I got an ipod a few months back - and I can feel the same process you speak of starting in me. Their stuff is that good... Tell me about the MacMini - how much - how easy?
The Ipad is a great gadget, but Ipad will be toast once some quality Droid pads come out. Users have to buy an addon application just to be able to print with Ipad.
Well, about a month after I got my mini, they came out with a redesigned version. Still, the thing is easy as pie to set up. I got the HDMI adapter for mine, although I believe that’s no longer required as the new model has a mini HDMI out connector built in. Audio is run to my old JVC home theater via a Belkin Bluetooth adapter hooked into the tape jack on the JVC. I could do an optical out (it’s a dual jack on the mini - headphone style or digital optical) to the home theater, but it, the JVC, only has one optical in, and it’s used for the Sat DVR. I really need to upgrade the home theater box.
Keyboard and mouse are Bluetooth. Since the Dish ViP722 has Ethernet connectivity, I’m planning on bridging it to my wireless network via the mini.
I never thought I’d end up having a 52” HD monitor connected to a computer, but there I am. For $8 a month for Netflix streaming, it’s a steal for movie and TV entertainment. I can use my iPhone (and you could use your iPod touch) as a remote control via a number of different software apps. Logitech has a free app, and corresponding server side software that works really well. The apple remote software only works with a limited number of programs, itunes is best. But the logitech stuff can replace both the keyboard and mouse for entertainment purposes.
As for cost, my mini was $699. The apple store will have up to date pricing and configuration options.