Getting a Mini.. perfect solution to no Firewire on Macbook?

[Borjan]

Hi there.

Here's my thinking.

Okay, so I know the new Macbook doesn't have firewire. I probably don't need it all the time, but still, it would be nice to still have firewire benefits from time to time.

Plus, I don't have the cash right now sadly.

So, I'm thinking, buy a second hand mini to tie me over, as I currently am Mac-less at the moment. I 'could' splash out on a brand new one, but there's always the chance they will get updated soon. Besides, all I will be using it for once I do get the Macbook is to media serve.. which I would probably have done anyway, since you can't keep everything you want on a Macbook! so I don't need anything special. Oh, that and occasionally video capture using Firewire of course!

I'm thinking... Intel C2D? The current ones can play HD correct?

Thoughts? I'm liking this because I still get firewire, and a media server, surely the best option!

 

[stukdog]

Not a bad plan at all. My guess is the next mini won't have firewire either.

 

[durija]

There's something wrong about Macs not having firewire. I have two externals connected to my iMac (chained inline) via FW800...very fast.
And how are you supposed to use target disk mode without firewire?
For $700 more (base models) you could get a MacBook Pro with FW800. How much is the Mini going to cost?

 

[Borjan]

Ah.. should have mentioned, the Macbook being smaller is a real plus for me.

Sure the MBP is a lot nicer featurewise... but I was used to the 12inch iBook, everything else feels a bit riduclous now!

Hopefully, I can manage to get one for less that $700 (or the £ equivalent!)

 

[Borjan]

Hi again.

I have found been offered £225 for an intel mac mini 1.66 Core Duo..

How are these things speed wise versus the current crop? I was used to a 1.33 G4 iBook previously, so I know I am in for a treat, but I will be down the Apple store tomorrow and I can see how the current Mac Minis are speed wise..

And if someone could let me know how the two would compare in real world use, that would be great!