Local network HiRes storage and player

@corente

I used to have my entire library on an SSD, but one lazy day, I decided to add some FLAC files that were on my NVMe M2 (Windows 11) to the MinimServer and surprise, they sounded better. Since that NVMe was with the W11, I decided to buy another one to store my music exclusively (my motherboard has 2 NVMe slots) and I bought a 1 TB WD Black, but bad news, it didn't sound as good as the one the W11 had. I then thought it could be because it was on the W11 disk, I cloned the disk, but the WD Black definitely didn't sound like the previous NVMe, which I could prove because my motherboard has 2 slots. I had another NVMe drive with less capacity (WD Green), and it didn't sound as good as the original either. So, as a true audiophile, I couldn't just sit back and settle... so I looked for the exact same original NVMe drive, but with a larger capacity, and BINGO, it was clearly the best. Here it is for you to buy: Western Digital Blue SN550 NVMe SSD 1TB (WDS100T2B0C)
The difference was in transparency and tonality. I don't know the cause, but I trust my ears.
I hope it helps.
Best regards!!

@sns I was concerned about noise with my system as well but then stumbled upon the iFi (SilentPower) LAN purifier products.  I put a LAN Purifier Pro between my router and the NAS and then also employed a couple of iFi LAN Silencers in the mix as well.  I thought it made a noticeable difference in the noise floor of my internal network.  

@larryincmh I also find LAN filters effective but this doesn't address the streamer with internal hard drive issue. I've found that minimizing noise at every single component and interface in streaming chain is necessary for obtaining full potential of that streaming setup. As for that streamer with internal storage, one could provide maximum shielding from hard drive and separate processor and power supply for that hard drive, anything else will be a compromise.

I've also found drives do provide variable sound quality, reliability and durability also critical here.

@sns I am currently using WD Red NAS drives and honestly didn't research much before purchasing them what the noise levels might be for those.  I have been mildly interested in the Synology branded hard drives but have not had occassion yet to purchase one as my current drives are just a year old.  I did just do a bit of a Google search and of course it says that the WD Pro drives are noisy LOL.  Now that might be all I notice when streaming.

@hifi_jed_1986 

Like some others have said, I initially had my music files (all FLAC) on the hard drive within my Aurender server/streamer. Then purchased a Synology NAS and loaded all of my music files to it..

A noticeable improvement in sound! Straightforward transfer of files, and be able to manage everything via my computer on the local network another plus.

    -GAR