Mac Mini or iMac - Project Home Studio

[joe.cavers]

Hey guys,

I'm definitely at the point where I need a new computer for my PT system. My macbook (which I'm currently typing this on, probably the main reason it's failing me so badly) is nearly dead.

I'm trying to decide between an 20" 2.4 iMac or a 2.0 Mac Mini. Whichever I buy will be kept as a solely audio machine, and will be bought as an investment. In reality I don't think I need a hugely powerful system but I'd like my next audio machine to last me a long time. I'm also planning on maxing the RAM of whichever one I buy.

Is the 0.4ghz processor speed difference, and the extra 2gb of RAM enough to warrant me buying an iMac? I only really use my Pro Tools system to do basic projects, running maybe 10 audio tracks at most, a few aux and a fair few midi or instrument tracks, with a few instances of hybrid and xpand. Will the Mac Mini system give me enough leeway if I ever start doing bigger sessions, or is it worth saving for longer now so I won't be left disappointed in the future?

The reason I'm posting this here is because, in addition to people's experience with PT here, I'm fairly impulsive and I have the money for a Mac Mini right now....

Oh also, I use Ableton Live a fair bit, again, not for anything huge, but that could change the more I get into the program.

Thanks guys
JC

[gracejames]

I personally would go with Imac (24") cause of bang4buck and it is better 'investment' as you mentioned. The 24" is a better screen from what i have read. Although I plan to use multi-media and audio.

The Macmini is a great solid machine for audio only.
It can easily do the audio work in your description.
If you are running Live and other apps simultaneously, it becomes a ram issue. The chip is 'good enough' but Imac has greater Ram and faster speed. But the Mini would likely work (check for yourself) with 2gb of Ram but be leary of bigger sessions.

I would also consider the mini if you are on a very strict budget
and stretched thin with funds. Those would be the only
2 scenarios for getting a Mini to me otherwise, its better to go with Imac imo.

[flommer]

iMac all the way... The Mac Mini uses laptop components to save size, so you are essentially not getting anything more than the MacBook which you say you are having problems with..

Also if you need to buy a monitor, the iMac is a no-brainer.. If you have a monitor already, then the iMac would let you run 2 screens, which is great for ProTools...

You are already using an external FW drive, right?

Curb the impulsiveness and get the more powerful system.. It will make you happier, longer.

[docscholl]

iMac.
For one reason only.
Adding more RAM in the Mac Mini is a "witch" with a capital "B".

[WilliamDC]

I using an iMac in my project studio and it works great. The best thing is that it's a saver on desk space. I have this desk and everything fits great to the point where I don't feel cramped. My iMac is also super quiet.

[joe.cavers]

Hey guys,

Thank you everyone for your feedback, seems like the choice here is obvious!

Re flommer: Yes I do have an external hard drive, and also a 2nd monitor. I was debating using a Matrox DualHead2Go for more monitor space tho.

However, given the points put forward here, an iMac is probably the better choice. And I suppose even that argument that waiting a little now will save me cost in the long run was probably strong enough!

Cheers
Joe

[flommer]

Just a note.. You shouldn't need the Matrox DualHead2Go

The iMac has a mini DVI out port. You might need an adapter is all..

[joe.cavers]

Originally Posted by flommer

Just a note.. You shouldn't need the Matrox DualHead2Go

The iMac has a mini DVI out port. You might need an adapter is all..

Sorry I didn't make myself clear, I meant for dual screen stuff, since the mac mini only has one video out. Admittedly the Matrox unit isn't actually true dual screen, but for Pro Tools it does the trick.

Joe

[dougied]

I started with a Mini and I loved it. It works great for audio, but the internal integrated graphics chip from Intel doesn't really cut the cheese especially if you want to do some video editing. I would say iMac. My Mini can get some big sessions going though... my very first 32 track demo from my buddy's band turned out great!! It's the best $600 I have ever spent!

Cheers!