debating on what machine to get... need help...

[gdeusthewhizkid]

hi,

i have a 2008 mac pro that i have updated to 16 gig of ram, 5770 video card, and ssd hard drives. The problem now is that the new os has basically phased out my trusty workhorse. I have also a 24 inch led cinema display too that only connects via mini display port.. I'm really not sure what to do because I enjoy upgrading my macs myself. But the new macs are not giving much options as far as DIY. I have my eye on a 2010 mac pro but I'm not sure if its really worth it to get such a old machine especially for over 1k. what do you guys suggest?

 

[carpsafari]

I suggest you start reading, because there must be a 1000 simular posts.

 

[pb69]

hi,

i have a 2008 mac pro that i have updated to 16 gig of ram, 5770 video card, and ssd hard drives. The problem now is that the new os has basically phased out my trusty workhorse. I have also a 24 inch led cinema display too that only connects via mini display port.. I'm really not sure what to do because I enjoy upgrading my macs myself. But the new macs are not giving much options as far as DIY. I have my eye on a 2010 mac pro but I'm not sure if its really worth it to get such a old machine especially for over 1k. what do you guys suggest?

Hi.
Over 1K is steep. A bout 1.5 years ago I purchased a 2009 with 16gb ram dual super drives and a 60 or 90 day warranty ( I forget which) for under $400 US on ebay. From a Mac only seller. Keep looking.

 

[nigelbb]

What specific problems do you have with Sierra? Many seem to be running it OK on their 3,1s. Personally I don't think it's worth spending a load of money on a 4,1 or 5,1 if you already own a 3,1.

 

[jbarley]

Here is a link that might be worth checking out...
http://dosdude1.com/sierrapatch.html

 

[nigelbb]

Here is a link that might be worth checking out...
http://dosdude1.com/sierrapatch.html

Those instructions refer to booting from a USB thumb drive. I have never been successful in booting my 2008 Mac Pro 3,1 from a thumb drive when I have attempted this & I spent many hours on it. I'm not sure that it's supported for the MP 3,1 & wouldn't want anyone else to waste their time as I did.

 

[jbarley]

Those instructions with the USB pen drive work just fine on a MacPro 3,1.
I had just finished setting up my MP3,1 following them which is why I suggested the link.

 

[gdeusthewhizkid]

still haven't tried i have a unsupported wifi card in my mac pro...

 

[h9826790]

still haven't tried i have a unsupported wifi card in my mac pro...

Upgrade the Wifi card is easy. You enjoy to upgrade your Mac, right?

 

[ActionableMango]

I have my eye on a 2010 mac pro but I'm not sure if its really worth it to get such a old machine especially for over 1k.

You should be able to find one much lower than 1k. The 2009-2012 are substantially better than the 2008, and have far more headroom for upgrading.

Something to ask yourself is how much are you willing to spend just to get the latest MacOS? Many of us stay on older MacOS versions as a simple matter of preference even though our computers are supported on the newer ones.