2. pc-audio
  3. 1216792151

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
grindstaff
32 posts
 
One of things I learned from this forum is that the playback software matters. Is Itunes really the best sounding for playback on the MAC? It isn't on the PC (jriver jukebox is the best I found). I'm using Vista going to a ESI Waveterminal to an EAD dac.

I may try a mac mini if itunes or other playback software is as good as jriver jukebox on the PC.
istanbulu
291 posts
 
.

Slightly off-topic... does anyone know if there is a difference in audio quality between the earlier Mac Minis (G4) and the newer dual core models which I have? Will one of those early puppies run OS 10.5?

Mainly interested in audio quality.

Thanks

:) listening

Ed

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synthfreek's avatar
synthfreek
627 posts
 
I run 10.5 on a first generation Mac Mini. Works fine. I just wish I could get rid of the "unmounting cd" issues with iTunes.
synthfreek's avatar
synthfreek
627 posts
 
What stinks is not being able to use an IR remote with it though.
ecruz
402 posts
 
When using an iPod Touch as a remote, can you see iTunes on the Touch or do you still need a monitor? It would be great to be able to search, scroll, etc right on the Touch and not even have a monitor in the room.
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