Vortexbox USB vs MacMini USB

I use VortexBox as a ripper and UPNP server via ethernet and really like it.  

However, the quality of the digital and/or audio out is determined by your hardware, not the VortexBox software. Various companies sell  vortexbox players with high quality SPDIF and USB outputs, some even incorporate DACs (aka sound cards.) The costs of these range widely.

I think your first decision is whether you want a streaming (ether net / UPNP) or locally attached solution. Seems like you want to go directly attached.  Lots of mac mini fans here, but their are also Windows (Computer Audiophile Pocket Server) and Linux (Vortexbox and branded solutions) available.

Thanks for feedback!

is a vortex box better for music i am a big apple fan would a time machine be better thanks

People haven't had good luck using time machines as a NAS for music. It seems the drive isn't fast enough.  Lots of other NAS solutions that work out there. 

Vortexbox 2.3 uses Squeezelite / LMS and correctly setup can output DSD to a compatible USB Dac. Using iPeng  as a control point I find SQ into my Dac V1 absolutely fine. I would say Audirvana + from my Mac Mini might be slightly better but under normal listening conditions not enough to bother about. I've been experimenting with Plex on the VB as an audio server since Plex on my Macs is in constant use around the house. Plex sounds very good as well.

Tog

Keep in mind the VB rips to flac; you will then need something like minimserver to transcode to WAV on the fly if that's something you want. It will take entering a bit of linux to the VB but that's pretty easy. Without needing something like transcoding, then the VB is pretty plug and play - just make sure your power and internet connections are solid, and always shut down/reboot from the web GUI.

That's odd, my Synology is fine streaming 24bit/192 and that uses a WD Red (5400rpm) drive - it's known to be a fairly slow drive, but it more than makes up for that with reliability.

Minimserver is a packaged optional install onto VB - once installed no linux needed - use minimwatch on a PC to alter transcode settings. job done.

Tog

As to the "plug & play" - it is not bad, however I have come to expect that it will either not find, or find the wrong cover art about 50% of the time.  But I just accept that as part of ripping a new CD, and when it gets it right I am pleased that I have slightly less "work" to do.

I also find that it is usually best to clear a reload everything as opposed to only look for new or changed files - if it doesn't pick up the cover art correctly, you can put the right one in all day and it will not detect the difference and change that until you clear & reload.

Which reminds me...I am about due for a backup session.

Hi is the squeeze box any good. 

I find it to be a fine little piece of equipment, especially for what I paid for it.  I can't fathom why Logitech killed it.  I play FLAC from the VB through it and I am satisfied' very close in SQ to my CD5X.

Bit off topic but if you mean Squeezebox Touch (SBT) then yes, used with a good quality external DAC, it's very good and a steal at approx. £200 on that well known auction site. Using digital output, into a good quality external DAC, SQ is as good as my CD player used as a transport. Personaly I'm not convinced a power supply upgrade is necessary using this configuration.

Dave

Yes I should have mentioned that I am using the DAC in my SN as opposed to the internal DAC.  I also did purchase a power supply upgrade that seemed to add something IMHO, it was about $150 (IIRC) from an outfit in Oklahoma.

HI isn't the squeezebox classic a DAC in its own right. what is a good DAC thanks

If you need to ask that question you're not getting around the rest of this forum enough.

Seriously, Squeezebox products have internal DAC but SQ is considerably improved by using an external DAC. If you don't already own a Squeezebox SBT is considered to be the one to go for.

Whatever they say elsewhere there are other DACs in the world which may fit your needs, and pocket, better.

Dave