I think I’m headed in sbank’s direction with a microRendu Ethernet-to-USB appliance at the DAC in conjunction with a QNAP NAS with i5 processor. That should be enough processing power to support Roon, HQ player, and Vinyl Studio software. Add an external Lynx HiLo ADC, and all the elements are in place to archive vinyl.
Music Server
I am looking for a reliable and easy to use music server with a very good interface software package. I have about 4,500 CDs, the majority classical, so I am looking for something that does a good job at cataloguing the content. I currently run a Naim NDS/Uniti server. I think the software is adequate, but, I have FAR too many bugs and problems keeping it working correctly. Enough is enough. I would like something that is much more stable and reliable that is designed to handle a decent sized collection.
I did some quick research and found the Antipodes server. It seems to have the ability to run a number of different software packages (comes with Roon pre-loaded) and it has built-in capability to rip CDs, both of which are a big plus, but, I am a bit concerned about whether it might be a bit complicated to use. I have also taken a quick look at the Aurender servers. I have a good local dealer who is a computer whiz that carries the Aurender so that is a big plus. Another big plus would be something that could take what I have already loaded on my QNAP NAS and work with that so I don't have to re-load, edit metadata, etc. all 4,500 CDs again.
Are there any other top end servers that I should be looking at? Also, any suggestions on a DAC to couple with the server?
Thanks.