Once you start to use the computer with a program such as iTunes, you will be amazed at how much easier it will be vs a stand alone music server. The screen size and user interface are worth it. There are many USB to SPDIF converters (DIY Paradise has an easy kit) if you prefer SPDIF.
I've st a few friends up with used iMacs and a drive for about $500-$600 and the appear to be working great. If you can afford it, the new iMacs/mac mini with the front row remote control are just too easy, and a great pc to boot. I would check into how easy it is to rip (import). With a mac it is easy to set it in so that you just put the cd in and it spits it out after ripping and tagging info for all of the songs. Makes ripping a real no brainer...
As for ease of use, iTunes is like a card catalog- click on a song, album, artist, play list or genre and it will start to play that list. I listen to more of my music than I ever have in the past. What DAC are you building?
I've st a few friends up with used iMacs and a drive for about $500-$600 and the appear to be working great. If you can afford it, the new iMacs/mac mini with the front row remote control are just too easy, and a great pc to boot. I would check into how easy it is to rip (import). With a mac it is easy to set it in so that you just put the cd in and it spits it out after ripping and tagging info for all of the songs. Makes ripping a real no brainer...
As for ease of use, iTunes is like a card catalog- click on a song, album, artist, play list or genre and it will start to play that list. I listen to more of my music than I ever have in the past. What DAC are you building?