Experience with Mach2 Music Server?

So any conclusions yet on Mac as a music server/transport running OSX or W7 vs. PC running W7?

Well, I installed Win7 (x64) on the MacMini and setup everything exactly the same as with my Toshiba Satellite Core i3 laptop.

Though MacMini got a lot closer, it is still not up to the Toshiba, sorry to say, IMO!

Difference is not "huge", but the MacMini does not have as deep bass, there is a fatiguing glare in the midrange and highs. Piano notes (for example) sound somewhat colored/metallic and with less air/decay. The difference is (to an extent) comparable with CD vs. SACD, especially when it comes to ambience micro-detail information retrieval and tonality/naturalness. Overall, to my ears, the Toshiba sounds more natural and relaxed, while the MacMini fatigues me after short period of time.

After spending so much money, time and effort, I am not sure whether I will try removing the cheap LiteON switching power supply from the MacMini and use external low-noise linear power (or battery), because this will be its last chance, really! Will see!

Best,
Alex Peychev

Alex, you're depressing the hell out of me.

Alex, you're depressing the hell out of me.

It depresses me too because I like the MacMini, and because many of my customers are Mac users. I hope MacBook Pro sounds much better since it runs from a battery. One local customer is willing to bring his MBP so we can experiment with it.

The Mini is basically a laptop in a cute little enclosure, so it might get a lot better with battery or linear power. Question is whether it will be worth the trouble trying that. At least this one is a lot easier to disassemble compared to the old model.

Stay tuned.

Best,
Alex Peychev

Alex, I've tried the MacBook Pro in my system and the Mini sounds better. Now, the last thing I need is some junky Toshiba laptop running Windows making me feel insecure about my sleek, Apple-based audio setup.

In all seriousness, I wonder whether there's some kind of issue with the Mini and the Hiface. I think my Mini paired with a USB DAC sounds pretty good.

Alex, are you running the MacMini into your APL DAC?