47
7. NAS Based Setup Example
A NAS is a Network Attached Storage device, a specialized but easy to use, often Linux based,
file sharing computer. The main benefits are that you can place it anywhere in your house, easily
expand storage space, is highly reliable, easily maintained, and provides storage that is available
to your entire network.
There is a certain simplicity in such a networked audio system once setup. The job of the NAS is
to store your audio library files and run the UPnP Server program. This setup does not involve a
standard computer in playback, although you will still need one for such tasks as ripping CDs,
set up and audio library management.
There are quite a few options of NAS hardware available, but two of the more popular options
are by QNAP and Synology.
A NAS usually includes a few UPnP server programs, but some may limit what file types and
resolutions can be played. MinimServer is a stable and free UPnP server, and one of the few
which can handle both PCM and DSD audio playback.
There are many UPnP controllers that can be used to access and play your music from the NAS.
They can be used on most mobile devices even though in the example we are using an Apple
iPad. Once setup it is as simple as pointing the Controller to the library on the NAS, selecting the
MSB Renderer, and enjoy the playback. The Lightning DS UPnP Controller is a relative
newcomer but has much development focus on it still, is one of the better looking ones that can
handle gapless playback and is free. Linn Kinsky and PlugPlayer are other popular UPnP
Controllers, each with their own look and feel, advantages and disadvantages.
Below we will show you step-by-step how to setup the NAS with
MinimServer
as the UPnP
Server, and
Lightning DS
on the iPad as the UPnP Controller, for use with the MSB Renderer.
We are not saying that the hardware and software we picked in the examples are better than other
brands or options, but these are good options to start with to enjoy your MSB Renderer.
To Next Page
Loading...