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Need help. Music server and streaming. Newbie.

Still pretty new to streaming....considering what I currently have, which way do I need to go?

I currently have a desktop computer in a room adjacent to the room of my main system.

I want to start eliminating cds and sacds from the main system room.

so, I want some type of server in main system or streaming from my desktop.

I have an Oppo UDP-205 that does some streaming. Not sure it’s capabilities. I have an iPad.

Without running an ethernet cable between rooms, can I get at least cd-quality sound to stream music from my desktop to main system over wifi with a network player?

I had been looking at music servers like the Sony HAP-Z1es or Blusound Vault 2i that would store everything....and I was leaning toward these.

Or do I need to look into a laptop computer and dac setup? (I don’t currently have any laptop).

Also Trying to keep cost under $2k.

Thanks for any input...
foeraus
foeraus OP
31 posts
 
iTunes doesn’t do FLAC files, does it? Or what software do you use?


tuberist's avatar
tuberist
951 posts
 
Foreraus, I went your route years ago until I bought a dedicated streamer dac in one box and eliminated the computer interface. I also got better sound. You are correct ITunes saves as AIFF not Flac....or whatever Apple calls it. I put my multi thousand CD library onto a solid state outboard hard drive and just plugged it into the back of my Lumin, which streams just about anything. If you want a simple, uncluttered solution I suggest picking up a one box unit to plug into your hi fi. Streaming is the "new" direction and I believe it’s here to stay.
facten
2,723 posts
 
For certain I am no expert in this area , but I import cds into itunes using WAV setting and error correction and find the result to be very good. I have seen online that if you have a large storage capacity that Apple Lossless Encoder is the best option
pehare's avatar
pehare
829 posts
 
Not meaning to hijack but @tuberist what model Lumin do you recommend or have?  Been dealing w/an ailing aged CD player laser drive and about to jump ship.
big_greg
6,554 posts
 
I don't use iTunes, or any Apple products, other than an old iPod that I never use anymore, thanks to my phone.

I use Foobar 2000 for ripping CD's.  There are other formats you can use as mentioned.  The key thing is to use a format that doesn't employ compression and works with what you're using for playback.  I know FLAC works with the Oppo.  The others may also, but you should check.
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