Music Server


I am looking for a reliable and easy to use music server with a very good interface software package.  I have about 4,500 CDs, the majority classical, so I am looking for something that does a good job at cataloguing the content.  I currently run a Naim NDS/Uniti server.  I think the software is adequate, but, I have FAR too many bugs and problems keeping it working correctly.  Enough is enough.  I would like something that is much more stable and reliable that is designed to handle a decent sized collection. 

I did some quick research and found the Antipodes server.  It seems to have the ability to run a number of different software packages (comes with Roon pre-loaded) and it has built-in capability to rip CDs, both of which are a big plus, but, I am a bit concerned about whether it might be a bit complicated to use.  I have also taken a quick look at the Aurender servers.  I have a good local dealer who is a computer whiz that carries the Aurender so that is a big plus.  Another big plus would be something that could take what I have already loaded on my QNAP NAS and work with that so I don't have to re-load, edit metadata, etc. all 4,500 CDs again.

Are there any other top end servers that I should be looking at?  Also, any suggestions on a DAC to couple with the server?

Thanks.

larryi

Showing 1 response by rbstehno

I have used a Mac mini for years as a music server running software like pure music and audirvana. Using the latest audirvana software and getting rid of iTunes was a big step in the right direction but the interface was crude. When I started evaluating 3rd party music servers, I was surprised that they were better sounding than a Mac/audirvana setup and not by a small amount.
i still use my Mac mini running OS X server and minimserver to hold all my ripped music. 

If if you are going to use any music server whether it's on a Mac or dedicated server, you don't want to have any disks attached to it if this box is going to be in your audio rack. I have always had my disks in another room or 100ft away in the basement. I use a GIGe switch network which has no dropouts.