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Music Server - The Search Begins

I recently upgraded my amp to a Lyngdorf TDAI-3400, which incorporates the highest quality DAC I have owned, so it's gotten me to seriously consider adding a music server to my system.  
I've been mainly playing records through my system for the past 8 years, so I really haven't paid much attention to the digital side of things.  I need some help figuring out what's ideal for my needs.
The main criteria I have:
- Needs to be able to store a lot of music because I have thousands of CDs and downloads I want to store in one place
- Should have its own CD ripper
- Needs to be easy to use. I'd like to be able to navigate it without having to use a phone, tablet or computer all the time
- Must be reliable.  Glitchy, buggy systems will end up being returned.
- Must sound good, but doesn't need to be in the top 5% of its class.  
- Should be under $3K (but willing to consider higher priced if the benefits are really worth it)

Servers that I've been considering include the Cocktail Audio X50D, Sony HAP-Z1ES, BlueSound Vault, Melco N1.  I realize that not all of these on my list include every criteria I listed above, hence my plea for help.  

If you have experience using a server that you really like and that might make sense for me please share your experiences.  Thanks so much!!

Peter

snackeyp

Showing 1 response by 1graber2

1graber2's avatar
1graber2
303 posts
 
@soundsrealaudio- which Melco model do you have ? 

I'm seriously considering the Melco N1A Mk2, for around $2500. 
The amount of detail they put into the engineering to reduce noise is admirable. Any glitches with using outside Apps like Tidal ? or JRiver? 

But the Melco does have not have all the features of the
 Cocktailv50, that thing is loaded with options. I just wonder if the
 audio signal might suffer due to trying to do so many things at once. 


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