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Please tell me how to set up simple computer system

Hi.  I’m new here.  might someone have time and patience to tell me how to best set up a 2012 Macbook Pro to play my iTunes library?  If so, I’ll give more detail about my proposed system.  THANKS.

faster24
ghdprentice's avatar
ghdprentice
9,483 posts
 

@kofibaffour

+1

We need to know to what? An external DAC?

 

travelinjack's avatar
travelinjack
302 posts
 

Budget?

Powered speakers with an internal DAC would be simplest if you are ok with running a wire from the laptop to the speakers. If you don't want to run the wire then networked powered speakers would be the next best way to connect to the laptop

markcasazza's avatar
markcasazza
52 posts
 

I suggest dropping the MacOS and installing Linux. You can make Linux a fit for purpose operating system that focuses on streaming. Even an older device is plenty fast given the right configuration. That is pretty much what every commercial streamer is anyway.

Below is an AI summary of the install process. This is a link explaining how to build the device for streaming. I have done this with a very humble Dell E6510 and is does quite well. Albeit I don't stream a lot, but when I do I am not disappointed in the results.

https://www.24bit96.com/hifi-music-server/bitperfect-linux-with-mpd.html

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Installing Linux on a 2012 MacBook Pro is possible and can be a good way to give the older machine new life, especially if you're looking for a more lightweight and efficient operating system. It involves creating a bootable USB drive with a Linux distribution, booting from the USB, and then installing the chosen distribution. However, you may need to install drivers for Wi-Fi and other hardware. 

 
Here's a general outline of the process:
  1. Choose a Linux Distribution: Consider options like Ubuntu, Linux Mint, Pop!_OS, or EndeavourOS. Ubuntu and its derivatives are often recommended for beginners.
  2. Download the ISO Image: Get the ISO file for your chosen distribution from its official website. 
  3. Create a Bootable USB Drive: Use a tool like Rufus or Etcher to write the ISO to a USB drive. 
  4. Boot from the USB: Shut down the MacBook Pro, insert the USB drive, and then power it on while holding down the Option (Alt) key until the Startup Manager appears. 
  5. Select the Bootable USB: Choose the USB drive from the Startup Manager icons. 
  6. Follow the Installation Instructions: The Linux installer will guide you through the installation process, including partitioning the hard drive. 
  7. Install Drivers: You may need to install drivers for Wi-Fi (Broadcom drivers are common on 2012 MacBook Pros) and other hardware after the initial installation.
This video demonstrates the process of installing Linux on a 2012 MacBook Pro: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pEJdkbNCDgA&t=40
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ghdprentice's avatar
ghdprentice
9,483 posts
 

I think any recommendations need to be based on more information. But it doesn't seem likely that there is a high end audio system involved here. Otherwise, discussions of how much difference JRiver, vs iTunes, vs shutting down background jobs... vs a dedicated streamer is going to make. 

It is sounding like connect USB to some input device and choose the output device on the MAC. 

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