Man, after reading through these posts in the cold, hard, sober light of day I have to say...

It's still a bit confusing about how to set up a computer based music (server?) playback system that's future proof and audiophile worthy!!!

But, I think I might be leaning toward the Squeezebox as the interface/software and a Mac Mini (since I already have one) with external drives holding my entire (uncompressed grin) cd collection. This might be the cheapest and easiest way to get started for me now.

But why on earth did they discontinue this product? It's perfect for us old timers that want a little "hardware" with their "software".

http://www.stereophile.com/mediaservers/207slim

I think it appeals to me because it has the heft and build of real audio gear. wink

I so hate the cheap plastic "computer" stuff that Logitech typically produces.

And I still would like to see someone post a how-to/step by step post on setting up their music server. I think it would be as interesting as a "setting up a HT" thread.

Boy, it sure seems like there's a few ways to skin this cat! grin

"Art is making something out of nothing and selling it."
---Frank Zappa