Replacing a MAC Mini with new one...

Mesch, that's same as my setup. I started using the macbook instead of the Mini to rip and download files that I store on the NAS. My plan is to sell the Mini when I receive my Sonore microRendu which will be available soon. Aside from concerns that the slide out drawer on the macbook is a little flimsy, no problems. As more of my new files arrive via download vs. disc rip, this will be even less of an issue.
The only real quirk I've had to deal with going to NAS from HDD connected to the Mini is that if I let my Macbook "go to sleep" overnight rather than shutting it down, sometimes Finder's ability to see the NAS gets lost overnight as I have the NAS automatically hibernating during the night. Rebooting the Mac in the a.m. fixes it. Cheers,
Spencer

Thanks for the confirmation Spencer! 

As I have time prior to making a move, I plan on continuing my research on this, and looking into the possibility of a server.  There is a Bryston BDP-1 for sale here on AG. May look into that as an alternative if it will play AIFF files from a HD. Would compliment my BDA-1.

Lots of good advise already posted. If you look at the online Apple Store, Mac Mini page, you will find at the latest MM do not have user upgradable RAM memory. Any future OS software upgrades could adversely affect performance over the long run. Also, if you’re looking to save a few bucks the online Apple Store has a (not to easy to find) Refurbished Product page. All the computers come with a standard apple warranty. Good Luck!

No need to change anything. Just buy usb-reclocker ( Regen or mc3 + usb smart) and improvement on soundstage and realism will be there!

Tuan 

Reclocker will do nothing to improve asynchronous USB connection that he has.  Since async USB timing is not important then improving on this timing makes no sense.