Need Advice on music server and DAC

[1KW]

I recently sold my Mcintosh D1100 and Aurender N100h and I would like to find something where I don't need my computer to rip my cd collection. While a one box solution would be very nice its not the most important consideration; sound quality and least amount of trouble to rip cd's are. I have also admired the esoteric brand and am considering getting a K-03XS CDP/DAC and a Silenzo or Aurender N10( however I would still need a computer to rip my cd collection). Aurender came out with the A30 which clicks all the boxes but I can't get past the price for what is basically a computer and know it will hold its value about as well as a used car with 100 k miles on it if I want to upgrade later down the road. Esoteric cd players just seems to hold there value better because the format is mature and I would still be able to pop in a cd if I want to even though its not likely once my cd collection is ripped to a server . I know Aurender offers the acs10 for ripping but it is basically a more expensive version of the N100h otherwise. The silenzo does otherwise click the boxes as well, many seem to be happy however if something were to happen to E you have no customer service. Outside of the A30 vs Esoteric K-03xs/silenzo options of high quality DAC/streamer/music server with cd burner what else would you recommend ?

[Masterlu]

If anything happened to me, Donna wouldn’t have customer service either.

Seriously, SilenZio doesn’t need service. If they did, I would most certainly know about it by now.

[clpetersen]

"...where I don't need my computer to rip my cd collection.."

Actually, IMO, this is part where you do want a computer. Even the best ripping programs falter (artwork, choice of genre, artist sort, etc.) and intervention is needed.

Once ripped and on storage, then you have a choice of many renderers.

[nicoff]

Originally Posted by clpetersen

"...where I don't need my computer to rip my cd collection.."

Actually, IMO, this is part where you do want a computer. Even the best ripping programs falter (artwork, choice of genre, artist sort, etc.) and intervention is needed.

Once ripped and on storage, then you have a choice of many renderers.

+1

[Puma Cat]

This is an easy one.

The Innuous Zen Mk3.



Great review of it by John Darko here: https://youtu.be/RlCG2fK-abo

I haven't heard it yet, in person, but I plan to, and I also put a lot of trust in John Darko's reviews. Its also very well-made, simple to use and attractive. It also has a very good software user interface that integrates simply and easily with Roon (its also a Roon end-point).

[Still-One]

Originally Posted by Puma Cat

This is an easy one.

The Innuous Zen Mk3.



Great review of it by John Darko here: https://youtu.be/RlCG2fK-abo

I haven't heard it yet, in person, but I plan to, and I also put a lot of trust in John Darko's reviews. Its also very well-made, simple to use and attractive. It also has a very good software user interface that integrates simply and easily with Roon (its also a Roon end-point).

That is a good suggestion. I did see it at one of my dealers and it looks interesting.

[1KW]

Anyone hear the zen mk3 ?

[jdandy]

Originally Posted by Puma Cat

This is an easy one.

The Innuous Zen Mk3.

https://youtu.be/RlCG2fK-abo

I haven't heard it yet, in person, but I plan to, and I also put a lot of trust in John Darko's reviews. Its also very well-made, simple to use and attractive. It also has a very good software user interface that integrates simply and easily with Roon (its also a Roon end-point).

Stephen.......Thanks for the link to John Darko's review. I subscribed to his channel. The Innuous Zen Mk3 review was quite interesting.

I like John's attitude, too.

[Higgens]

Darko is a straight shooter, like most here on AA. He’s got a refreshing, non-pretentious approach to audio.

[Slimbo]

I’m very happy with my Melco NP 1