Hi-fi audio from a NAS

[theFan]

Hi,

I have a PC on the network that is about to become a my dedicated network attached storage. On this PC is my entire CD collection ripped to FLAC using Exact Audio Copy.

I've got a budget of about 2kGPB for an integrated stereo amplifier.

What i'm struggling with is how to get very good audio quality out of this setup from the NAS into the amp.

What i've come up with so far is getting a networked media player like the SageTV HD300 (or Popcorn Hour etc) then sending the optical s/pdif to a DAC, then analog to the amp.

What do you guys think?

I've seen a bit of talk about jitter over the s/pdif. Is this significant if i were to go with s/pdif?

Thanks,

TIm

 

[scene]

Hi, and welcome to the forums

You might want to look at the Naim Uniti or Linn equipment at that price and get an Amp that can handle high-bit rate music from the source direct, without the need for a DAC, etc...

My other question, is why a SageTV or Popcorn Hour? Are you looking to use it to stream videos to a TV/Display as well?

 

[theFan]

Hi Scene - thanks for the welcome!

It's a good point you've raised about the Naim Uniti. I was shying away from this sort of product because I figured that my money would get a much better amplifier if it didn't have a CD player and other bits and pieces on it. Having said that, the good DACs are very expensive and would also steal from my amp budget.

The only sources going into this amp would be some sort of path originating at the NAS, and a turntable.

Why SageTV/Popcorn Hour? Well, you're right, I've also been looking at things to stream my DVD collection that has been ripped to the NAS.

 

[mcjwalters]

Hi,
Would also look at the Cyrus 6 or 8 xpd, I have been testing them and very impressed, some good deals around for the 8xpd just over £1,100 mark. Or also looked at the new audiolab cd player with an onboard DAC that also impressed and at under £700 is great value.

 

[theFan]

The Cyrus 6/8 would still require a media player like Popcorn Hour, which is fine.

I think i really need to audition the Cyrus and any other amps with integrated DACs that my local hi-fi stores have. Also, i need to check out the new products that are round now because it seems that digital sources are getting more and more popular.

 

[mcjwalters]

Aah, good point theFan.

Was very impressed with Cyrus 6 & 8 xpd great value for money, saw a few factory refurbished 8's with usual 2 year cover in mint condition for just over a grand.