Gonetotc - I use Intel Mac Mini/Snow Leopard with 1TB external triple interface Fantom drive GF1000T (Newegg.com $100) while I keep backup on the second identical drive (Fantom drives are quiet, run cool and have very good reputation). I use firewire interface since it uses very little of processor power. I use Benchmark DAC1 - it is jitter (noise in time domain) rejecting and Mac Mini has only optical output that inherently has twice more jitter than coax. Because of the distance (across the room) I use Airport Express and short toslink. I rip files into Itunes in Apple lossless. For ripping I use MAX (free program) with cdparanoia algoritm option set to "don't allow to skip". I use Benchmark (has volume control) to drive power amp directly.
Three comments:
1. If you think about Benchmark DAC1 get new one since old had a lot of problems (revisions) and Benchmark provides 30 day period for evaluation.
2. Front Row does not work with newer Itunes or Leopard - you need to install Airfoil application (but remote control still works with I tunes).
3. Keep backup outside of your home in case of fire burglary etc.
Three comments:
1. If you think about Benchmark DAC1 get new one since old had a lot of problems (revisions) and Benchmark provides 30 day period for evaluation.
2. Front Row does not work with newer Itunes or Leopard - you need to install Airfoil application (but remote control still works with I tunes).
3. Keep backup outside of your home in case of fire burglary etc.