2. pc-audio
  3. 1248224504

Thinking about Laptop system - Newbie Questions

As an old timer (listening to 50% vinyl/50% CD), all this music server stuff is very new to me, but I am somewhat computer literate. I was thinking about building a nice little laptop based music server. Thinking about either a Logitech Transporter or Squeezebox Duet with separate DAC. I have a wireless router close enough to the 2 channel system so I can go either wireless or Ethernet.
Laptop is Toshiba with 4 Gb RAM, 340 Gb HD. I would use a stand-alone HD to store music.
So, I have a few questions: Transporter vs. Duet/DAC?
What format to store music? WAV, FLAC, etc.?
Can I still use the laptop while playing music?
Any other helpful hints?

Sorry for all the newbie questions. I am doing as much research as I can before I jump into this.

Thanks for any info.
smholl
gmood1
1,251 posts
 
FLAC would be my first choice for compression. Yes you can still use your laptop while it streams music. I'm sure others can help you with the comparisons of Logitech gear.

You have many choices and directions that you can go.You'll never use a CD player again, once you get it figured out!

Good luck
srwooten's avatar
srwooten
694 posts
 
Make sure your external HD is QUIET. If you use iTunes use Apple Lossless Encoding to rip. Back up on another HD is always safer too. Wireless or ethernet is good. I'd go ethernet though.
vladimir
346 posts
 
I would go with the Squeezebox Duet or Classic and a good DAC. FLAC; wireless is just fine. I love my Monarchy Audio M24 DAC.
2chnlben
595 posts
 
Smholl,

Some things to consider:

1) The SB Duet is limited to 24/48 natively (bit depth and sample rate).
2) The Transporter will support up to 24/96 natively.

High-rez PCM files are an exciting option for digital users (allowing for more information).

You can also go directly from your computer to a USB DAC and experience true 24/96 capabilities (I recommend that you check out Wavelength Audio's USB DACs here )

You can also build a server (with a streaming device like the Duet/Transporter) – but I would look for devices that will support at least 24/96 natively). Personally, I am going with the new PS Audio Perfect Wave DAC (PWD) because it will support up to 24/192 natively and it will also function as a server (once their forthcoming Bridge device becomes available).

I recommend going here to learn more about computer audio. Read up on the forums and don’t be afraid to post questions.

Good luck.
More to discover