Many computer setups go heavy on the Apple hardware, but not many of them could be mistaken for Apple advertisements. Some, though, like today’s Mac Studio workstation, manage to hit that mark — or close enough.
If the app developer who uses it fancied things up a bit more, the rig might seem too staged and on-the-nose-Apple to feature.
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Developer’s setup is all Apple, from the Mac Studio and Studio Display to the Apple input devices and audio
Independent app developer and Redditor ObscureBen showcased the spare and beautiful setup in a post entitled, “My Mac Studio Setup.”
You might not mistake it for a real Apple ad, but it could bring one to mind. It’s that largely black-and-white aesthetic. That and the fact that practically everything in the photograph is an Apple product, not counting items Apple doesn’t make, like stands and desk mats.
He runs a Mac Studio with a Studio Display plus a 12.9-inch iPad Pro. His input devices? Magic Keyboard, Magic Trackpad 2, Magic Mouse 2. And, as for audio, that’s all Apple, too — paired HomePod minis, AirPods Max on a stand, AirPods Pro.
Here’s Ben’s description of his work:
I’m a solo indie app developer (I make a camera app, Obscura), so I spend a lot of time in Xcode and Sketch primarily. Besides that nothing too surprising. I juggle a lot of things; design, marketing, blogging, customer support, trying to be active in the iOS dev community, etc. I’m currently trying to simplify and cut down on subscriptions, so I’ve been moving from Dropbox to iCloud, and from Lightroom to Apple Photos.
Not Apple, but designed for Apple
Photo: Ed Hardy/Cult of Mac
“What tablet holder is that?” asked a commenter, noting the mount with the tablet to the right of the Studio Display.
“It’s the TwelveSouth Hover Bar Duo [for iPad],” Ben replied. “It’s pretty solid, and can handle the weight of a 12.9-inch iPad. But in hindsight I wish I got a magnetic iPad mount. This one really requires both hands and quite a bit of pulling to get it in or out.”
The Hover Bar Duo comes with both a weighted stand and a clamp to let you choose how you want to mount your iPad. It can hold the iPad anywhere from down near the base to up to 2 feet in the air.
It’s just the sort of thing to help make an iPad — especially the large Pro model, like Ben’s — a desktop replacement. Just add a keyboard and trackpad or mouse and fire up Center Stage. Cult of Mac‘s reviewer certainly appreciated the Duo.
Cool monitor riser and organizer
Commenters also showed curiosity about the handsome black desk shelf, or monitor riser, under the Studio Display. It’s called the Fitueyes Monitor Stand Wood Plus.
“It’s nothing special but having the extra shelf is nice for the clutter I just can’t seem to get away from the desk,” Ben said.
Another interesting item that suits the setup and helps keep it neat is The Divide from Dudek Modern Goods. It’s a divided organizer that holds pencils or pens and notebooks or similar items. Nice.
Shop these items now:
Computers and stand:
Display and riser:
Input devices:
Audio:
Accessories:
If you would like to see your setup featured on Cult of Mac, send some high-res pictures to info+setups@cultofmac.com. Please provide a detailed list of your equipment. Tell us what you like or dislike about your setup, and fill us in on any special touches, challenges and plans for new additions.
This is a tablet stand with adjustable arm and a choice of weighted base or surface clamp for mounting.
