basho

Thanks so much for the thoughtful replies, Chris and Clay! I'll watch to see if Apple sells some old Mac Minis, now that the new one is out. If not, it's great to know that if I start with just a NAS, I can always use it with the Mini, if I decide to build.

I'm looking to set up an entry-level (but upgradable) music server. It seems like a lot of people here use the Mac Mini. But I already have a Macbook Pro and an Airport Express. My question is: should I get a NAS and direct iTunes to it, or should I get a Mac Mini, attach an external HD, and control it with my iphone? My MacBook is always on, but I want to keep it mobile and wireless, not tethered to my stereo. The NAS seems like the cheaper route: something like a WD MyBook World or something quieter. Then I could stream from the Airport Express to a DAC (yet to be purchased, looking at the Pacific Valve Fathom). Is there any reason why I should get the Mac Mini instead? I'm trying to keep all this less than $800 or so. Thanks so much!