Need Reality Check--Marantz MCR-603:

Posted by: Russ on 20 December 2013

In addition to my SU/Guru main system, I have a second system set up for listening through a lower-quality whole-house system--consisting of the above unit, which we use strictly for internet radio.

 

Since we purchased the unit, it disconnects from the internet about 2-3 times in 24 hours--and does not reconnect, but simply sits there waiting for me to re-select a station.

 

The unit does not have wireless capability.  I have tried connecting the network cable to both my network switch and router.  The result is the same.

 

I called Marantz technical support and their advice was to configure my router with a DMZ.  I have very little idea what this means at present, but even I can figure it out.  My questions are two:

 

   (1) Does this sound like a possible or a plausible solution to the problem?

 

   (2) Would creating a DMZ for an internet radio unit have the potential to create security

        vulnerabilities for computer internet access?

 

As always, my thanks in advance for any guidance,

 

Russ

Posted on: 20 December 2013 by NickSeattle

Hi, Russ,

 

I think a DMZ is the all-too-common suggestion in these cases.  Too exotic a solution, IMHO.  IP address conflict is more likely.  The only risk I see is putting a computer in the DMZ by mistake.

 

While it is a logical test, I suppose, it does not explain why you SU does not require the same on the same network.  

 

Maybe the SU and Marantz are fighting.  

 

I'd try powering everything down, including routers and switches, and bringing up just enough pieces to let the Marantz have the router all to itself for a while.

 

If that solves your issue, manually setting the IP of the Marantz may be your solution.

 

It is also possible your router is failing.  New ones are relatively cheap.

 

Good luck.

 

Nick

 

Posted on: 20 December 2013 by Russ
Nick,

My thanks.  I will start workimg on it.  Can't keep the computer off, but I'll disconnect the SU.  I failed to mention that the SU has also had problems digesting I/N radio above 120 KB/sec--hard wired! May be a connection as you say--if the Marantz and the SU are in contention.  Thanks, again.

Russ
Posted on: 20 December 2013 by NickSeattle

Russ,

 

The more I think about it, the more I think the DMZ line of inquiry is a calculated brush-off, similar to suggesting that your proxy server (or the lack of one!) might just be the problem.

 

I have never met a residential user who used a DMZ or a proxy server.  

 

Maybe those on the Forum with either could sound off so we can get a count, and learn what we are missing, especially with respect to streaming off the Internet.

 

A DMZ is more appropriate for exposing your computer for others to access than it is for allowing you to access Internet content, I think.

 

Nick

 

Posted on: 02 January 2014 by NickSeattle

Happy New Year, Russ.

 

From your other thread, it sounds like you resolved the Marantz issue.  ?

 

Nick

Posted on: 02 January 2014 by Russ

Not really, Nick, but I appreciate the follow-up.  I thought there might be a sleep timer on the unit, and there is--but even when the timer is deactivated, the machine seems to lose connectivity about once in 24 hours.  I think we can live with that for the following reasons: (1) it is a secondary system on which my wife listens to Radio Suisse Klassik about 99 percent of the time  (at 5 percent of volume.  )  So if we awaken in the a.m. and find it off, no big deal--just reconnect. 

 

And (2) I wanted some way to keep music playing 24 x 7 while away on travel, in order to discourage those who would rather inject heroin in their veins than work from breaking in and following the principle "from each his according to his ability--to each, according to his need."  I think I will solve that problem, now that I have the VTB, by putting together a humongous playlist called "Away" and putting it on random selection.  I suppose I could even deter the worst offenders from breaking and entering by making up a playlist consisting solely of Helen Reddy and Billy Joel. 

 

Best regards,

 

Russ

Posted on: 02 January 2014 by NickSeattle

Sorry to hear, Russ.  You have probably already tried the fixed-IP address, set either at the Marantz, or better, at the router.  Good luck with the VTB.  Following with interest.

 

Nick