external optical drive for mac mini

[johnnyturbo]

my 2010 mac mini internal dvd/cd is dying on me. i want to replace it with an external player,ripper, burner. I would spend up to $200 for a rock solid reliable piece. i assume connection to the mini would be via usb and i would continue to use itunes/pure music.

 

thanks for your recommendations.

 

[mwheelerk]

I am just curious as I also have a 2010 Mac Mini. Isn't that a bit early for a drive to falter? Would it be cheaper to have it repaired or replaced? Do you feel an external will offer a functional and audible advantage?

 

[johnnyturbo]

it would seem that problems at this time would be early. i am going to first clean the laser, then, if not remedied, take it over to the local apple store, or the computer loft (which handles apple) in boston.

 

thanks