hi Mark - sorry I didn't see this until today. if I understand right, you need 2 things: a computer to send the files, and (optional) a DAC to convert the files to analog so your preamp will play them. most computers have decent DACs these days, so whether or not you buy an external DAC depends on what quality of sound you're after. in other words, plug the USB thumb drive (I'm assuming that's what you means by 'FLAC USB') into your computer; the drive will show up on your desktop, so you can click on that icon and see all the files; clicking on a file should automatically start it playing. I'm a Mac user, so I have itunes, which I like, but I'm sure there are lots of options for how you organize your music if you even want to. if you end up not getting a DAC, you'll use the headphone output on the computer (with an adaptor) to go directly to your pre. hope that helps.
music file storage/playback suggestions please
I've been backing up my music files onto a hard drive for archival purposes, but have recently started using my computer to listen to music through a DAC. it's easy enough for LP files (there's just side 1 + side 2, i.e. I only have to click twice), but I'm thinking of putting my CDs onto the hard drive now, but it'd be a pain to have to click for each track. I know there are programs/apps for this, but I'm hoping to skip all the research, just get recommendations for a program/app that people like - and hopefully isn't too pricey. thanks!