mac mini vs. mac mini server..which suits my needs?

[acrahm]

Hope this isnt too early as we are just getting info about mac mini server.

i have 3 devices/computers in my place right now that i would like to all run off the same itunes database. I.e. my ATV downstairs would be able to access anything from this database as would my MBP in my bedroom etc. My initial thought was to run a mini as a server where my itunes music/movies are stored and then my 2 computers and ATV can run off this single database via the mini.

But then i saw the mini server come out today and was wondering if this is a better option. now its almost twice as much money so i am not sure,

Which is better for my specific need?

[QCassidy352]

take a look at this:
http://www.apple.com/macmini/server/

seems the mini server is really aimed at small businesses. IMO you'd do just fine with a regular mini.

[cube]

No optical drive in the mini server. This sucks.

[Nde]

No optical drive in the mini server. This sucks.

Agree, no drive really blows. I was thinking of getting a Mini server to host my home stuff and web pages. Now, I'm backing off. Need to think about it now.

[peskaa]

Just stick the external Air SuperDrive on it, Apple say it works.

[cube]

The mini is too small. You end up with a stack of external stuff, cables, and power supplies.

[thomanjones]

For serving media around the house, I'd go with a regular Mac Mini. I do not know what advantages one would have by upgrading to server (but I'd love to see some).

[cube]

Doesn't one need OSX Server for Spotlight?

[svenwillmann]

...
But then i saw the mini server come out today and was wondering if this is a better option. now its almost twice as much money so i am not sure,
...?

Well, I don't think you can really compare the 2.
Look at it from that point of view.

With the mini server:
You get much more HD space (if I read correctly 2x500GB)
You get the server operating system. Especially if you have more than one mac and using ical/... it has very useful features to keep them in sync.
It all comes in a very neat housing.

With the mini:
If you want the same HD space you need to upgrade somehow (maybe external drive, more cables more space ...)
You get the normal operating system, without some useful features

I think the mini server is a promising little box, especially for home/small business use if it holds its promises and if you can afford it.

[MTI]

$1K for a 1TB server box seems a bit dear, unless you and your server live in a dorm room or studio apt (which begs the question why you'd need a server) or your current computer fetish is anything Mac Mini sized. :D

[jjd]

Hope this isnt too early as we are just getting info about mac mini server.

i have 3 devices/computers in my place right now that i would like to all run off the same itunes database. I.e. my ATV downstairs would be able to access anything from this database as would my MBP in my bedroom etc. My initial thought was to run a mini as a server where my itunes music/movies are stored and then my 2 computers and ATV can run off this single database via the mini.

But then i saw the mini server come out today and was wondering if this is a better option. now its almost twice as much money so i am not sure,

Which is better for my specific need?

I do this already with a Mac Pro as the "server" - but I just use iTunes Home Sharing. I also use Apple TV to do (some) video sharing, but that is more problematic given the vagaries of the ATV... With the other macs I just stream music but if I ever need to pull off video or other files I just network in to the MP.

I would love to be convinced otherwise, but I do not see the advantage of the server software to someone just looking for media sharing.

[acrahm]

right now i have 2 1tb externals, so i dont think i would be worried about space. but a rather big concern for me (even though its minor) is this:

all music/video i add to the itunes database would have to be done to the mini correct?
i couldnt import a CD with my MBP and have it added to the itunes database on my mini, correct?

Now of course the Imac that is 38% off via refurbed is floating into my mind, thats a very good deal...

I do this already with a Mac Pro as the "server" - but I just use iTunes Home Sharing. I also use Apple TV to do (some) video sharing, but that is more problematic given the vagaries of the ATV... With the other macs I just stream music but if I ever need to pull off video or other files I just network in to the MP.

I would love to be convinced otherwise, but I do not see the advantage of the server software to someone just looking for media sharing.

[MacKiddyWiddy]

the normal mini will probably be better for your needs http://macblog.***********/imgs/signature_SmileyFace.jpg the server is a bit bland