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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

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Showing 1 response by anwar

anwar
119 posts
 
I have Sony HAP-Z1ES but don’t use it as a server, just as a hard disk player with USB connection to an external DAC. Only one internal 2.5" SATA HDD/SSD can fit and there’s only 1 USB port. It does support USB hub (USB CD player, external hard disk, and external DAC) but I don’t know if using hub will degrade the USB output to external DAC. The user interface has good ergonomics (the big dial) and nice color screen - you can navigate and perform setup without using phone app. Ripping using Z1ES with connection to Gracenote gives more correct album artwork and song titles compared to Windows PC ripping, but it’s slow if ripping with verification is selected. One of Z1ES strengths is its ability to play gapless for all formats, including DSD.

Since you have thousands of CDs, I suggest you estimate the amount of HDD space required and tracks count since there’s an upper limit on how many tracks can be supported by Z1ES (never published officially, something like 20,000 tracks).
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