Yep, it seems very few know about the computer/stereo connection, least of all the Apple store dregs who act like they're enlightened, but are really no more enlightened, and possibly less so, than the guys working in the local Walmart electronics section. I had the same experience...they looked at me like I was crazy! LOL
Anyway, you've decided on Apple...I think that's wise. Based on the opinion of most folks it seems the Mini or Imac will offer superior sound to the laptops. Mini = cheaper, but you'll have to spring for a display (temporarily), keyboard, and mouse, and external HD. With the Imac, you'll get all of that + a much bigger HD and a beautiful display if you opt for the 24" version. You'll have to decide what you want the thing on or near your rack. Both Mini and Imac come with a small IR remote, which works really very well in controlling the also included Front Row multimedia software application, which allows the user to access all of their music, movies, or photos from a distance. When you go back to Apple, have them demonstrate Front Row for you with the Apple remote.
Don't worry about whole house audio (Apple Express, etc.) at this point, just be sure you have internet access for the main computer. I'd suggest buying the Apple base station as your router if you don't have a wired internet access solution at your stereo rack. The router works flawlessly with Apple computers.
Let's say you don't want a computer display on or hovering near your rack, then you'll have chosen the Mini. Once you're done ripping and ready to listen, you'll need to buy a laptop running Nettunes (probably overkill) or an Itouch running remote buddy software that's available on the web. Or, there's one other remote option but I don't remember the name of the company.
And, for even more info relevant to what you're about to undertake don't be afraid to scroll down past your own post a bit, and see that there's at least 6 previous discussions that are relevant to Apple systems on the first page alone.
Anyway, you've decided on Apple...I think that's wise. Based on the opinion of most folks it seems the Mini or Imac will offer superior sound to the laptops. Mini = cheaper, but you'll have to spring for a display (temporarily), keyboard, and mouse, and external HD. With the Imac, you'll get all of that + a much bigger HD and a beautiful display if you opt for the 24" version. You'll have to decide what you want the thing on or near your rack. Both Mini and Imac come with a small IR remote, which works really very well in controlling the also included Front Row multimedia software application, which allows the user to access all of their music, movies, or photos from a distance. When you go back to Apple, have them demonstrate Front Row for you with the Apple remote.
Don't worry about whole house audio (Apple Express, etc.) at this point, just be sure you have internet access for the main computer. I'd suggest buying the Apple base station as your router if you don't have a wired internet access solution at your stereo rack. The router works flawlessly with Apple computers.
Let's say you don't want a computer display on or hovering near your rack, then you'll have chosen the Mini. Once you're done ripping and ready to listen, you'll need to buy a laptop running Nettunes (probably overkill) or an Itouch running remote buddy software that's available on the web. Or, there's one other remote option but I don't remember the name of the company.
And, for even more info relevant to what you're about to undertake don't be afraid to scroll down past your own post a bit, and see that there's at least 6 previous discussions that are relevant to Apple systems on the first page alone.