without claiming to be any kind of computer audio whiz, here's my take on what you're asking:
you need a laptop (or mac mini or some other computer...), loaded with software (e.g. pure music) that piggybacks on (for example) your itunes, and a quiet external HD. you'll have to set preferences, like what format to rip to, automatic backup onto a second HD (if you want to be safe), etc.
the single box idea has problems: 1. HD failure results in loss of all your files. 2. you may get better sound if you use the laptop/computer for the playback software and the HD for storage, thus avoiding having the computer getting 'fought over' by two different actions: file retrieval and file playing. you could conceivably skip the second HD, using the computer's HD (if it's big enough - you'll need about 1.5 terabytes for 2K uncompressed CDs) for file storage and the external HD as backup - but some people say you'll sacrifice sound quality.
there are lots of resources on the web like computer audio tutorials and discussion forums. it's a fast-evolving area, with no agreed-upon standards in place yet (e.g. USB, firewire, ethernet - which is 'best' between your HD and your DAC?)
what you want won't cost an arm and a leg (storage is cheap now!) but it won't come in one box.
you need a laptop (or mac mini or some other computer...), loaded with software (e.g. pure music) that piggybacks on (for example) your itunes, and a quiet external HD. you'll have to set preferences, like what format to rip to, automatic backup onto a second HD (if you want to be safe), etc.
the single box idea has problems: 1. HD failure results in loss of all your files. 2. you may get better sound if you use the laptop/computer for the playback software and the HD for storage, thus avoiding having the computer getting 'fought over' by two different actions: file retrieval and file playing. you could conceivably skip the second HD, using the computer's HD (if it's big enough - you'll need about 1.5 terabytes for 2K uncompressed CDs) for file storage and the external HD as backup - but some people say you'll sacrifice sound quality.
there are lots of resources on the web like computer audio tutorials and discussion forums. it's a fast-evolving area, with no agreed-upon standards in place yet (e.g. USB, firewire, ethernet - which is 'best' between your HD and your DAC?)
what you want won't cost an arm and a leg (storage is cheap now!) but it won't come in one box.