Best Option for Mac Mini with SSD for Final Cut

[skarinada]

Hi Guys,

I'm currently thinking about getting a mac mini as a backup computer and desktop for all my computer work especially working with Final Cut Studio. I edit mostly HD content and will do some Motion text stuff and I already have an external burner for DVD Studio.

I want to get a Mac Mini with SSD, however, I can't justify spending 799 + $600 for Apple's 256 GB SSD.

Do you guys think the entry level mac mini for $599 + a 160 - 256 SSD would be the best machine for me? Again, I'm using it for basic tasks but also video editing. Nothing too intense...

Or should I just go all out and get the $999 Server version with regular 7200 rpm hard drives? The benchmarks on those machines seems superb.

I just don't want to go way over a budget but I really want the snappiness of a SSD configuration.

 

[tbayrgs]

Hi Guys,

I'm currently thinking about getting a mac mini as a backup computer and desktop for all my computer work especially working with Final Cut Studio. I edit mostly HD content and will do some Motion text stuff and I already have an external burner for DVD Studio.

I want to get a Mac Mini with SSD, however, I can't justify spending 799 + $600 for Apple's 256 GB SSD.

Do you guys think the entry level mac mini for $599 + a 160 - 256 SSD would be the best machine for me? Again, I'm using it for basic tasks but also video editing. Nothing too intense...

Or should I just go all out and get the $999 Server version with regular 7200 rpm hard drives? The benchmarks on those machines seems superb.

I just don't want to go way over a budget but I really want the snappiness of a SSD configuration.

A related questions was posed in this thread--may find some of the advice helpful.

Also, may want to check out this thread detailing another member upgrading his own base model with an SSD--the poster seems very knowledgable regarding the subject and is very willing to answer questions.

 

[philipma1957]

I put a 256 gb ssd into the base 2.3 mini along with 8gb ram it is a nice machine for bitorrent/handbrake netflix itunes and the like.

FCP is not what I do with my gear I don't know how much a good gpu will help you. It does seem like buying the 799 model and adding a ssd along into it is the way to go. you could drop in a good workhorse ssd yourself it is not that hard you save a lot of cash. . my ssd install thread is easy to follow. the 799 model is 769 on amazon add an ssd with ram you are under 1k.