webpage.
By doing that you will also get a feel for the level of help you are able to get with your chosen version of Linux.

Here's one to get you started.
http://unbuntu.com
I don't use it much, but this installed easy for me and comes with a good set of pre-installed programs.