Help for a server on a budget.

If you have the PC, you needn't be into it for much, in terms of either complexity or money.

Here one very simple way, about what I'm using now (I'm a computer semi-literate):

1. hard drive via usb (or something else) to computer

2. computer via usb (or something else) to DAC

3. DAC to Pre via conventional IC.

4. For software, JRiver or the like.

5. Music files ripped in FLAC or WAV or the like (uncompressed/lossless -- no MP3).

I'm guessing you have computer cabling around, so you would need to purchase only two things (1) A hard drive of at least 1 TB (depending on music collection size), preferably a RAID (redundant array) so your files are backed up. (2) A DAC.

Hard drives are cheap, but a largish RAID won't be free, maybe 300ish. There are lots of well regarded minimalist DACs around, such as those by HRT and Musical Fidelity; something can be had used, or even new, for south of 200.

So this set up costs less than 500. Upgrading cables over stock USB may help, but you'll do fine without.

Ripping your CDs is time consuming, but can be done while doing other things. If your disability is an issue, there are ripping services. Much cheaper would be to find a (semi)reliable teenager who wants to pick up a few bucks.

Going server based is considerably more complex, but quite doable.

computeraudiophile.com is a great resource.

Good luck -- you'll be happy you made the move.

Best, John

You can use your current computer in pretty well any room and stream wirelessly to your main system using either a Sonus or Squeezebox. Lots of satisfied people doing this, I haven't made the leap but have been reading up on it quite a bit lately. The Squeezbox is $300, Sonus a bit more. Best, Jeff

Thanks all, ideas to ponder and save for!

Apple TV is an even less expensive option than a Squeezebox as it will stream all your iTunes music, though you would need an iPod Touch, iPhone or iPad to run the remote control software. (So that might make the cost a wash with Squeezebox.) If you can't afford an external DAC, the one that comes with it is acceptable.

I use a Cambridge DAC Magic with mine and the quality is superb.