[parr3n1]

I am just starting with computer music. I currently am using my pc with jriver as my source.I have a resonessence concero dac, Decware amp and Beyerdynamic T1 cans. I have been reading and really don't understand all the technology as I read. So I am looking to use a server, as I understand that it is able to provide the best sound. What I don't understand is why, and would like someone to point me in the right direction. I am willing to read but need the basics first. Thanks

[avta]

this is not a bad place to start.      http://www.audioquest.com/computer-audio/  In addition the site www.computeraudiophile.com has lots of information, forums etc as does this site. You will find that your fellow audiophiles are quite generous in sharing their suggestions and will help you solve problems as you go. Enjoy.

[toddbagwell]

Servers are generally felt to give better sound quality over laptops or general purpose computers for many reasons, all of which boil down to using the device for only music and having fewer programs or potential software interruptions that potentially could interfere with the flow of music to the DAC.

some people feel using linear power supplies help the sound, as compared to the typical switch mode computer PSU.

some people use a dedicated USB output card or sound card, as these are able to provide several additional levels of power regulation when compared to a typical computer motherboard.

various external or internal music storage options along with various connection styles have been reported to affect the sound for some people.

I would additionally recommend visiting Vincent Kars' excellent Well Tempered Computer site as he has a great amount of useful information about computer audio with links to other sources.


Do you plan on a DIY or a pre-built solution?

Todd

[parr3n1]

I am considering the Small Green Computer Vortex NAS. I have an external hard drive to back up to. I am actually happy with my computer as a server excepting the fact that it is not dedicated to my music. I still have a few questions about using the NAS before pulling the trigger so a little more time is needed.
Thanks for the response

[Big Red Machine]

Have you considered a HAL music server from Rich Hollis right here on AC?  Imparts NO sound of its own and is a very slick little unit.

[Vincent Kars]

Nothing wrong with a dedicated PC for audio.
If you plan to go the “NAS” way, this is using a small Linux box as a dedicated audio PC.
It can be done but no JRiver in this case (well, they are working on a Linux version)

So you have to find a Linux based media player that suites your needs.
If you go this way, you have to familiarize yourself with Linux. 

[parr3n1]

Big Red Machine or others, I did a search for the HAL server and was
unable to find adequate info. Do you have contact info, info on the server.
I did find that he is on Facebook however I don't participate on facebook
so that was of no use. thanks

[TrungT]

Hal Server