New Mac Mini OS X Server - 2 monitors & hard drives?

I'm considering a Mac Mini for my next Mac and am looking at the OS X Server version.  I currently use 2 monitors on an old Mac Pro and would like to keep that set up.  I also like that the Server version of the Mini has 2 hard drives, where I would probably install 2 SSDs.
My main question is about if it's possible to connect 2 monitors to the current 2013 Mini and if so, what's the best way to do so?
Also, how difficult is it to install a second hard drive if I purchase the Mini with just one to start with?
I'm also thinking maybe I should wait a little while in case a new Mac Mini is announced in the next few months.
Thanks

Hi, not quite sure why you're considering Server, but...
ideo Card:
HD Graphics 4000
VRAM Type:
Integrated
Details:
This model has an Intel HD Graphics 4000 graphics processor that shares memory with the system. Also see: What type of video system is provided by the Aluminum Mac mini models? Which are integrated and which are dedicated? Can the video be upgraded?
Standard VRAM:
512 MB*
Maximum VRAM:
768 MB*
Display Support:
Dual Displays
Resolution Support:
1920x1200*
2nd Display Support:
Dual/Mirroring*
2nd Max. Resolution:
2560x1600*
Details:
*This model simultaneously supports 1920x1200 on an HDMI or a DVI display (using the included HDMI-to-DVI adapter) and2560x1600 on a Thunderbolt or Mini DisplayPort display or even a VGA display (with an optional Mini DisplayPort-to-VGA adapter, which is compatible with the Thunderbolt port).
http://www.everymac.com/systems/apple/mac_mini/specs/mac-mini-core-i7-2.6-late-2 012-server-specs.html
Rather than rely on the slow internaldrives... lest you replace them with SSDs, I'd opt for external mTB drives to boot from.
I'm also thinking maybe I should wait a little while in case a new Mac Mini is announced in the next few months.
Personally, I wouldn't buy a Mini with Intel HD4000 integrated graphics, I'd wait to see if the HD500 is twice as bad, or Apple incluses a real Video card option in the next release... but I hold little hope for that.

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