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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.

cshadow
Post removed 
indranilsen
113 posts
 
@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.
sns
3,256 posts
 
@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.
Post removed 
sns
3,256 posts
 
That's unfortunate. Optimizing MacMIni is not budget solution, on top of lps really need to disable many services, some of which require DOS commands. Some other mods require more special knowledge. Out of box solution best for most. Running needless services with MacMiini, even with lps will not be optimizing this solution.
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