I have been wanting the new Mac Pro, but it is so darn expensive. I have therefore starting checking the listings for used/refurbished Mac Pro Trashcan models as an alternative. A maxed out one is still way more powerful than my current iMac. Can it be worth it? I know @DMT is very happy with his Mac Pro. What do you think @Keith, since I know you are very tech savvy. Can this be worth it for me?
This is the spec of the maxed out version:
Intel 12-Core Xeon 2.7 GHz
RAM: 64 GB
Graphics: 2 x AMD FirePro D700 (6GB)
Drive: 1 TB SSD
PS. Before you mention it: PC is out of the question as I am entirely deep into OS X software for all my work, and since I run a business I would never build a hackintosh. So a “real” Mac is the only route for me, please respect that.
The new (2019) i9 iMac will be quicker and might be a better option depending on how much the ram costs. The Mac pro and new imac Pro are faster but a lot more expensive. If you can might be an idea to see if you can pick up a refurbed 2017 iMac Pro/top end iMac that would be quicker and you get a very nice 4K screen. Also be more future proof for a while longer.
There has been some GPU reset issues with trashcan but when they work the tend to be very quiet and be a bit more upgradable although you can’t change the internal SSD but there is a SSD slot but it has a proprietary apple interface - there are workarounds but its a bit complicated. You can of course have external storage.
Thanks Phil,
I’ve also heard rumors of a new iMac coming very soon, which I assume would bring the prices down for the 2019 model or older refurbs.
My 2013 iMac is starting to feel very sluggish now that I use way more high end libraries and plugins, so sometime this year I really need to upgrade to a new Mac. I wonder if they may release a new Mac Mini this year with a faster CPU. That could be a potential candidate as well.
Regarding SSD replacement - it’s not difficult at all now. Sintech makes an adapter that allows you to connect an nvme drive from various manufacturers. Just did it with a 2TB Samsung 970 EVO Plus. I might consider using an Intel or WD Black drive also. Just used to Samsung. Getting 1400MB/s reads from it, which is the best one can get from that PCIe 2.0 connection, which is what the 2013 MP has. That’s been fine for most things.
As a side note, there’s room for a low heat sink in there. Use one.
Since the new Mac pro launched, I’m finding IMAC pros coming up for sale already … 3600 CAD Dollars.
8 core , 32 gig … can’t remember the storage capacity … but here an IMAC pro can run from $5500-$13000
So , I’m holding off … I do plan to buy but for the amount of studio time I get right now ( which is just about zero) I’m reluctant to make the jump …( even though my 6 core 5GHz 64 Gb “Hack” is running fine…) … So myself if I can get a “used” 8 core IMAC Pro then do a 3rd party memory upgrade it makes sense to me… I think this will be more inline for me … https://www.kijiji.ca/v-desktop-computers/city-of-toronto/used-i-mac-pro-a-year-old/1490125631
I am keeping an eye on the refurbished market, since I run a business I will only buy from a dealer that gives me at least 12 months full warranty. That limits my choices, as there is basically only one such dealer of used Apple hardware in Sweden.