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"tutorial" on computer music servers

I have a very small disc collection at present, (less than 40).
I'm noticing that especially older rock and some jazz music I'm interested in buying, is no longer available as new (CD)s, in stores.
That the CD format in general, is on it's way out (?).
Forcing consumers to download music off the internet (?).
Therefore, someone in my situation, shouldn't buy a high quality CD transport, but rather buy a computer and subscribe to one or more of these online music servers (?).
shafe
mesch
1,679 posts
 
I use both a disk player and a computer as a server. I buy most of my CDs on amazon or ebay or from used CD stores. I don't yet believe that the CD is dead. I have never downloaded a file. I rip all my CDs to a MAC.

There are high quality CD players now available at about any budget. Many have SPDIF inputs so there DAC can be accessed by a server. Alternatively, many good sub $1000 DACs are available, new or used. These can mated to a lessor expensive player and in addition, used with a server.

Regarding the computer/server approach, they are not difficult to set up and if done right can out-preform a player at equal cost.
shafe OP
1 posts
 
Mesch - Thanks for your response.

I already own DAC components: Audio Alchemy DTI PRO32 and Perpetual Tech P3a.

I don't as yet own a computer, having not much more use for one than doing research like this, and sending e-mails, so I use a library computer mostly.

I'm totally clueless when it comes to music servers: who they are, how they operate, how much they cost. Thus the request for a tutorial. Any on-line articles "for dummies"?

A major incentive for buying a computer, would be to get server music. I have heard that the MAC Minis are an excellent choice (?). Thanks
clio09
2,978 posts
 
As Steve Nugent mentioned the 2009 MacMini would be a great start. His website has a lot of information on how to easily configure one for very good sound. I went this route with an Audiophilleo USB converter and my existing DAC. if you want to use iTunes as the interface Audirvana is a good music playback software choice. If you want to bypass iTunes I recommend Jriver. You could probably do all of this for under $1000.
wisnon
700 posts
 
http://www.linkwitzlab.com/dCS_Guide_to_Computer_Audio(2).pdf
knghifi
1,667 posts
 
Check out Bryston BDP-1 or BDP-2. It's basically a transport for digital music.

Just connect external USB Drive with your music to the Bryston. Since music is loaded into memory before play, quality of USB cable will not effect sound quality. Then connect the Bryston to your DAC.

There are many options where you can install an internal drive, control with iPad/iPhone ...

It's pricey so you pay for convenience/plug and play. Google reviews for more info.

I also recommend DLNA but requires some computer knowledge.
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