Consider an RPI3 with a Digi hat to read the data from a NAS or USB hdd. I assure you, it will sound better than a Mac Mini or USB out from a PC to your dac. Use Rune, Moode or equivalent as software. This is all very cheap but fantastic sound quality. Rpi plug-n-play players are out there and they should play ALAC files.
Suggestions on Better Server Setup than Mac Mini
I'm using a Mac Mini as my server, with Audnirvana and external Ultra Fi Dac, which sounds great when it runs, problem is what with apple updates, software issues, connectivity glitches, the system is a pain to use.
Suggestions on what would be easier to use, potentially sound better and wouldn't cost more than $2k to upgrade?
Suggestions on what would be easier to use, potentially sound better and wouldn't cost more than $2k to upgrade?