Mac Mini Server with DAW

Hello, I'm itching to buy a new computer to replace my aging Macbook so I can get into more serious recording -outgrown Garage Band. However, I don't have $2000 to spend on a 15'' laptop. Besides, any serious musician will tell you that it's best to use three hard drives (one HD dedicated to the OSX and DAW software - Logic Pro or whatever, a second hard drive for your samples/plug-ins, and a third drive to actually record your music onto). Initailly I looked at the iMac. However, I recently spoke to not one but two friend that said, "don't buy one!" "These things overheat and have to be replaced after 6 months of use."

So now my second choice is a Mac Mini Server. Why the server? Because it has two hard drives (would only need to buy one external drive). And really important is that the server uses a quad-core i7. Will need the i7 to effectively record multiple audio tracks while also adding various plug-ins. My question is, though, who out here is successfully using a Mac Mini Server (if anyone) to run Logic Pro, Cubase, or Protools? Last, can the server aspect be bypassed (or does this even matter?) I haven't located a clearcut answer regarding turning off the server fuctions on the Mini Server. By the way, I suspect that the new Intel Ivy Bridge chip will help curb the heat issues as these CPUs are said to run a little greeener. Hmm? I don't want to wait around and see. Thanks everyone!