Can mac mini be used like a NAS for a media center?

Hi everyone,
i'm new to macs and am considering purchasing my first one. i am setting up an audio system with a digital media player/reciever (Linn Majik DSM) and i was recommended to use a NAS for storing music files. I got the suggestion to use a mac mini instead (small form factor, low energy use and also get a 'full computer'). Does anyone know if a mac mini (or mini server) can be used like a NAS to house music files. also, would this play nicely with other computers on the network (windows7). thanks in advance.

I've been using a mini primarily as a media server in my family room for 5 or 6 years. It is connected directly via HDMI to my receiver which is connected via HDMI to a TV.
For music, you can control iTunes with an iPad/iPhone using the built-in OS-X iTunes remote server, works fine. For video, the mini really doesn't cut it even when connected to an HDTV. (at least the late 2011 with video card doesn't). The video quality is OK, but not as good as a BR player.
I use my Bluray player as a UPnP device and haven't found a Mac server that gives fully customizable UPnP menus. However, the Mezzmo server (windows only) does, which adds a bit of complexity but is worth it to me.
My Mac does not show up as a UPnP device, you will need a server of some kind.

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