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In Reply to: RE: thoughts on Spotify connect on the bluesound node vs. Chromecast with google music unlimited posted by keithbulls@yahoo.com on July 17, 2014 at 19:41:02
As Charlie mentioned, Apple is often a good source for used Macs and another one is http://macsales.com. Amazon will sometimes discount new Mac Minis but just barely.
I wouldn't expect them to be hugely discounted, especially the newer models, as Macs tend to hold their value. As such, I would weigh the used price vs paying just a bit more for a brand new one if buying a very recent or current model.
Any of the ones with Intel Core i5 or Core i7 processor will be very recent or current models. If it has a buil-in DVD slot, it's an older unit. Older ones will still work fine but I wouldn't go much older than about 2010.
A basic Mini with 4GB of memory will work great. 4GB has been the factory standard 'base' memory for a while now. You can easily expand it later should you want to take advantage of software that offers a 'memory play' feature.
I have mine hooked up to a 32" TV in the corner of my office. I can see album artwork and such from my desk but the text is a little small. I also use the iPad with free "Remote App" so even though the Mini and TV are across the room, the iPad used as a remote control offers good visibility.
Good luck.
My Office Setup
iPad on top of Mini is with me at my desk when I'm listening
The Rogue Integrated Amp
Follow Ups:
Thanks Abe and Charlie.
Great looking setup Abe. Mine will actually be visually somewhat similar.
I'm using a Musical Fidelity Trivista integrated in silver and a pair of [cherry] PMC PB1is. The W4S DAC2DSD I just bought is also in silver. I guess you can get a Mac Mini in whatever color you want... as long as it's silver. :-D
I like the idea of saving some money on a refurb. unit. I have always tried to pay around 1/3-1/2 of retail value for audio equipment in good to excellent condition (4 kids take/took priority, now grown). The DAC is the only thing I've ever bought new. Primary reason(s) were upgradeability and 5 year warranty.
Any suggestions on cable(s)?
Thanks,
Keith
I'm using Audioquest Carbon USB cable but have also had excellent results with the lower cost Pangea USB cables, both available from AudioAdvisor.com and other sources.
USB cable selection is really a personal matter and whether you hear a difference.
You have an excellent DAC that will do a great job with DSD and high resolution PCM files, as well as streaming services.
Fun stuff. Enjoy!
Thanks Abe.
Looking forward to the DAC.
I considered the PS Audio, the Ayre, Audio Note, (all used around the $1500 mark). Almost bought a refurb NAD 51 w/ 2 year warranty from Spearit Sound at that price too.
But when I called W4S with a few questions, Tony answered and we had a nice discussion. They got the Femto clock installed the same day and the DAC shipped the next day. And I got the impression (and from their reputation), that any work will get turned around very quickly. With other manufacturers and much less resellers .... not so much.
Not the greatest looking unit, but cosmetics aside, I agree it should be a good starter unit and [with count 'em - 7 inputs and a preamp capability] a good 'hub' around which to build.
I will check out the Pangea USB cables.
Thanks again,
Keith
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