Streamer with MP3 file storage/ability to connect external storage

[timjsparrow]

Hi, new to this forum, and digital music to a certain extent, but figured it would be a good place to start.

I'm looking to replace my ageing iPod classic, which is connected to my hi-fi and essentially acts as my digital file player. However, I would also like something that streams internet radio and the various streaming services.

The streamer I'm looking for would ideally need to do the following :

- Store internally over 160gb worth of digital music files, or have the ability to play files from and external hard drive.
- Be able to play internet radio and stream the usual streaming services, particularly Apple Music.
- Be able to Bluetooth to other music devices in the house
- Play the TV through the hi-fi
- An inbuilt screen would be nice, but the ability to easily put "now playing" and album artwork on the TV screen would be a must.

I have been looking at the WiiM Ultra, but not sure if this meets all my requirements or does more than I need? It wouldn't be my stand alone player as I already have an amp.

Thank you in advance for any suggestions.

 

[Gray]

I have been looking at the WiiM Ultra, but not sure if this meets all my requirements

It does some, but not all of what you want Tim.
I don't think it streams Apple music.
It also won't display to a TV screen*. Its HDMI socket is a sound input. Wiim are making regular feature upgrades with firmware updates and some owners have hoped for the external display feature - but I doubt that will be possible.

It does cover all your other requirements, some of which match my own (which is probably why I'll be getting one myself before too much longer).

* Darko might have a workaround you can use though:

View: https://youtu.be/wug24FM9NRw?t=822

 

[Kenneth Fernandes]

I have no idea how you’re going to monetise your old MP3 files or other downloaded music files in the future. Or, maybe donate to few global initiatives like planting trees or sort of.

Hi-Res music streaming or a solely dedicated Hi-Res app for all your downloads to purchase with a rich user interface is the perfect way to go.

 

[RobSys]

Have a look at the Cambridge CXN100. It will do everything except storing music and sending to a TV set...

 

[ultraminiature]

Digital has hidden issues that may or may not be a problem in your case. I store my CDs and LPs along with scanned art work on hard drives (2Tb) that are also backed up. I use a computer to access those files and display on a 4K display touch 65" screen. The PC has a Freesat card. TV is moving to Freely and over the internet.

My speakers do include streaming services and internet radio but I use the browser for BBC Sounds or app for TuneIn internet radio.

So PC to Axiim Link USB WiSA transmitter to Beolab 28, 17 and 19 and a Receiver 1 to an active centre channel. WiSA transmitters may also offer streaming, internet radio and work with a single pair of WiSA speakers like the Almando.

I can also cast music and video around the house to speakers in other rooms from a mobile device or desktop computer. Beosound Mozart speakers work multi-room.

Bluetooth is lossy, compressed and noticeably lacking compared to wi-fi DNLA and uPnP although Apple users like Airplay 2 it is limited to stereo and is compressed but lossless.

Last year a number of internet radio lost access to stations due to the changes in law and TuneIn not allowed to stream BBC stations. No update has been provided. Some of those streaming devices were £1795 when launched. The PC gets a new software package or a new slot in card.

DLNA, uPnP for streaming your own music not Bluetooth. Make sure the internet radio can pick up the stations you want. Expect new solutions with wi-fi 7 over the next year.