View Full Version : A list of PC Build Components to Rival a Server/Streamer
I'm hunting around for a while now looking for the answer to a Dilemma.
My Laptop is now old and is more of a media access device. The need to be portable with a PC is not required. Storing valuable data on this Laptop is probably not the wisest of ideas. There is a off board Hard Drive stored with most of the files on it.
I would like a new PC in 2019 and a operating digital media system, i.e Server/Streamer,
to work with my recently purchased DAC.
I require a PC to support my photography and also play the role of a Server/Steamer.
I have been searching around on the subject and the Self Build PC component list that follows may be a build that works for me.
If any member with experience in this subject could cast a eye over the build and comment, as always it will be very much appreciated.
I have always been led to believe more RAM is preferred for photo editing, with 16RAM being the goal.
Just out of curiosity how big would the required case be for a build like the one listed.
If a diy server appeals to you, this would be my advice:
* Streacom fc5 or 10 350
* small Intel celeron motherboard 170
* 4gb ram 50
*sata 2 ssd with Sotm sata 2 filter 100
* sotm txusbexp card with sclk clock 700
* sotm sps500 power supply (4 pin molex on motherboard to power supply by Canare twisted pair dc cable) 650
* windows server 2016 50
* audiophile Optimizer including bios settings as recommanded in manual 120
* 3M emi paper 100
Sub 2.5K for a killer system straight into your dac by usb
My Laptop gives sterling service, both as a laptop and a media player/streamer. Currently using Audirvana or Jriver and pushing it to either a headphone dac or a main dac via wire, or my rpi and oppo wirelessly. Sound is fab and it can handle it although I would say get as much processing power, storage, RAM and connections as your budget allows. a shop bought one will work fine with win 10 with most things.
I use an HP Pavilion and have not had any issues since it went onto win 10 .. think it has 6gb ram and has an i5 processor so not the latest by any means. i use its processing power to upsample and then send out.
Not to say you wont do better if you go the whole hog and do it yourself, but i cant fault what i hear
Awaiting the thousands of different ideas you're gonna get, so many permutations, but..
If it was me I'd either have a mini silent pc to handle the the audio side and a proper PC for my photo editing etc.
In fact I'd recommend an SoTm SMS Network Audio adapter to handle the audio ( IF you already have a DAC ), my one can use the Nas for my collection, it can play Qobuz, Tidal, Google Play, Spotify, Roon TuneinRadio if you have an Android device to control it. Very versatile and well supported by SoTm with regular updates and are very good to fix issues once reported. My used one was under £300.
I also have 2 Raspberry Pi setups available but the SoTm beats them both.
Sherwood
06-10-2018, 16:19
I'm hunting around for a while now looking for the answer to a Dilemma.
My Laptop is now old and is more of a media access device. The need to be portable with a PC is not required. Storing valuable data on this Laptop is probably not the wisest of ideas. There is a off board Hard Drive stored with most of the files on it.
I would like a new PC in 2019 and a operating digital media system, i.e Server/Streamer,
to work with my recently purchased DAC.
I require a PC to support my photography and also play the role of a Server/Steamer.
I have been searching around on the subject and the Self Build PC component list that follows may be a build that works for me.
If any member with experience in this subject could cast a eye over the build and comment, as always it will be very much appreciated.
I have always been led to believe more RAM is preferred for photo editing, with 16RAM being the goal.
Just out of curiosity how big would the required case be for a build like the one listed.
If a diy server appeals to you, this would be my advice:
* Streacom fc5 or 10 350
* small Intel celeron motherboard 170
* 4gb ram 50
*sata 2 ssd with Sotm sata 2 filter 100
* sotm txusbexp card with sclk clock 700
* sotm sps500 power supply (4 pin molex on motherboard to power supply by Canare twisted pair dc cable) 650
* windows server 2016 50
* audiophile Optimizer including bios settings as recommanded in manual 120
* 3M emi paper 100
Sub 2.5K for a killer system straight into your dac by usb
Sounds like overkill to me. Have you looked at the Intel NUC. A latest gen model with generous sized SSD and 16gb of DDR4 ram is more than up to the job for much less. Can be used as headless system with Windows app too!
Geoff
Sounds like overkill to me. Have you looked at the Intel NUC. A latest gen model with generous sized SSD and 16gb of DDR4 ram is more than up to the job for much less. Can be used as headless system with Windows app too!
GeoffYup that's what I was thinking too, a NUC would be ideal and keep the music side completely away from the main PC.
I have the intention to create a digital replay system and after the recently added DAC experience, the idea of exploring the digital domain further is of great interest.
I put the list of components up for scrutiny as I have not found much discussion on the subject of building a dedicated PC, so far this has been the only clear guidance and I was hoping to receive alternative options, which has been offered.
I will need to spend time with a computer builder and layout the directives that will be offered, working to combine a PC that meets both of my user needs.
Sherwood
06-10-2018, 18:34
I have the intention to create a digital replay system and after the recently added DAC experience, the idea of exploring the digital domain further is of great interest.
I put the list of components up for scrutiny as I have not found much discussion on the subject of building a dedicated PC, so far this has been the only clear guidance and I was hoping to receive alternative options, which has been offered.
I will need to spend time with a computer builder and layout the directives that will be offered, working to combine a PC that meets both of my user needs.
Something like this (with the 8th gen processor) would be perfect. You don't need to go for the i7 model with enhanced graphics. Definitely worth investing in 16gb of DDR4 memory though. This is a fanless model so no problem with positioning.
https://www.intel.com/content/www/us/en/products/boards-kits/nuc/kits/nuc8i5bek.html
Geoff
OK - so if you go the PC route - which way to go:
USB out - and if so what flavour of USB - 2 or 3. Also how to ensure cleanest signal - use motherboard sockets or is a child board a better option
Or Sound card out?
For me if you're going USB out, the computer route is just boring. You might as well go for the Raspberry Pi option, which personally has given me hours of pleasant tinkering.
So how good can a sound card be? How good is something like an Asus Xonar Essence STX II (https://www.asus.com/uk/Sound-Cards/Essence_STX_II_71/)? Would it give an output on a par with decent Hi-Fi.
As for me I'm an IT professional and find using a PC as source just too much like hard work. My Moon 180 Mind and decent DAC sound better and are much nicer to use when all I want to do is select some music and sit back and listen.
Oh and the thought of spending £2.5k on a computer audio system, and then putting Window Server 2006 on it is just mind boggling - so much bloatware running in the background - great if you want a workgroup server - but for such a narrow requirement as being a music service it's not a great OS choice. Surely Linux.
Sherwood
06-10-2018, 20:44
OK - so if you go the PC route - which way to go:
USB out - and if so what flavour of USB - 2 or 3. Also how to ensure cleanest signal - use motherboard sockets or is a child board a better option
Or Sound card out?
For me if you're going USB out, the computer route is just boring. You might as well go for the Raspberry Pi option, which personally has given me hours of pleasant tinkering.
So how good can a sound card be? How good is something like an Asus Xonar Essence STX II (https://www.asus.com/uk/Sound-Cards/Essence_STX_II_71/)? Would it give an output on a par with decent Hi-Fi.
As for me I'm an IT professional and find using a PC as source just too much like hard work. My Moon 180 Mind and decent DAC sound better and are much nicer to use when all I want to do is select some music and sit back and listen.
Oh and the thought of spending £2.5k on a computer audio system, and then putting Window Server 2006 on it is just mind boggling - so much bloatware running in the background - great if you want a workgroup server - but for such a narrow requirement as being a music service it's not a great OS choice. Surely Linux.
Optical out into a good DAC ( I use a Caiman SEG for streaming) and Audirvana software. Apart from being a good file management system, AV also processes the music files and can upsample to DSD. Sound quality is excellent though the software is still at beta stage and somewhat buggy. Free 15 trial will give you a sense of what is possible.
Geoff
Best in my system is ethernet to my rpi with its own hat dac It's pretty good at the32/192 I send it from av That doesn't stress my laptop too much Not saying it can't be bettered but at what cost? My system is minimal cost wise but not in sound imo
Sherwood
06-10-2018, 21:00
Best in my system is ethernet to my rpi with its own hat dac It's pretty good at the32/192 I send it from av That doesn't stress my laptop too much Not saying it can't be bettered but at what cost? My system is minimal cost wise but not in sound imo
I also use an Rpi with Digione HAT and I agree that the quality is incredible at the price. However, I think the OP was looking for a complete system that did not rely on sharing a PC used for other purposes. I agree that there is no need for a dedicated PC, but having said that I have just repurposed an Intel NUC as a dedicated AV system.
Geoff
Sorry I thought he wanted a dual purpose pc
Sherwood
06-10-2018, 21:14
Best in my system is ethernet to my rpi with its own hat dac It's pretty good at the32/192 I send it from av That doesn't stress my laptop too much Not saying it can't be bettered but at what cost? My system is minimal cost wise but not in sound imo
I stand corrected. I would still go for a NUC, though might be worth looking at an i7. One big advantage is space saving: they even come with a plate so that they can be mounted to the back of a tv or monitor (standard vesa fittings).
I have another NUC as my main PC although it looks somewhat incongruous underneath my 32 inch 4k PC monitor. I have a 500gb SSD fitted and it is totally silent in use. Except when I play music files of course! :rolleyes:
Geoff
killie99
06-10-2018, 21:16
Split the requirement. An RPi3, Digione (£120 or so) or add an SSD for music side of things (about £250 total including a 500Gb SSD) and whatever you like for the rest. Honestly, to beat the Rpi3, Digione and SSD you need to spend a whopping amount of money and get negligible gain. I'm using this with about £15k worth of speaker/amp/DAC and it's just astonishing as to how well it performs.
Sherwood
06-10-2018, 21:20
Split the requirement. An RPi3, Digione (£120 or so) or add an SSD for music side of things (about £250 total including a 500Gb SSD) and whatever you like for the rest. Honestly, to beat the Rpi3, Digione and SSD you need to spend a whopping amount of money and get negligible gain. I'm using this with about £15k worth of speaker/amp/DAC and it's just astonishing as to how well it performs.
+1 though the OP is looking for a new PC anyway to replace a failing device!
Geoff
Sherwood
06-10-2018, 21:24
I should add that the latest NUCs also support 4k video at 60HZ. I find this is great for watching movies and pictures taken with my 4k capable camera on my AOC 4k monitor. This may be of interest to the OP. Viewing and editing graphics on a 4k monitor is incredible.
Geoff
I am looking into a PC that plays a dual role, as the PC will be set up in the listening room.
The HiFi will be put to more use if I work on my photography in the listening room.
Hence going for digital files to be replayed, makes a much easier interface.
I have been looking at the Moon Mind and with the used prices seen, it is a consideration.
As stated in a previous thread, this method of replay is new to me, so learning about the options available is very important.
Avoiding running two separate set ups seemed worth avoiding, as there are comments being made by some, relating to issues with ease of user interface when working directly from the PC, as a result a separate device is the chosen method.
Where as some are content with their PC interface.
I would like to know more about how a PC limits the user interface.
As I have a PC with lots of unplayed music files stored on it, I am willing to get the experience rolling.
In 2019, I will be looking to update the PC, this is when I will really need to be clear about the way I intend to replay music files, as it may have a effect on how the PC is produced.
Initially you could trial audirvana for windows and run a USB cable to your dac. Assuming it takes a USB of course. That will give u 2 weeks to see what you think. It will scan the folder in pc. It needs to be a 64 bit pc.
Failing that jriver will work on a 32bit pc and di a similar job although not quite as good sound it's still pretty good. It has a trial period too
Primalsea
07-10-2018, 06:50
A NAS drive with built in computer could be an option?
I have a QNAP TS253 Pro 2 bay drive set to RAID 1. This means that the two discs are a mirror of each other. If one dies you can hot swap out the dead disk and the NAS then transfers a copy of your data other to the new disc. This NAS also has a built in computer that can KODI as well as some DNLA servers. You can control playback from a tablet or you can plug in a TV via the HDMI port and use a windows remote control to control Kodi. This could sort out the music playback side and it could store your photos too. A separate PC will be needed for photo editing but nothing too nuts is really required. I use a 5 year old 21” Imac with 8gb of memory and its fine.
The Intel NUC has become a interest to me, just for the size and being easily portable.
The Laptop is regularly connected to the TV for photo viewing and Movies, and I told a half truth, as I have played stored Music files through the TV, so some are not unheard, as previously stated.
The options being proposed are all to be investigated, all will be considered equally.
You don’t need a serious PC for a music server/streamer.
Although not the ultimate solution, I am using an old socket 775 based processor with an Asus Essence STX II sound card, and for the money it sounds really good. This is fed directly into my pre amp. You could probably do similar with your old PC?
If starting from scratch, I would go fanless PC for a music server with either Windows 10 seriously cut down on functionality, or Linux or similar. Then I would get a more serious PC for photo editing.
Been there done that with both PCs, old laptops, Raspberry Pis etc and to be honest you might be better investing in a decent streamer (with Spotity, Tidal support) and attach your storage to your router and get the streamer to access that.....far, far less hassle. I'm not denying the build, the config and initial working is fun but it gets tedious with updates/patches and the constantly fiddling i was doing.
Smegger68
08-10-2018, 09:53
I have a Home Theatre PC in my living room which I also use for Oculus Rift gaming. My old Theta DAC doesn't have a USB input so the best method has been to employ an HDMI breakout box between the PC and the HT receiver. This sends S/PDIF straight to the Theta. Using WASAPI settings in Kodi it sounds better than my CXU streaming the same files :)
Tons of way of achieving what you want to do.
FWIW this is my current setup having in the past tried various combinations including one dual purpose machine for general stuff including photo editing, browsing, storage etc.
- Server: Xeon Win 10 machine with 20gb RAM serving as storage (music, vids, docs etc), running stuff like Roon Core, Plex, JRiver, VPN etc.
-Music/Vid renderer: Fanless/headless ITX Win 10 with 4gb RAM. all non essential programs/services turned off. One button operation. Music output USB to DAC, Vid output HDMI.
Different computer for editing, work, Skype etc
Main machines linked via Ethernet.
Main lesson I learnt was to split tasks to different machines (server, renderer etc), particularly true to obtain stutter free and high quality music/video output.
But as mentioned many other ways to achieve same outcomes.
Photo editing is an area where most optimised media servers can fall a bit flat. For this reason I think a minimum of a Core i3 is necessary, and a dedicated graphics card. With a bit of attention to the power supply and a big enough passive heatsink for the PSU, it can be built fanless.
My old i5 does everything. Lol
Music photos browsing vpn the lot. It has a fan. Both my monos have fans. Even the power inspired has a fan. Can get noisy. Lol
[QUOTE=ReggieB;1019020]OK - so if you go the PC route - which way to go:
USB out - and if so what flavour of USB - 2 or 3. Also how to ensure cleanest signal - use motherboard sockets or is a child board a better option
Or Sound card out?
Use neither, build a silent PC (fanless) and use the Pink Faun i2s Audio Bridge (PCIe card) and send the i2s to a good external DAC. Use Audirvana A+ Audio player as it turns off a lot of Windows services while playing music. You can also integrate some of the streaming services like Qobuz or Tidal into this player.
Its a route I have as a back up plan if I am not happy with the results from plan A. Which is......
An SBC into Allo Kali i2s re-clocker HAT, into Audio GD i2s line driver (HDMI socket), into my PS Audio Stellar DAC/Pre i2s input. Audio Player Options will need investigating using the actual set up. Just about to pull the trigger on the SBC (Odroid C2).
Do all your storage, which ever option, over a wired network (Gigabit) and attach a NAS unit attached to your Broadband router/hub. This avoids the need for any USB or SPDIF in the audio chain.
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