Running a Mac Mini as server vs Mac mini with top grade linear power supply is simply not remotely comparable. The issue with mm as server is it requires a lot of diy, not an out of the box solution. Audiophilelifesyle forum will point way to maximize mm as server, steep learning curve. Get it right and you have first rate server, no crashes, no issues. I can run dsd, way oversample, no Roon, Tidal, Qobuz, Synology NAS issues ever. Linear power supplies on ever single streaming component is where it gets really good.
Streamer vs. new mac mini for 2 channel system
Hi audio friends,
I LOVE the functionality of my mac mini with my 2 channel system: Exasound 62e DAC, Modwright ls100 pre, Coda continuum 8 power amp and Wilson Sabrina speakers. Being able to navigate with mouse and keyboard from my listening position is infinitely better than using a tablet or some mickey mouse app with my phone.
The issue is the mac mini. Clearly this is not the best transport, however I want to use my 2 channel system for more than just streaming roon. I listen to soundcloud a lot to learn about new music and when I watch tv I want to utilize the stereo for netflix, crave etc. My Dac has only 1 usb in and obviously an optical + s/pdif, but the fidelity is just not as good with the other inputs.
I almost pulled the trigger on a Lumin U1 mini, but again I do not see how this transport will improve fidelity, without limiting overall functionality. How do I bring a new mac mini to a place where it can compete with a dedicated transport like the lumin, or is this even a reasonable suggestion?
Looking to optimize the system in the most efficient way.
Confused - any suggestions would be much appreciated.
I LOVE the functionality of my mac mini with my 2 channel system: Exasound 62e DAC, Modwright ls100 pre, Coda continuum 8 power amp and Wilson Sabrina speakers. Being able to navigate with mouse and keyboard from my listening position is infinitely better than using a tablet or some mickey mouse app with my phone.
The issue is the mac mini. Clearly this is not the best transport, however I want to use my 2 channel system for more than just streaming roon. I listen to soundcloud a lot to learn about new music and when I watch tv I want to utilize the stereo for netflix, crave etc. My Dac has only 1 usb in and obviously an optical + s/pdif, but the fidelity is just not as good with the other inputs.
I almost pulled the trigger on a Lumin U1 mini, but again I do not see how this transport will improve fidelity, without limiting overall functionality. How do I bring a new mac mini to a place where it can compete with a dedicated transport like the lumin, or is this even a reasonable suggestion?
Looking to optimize the system in the most efficient way.
Confused - any suggestions would be much appreciated.
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- 59 posts total
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@tvad- You can try Keces P8 Linear Power supply or Uptone Audio JS-2 Linear Power Supply. Either one would work but the stock MacMini 2012 model needs an internal power supply upgrade to be able to use the 12V Linear Power Supply input. The Uptone Audio MacMini DC conversion kit would be an easy way to upgrade the internal power supply of a MaxMini 2012 model. Here is the link. https://uptoneaudio.com/products/mac-mini-dc-conversion-linear-fan-controller-kit-mmk I don't know how to upgrade the internal power supply of a newer version of a MacMini but there are vendors in the market who could do that for you. Thanks. |
@tvad I use the Uptone JS2 with MMK internal power supply (JS2 has two multiple choice dc outputs). Prior to Uptone I used Core Audio Technology LPS and internal ps, Uptone superior. You do have to open up mini, not too bad a job. This mod was the single greatest upgrade I've experienced in streaming, and I've optimized every single thing in my streaming setup. Running general use computers for streaming does not come close to providing optimum sound quality, first thing to change out. Mac mini for diy, server for those not so inclined. I'd say server more important than dac, conditional with dac not being entry level. |
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- 59 posts total