Crisp new 4K external display brightens MacBook Pro rig’s visuals [Setups]

This setup is simple but effective. The MacBook Pro workstation user added a Dell display that brings the setup to a whole new level, with a spacious screen sporting 4K resolution visuals.

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Dell display brightens MacBook Pro setup’s visuals

4K resolution

Dell 27 Plus 4K USB-C Monitor

The affordable Dell S2725QC is a 27-inch, 4K (3840 x 2160p) monitor with 120Hz headphones-arc-soundbar-and-more/” title=”Unwrap Incredible Savings: Sonos Holiday Sale Reinstates Black Friday Prices on Ace …, Arc Soundbar, and More!”>refresh rate,16:9 aspect ratio, AMD FreeSync Premium, sRGB 99% color gamut, integrated speakers,1500:1 contrast ratio and ComfortView Plus.

Pros:
Clear 4K resolutionSpeedy 120Hz refresh rate1500: 1 contrast ratio

Cons:
Higher-resolution displays (5K) are becoming widely available

Redditor ducky_1 showed off the solid setup in a post entitled, “My setup has reached its final form.”

“Got my Dell S2725QC monitor up and running with my M1 [MacBook Pro],” Ducky said. “Loving it so far.”

The external display is new — and a big boost for a MacBook Pro setup. But regarding the setup being done, Redditors made fun of that naive notion, as usual. People who make that claim never escape good-natured criticism.

“I’m sorry friend, but there’s no such thing!” said one.

“Wishful thinking,” said another.

“Final for now,” someone else suggested.

Dell display

Ducky’s Dell 27 Plus 4K USB-C monitor (S2725QC) drew praise and questions from commenters. One expressed envy for the stand, different from the one he has, and wondered if it came with the monitor. It did, said Ducky.

Check out the displays features:

The improved ComfortView Plus reduces harmful blue light emissions to ≤35%, for all-day comfort without sacrificing color accuracy.
AMD FreeSync Premium (refresh rate up to 120Hz) and an ultra-low 0.03ms response time create a smooth experience for work and play.
4K visuals with in-plane switching technology and 99% sRGB for vibrant colors.
The 1500:1 contrast ratio and HDR readiness deliver depth and detail.
Re-engineered sound brings more detail with spacious audio featuring greater output power, deeper frequency response and more decibel range than the previous generation.
Keep your desk organized and clutter-free with a single USB-C cable (up to 65W power delivery).

Twelve South Curve Stand

Cools your MacBook

Twelve South Curve Stand for MacBooks (matte black)

This ergonomic desktop cooling stand for home or office suits MacBook Pro, MacBook Air and other laptops (matte black). Dimensions: 10in x 10.5in x 6in.

Pros:
Fits MacBooks and other laptopsEnables laptop coolingErgonomic

Ducky’s M1 MacBook Pro rests open on the popular Twelve South Curve Stand. The family-owned company designed, sells and supports its products from Charleston, South Carolina.

Features:

Anti-slip silicone pads and bent arms keep laptop in place and prevent scratches.
Ergonomics-wise, Curve raises laptop 6 inches (15cm) off your desk to relieve neck and shoulder strain.
Pair with keyboard and mouse to create a desktop setup or use with a monitor for dual screen functionality.

Impressive audio, too

Great sound

Hifiman Arya Stealth Planar Magnetic Headphones

Made for audiophiles and music producers, these planar magnetic over-ear open-back headphones feature magnetic drivers.

Pros:
Advanced magnetic drivers reduce distortionLightweight comfortMetal headband

Cons:
Mid-priced by Hifiman standards, but still expensive

Ducky likes his tunes, it seems. When he listens to music, he wears $600 Hifiman Arya Stealth open-back planar magnetic headphones. And he pumps them up with an affordable, $160 Fiio K11 R2R headphone amplifier. Nice. And if you want to learn more about open-back vs. macbook-pro-rig-discover-the-game-changing-audio-interface-and-microphone/” title=”Transform Your … Pro Rig: Discover the Game-Changing … Interface and Microphone!”>closed-back headphones, read my buying guide. And if you think you might want to invest in audio interface to punch up your sound, check out my guide to the best ones for Mac.

Shop these items now:
Computer and stand:

Dell display:

Audio:

Input devices:

Boost your cans

FiiO K11 R2R DAC and Headphone Amplifier

This digital-to-analog converter (DAC) and headphone amplifier boosts your headphones or speakers. Includes 6.35mm and balanced 4.4mm, RCA, Coaxial and Optical connectors. 1300mW, 384kHz/24Bit DSD256 (Silver).

Pros:
AffordableSolid entry-level deviceSupports headphones and speakers

Cons:
You may need an adapter for some headphones connectors