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Mac Mini Power Supply

I recently built a linear power supply for my Mac Mini. The difference in sound quality was one of the single largest performance upgrades I've made to my system in years.

I was wondering if anyone else has had any experience with their mac mini PSU upgrades and what your experiences are. It's one of those upgrades I wish I had made months ago.

I've always been a big believer in the source being the most important component in the system. Followed by the power supply being one of the most important parts within the component. At least in this case, it appears that was correct.
mintzar
milen007
54 posts
 
hi Ryan

what voltage and current draw does the mac mini need? where do you find the mac mini power connector?

thanks,
Erwin
jtwrace's avatar
jtwrace
443 posts
 
The mini runs on 18.5Vdc and draws no more then 6A.

Connector and cable can be purchased fronm here: http://store.mp3car.com/MacPac_Power_Cable_Kit_For_the_Mac_Mini_For_Mac_Mi_p/cbl-086.htm

Wiring here: http://www.computeraudiophile.com/files/Mac%20Mini%20PS%20Cable_0.pdf
coreaudiotechnology
10 posts
 
I just saw this post, sorry for the delay in response...

Power supplies can be ordered through Core Audio Technology's website or contact me from there. Plenty of reviews on the Core Forums also.

Yes, I remove the switcher and insert an additional filter inside the mac mini chassis. My power supplies are then run externally.

I buy a stock PS brick, chop off the cable and add the necessary caps and resistors to make it function.
jtwrace's avatar
jtwrace
443 posts
 
"I buy a stock PS brick, chop off the cable and add the necessary caps and resistors to make it function."

Why do this if you can purchase a new cable?
coreaudiotechnology
10 posts
 
It's cheaper than buying the cable from MP3car most times.

And I build my cables into a Powercon for my power supplies so I'd have to chop things up a bit anyway. Unfortunately it bricks the brick to do this so it's a bit of a waste, but there aren't many cost effective alternatives for older Mac Minis.
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