Front end system for music streaming

PC can be problematic to get good sound quality, although its possible.

I recommend late 2009 Mac Mini (MC238LL/A macmini3,1) with internal SSD and Amarra playback software version 4318/19. This is a superb source which has won multiple best of shows. See for more info:

http://www.empiricalaudio.com/computer-audio/recommended-systems

The Mac Mini driving USB cable to good low-jitter USB converter will get you the best digital source. This is actually more important than the DAC. A good S/PDIF cable is needed from the converter to the DAC below.

For budget DAC, I would recommend either Metrum Octave or Wired for Sound DAC2.

Steve N.
Empirical Audio

using the cambridge audio 851C would be a good option, combine that with a cambridge audio NP30 for your network streaming. Take the dig output fron the np30 to the 851C dig input. That will allow for audio upsampling... then analog out to your pre. The beauty of the cambridge audio units is their flexability you only need internet access(wired or wireless) You would have 20 thousand FM stations plus many streamed services (pandora,aupeo etc)
Great reviews are starting to come in regarding the 851c as a CD player
I need to disclose that I am a Cambridge audio user and dealer, if I can be of any help feel free to e-mail me
Dennis
PrimeOne Media

So does the NP 30 eliminate the need for a PC? How do arrange play lists via the internet like on Grooveshark?