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Do I have to use a streamer/renderer to play music from an NAS?

I apologize for the basic question. But, I can’t seem to find an answer online. I would like to put all my CDs on an NAS and play that music through my system. I have a Rotel RC/RB-1590 set up. I know some NAS boxes come with DLNA software installed, and I am looking at Synology because I read their software for finding and selecting music to play is pretty good. Eventually, I will probably end up with something like a Cambridge Audio CXN or 851N to stream tidal and digital radio, as well as the music on the NAS. But, do I have to have the Cambridge or some other device to just play the digital music from the NAS to start? I would like to do the purchases in steps so I can get better units as I can afford them.  Also, any advice on alternative solutions would be much appreciated. Thanks.
kumakahn

Showing 2 responses by erik_squires

erik_squires
16,644 posts
 
Why do you advise against *lossless* formats like FLAC/ALAC?


There are a couple of claims made, without evidence.

1 - The decompression time, which is variable, can cause audible effects.
2 - The extra CPU time involved in decompression adds noise to the circuit.

Personally I have heard no such effects, nor have I seen anyone measure it, which seems quite easy to do.
If this actually happens it is probably quite DAC and streamer dependent.
erik_squires
16,644 posts
 
I use a Raspberry Pi with Logitech Media Server, but Volumio is the popular favorite.

I use the USB interface straight. Works great, but you can also buy inexpensive S/PDIF or even analog outputs as well.

What I like about both of these solutions is the Android and iPhone support as well as a web interface.
You might also look at something based on JRiver or Media monkey, especially if you have an old laptop lying around the house.
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