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I-Mac for computer audio?

I am thinking of replacing my desktop PC and getting into computer audio at the same time. I was wondereing if I could use an I-Mac instead of the Mac-mini I read so much about. By necessity (wife!), the I Mac would reside some 40 ft. from the rest of my equipment and I definitely want a hardwire connection for SQ. I have read that Mac-mini's are affected by jitter and don't know if the I-Mac would offer improvement in this area or not. I know I would need an outboard DAC but other than that I know next to nothing about computer audio but I'd like to learn. Does my plan (using an I-Mac as a desktop computer AND a music server) sound feasible?
shoff

Showing 1 response by audioengr

audioengr
3,282 posts
 
If you use a Mac Mini late 2009 model, you can use a 16-foot USB cable with no impact on SQ. Buy it on ebay. Late model Minis have cable/USB port issues and do not sound as good IME.

If you want the best off-the-shelf SQ at 40 feet, then go with Logitech Touch wireless. It can be reclocked for even better SQ. Not as good as wired USB though.

Steve N.
Empirical Audio
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