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Is it worth it to add a music server just for FLAC files?

Hopefully someone can help with my question.

My current system is a Krell Digital Vanguard Integrated Amplifier and Wilson Cub Series 2 speakers. The Krell has a USB input that I have connected to an external hard drive that contains all of my FLAC files. I control what is playing with the mconnect app on my phone and can stream from Qobuz/Tidal/Spotify if I need to. It all works fine and sounds great to my ears.

My question is other than some GUI navigation improvements what would be gained if I ran my FLAC files through a music/network server (Aurender, etc) before inputting to the Krell? My intention at the moment is to continue using the DAC in the Krell. Not interested in Roon.

What would a music/network server add in my situation?

I know the real experiment would be to get a music server and let my ears tell me, but just trying to think this through right now.


zerofox

Showing 2 responses by zerofox

zerofox OP
61 posts
 
@mastering92 What would the tiny desktop add to my setup? SSD -> Krell Digital Integrated which includes a DAC.

BTW - I meant to say I am using an SSD not a HDD. Also I am not contemplating building a server, I would be buying something like an Aurender. :)

I will leave the FLAC/WAV discussion to the many different threads - I am aware of the pros and cons. But long story short for me is that I like the metadata that goes along with FLAC which WAV is not capable of.

Also should mention that it is my understanding music servers like the Aurender’s use regular off-the-shelf SSD drives like what I have in my current external drive.
zerofox OP
61 posts
 
@ mahler You are correct. I am mainly interested in local FLAC files from a hard drive. Since Qobuz is only about 5% of my listening that is not part of my equation.

The 'less is more' side of me is telling me to stick with just the hard drive -->> keep it simple, less moving parts, cables, etc.

The other side of me is thinking that maybe an Aurender model might smooth things out like is mentioned above.

Am I correct that the hard/solid state drive in a commercial streamer is an off the shelf drive? Meaning like one you could buy off of Amazon or is the storage a specialized/audio centric storage device. 

I really do appreciate everyone's feedback. Thank you.
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