Since Apple doesn't seem to want to sell the Mac mini with a better than current processor, we were going to buy a used mini and upgrade the processor ourselves.

Does anyone know which socket the mini uses?

Witch one are you talking about?! The first generation or the newest generation..

Obviously the second....

Yes the Intel. The first gen processor was soldiered in.

Anyway very easy, first generation PPC (PowerPC CPU) second gen. Intel (Socket 775) like a C2D, Quadcore, Pentium D.. Any wonders to check if it's compatible with the Apple hardware an i.e. Intel Core 2 Quad Q6600?!

it is "socket M" CPU compatible intel c2q T7XOO 667 mhz;
look Here

Yeah, Socket "Mobile" like for laptops. This one is very affordable compared to xen. Buy it now ahah!

Awsome! THANKS xenistis

This is going to be one speedy little mini


Wrong socket

I think I'm a little bit tired

this dont work with macmini look Here

I know I saw after I posted...

Maxintosh - yes it will be speedy - I did exactly the same bought a Used single core Intel Mac Mini and upgraded to the T7600 SL9SD 2.33mhz processor. I can confirm it is quick - obviously upgraded to 2GB of RAM at the same time!
T7600 was the last of the line of that processor so the most potent that you could fit to the current breed of Mac Mini.

Only issue is that it could really do with sitting on a stand or something if I do any really processor intensive stuff like large image manipulation. It gets quite hot - sitting it on its side was enough to bring the temps down somewhat as it was HOT to the touch underneath when sitting flat. Now that it sits on its side no real issue just for aesthetic reasons it would be nice to sit it flat.

Of course in a cool room it may be OK - the room this one sits in is usually around 21 degrees Centigrade ambient.