[dB Cooper]

I have a mac mini3.1 with 2Gb RAM that I've been thinking of upgrading the memory to run OSX Lion. However from what I've read, the memory upgrade is not simple.

For anyone that's installed memory in this particular machine, can you comment on the degree of difficulty for someone who is pretty comfortable working with electronics.

If that is the original form factor mini it can range from tough to hella tough to do (newer is tougher). The new 'unibody' mini, it's about as easy as opening a jar of mayonnaise.

[simon wagstaff]

I think there are some youtube videos showing how to do it. You need a spatula to crack the case. There are a couple of skinny cables you need to be careful of. I had one that the hard drive crashed so I replaced the hard drive and updated the memory at the same time. That required some little screws and making sure you didn't drop them on the floor. Be sure to seat the memory VERY CAREFULLY, I didn't do it right the first time requiring that I dive back in.

It was not that hard of a job, but one that did require a deep breath before diving in. I would have no trouble doing it again.

[jtwrace]

Here are the vids http://eshop.macsales.com/installvideos/

It's very easy to do. 

[bixby]

Er, any consensus here on whether amount of memory affects SQ, esp if mac mini used for music server only?
soon to buy one. Do I need 8gb memory?
thanks

TOm

It dramatically changed the sound of my 2011 mini when I went from 2gb to 8gb.  And Audirvana Plus behaved much better with no dropouts.  Under Lion I think you need to bump up from the base level of 2gb even if just using as a music server.

http://digitalaudiodirections.blogspot.com/

[nathanm]

Replacing memory on the Mini is a walk in the park.  Twist off the bottom cap, pop open two clips and Bob's yer uncle.  However, adding or changing a hard drive involves complete disassembly of the machine and is much more of a pain in the ass.  I know, I took mine apart and put it back together about six times until I figured out how to get the new drive working.  I got better at it every time, though!

[rpf]

For the record, I've now auditioned Pure Music and like the sound a lot. Increased micro and macro dynamics, better image separation, smoother, and more coherent and continuous.

I'm going to purchase it as it appears, from various threads, to be the most well integrated and reliable music player out there right now.

[dmccombs]

I use a 2011 Mac Mini running Snow Leopard for most of my listening.  I heard noticeable improvement as I went from 4GB, to 8GB, to 16GB.  I was running Amarra while doing my memory tests. 

Way back, I tried iTunes with 4GB and 8GB.  I heard a noticable difference in those tests too.