Depending on where you are in the world since prices vary a lot you can get the 16GB Intel N100 version with a 512GB drive and then buy a 1TB and a m.2 to USB adapter for the 512GB that comes with the unit for 1/2 the price of what you are looking at.
Thanks for that, I had looked at less expensive options also.
Status update: the new system rips speed wise. It got to 100% overnight. So definitely was hw problem. I really like the beelink SER5 max, looks well made. I do not have hour by hour, if I re-index for any reason will post one.