Pretty much as per the title, I have 1000s of music tracks stored on my Mac. I’d like to get away from using my computer as a source and transfer these files to a HD or similar that I can ‘plug’ into my hifi. So as I understand it I need a streamer box of sorts and a DAC, however I am not interested in using any subscription streaming services.
My hifi setup is all Naim, but I don’t want the expense of going with one of their streamers. Ideally I’d like a box with a display and a dedicated remote, but am willing to look at other options I could control with a mobile app if I have to.
Budget is maybe $1000. I fully expect the answers to be Node or Wiim but thought I would ask anyway. Thanks
The WiiM is a simple solution. It supports Aitplay2, Airplay Cast and UPnP/DLNA.
This means you must have your “HD” attached to the network. Might be your Max, might be your router (mine is DLNA compatible).
The output is analog and digital (SPDIF). The analog output is moderate, the SPDIF is textbook perfect: https://www.audiosciencereview.com/forum/index.php?threads/wiim-pro-review-measurements-streamer.42300/
If your Naim has SPDIF input, use that one. If not, connect the WiiM to a decent DAC.
If you don’t want a networked solution but direct playback a Raspberry Pi as mentioned by Zapador is the answer.
Another option is using a touchscreen controlled portable computer. Indeed a mobile (if needed with a SD card). Connect it to a USB DAC and you have simple stand alone solution.