I need some brief input on whether to upgrade my old Mac Mini server, or switch to an Nvidia Shield as Plex server.
There are 2 requirements that confuse me:
I use my mac mini to:
browse for torrents
run torrent client
organise files on the external USB drive
and it’s also the plex client for my main family TV, where the old OpenPHT gui is still way superior to any other client I’ve seen
I do this using my work laptop, to VNC/remote into the mac mini, and I cannot use my work laptop for torrents, shady browsing, or even connecting an external USB to organise things. How does one do this on an Nvidia, and does it not require that I need a keyboard and to occupy a screen (VNC works using laptop screen all whilst fam is watching something), let alone having to sit in a different room with that screen?
My current clients are ATV3’s with OpenPlex trailers hijack. If I use Mac Mini as my server, I (think/hope) I can continue with them (cannot find M1 compatibility). But if changing, then I think I need new clients. Total price will still be less than a new mini, so that’s ok, and I’m happy to ditch the ropey ATV3’s. BUT one client is for my cinema room, and sound connection is via a fibre optic sound cable (HDMI goes to nearby projector, but sounds goes to distant amp). So I believe I need a client that supports fibre optic sound. Or am I being daft?
Any guidance would be most appreciated. If I’ve posted this in the wrong forum, please redirect me.
Honestly, unless your Mac Mini is incredibly old it is very likely that it is a superior device to run a Plex Server off of. Unless you feel that you absolutely need to upgrade your server for some reason. If that’s the case and you have the budget I think there are much better options then the Shield as a server. That being said, the Nvidia Shield is the single best client available out there. So my suggestion would be to swap all your heavily used clients for Nvidia Shield Pro’s (not the tube, it’s garbage) if budget permits and on the tertiary TV’s use something like a Chromecast with Google TV as its a great client for lower bitrate content and such. As for the projector what ports does it have on it? That will go a long way to figuring out what may be the best solution for you.
So I’ll rather SSD the old Mac mini, use that as server and client for family TV. Add nvidea client to projector. And chromecast to other lesser used TVs.
If you guys frequently watch on your family TV it may be worth it to get a Shield Pro for that TV also and just run the Mac mini separately in another room or something as your server. Try the Shield with your projector and I think it’ll convince you quickly why I say that. Do you know the specs on your mini? I just want to make sure that I’m giving complete advice.
