Hello, this is my first posting on the forum and would like to say how much I appreciate the time everyone has put it to provide such an informative site. The way it is presented, and the quality of the postings have really increased my knowledge on computer audio more than anything else other source I've read.
So after some thorough research I have decided to allocate about US$3.5K to a new system that is completely digital. The system will have to be user-friendly enough so that all members of my family can use it (i.e my wife and daughter), thus an intuitive GUI that can be displayed on a TV is a must.
Given these criteria I have found only a couple of options and would like an opinion on which is better in terms of a) sound quality, and b) ease of use.
1st choice: Mac Mini -- integrated amplifier w/ built in DAC
Since the Mac Mini runs about 1K, I would have 2.5K remaining to spend on the pre/power/dac. I have only found a couple of options in current market that match my price point and specs:
Peachtree Nova, TACT T-2, Lyndorgf? Does anyone have more suggestions on all-in-ones?
I realize that going this route is not popular because of limited upgrade paths etc.. and I'm not adverse to getting a separate DAC + integrated. But it seems to me that all-in-ones have the most bang for buck. Please tell me if I'm wrong
2nd choice: Olive 4HD -- integrated amplifier
This is what I was thinking of getting, until I read that the IR remote does not properly function. Does anyone have any experience with this machine?
3rd choice: Naim Uniti -- NAS as music server
The uniti functions as CD player, prepower amp and DAC, and has wireless and internet radio options.. Do only down side is that it doesnt seem to have video output and everything has to be controlled on the small display. Has anyone seen this in action and can comment on the ease of use?
Thanks in advance for everyone reading this post. I look forward to the comments/ suggestions.