HDD has:
Look ahead cache and write back cache (physically - on it, hardware).
there is "Aqustic managment" 0 - 255 , speed slower - faster (up to 15%).
Now - software. Always use write backng cache
and if only you have UPS (ulternative power source - Apc, Power com 800W - for example) - use advanced performance.
For WHS speed - I recommend:
small SATA hdd (for example 80 gbt 8 mbt cache) - for WHS and no MEDIA.
and other hdds on other controllers - for media files.