I can't speak to the Windows approach to doing this, so I'll confine my comments to Apple based digital server approach. I use a MacBook Pro two ways: 1. As a wireless server via Aiport Express to DAC via fiber optic output; 2. Hooking up the laptop directly to the DAC with fiberoptic cable (Van den HUL). To me, the 2nd way sounds better, but either way you get surprisingly good digital sound. All my music is in Apple Lossless, so it does take up more room as Sbrtoy mentions. If you store most of your music on a separate HD you can just move the music onto your laptop when you want to do more "serious" listening.
iMac vs. PC Laptop
I am currently weighing the pros/cons of an iMac vs. a PC laptop for a variety of uses at home, including as a digital music server. Can someone educate me on the pros/cons of each as they pertain specifically to setting up and running a digital music server? Ideally, I would like to go wireless to a DAC.
The rest of the system is a Rotel 1067 pre-amp/1075 amp, Paradigm Studio60 V.3 speakers, matching center and rears (current sources are Music Hall CD25.2 CD player, Oppo DVD).
Thanks to all.
The rest of the system is a Rotel 1067 pre-amp/1075 amp, Paradigm Studio60 V.3 speakers, matching center and rears (current sources are Music Hall CD25.2 CD player, Oppo DVD).
Thanks to all.