What do I need to set up digital music server?

This is a really great thread. I just had the opportunity to listen to some 24/192 files at a speaker demo (ATC). Very nice!

I don't have any HD files like that yet, but I would like to move in that direction. I'm stuck with iTunes compatibility, as my wife uses iTunes extensively for her music, books, etc.

I look forward to watching the responses.

The one thing I could do to play the files is to add an eSata drive to my Oppo bdp-95, but the interface is clunky from what I've read. Plus, I have to figure out how to hook the eSata to my macbook pro (firewire to eSata?). I do also have the option of going into the Marantz AV8801. Or I could get a DAC, etc. as described above, or use Kijanki's suggestion. Hmmmm...

zd542 - Based on feedbacks from many customers and personal experience I have found that there are only a couple of really good neutral sounding USB cables. Unfortunately some of the best ones came from a designer that is not with us anymore, Lee Wieland. My customers tell me that the best cable is now the Revelation Dual-Conduit which is all silver and spendy.

Using Async USB, the theory says that the USB cable should not matter, but due to other factors such as RFI and common-mode noise, it still does.

Steve N.
Empirical Audio

"Sonos has a neat little unit that has a remote with a screen. I like the idea but I don't think the Sonos will handle HD files. Logitech also has the Sqeezebox Touch, but again not sure of the sound quality. Any opinions on these two products?"

Sonos only supports up to 48kHz. Logitech Touch is much better stock and supports up to 96. Both can be improved to world-class performance levels by adding the Synchro-Mesh reclocker in-line, particularly if upgraded to use the Dynamo power supply. It does not matter which one you choose once you have the Synchro-Mesh. You can even use an iPod dock like the Pure i20 ($85 on Amazon).

Steve N.
Empirical Audio

"I don't have any HD files like that yet, but I would like to move in that direction. I'm stuck with iTunes compatibility"

You can still use iTunes as long as its on a Mac. Just combine with Amarra or Audirvana and you will have a great sounding player. Use XLD to rip to .wav for best results.

For PC, avoid iTunes at all cost for music playback. Get Jriver instead and maybe improve it by adding JPLAY. Rip CDs with dbpoweramp to .wav format for best results.

The MOST IMOPORTANT thing with digital audio is to minimize jitter from the digital source. The best way to do this is to reclock the datastream or use a good quality stand-alone Async USB converter like the Off-Ramp 5.

More tips:

http://www.empiricalaudio.com/computer-audio/

http://www.empiricalaudio.com/computer-audio/recommended-systems

Steve N.
Empirical Audio

BTW, I have a Sonos color LCD remote that I can sell you cheap. I don't use the remote anymore.

Steve N.
Empirical Audio