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Mac Mini as a music server

I would love to hear your thoughts, experiences [positive and negative] as well as words of caution for using a Mac Mini as a music server.  It seem that most all of the audio-magazine reviewers that use a computer for a music server use a Mac Mini.  A few the economically elite swing for dedicated, purpose-specific computers that are optimized for music, but I <unfortunately> do not fall into that privileged company.

Topics of interest: 
> Which music sever app do you use?  I have read & received recommendation for JWRivers, Channel D, Roon & others.  What has been your experiences?
> Any particular shortcomings of the Mac Mini vs other platforms?
> Words of wisdom in making this work?

Thanks in advance for taking the time to provide your insight.
128x128Ag insider logo xs@2xoldmandave

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oldmandave OP
22 posts
 
Thanks everyone for your input & Merry Christmas/Happy New Year to all of you.

From what I have read thus far, the Mac-mini music server seems like a very logical point of entry that also has substantial upgradeability.  In the fairly recent past, I used a Marantz N-7004 & was pleased with its sound, but not happy about its lack of upgradeability.  I currently run a Cambridge Audio Stream Magic 6, v2 in my home office vintage system [Carver + Theil].  It sounds much better than the Marantz did & does an excellent job as a DAC as well...but I am wanting more power & potential for my reference system in my 'Man Cave'.

Again, many thanks to all of you.  You have given me much to consider.  I hope this discussion continues!
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oldmandave OP
22 posts
 
Disappointingly, a few of you have mentioned that the combination of "Apple updates" & the software rendering program <Audirvana, JRiver, Channel D and so on> seem to have "lover's quarrels".  Can any of you expound further on this?  Having read quite a few reviews & 'How To' articles, this is the first I have heard of this problem...although, if several have & are having this problem, it is probably not rare.

Do you think it stems from Apple's penchant for not providing ancillary vendors pre-knowledge of impending changes/updates & the subsequent lag as the ancillary vendor "catches up" to make their program compatible?
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