If you have the PC, you needn't be into it for much, in terms of either complexity or money.
Here one very simple way, about what I'm using now (I'm a computer semi-literate):
1. hard drive via usb (or something else) to computer
2. computer via usb (or something else) to DAC
3. DAC to Pre via conventional IC.
4. For software, JRiver or the like.
5. Music files ripped in FLAC or WAV or the like (uncompressed/lossless -- no MP3).
I'm guessing you have computer cabling around, so you would need to purchase only two things (1) A hard drive of at least 1 TB (depending on music collection size), preferably a RAID (redundant array) so your files are backed up. (2) A DAC.
Hard drives are cheap, but a largish RAID won't be free, maybe 300ish. There are lots of well regarded minimalist DACs around, such as those by HRT and Musical Fidelity; something can be had used, or even new, for south of 200.
So this set up costs less than 500. Upgrading cables over stock USB may help, but you'll do fine without.
Ripping your CDs is time consuming, but can be done while doing other things. If your disability is an issue, there are ripping services. Much cheaper would be to find a (semi)reliable teenager who wants to pick up a few bucks.
Going server based is considerably more complex, but quite doable.
computeraudiophile.com is a great resource.
Good luck -- you'll be happy you made the move.
Best, John
Here one very simple way, about what I'm using now (I'm a computer semi-literate):
1. hard drive via usb (or something else) to computer
2. computer via usb (or something else) to DAC
3. DAC to Pre via conventional IC.
4. For software, JRiver or the like.
5. Music files ripped in FLAC or WAV or the like (uncompressed/lossless -- no MP3).
I'm guessing you have computer cabling around, so you would need to purchase only two things (1) A hard drive of at least 1 TB (depending on music collection size), preferably a RAID (redundant array) so your files are backed up. (2) A DAC.
Hard drives are cheap, but a largish RAID won't be free, maybe 300ish. There are lots of well regarded minimalist DACs around, such as those by HRT and Musical Fidelity; something can be had used, or even new, for south of 200.
So this set up costs less than 500. Upgrading cables over stock USB may help, but you'll do fine without.
Ripping your CDs is time consuming, but can be done while doing other things. If your disability is an issue, there are ripping services. Much cheaper would be to find a (semi)reliable teenager who wants to pick up a few bucks.
Going server based is considerably more complex, but quite doable.
computeraudiophile.com is a great resource.
Good luck -- you'll be happy you made the move.
Best, John