Thanks for everything so far....
Some more info on my situation...
I think I need:
- a server (the Mac Mini with external drives (appreciate the info on the NAS)
- an interface (haven't decided that one yet, but think my simplest option is a keyboard and monitor (hopefully the TV associated with the sound system) attached to the Mac Mini, better is a iTouch or iPhone)
- a way to convert the digital output from the server to analog (biggest area of uncertainty for me... and most variable)
- a nice to have is a way to use this on more than one sound system in the house (via airport???)
As for budget, I tend to like bang for the buck vs unlimited. Looking for cost effective conversion.
What are the range of options for digital to analog conversion including approximate cost? For quality, everything I have seen points to a DAC vs soundcard, so what are options:
In the under $300 range?
In the $300 to $500 range?
In the $500 up range?
What am I giving up at the lower range?
Thanks....