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Why Mac Mini Over Slim Systems Products?

Here are my thoughts. Please let me know if they make sense:

1) Using a Mac Mini for a music server is superior to slim systems duet or squeezebox if you are interested in playing high resolution files (I am).

2) Mac Mini and the Transporter both do high resolution, but Mac Mini would likely provide more universal access to things out there on the web.

3) Now with the ability to use the itouch as a remote control, the Mac Mini has just as much remote functionality as the slim systems stuff. You will still need a screen and keyboard for startup though.

4) It is better to use the USB out of the Mac Mini than the optical mini plug (I don't know why this is true, it may not be true, I've just seen it several times).

IF all these statements are true, then I want to go the Mac Mini route. I have a spare monitor and keyboard. Now I would just need to figure out the DAC question. Please advise re the above. Thanks, Peter
peter_s
kbamhi
39 posts
 

I have been following the AG PC Audio Threads for a little while now and I would admit that a bunch of this is over my head at the present. However it would seem to me that most if not all of these systems you guys have assembled could be characterized as fabricated by early adopters.

Wouldn't you think that in the not too distant future there will be at least several high end "all in one components" that will accomplish what you guys are doing and possibly for less ? I am really trying to decide whether to jump on the Mac Mini bus or not.

Not to take anything away from you guys. I'm in awe of the systems you guys put togther.
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hokhost
13 posts
 
I had a Transporter, but because of the slimserver interface and the sound (inferior to my old DAC), I decided to sell it.

I tried the Mac Mini + Macbook as the "remote" (and other things), and I am really pleased with this combo. Never thought I would use a Mac, but well ... even a PC guy can change. Mac are more expensive but they work without any major tweaking. In the end, I have good sound, ease of use, nice design and a reliable laptop (MacBook) / music server (Mac Mini).
james1969's avatar
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james1969
347 posts
 
Audio Research has a new DAC out, their DAC7 will connect via USB to Mac or PC.

http://www.audioresearch.com/DAC7.html

Ultimately you do want a good DAC to listen to audio. I do not know what this Audio Research DAC is priced, but I'm sure it sounds good.
james63
534 posts
 
I use a mac mini for all of my music these days. I used to keep around good CD players ($1,000-$2,000 range) but no longer do. I did blind test of my CD players and mac mini and failed. At that point it was just easier to use the mac mini. I like to keep things simple. I use iTunes, rip with apple Lossless, and use my TV as my monitor (which I typed this post on).

I give the mac mini and apple a BIG thumbs up.
istanbulu
291 posts
 
.

James63 I agree entirely... what are you using for a DAC? And your connection to your Mini...? Music sharing between minis and systems is pretty cool too. As well as using an iTouch with Remote or VNC.

:) Listening

Ed

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