Well, let’s do a cost analysis of SB verses a computer rig.
SB3:
SB3 $300 (goes on sale every few weeks for $250)
Bolder Cables enthusiast analog mod $550 (includes shipping)
Elpac power supply (new) $123
Bolder Cables Elpac mod $125
Nokia N770 webpad $130
Signal cable 3' analog2 with bullet plugs $87
500GB eternal USB/eSATA backup drive $120
Total Cost - $1435 (all prices include shipping)
I put my friend into the same rig minus the Nokia and a 250GB HD about two weeks ago. His total cost was about $1250. His system consists of Anthem AVM2/Anthem 5 channel amp and VSA 4jr's. He was blown away by the sound even before the break in. He got so excited; he stayed up all night ripping CD's.
Computer Rig:
Mac mini to put in audio rack w/wireless keyboard $750
Buffalo 1TB Terrastation with raid $600
USB dac Benchmark $1275 Bel Canto DAC3 $2500 Wavelength Brick $1750
Signal cable 3' analog2 with bullet plugs $87
Misc cable - USB, Ethernet $50
Total Cost $2762 - $3987
I configured the computer rig to use the TV as a monitor. I'm assuming that this is going into a HT rig. If not, you will need to add a monitor. I know that some people use a laptop with a long USB cable running to the USB DAC in the audio rack. If you go this way, then drop the Apple mini and substitute a laptop. The mini has a neat little remote that will allow you to control playback from your listening chair.
I don't understand why you want a NAS with a usb port. You cannot plug a USB DAC into a NAS. It can only be plugged into a computer. Why do you want the NAS in the listening room? Hang it off of a wireless router in another room so you don't have to hear it.
I'm not saying one is better than the other. It just depends on what you’re trying to accomplish and how involved you want to get. If you don't want to get involved in mods, then just buy the Transporter, plug it in and away you go. The most important thing to remember is to backup all your music. I've had to re-rip my entire collection 3 times. Now I have two backup drives and I backup once a month.
I can't take a picture of my nokia right know because I just sent my SB2 back for an upgrade. Yes, I know I'm spending more on mods, but I like the convenience of having all of my collection on a HD; I will never go back to a standalone cd player.
BTW, my office system, which also runs the slim server software, consists of a PS Audio Digital Link III DAC driving a pair of Red Dragon Monos. Speakers consist of ERA Design4's and a custom sub based on the Pinnacle subcompact six. I don't use the USB connection on the DAC; I prefer using the coax digital out from my PC. Playback software is WMP 11.
SB3:
SB3 $300 (goes on sale every few weeks for $250)
Bolder Cables enthusiast analog mod $550 (includes shipping)
Elpac power supply (new) $123
Bolder Cables Elpac mod $125
Nokia N770 webpad $130
Signal cable 3' analog2 with bullet plugs $87
500GB eternal USB/eSATA backup drive $120
Total Cost - $1435 (all prices include shipping)
I put my friend into the same rig minus the Nokia and a 250GB HD about two weeks ago. His total cost was about $1250. His system consists of Anthem AVM2/Anthem 5 channel amp and VSA 4jr's. He was blown away by the sound even before the break in. He got so excited; he stayed up all night ripping CD's.
Computer Rig:
Mac mini to put in audio rack w/wireless keyboard $750
Buffalo 1TB Terrastation with raid $600
USB dac Benchmark $1275 Bel Canto DAC3 $2500 Wavelength Brick $1750
Signal cable 3' analog2 with bullet plugs $87
Misc cable - USB, Ethernet $50
Total Cost $2762 - $3987
I configured the computer rig to use the TV as a monitor. I'm assuming that this is going into a HT rig. If not, you will need to add a monitor. I know that some people use a laptop with a long USB cable running to the USB DAC in the audio rack. If you go this way, then drop the Apple mini and substitute a laptop. The mini has a neat little remote that will allow you to control playback from your listening chair.
I don't understand why you want a NAS with a usb port. You cannot plug a USB DAC into a NAS. It can only be plugged into a computer. Why do you want the NAS in the listening room? Hang it off of a wireless router in another room so you don't have to hear it.
I'm not saying one is better than the other. It just depends on what you’re trying to accomplish and how involved you want to get. If you don't want to get involved in mods, then just buy the Transporter, plug it in and away you go. The most important thing to remember is to backup all your music. I've had to re-rip my entire collection 3 times. Now I have two backup drives and I backup once a month.
I can't take a picture of my nokia right know because I just sent my SB2 back for an upgrade. Yes, I know I'm spending more on mods, but I like the convenience of having all of my collection on a HD; I will never go back to a standalone cd player.
BTW, my office system, which also runs the slim server software, consists of a PS Audio Digital Link III DAC driving a pair of Red Dragon Monos. Speakers consist of ERA Design4's and a custom sub based on the Pinnacle subcompact six. I don't use the USB connection on the DAC; I prefer using the coax digital out from my PC. Playback software is WMP 11.