network storage servers

Check out the Votexbox appliances. They run "headless" (i.e., no monitor or keyboard needed) and are controlled from your laptop, tablet, smartphone or other computer. They can output directly to an amp or DAC, or can stream to another device such as a Sonos or Squeezebox player. Ripping and tagging is handled automatically and the units are very low power usage.

For a 200 disc CD collection, you'll need roughly 100 GB of storage in the WAV format (less in FLAC) and the smallest Vortexbox drive is 1 TB, so you'll be able to expand your collection ten-fold or more before you have to worry about running out of drive space.

They start at $429 depending on which features you need. See smallgreencomputers.com. (My only interest is as a user.)

Mlsstl: can you help me with some further info on the Vortexbox. I looked at their website and did not see this info. For instance, if using the Vortexbox, is there a way of choosing/altering file format of ripped CDs, e.g., can one choose WAV, FLAC or any other format? Can one select a bit rate/word depth? Do you receive instructions on how to use the laptop/tablet to control the Vortexbox?

I am pretty new to this area of audio so my questions may be inane or ridiculous, and if so, I apologize. Regards, Rich

The best source of info is www.vortexbox.org. You'll find documentation, a wiki as well as a discussion forum there.

I just learned the hard way: I ripped about 500 cd's to WMA and then switched DAC's. My new DAC won't read them. Conversion is a pain in the ____ but Format Factory does a good job.
Burn them right the first time. WAV seems to be best.

Thanks Misstl. I will check it out. Regards, Rich