Whow! I must have turned my email alerts off somehow because I didn't know I had any further comments here after my last one in August!
Well, I've got the Mac Mini and Drobo in. I'm still in the process of ripping my collection (about a third complete). I am also still shopping for a DAC. I'm considering the Ayre (though its a bit pricey), as well as some pro-audio firewire options. I am no longer considering Bel Canto or Benchmark as I don't need analog inputs (I don't want to replace my pre) and I don't want another volume control in the mix (the software, the computer, and the pre is already too much).
I'm in no rush as I still have a ways to go in the ripping process and the Mac's analog out into my pre is sufficient for this interim period (I still have my SimAudio Moon Orbiter for the time being).
Thank you guys for your comments. I'll update the pics and system stats soon.