I would characterize myself as a low level prosumer. My wife is a part time photographer and a few years ago we got a great deal on a 2006 mac pro. Now with the improvements made in computers, I think the mac mini really is getting close to equalling my old computer's horsepower. I want to unload the mac pro before it becomes completely obsolete, which I am guessing will come with OSX 10.7. I am reluctant though for one reason, the processing power on the mini is way less than on the mac pro. I would love to get into a core i5 or i7 computer, and since i have all the peripherals already, I don't want an imac. Does anyone see any reason why the mac mini wouldn't move to core i processors at the next refresh?
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Next Mini Refresh?
- Thread starter bozz2006
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Licensing issues prevent the current i-series from going in the mini. If Apple decides to use a discrete GPU or Intel works out the licensing for integrated 3rd party GPUs, expect no more than the i3 or a low-end mobile i5 in the next mini. Probably 9 months or more away.
It has to do with Nvidia and Intel, as Intel does not allow Nvidia to make chipsets for the i-core CPUs, thus Apple would have to use Intel's integrated GPUs (like the Intel HD GPU in the 15" and 17" MBP), which are inferior to Nvidia's integrated GPU offerings.
As the Mac Mini and 13" MBP don't have room for a dedicated GPU, unless the Superdrive is removed, Apple uses integrated GPUs and does at least want to offer good ones.
The 320m is quite capable in regards with photo editing, I use the 9400m with 12MP RAW photos in Photoshop and get acceptable times.
As the Mac Mini and 13" MBP don't have room for a dedicated GPU, unless the Superdrive is removed, Apple uses integrated GPUs and does at least want to offer good ones.
The 320m is quite capable in regards with photo editing, I use the 9400m with 12MP RAW photos in Photoshop and get acceptable times.
i3 wouldn't, maybe even downgrade when HT is not in use. i5 would be a decent update but I guess you would have to hold till early 2011 (Sandy Bridge). Is Hackintosh out of question? For the price of Mini, you can get a lot more horse power
I just order the Mac Mini Server and the main thing to consider if how much better of a machine is it compared to what you currently have.
I understand why people like hackintosh, but I personally hate them, they are more difficult to get support and it seems to break all the time.
My current Mac Mini was originally a Core Solo and I have upgraded it to a Core Duo, and that machine has run constantly 24/7/365 since late 2007 with no hiccups or anything.
For me personally I like the style, sleekness and quietness of Apple products.
Could I build a more "powerful" machine for less money, yeah but it would not be as energy efficient, quiet, and more than likely not as reliable.
Just my two cents
-iGrant
The key is not to update if everything works
It is an extra hassle but InsanelyMac has several recommended setups and instruction how to install and get everything to work. Hackintoshes are as reliable and stable as real Macs nowadays, it just requires some researching before buying, but I completely understand if you're looking for out-of-the-box experience what Macs provide. Just giving out different options, I know Hackintoshes aren't for everyone
Bozz, sell the 2006 mac pro and look for a 2008 model. This way, all your current harware will move over to the 2008 one. Plus, you will get 64 bit too. I think you will regret leaving a pro once you have had one. The iMac i7 isn't that bad of a system as long as you don't need allot of disks. That sucker flies. Been contemplating one myself and getting rid of my pro but know I will regret it later down the road. I wish apple would have put a i3 in the new mini. Would have got one in a heart beat.