2. pc-audio
  3. 156329-4001

Music Server vs PC confused

Hello hope all are well. 

Current System:
usb hard drive into mini pc (foobar2000) into usb isolation device into Chord Qutest DAC
DAC is into Primaluna evo-300 integrated tube amp into Goldenear Triton 1R   most cables synergistic research

Main Question:
Is a music server/player really worth the cost over a PC?   It seems these devices cost almost same as my amp for what still seems to be a pc sort of device with better power supplies?   

If the answer is yes, please give your valued opinion on why.  Also, what would be a non break the bank device?  I don't need a ripper or a dac in it, or internal storage.  

Thanks Much!!



mlapenta
Ag insider logo xs@2x
dbphd
1,619 posts
 
I suspect the lack of replies might indicate the answer to your main question is no.  

For those of us hooked on Roon, a common setup seems to be Mac Mini running Roon core, ethernet to a Senore micro- or ultraRendu, USB to DAC.  A used microRendu is very inexpensive, and Roon will recognize it as an endpoint for receiving files.  A bit upscale is an ultraRendu; a matching UpTone linear power supply makes a nice package, but, IIRC, the pair is about $1K.
yyzsantabarbara
4,525 posts
 
My answer is no. I have been saying NO to this so much that people must think I am a Sonore xxxRendu fan-boy (a Ethernet-2-USB converter or digital converter). They do work, even with a cheapo, busy, noisy computer in any room of your home, as long as it is connected to your network.

Look at at some of my past posts on this if you want to hear my propaganda on this issue.

Do you use ROON? The Rendu's are ROON READY.
tomcy6's avatar
tomcy6
2,540 posts
 
I have not compared the two, but the usual argument for a purpose-built server is that a PC is running all kinds of functions you don’t need and is a very electronically noisy environment. All this noise pollutes your music signal resulting in lower sound quality. A music server is built to only deliver a more pristine music signal. YMMV


More to discover