If you're just getting your feet wet, then use the optical out built into the G5. Use it with a decent quality glass optical cable. I use G5s and think they are better than Minis just because they are more flexible regarding connecting hardware. I really don't know if one sounds better than the other. A note of caution with G5s, they don't have the Intel processors and some newer audio software is not backward compatible. It's a trend that will increase over time.
Best Audio Interface for Apple G5 Computer?
I am just wanting to get my feet wet in setting up a music server. To start out I just purchased a Apple G5 Computer. I currently have a Lite DAC with a optical and coaxial interface. I have 3 questions:
(1) To get the best sound should I use the optical out or FireWire out on the Apple G5?
(2) If the recommendation is to go with the fireWire output, what would be the best recommendation for a interface to go from the FireWire to SPDIF? If possible I would like to get an interface for $300 or less (would be willing to find something used on ebay or Audiogon)
(3) Is the new Mac Mini that much better than the Apple G5 in establishing a music server.
Thanks for your help as I am trying to learn about creating a music server.
(1) To get the best sound should I use the optical out or FireWire out on the Apple G5?
(2) If the recommendation is to go with the fireWire output, what would be the best recommendation for a interface to go from the FireWire to SPDIF? If possible I would like to get an interface for $300 or less (would be willing to find something used on ebay or Audiogon)
(3) Is the new Mac Mini that much better than the Apple G5 in establishing a music server.
Thanks for your help as I am trying to learn about creating a music server.