Considering the level of your system I think it makes sense to ditch the laptop and step up to one of the better dedicated streamers. Read Darko’s review of the Innuos Zen if you haven’t already as it’s pretty informative. The Zen would be a great choice, but Lumin is worth a look too. Best of luck.
Upgrade path from Windows laptop music server
I think my old HP laptop is the weak point in my system. It's an i5 with 8meg connected to a Benchmark DAC (may be upgraded) over a Wireworld USB. I'm running JRiver to play my 200 ripped CD'S, listen to Radio Paradise and WWOZ Internet radio, and have just signed up to Qobuz high-res. I thought I was computer literate but the array of new options for computer audio is intimidating. So, asking for guidance. My goal is the best sound, which I see as delivering the best signal to the DAC.
Should I keep the laptop but configure a network bridge from SOtM, Sonore, or others? This is all new to me.
If so, should I/ can I run Ethernet from nearby router to bridge?
Will JRiver still work?
Are there great laptops that solve the problem? (assuming there is a problem)
Do I trash the laptop altogether?
I want to end up with something with a good user-interface free of arcane techy complexity.
Thanks for any advice or past experience
Should I keep the laptop but configure a network bridge from SOtM, Sonore, or others? This is all new to me.
If so, should I/ can I run Ethernet from nearby router to bridge?
Will JRiver still work?
Are there great laptops that solve the problem? (assuming there is a problem)
Do I trash the laptop altogether?
I want to end up with something with a good user-interface free of arcane techy complexity.
Thanks for any advice or past experience