Mac Mini External Speaker Connection Options

1/8" Analog Audio Output

Most conventional stereo computer speakers use a 1.8" 3.5mm plug. For maximum wattage systems, full 2.1 subwoofer frequency response, these will deliver the Thump and Volume many want.

Optical Audio Output

Mac mini audiophiles and purists - or Home Theater Mac mini HTPC folk may prefer the Optical mini-TOSLink option built inside of the Mini's dual-function sound jack. A special mini-to-standard TOS Link adapter (or cable with a mini end) is needed. Optical delivers pure digital audio without the hum and electrical interference that can compromise Analog and Bluetooth connections.

Bluetooh Audio Output

Wireless stereo streaming is possible using Bluetooth - though is suited only for IN-ROOM, CLOSE-RANGE listening under 30' - and often less. Your Apple mini does need to be running OSX 10.5 Leopard at a minimum - and your Bluetooth speaker selection needs to support A2DP protocol as well for high-fidelity, stereo.

WiFi Audio Output

Longer distances can be covered with 802.11 Wi-Fi using Apple's Airport Express and iTunes - enabling whole-house streaming to multiple amplified speaker systems or stereo receivers around the home. Do note that the Express supports only iTunes - for other programs that generate computer audio, shareware programs that can send their audio stream over WiFi are needed.

USB Audio Output

Your Mac minis built-in USB ports provide enough power to power USB speaker systems - at least at moderate volume levels - without requiring AC power. More suited for personal listening or portability, these can provide 1-3 watts of sound output. Fine at your desktop, but don't expect room-filling sound. High quality, sensitive and well-engineered speaker drivers are needed to make the most of a USB ports limited voltage. Nearly any USB bus-powered audio system will still easily outperform and give your Mac mini a much louder, full frequency response stereo sound than your built-in monophonic speaker. And USB does it all from a single, tidy cable.

White & Silver Speakers To Compliment Your Mac mini Computer

Good looks and aesthetics matter to Macintosh users. We like Apple's attention to design and often want Mac accessories and peripherals to match and compliment that visual aesthetic. Unfortunately, the single Mac mini built-in speaker is dissappointing for a company so attuned to the music listening market. So ponder these alternative audio options that make use of the minis 1/8" Analog, Toslink Mini Optical sound port, Built-in Bluetooth module, or USB ports:

Your Ears - And Mac Mini Deserve This

Recently Improved Bose Companion 2 Series II Speakers compliment the silver metal of the Mac mini while providing sweet Bose quality your ears will appreciate. Features dual 1/8" input jacks for an extra audio gadget. The original Companion series was a already a great set of speakers for Mac. But this 2nd generation refinement proves Bose knows audio best and delivers noticeably better range and frequency response than it's predecessor.

White BlueTooth Wireless Stereo Speaker

Yamaha's 1 Piece A2DP Bluetooth Audio System - features dual side-firing drivers with passive radiators for deep bass in a small enclosure. Wireless stereo streaming in-room at close 5 meter range. Runs on both AC and Battery power.

White Bluetooth Stereo Speakers - Ipevo's Tubular compliments any Mac mini in a 2.0 system for wide stereo separation, high-quality drivers - all in a portable wireless audio solution designed for desktop - or travel with it's 6-8 hour playback time via USB rechargable Li-On battery.

Fun Mac mini iPod Dock + Speaker combo

The Speakal iBOO 1-piece Speaker w/Dock can keep the tangle of wires on your desktop to a minimum. Features built-in subwoofer and 15 watts RMS power to kick out the bass. iPod charging and playback (tho not Sync) is supported with the Universal dock connector. Available in other bright colors and animal styles - this is great for Kids - or fun loving adults.

Sony Style 2.1 Speakers Compliment Mac mini

This 20 watt Sony speaker system with a compact subwoofer and satellite tweeters is a good match for the Mac mini - or a 'Classic' White MacBook as well. Plenty of OOMPH! in a small package.

Logitech Design With Apple In Mind

Designed for Apple: Logitech Z4-i 2.1 with Subwoofer - The white, high-gloss finish and cast-metal stands add a sleek touch to your destop - to fit right in with your Mac mini computer.

JBL Silver & White Duet Speakers For The Apple mini

These Harmon-JBL speakers compliment Apple minis - And are available in either white or with aluminum finish.

ArtDio-Kinyo Speakers Match Mac mini & White iBook Computers

ArtDio White USB speakers for Mac mini - compliment Apple's mini with a minumum of cables with it's USB powered pair of white stereo spheres with silver voice coils for well under $20.

LaCie USB Powered Speakers

LaCie USB Bus Powered Digital Audio Speakers - 1 single cable for both pure USB audio AND power eliminate the need for an external AC adapter minimizing wire clutter on your desktop.