Hi, everyone! Been a busy time lately for me -- and that includes getting closer to starting the big project of converting a huge CD collection,vinyl, and iTunes files into one big digital collection such as Bill and others here are explaining about, using a lossless format through Apple computers.
I'm going with a Mac mini and a 1 Terabyte external hard drive (along with the 360 GB internal hard drive if needed) for starters. Trying for a wifi setup from the mini out to 3 or 4 stereo setups - the main system in the living room that Bill D worked on with me two summers ago (has it been that long really?), the HT system with the HD TV serving as my monitor for using/selecting the computer's music collection, the master BR stereo, and maybe another spare system in another room -- and who knows, maybe even eventually it'll all reach by wifi back to the original iMac in my office area with HK Sound Sticks and subwoofer.
I bought the Airport Express modules which plug into wall sockets and are then wired out to preamps - but I couldn't seem to connect by wifi to the farthest unit -- hence, going with a middle-placed Mac mini and hoping the reduced stretch to all the wifi receivers will make the difference.
Also I want to add on internet connection for the Mac mini (only have one modem right now back in the office area with the iMac) and using the HT/HD tv so I can stream Netflix movies, too and watch from the comfort of my den/guest room using a bluetooth keyboard and track pad for the mini - I really don't want to sit in front of a computer at a desk for the length of a movie! Even with the 24" iMac in front of me.
All this will be interesting, since I'm intuitive but not really that computer savvy -- I'll most likely still pick your brains for advice and troubleshooting -- hopefully not for major screwups, though!