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Looking for a music server, sans DAC.

For music playback on my primary system I currently use a MAC Mini into a Bryston BDA-1 DAC via an Audiophilleo USB/SPDIF converter. I am considering replacing the MAC Mini with a Music server that can access redbook quality AIFF files from an external hard drive, either downloading them to an internal drive or playback directly from the external one. The ability to download CDs directly onto the internal drive is also desired. I do not stream or download music off the internet except using my Macbook Pro laptop computer on a secondary system.

I look forward to hear from anyone familiar with the Bryston BDP-1 regarding how it will work for my application? I would consider purchasing one used should I be convinced this the best route. 

Also asking for advice on other music servers I should consider given a budget under $2000. If said server has a CD drive for downloading that would be a plus, however I could use the Macbook Pro for this.

Are there servers that can accommodate an external CD drive for downloading?

Thanks in advance for any help with my search.


mesch
2psyop's avatar
2psyop
1,502 posts
 
Mesch- I don’t have the Vault 2, I have the Node 2. I have been using Itunes to rip CDs using the drive on my MacBook Pro to a MyCloud NAS. The Bluesound Node 2 picks up my music via my wireless network at home. In my case I had to work on the album art, as Bluesound uses only certain tags in the folder system to marry up the music and art in a folder (cover.jpg). I had not heard of people having problems with the Vault not recognizing CDs. If you are really worried about that, you could get the Node 2 and keep all your music on a HDD or NAS and use whatever cd drive you choose to rip the CDs. I don’t know if the Vault 2 has an option to bypass the ripper and use your own.

mesch OP
3,402 posts
 
2pysop, I  will consider the use of the Node 2 to playback my AIFF file via HDD. I did not realize it would play files off HDD. I could continue to rip cds  to HDD using computer, basically have a backup of all files on the HDD used for playback.

nycjlee, I have read a review of the Melco N1A and have that on my list to research. Thanks!
2psyop's avatar
2psyop
1,502 posts
 
Hey Mesch, just a quick note. If you go with a Node 2 keep in mind that your HDD must be connected to your network. The Node 2 will connect wired or wireless to your router and have access to the music.
If you have the time I had posted some info on the Node 2 when I was setting up file folders for artwork, Itunes does not do a great job of grabbing artwork for albums.https://forum.audiogon.com/discussions/bluesound-node-2-question/post?highlight=%2Balbum%2Bart%2Bblu...
mesch OP
3,402 posts
 
2psyop, thanks for the additional info.  I am not set up with a network. I also don't worry about artwork for ripped CDs as I have the original. 

I will consider a different approach to ripping CDs if that proves valuable to my quest, however still desire a server that will allow use of a HDD containing the AIFF file I already have. Of the Bluesound units, the Vault 2 may be the better choice for me.

I am not in a hurry and will continue to explore the market for the best device. 
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