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Help the 'PC Audio' bewildered....

I want a "device" that can hold 1TB or more of .wav files that can be backed up and can feed cleanly via USB to an asynchronous DAC. The device should be very quiet sonically and electrically and should be reasonably small, and be able to run without emitting any disturbing screen light. Sonic performance is paramount. Playing music must be controlled via my choice of android or iphone remotely without line of sight to the device. Price under $5k? What are my options?
mike60
audioengr
3,282 posts
 
I second the Mac Mini, however buy a late 2009 Mini with DC supply. Sounds better than the AC versions. Instructions here:

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

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

Steve N.
Empirical Audio
edorr
714 posts
 
You could get a CAPS 2.0 for $1,500 (dedicated optimized music server spec'ed by computeraudiophile website and build by 3rd party). You need external storage though. Not sure how it would compare with the mac mini route (I had one for a week hated it), but it has a dedicated USB output card, which plays a big role in getting bits cleanly into your DAC.
maplegrovemusic's avatar
maplegrovemusic
1,113 posts
 
Wyred for sound has a 1tb device for around either 1k or 1.5 k . Check out their website
mike60 OP
275 posts
 
How do you control them remotely?
hfisher3380
167 posts
 
Controlling the Mac Mini remotely is relatively straight-forward, at least in computer terms! You will need some type of monitor for initial set-up - luckily the Mini has HDMI out so assuming you have a TV with HDMI you can use that, along with a mouse and keyboard. You will need to set up and configure your Mini in the usual fashion and also make sure you enable screen sharing and log onto your home network - plus configure the remote ap on your ipad/iphone if that will also be used. Once all of this is configured you shouldn't need a screen any longer.
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