Thunderbolt Display - Epic Fail?

Captivator · 22 Sep 2011 at 11:46

I've been on the wait list for the Thunderbolt Display since they were announced, but have decided not to go ahead on the back of some reviews since they were physically available this week....

What reeled me in was -

- The Thunderpolt port replication (essentially a one cable docking station for my MacBook Pro)
- The size and display spec
- I admit it, I'm shallow: The aesthetics - they do look fantastic

I had got myself over the lack of a matte screen option.

What stopped me....

- There is no audio out. I develop multimedia applications - I have a soundsystem I'm very happy with - I don't want to be forced to use the monitiors built in sound (OK, I haven't tested it - it MAY cut the mustard, but I'd be surprised). The workaround would be to use the audio jack in my Macbook pro - but then you're back into plugging in multiple cables when you get back from the road which defeats the object of paying a premium for a 'one cable' docking station.

- Showstopper: It doesn't support Bootcamp/Windows. WTF? Most folk I know (Certainly who work in my field) simply have to boot to Windows quite often. If I'm honest I'll be in Windows 80% of the time.

I guess I'll just wait for the new Belkin Thunderbolt port replicator to be my one cable solution (assuming that has an audio out), and buy a cheaper higher spec, though less cool looking monitor elsewhere...

[Can someone who has one tell me I'm wrong on the Windows thing? I picked that up from yesterdays CNET review]

Lowe · 22 Sep 2011 at 12:31

I've got two on my desk at the moment

Lack of sound isn't an issue for me, I have an external sound card for such things. Windows again isn't a problem since I'm completely OSX based, but can understand your frustration. I'm really happy with them

sbi5ar · 22 Sep 2011 at 12:58

Can you not just do your windows applications through Parallels/VM Fusion?

Best thing to do is give Apple a quick call, they'll let you know for sure.

Si. · 22 Sep 2011 at 14:40

It supports bootcamp no problem.. I have one and have no problems.

The CNET review is incorrect, windows works fine.

"andy" · 22 Sep 2011 at 15:50

anyone serious about sound isn't going to be using the macbook/screens built in sound card anyway are they ?

Lowe · 22 Sep 2011 at 18:55

"andy" said:
anyone serious about sound isn't going to be using the macbook/screens built in sound card anyway are they ?

Exactly. My interface plugs in via FireWire or USB, so it stays connected in the back of the monitor.

ng93 · 23 Sep 2011 at 17:02

http://www.anandtech.com/show/4832/the-apple-thunderbolt-display-review/9

AbsenceJam · 24 Sep 2011 at 00:14

"andy" said:
anyone serious about sound isn't going to be using the macbook/screens built in sound card anyway are they ?

It could have an analogue/digital output like on the Macs themselves.

Lack of audio output is the only annoyance for me, one more cable than I'd like. I would need three cables with this instead of five, but it could have been two.

vila · 24 Sep 2011 at 08:28

Could you not just have a USB to SPDIF left plugged into the back of the monitor ?

Somnambulist · 25 Sep 2011 at 13:25

I should be happy with my 2010 Mini and HPZR24W but I can't help but think a MBA + ACD combo would be a cool means of having one computer that could be used as a desktop and a laptop depending. Sound-wise I use the digital out to an external DAC so that's not a problem and a FW800 drive connected to the ACD for Time Machine.... I don't NEED it though (I'll keep telling myself that).