Just bought a Mac Mini, so next - Monitor!

[Zoom7000]

Just bought a new Mac Mini for use as a server on site replacing our ailing Xserve (remember them!)

 

Now, it doesn't come with a DVI or VGA port at the back, instead comes with HDMI and Thunderbolt. I don't particularly feel the finance department will be pleased with £899 for an Apple Cinema Display. So, can someone please recommend a monitor that will work with HDMI (or Thunderbolt but I doubt anything is out there!) that will work well with the Mac Mini and ideally carry sound (Just in case it is needed!)

 

I believe it is possible to use a HDMI to DVI to VGA converter for use with our current monitors, but we need to purchase a new monitor anyway, so, I'll weigh up the options.

[localzuk]

Thunderbolt is directly compatible with DisplayPort, and HDMI is directly compatible with DVI.

 

So, you can go with *any* monitor that has any of DisplayPort, HDMI, DVI or VGA.

 

I bought some BenQ 22" screens recently - http://benq.co.uk/products/LCD/index.cfm/product/1164 to be precise.

 

Very crisp, vivid colours, bright, responsive and sleek looking. I got them locally so they cost a bit more than online but they can be got for < £100.

 

Don't go with DVI-VGA though, as you'll lose some definition in my experience.

Edited August 3, 2011 by localzuk

[dayzd]

Does DVI-VGA work when your source is MiniDisplayPort/HDMI? Those sources are both digital, aren't they? -How do you get an analogue (VGA) signal from those?

[localzuk]

Does DVI-VGA work when your source is MiniDisplayPort/HDMI? Those sources are both digital, aren't they? -How do you get an analogue (VGA) signal from those?

 

I believe there is a small circuit in the adapters (as doing the conversion wouldn't be a hugely complicated thing) - Apple provide their own DisplayPort -> VGA adapters.

[nicklec]

Nice research

There is a hdmi > vga and mini display port (aka thunderbolt) > vga adaptors sold by Apple or various accessory people. I believe the 'brains' are in the motherboard connection themselves, detect a VGA screen and send an analogue signal instead...

 

PS Why no KVM?