According to our friends over at Stereophile, 2008 is the year of the music server. Chances are if you're reading Computer Audiophile right now you already know this. But, if you're totally new to the music server world don't shy away just because others are already on the bandwagon. Stereophile's article provides a cursory look at some newer music servers displayed at CES 2008. Once you have read that article I suggest reading the Computer Audiophile series Music Servers: Canned or Custom for a more detailed look at the current options. Read more for a snippet from the Stereophile article and a link to the complete story.
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This is the first in a series of articles about hi-end music servers. The convenience of music servers is beyond question. Look at the success of the "game-changing" iPod. A portable music server that weighs a few ounces and has the masses purchasing music from the convenience of their home, office, dorm etc... For many iPod users and music listeners in general convenience is all that matters. If the product sounds good it is just a bonus for those who even notice. For decades most audiophiles have resisted convenience in favor of sound quality. For example, walking over to the turntable to move the needle and change the song has been the method of choice for many audiophiles. Enter the music server. A gigantic no-no in the hi-end audio world for many years. Fortunately audiophiles no longer have to make the choice between quality and convenience. Now they can have their cake and eat it too with a hi-end music server.
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