how do YOU stream?


Since there are so many options out there I thought it might enlighten others as to the options available.

For example - my configuration

I stream my digital music (downloads and cd's) via my iMac (intel dual core processor) computer.

I use Front Row to control playback with theapple remote and iTunes to rip cd's into music library. For damaged CD's I rip using MAX.

The music is stored on a dual raid drive NAS drive to mitigate lost music if one hard drive fails

Network link is via network cable (faster transmission speed)

I connect the computer to the DACmagic via toslink (optical) cable

The DACmagic is connected to the amp via stagger Silver Solid interconnects.

Initial Problems encountered:

Not knowing the Mac too well, finding out that the toslink required a mini adapter that plugged into the speaker output jack required some Investigation.

The iMac is capable of outputting 24/96 kHz digital output by using the optical outptut and setting the 24/96 kHz output using the midi program that can be found in the utilities folder.

Please include helpful hints

Thanks
williewonka
Gateway PC w/Windows 7; JRiver + JPlay; ESI Juli@ Soundcard via 10 meter spdif into next room - into Esoteric G25U Clock/upsampler into Berkeley Dac direct to amps.
Meridian Digital Media Systems MD600 media storage to Linsys router via shielded Cat6 cable, router to office Netgear AV500+ Ethernet over powerline adaptor via shielded Cat6 cable, living room Netgear v500+ Ethernet over powerline adaptor to Meridian Digital Media Systems MS600 endpoint/dac to preamp. Meridian app on iPad controls streaming over wireless home network.
Server > (ethernet) Slim/Logitech Transporter > main stereo rig in listening room
Server/Windows Media Center > (coax) surround rig in great room / stereo speakers in living room
Server/WMC > (wireless) WMC extender > soundbar rig in mbr
Server > (wireless) Roku Soundbridge in play room

Files are either WMAL or FLAC.
Mac Mini (iTunes + Audirvana Integer mode) -> Musical Fidelity V-Link mk I -> Cary 206/200 DAC -> amp