Cube or PowerMac G5/1.8 or G5/DP2.3

[nvdeynde]

I'm a collector of Vintage 68K Macs.

However I do need 1 machine that's more powerfull to browse the web and download StuffIt files and convert these to Bin or Hqx format for use on my 68K Macs. Before I used an Imac G3/400 DV but the flyback went south so I'm thinking to replace it with a Cube or Powermac G5.

What would be the best choise for the long term ?

Given the cube is 13 years old, it probably needs repairs ( capacitor replacement ) like the 68K Macs. Is the Cube hard to recap and can be the PSU be opened to recap as well ? I hope there are some Cube owners here that can give me some advise on these issues.

So, what would be my best bet ?

 

[Byrd]

The Cube doesn't need recapping - I've not heard of any failing prematurely with this issue (sure, a cap here and there but not across the board). It'd be a good choice.

 

[nvdeynde]

The Cube has power issues and the PSU is extremely hard to service. However I do like it a lot.

The Powermac G5 has the advantage that it's more powerfull and not that old yet to get a lot of issues I suppose as long as you stay away from the liquid cooled models.

 

[beachycove]

I have all three. The dual processor 2.3 is an excellent machine. The Cube has been upgraded to a dual G4@ 500mhz, but is still much, much slower on the web. Mine sits on a shelf mostly, whereas the G5 is used constantly.

Failed Cube power supplies typically fail because of a single capacitor. I started a thread back a couple of years ago and wrote of how best to get it open and fix. Not a huge job but a fiddly one.

 

[Byrd]

The Cube has power issues and the PSU is extremely hard to service. However I do like it a lot.

I think you're referring to "power issues" with the stock VRM being inadequate to run certain CPU and GPU upgrades (upgrades way beyond what was thought it could handle), but the VRM is fine if the Cube if kept largely stock or a cooling fan is added. The PSU is not an unreliable part - I'm not sure where you're getting that from. It's also cheap to replace.

 

[nvdeynde]

I just bought the G5/DP2.3

I think this will be a good solution for the long term in addition to my 68K Mac collection.

I got it cheap locally for 75$ in very good condition so I couldn't let it go while the Cube was rather expensive.

 

[beachycove]

I just bought the G5/DP2.3

If possible, pick it up yourself rather than get it shipped. They often get damaged in shipment.