Best Sounding Computer Audio Player For PC

@lostbears Already answered your question about what to do if you can't run an ethernet cable. Search CA for you the popular model of power line adapters that plug into AC outlets in both rooms and send the signal from router to audio room where you'd plug a an ethernet cable from the plugged in adapter to the microRendu. Pretty sure the pair of adapters <$100 via amazon,etc. 
The reason why microRendu doesn't is have multiple outputs is because every cent is engineered into optimizing the sound of its USB output beyond what is on just about every other USB output, including its use of Swenson's Regen tech.
So @lustformusic , when you say that Dac8 (or any other) sounds better with  AES have you tried that vs. USB fed from a microRendu? I would argue that the improvements made probably beat any other source via AES into Dac8. I have no doubt about your assertion using other sources. Cheers,
Spencer

Hi. I hope it's OK to resurrect an old thread.

I'm putting together a new media PC - the one I built back in 2005 has finally given out.

Over the last 13 years I have used the optical out from the motherboard to connect to my Denon AV amp that has 5 channel stereo (uses the centre and rear speakers - plus it has A and B front speakers). I mainly play pop and dance music mp3s - so nothing too high brow. It needs a good, clear thud to the base, lots of clear treble, pleasant vocals. It's not got to sound like a violin is in the room with me, it's just got to blast out some thrilling dance stuff that doesn't distort. My mp3s are all gained down a bit so they don't clip.

I have always used Winamp set to full treble and bass and the set up sounded absolutely amazing. I've never heard music sound better anywhere else.

I did try Windows Media Player and iTunes but these never came close to the quality of the sound that came out of Winamp.

I know Winamp won't work on Windows10 (although a new version might be coming out), and I don't think there is a Linux version. I could use some VPC software and use a Windows XP VPC to install Winamp so I know there will be ways round it.

However, there might be players around than Winamp that might meet my requirements. I've seen Foobar2000 and Audirvana mentioned. What would be the best sounding audio player for Windows 10 or Linux (probably Elementary or Mint)

Thanks

mwelbourne

I know Winamp won't work on Windows10 (although a new version might be coming out) ...  What would be the best sounding audio player for Windows 10 or Linux

Winamp works on Windows 10 for me, no problem. I don't think a new version is likely soon - if ever.

JRiver's Media Center is another good tool, but it isn't free.

Winamp will work - that's good news. Are you using that last .exe that they did?