Mac Mini suggestions

[HawkBYU]

I have been looking at getting a Mac Mini, but I am not exactly sure which one I should get.

I plan to use it for the following:
Run Plex media server
Store all my pictures in iPhoto and access them from other Macs
Store all music in iTunes and access it from other Macs
Hook up an external hard drive and use time machine to backup 2 MacBook Airs.

From what I have read, I believe all of this is possible using a Mac Mini(correct me if I'm wrong). I'd like to hear your suggestions on which one would best fit my needs.

Thanks

 

[mwhities]

I have an 09 MM with a 64G SSD main hd and a 750G sata secondary and I use it as my Plex server. I also use it for iTunes home sharing and also as a server.

It runs perfectly fine.

I'm not sure about the MBAs using it as a TimeMachine, never really tried it as I have a dedicated external for my Macbook.

I'd say any newer MM would be able to handle everything you've noted... just not sure about TM.

 

[Fed]

I plan on doing similar things, OP. Those being:

1. Host the main iTunes library
2. Stream to ATVs
3. Share drives to those on the network
4. Back-up Mac notebooks

In particular, I'd like to know how the Mac Mini will perform under the potential situation of 2 Apple TVs streaming via shared iTunes library, a directory on the network share constantly being accessed and a user logged onto the local machine using a TB Display.

 

[mwhities]

I had my 5yo, 2yo, and wife help me test.

I started up the ATV and stared streaming via Home Share, I used my MB and Home Shared music. I had the 2yo on the iPhone with Plex watching ToyStory2, my 5yo on the iPad with Plex watching ToyStory, and my wife watching Monsters Inc on the MM full screen.

Only thing that was noticed is that the movies would "pause" for about 5 seconds (on the iPhone/iPad) or so then start playing. It only did it once in the 20+- minutes we tested.

I'm not sure if that's a configuration issue on my side or hitting it to hard (we have noticed it does it when only on iDevice is hitting it.) I need to look into it more.