Does This 'Black Box' Exist, If So, What Is It?
Basically, I’m looking for a component that will simplify the way I interface ripping/file-serving/file-storage/file-playback with the hardware that I have (standalone Moon 380D Dac, soon to be upgraded).
The easiest way to visualize my existing and proposed setup is to look at the sketch I threw together here:
https://audioresurgence.com/super-hub-for-a-digital-music-playback-system
Requirements of the new Black Box, or 'Super Hub' -
1 - Capable of acting as a network hub, with wireless and wired connectivity
2 - Has a built-in CD ripper that automatically rips an inserted CD and sends the file to where it needs to live.
3 - Can accept multiple USB storage devices and create backups of all music files automatically (clone the main storage drive)
4 - Can be accessed via a nice UI, something better than the Aurender Commander app, or equally as good.
5 - Maybe allows me to add Spotify to the mix but not essential. I’ve NO interest in streaming being the primary function or getting into Tidal or any of that stuff.
6 - Outputs for USB, SPDIF AES/EBU
7 - SOUND QUALITY MUST BE TOP DRAWER - BETTER THAN THE AURENDER N100H
Potential Compromises
1 - I would sacrifice Spotify access if need be (No streaming capability)
2 - If I must use my Apple Airport Extreme Base Station for a wired/wireless network then so be it. But it will NOT have access to the Internet via this network.
Budget - $2k - $4k used?
Thoughts anyone?
Cheers!
Rooze
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- 7 posts total
The Innuous Zenith Mk3, fits your bill, is in your price range, sounds as good as a system will permit and is very easy to use. Of course, you can get an Innuous Statement, but that one is about $15k. I use the Zen Mini Mk3, its baby brother, which renders my music in as full, detailed and engaging a manner in my system as I remember some live performances to have been. This of course is subjective, and did require some research and work to find the right components. |
Hey rooze,I’ve been looking at some of the servers/streamers out there for my next upgrade when I win the lottery and have run across the Baetis Audio line. This one might fit the bill. https://www.baetisaudio.com/product/baetis-audio-prodigy-x3/ Good times at NEWAS! Bossman |
- 7 posts total