Suggestions on Better Server Setup than Mac Mini


I'm using a Mac Mini as my server, with Audnirvana and external Ultra Fi Dac, which sounds great when it runs, problem is what with apple updates, software issues, connectivity glitches, the system is a pain to use. 

Suggestions on what would be easier to use, potentially sound better and wouldn't cost more than $2k to upgrade?



cdc2
It's amusing to read posts here from people who are suggesting tweaks to the OP to improve the sound, when the OP has made it clear that sound isn't the issue, but reliability.
  The OP is fed up with trying to make a computer work as a music player and he/she isn't alone.  I also did the Mac& Dac route and have ditched it after a couple of years for a dedicated server.  Bluesound isn't perfect but on the whole has given me a lot less frustration than my previous set up.
  If the OP still has his original CDs, the simplest solution would be to buy something like Bluesound and re rip them.  If not, I am wondering if ALAC can be converted to FLAC.  Bluesound will recognize his current files and play them but I am pretty sure they need to be in FLAC
mahler123 - As I posted above, dBPoweramp (not free, but reasonable) will batch convert files (I have never had any ALAC files to convert, so I guess the OP should check this prior to purchase).  It will take some time, but it is a "set and forget" operation.
Build your own, Buy the Clock Cards, USB Cards from SOTM. Use HDPlex Power Supply, Optimise the computer as best as you can. Alot of info on computeraudiophile site. I did this and it outclass my 10K Server.