[gmark2000]

This is my dad's rig.

2006 Mac Mini
1.66 GHz Core Duo
512 MB 667 MHz DDR2 SDRam (256x2)
80gb SATA
SuperDrive
OS X Leopard 10.5.8

Excellent condition.

Is this any good for an iTunes or XMBC server?

According to Everymac.com the ram is upgradable 2GB.

 

[John Clay]

Nope, not nearly good enough for XBMC. Should be fine for an iTunes audio streaming server.

If you're trying to do XBMC on the cheap, then get an Apple TV.

 

[shazbat]

I have the same model and the processor is upgradeable to a core 2 duo. I picked up a 2GHz on ebay (they go for $30 these days) and is still going strong.

 

[gmark2000]

So what's it worth now? $300?

 

[John Clay]

So what's it worth now? $300?

$200-$225, would be my estimate.

It's really too slow to be useful for much of anything.

 

[pm-r]

According to mac2sell:

Your Computer is a
Mac mini Intel Core Duo 1.66 GHz 512 / 80 GB / superdrive
The Mac2Sell Quoted Value is :
CA$ 130

Mac2Sell - Argus, Evaluation, Guide to used Mac, iPad, iPhone & iPod - Occasion

 

[ahMEmon]

I have the same model and the processor is upgradeable to a core 2 duo. I picked up a 2GHz on ebay (they go for $30 these days) and is still going strong.

I have the same model in my bedroom as a PLEX client. How do I upgrade the processor? Is it hard? I have opened each and every computer that I have ever owned (except for the Mac Minis) so I am not scared messing around with the insides.

I just may be tempted to do the same, because, honestly, this computer isn't very good at much else!

 

[Womprat]

I'm also interested in upgrading the processor or selling mine. (2 mac minis, 1.66, 1 with 512 ram, the other 2 gig ram)

I was going to try going the XBMC route as well.

 

[jezzy]

I think these have the GMA video card, pretty poor for XBMC. It may work but forget about 1080p content.
The minimum for 1080p content would be a 2009 model that has the 9400M and C2D processor.
This one's fine for everyday non-HD use =)
I recently bought one for my dad for 140$, the 2009 models are around 300$ then after that is the 2010+ models starting from 400$ and up.

 

[Womprat]

jezzy,

Thanks for the advice. I'm trying to help out a friend with one of them, so 720p is fine for tv. I may sell the other one here.