2. pc-audio
  3. 1187700527

PC-Based Set Up/Process - Comments?

I am finally going to bet around to setting up a PC-based music server for my mid-end system (Rotel components, Paradigm reference speakers, Music Hall CD player, etc.). I am NOT seeking perfect sound. I am seeking a music server system that will sound as good as my Music Hall CD player.

Can you please provide comments with respect to any potential flaws in my system and or process to achieve the above?

- Rip CDs to Dell laptop (La Cie external hard drive) using iTunes in Lossless format (Windows XP environment)
- Play CDs using iTunes
- Airport express connected to external DAC (eg. Bel Canto)

I know that in the past I have heard issues with playback on the PC under windows XP. What specifically do I need to be aware of and how do I solve that?

Thanks to all.

Lawrence
fishbone222

Showing 1 response by dancetracks

dancetracks
7 posts
 
I use an old PC laptop. WinXP to ASIOForAll to WinAmp with ASIO plugin to USB to PS Audio Dac III. Sounds great.

I've tried kmixer to usb soundcard to optical to Dac III and also ASIO to toslink to Dac III and both sound worse than the straight ASIO to USB DAC.

Also trying Ubuntu Desktop to USB DAC III right now it that also sounds great. Slightly different presentation than Windows ASIO. Better than Windows Kmixer. Too bad I don't know enough linux to get an IR remote to work...

In both cases I am just playing my MP3 and wav files from a windows file server. I just want to avoid spending money on a Sqeezebox if I can get by with a spare PC next to my stereo.

Hope this helps.
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