network storage servers

I just learned the hard way: I ripped about 500 cd's to WMA and then switched DAC's. My new DAC won't read them. Conversion is a pain in the ____ but Format Factory does a good job.
Burn them right the first time. WAV seems to be best.

Thanks Misstl. I will check it out. Regards, Rich

Thanks Misstl. I will check it out. Regards, Rich

I am using the Western Digital DX4000 in my network for a music server along with J River as a front end. So far it has been working out very well. I can also get to the system from anywhere as it gives me remote access.

Drrnc2 - Another vote for the Vortexbox appliance. You can alter the data ripped using any tagging program on a networked computer. Here's what I do: Everything is connected via my Verizon FiOS wireless home network. I have a Windows 7 laptop ($360) with dBPoweramp ripping software ($38). I rip the CDs using dBPoweramp, since it allows metadata retreival and editing prior to the rip. It rips directly to my Vortexbox 1TB appliance ($405), with 1TB USB drive backup ($70), and APC surge protector and battery backup ($45). I then review and edit the tags using MP3Tag (free download). Playback is via my Squeezebox Touch ($250) and from there to my DAC, preamp, amp and speakers. The only limit to sound quality is the quality of your DAC, preamp, amp, speakers and cabling, for which the sky is the limit. But for your budget, I cannot imagine a more turn-key, user-friendly solution. I update the Vortexbox software regularly, and have never had a playback glitch of any kind. However, software updates can require the temporary connection to the Vortexbox of a keyboard and monitor. I bought a used monitor on ebay for $40 and used an old keyboard I had lying around. Support via the Vortexbox forums is outstanding. Happy to answer any questions you might have.