Computer vs. Music Streamer ?
After some weeks of mildly inquisitive study, I now believe I grasp the rudiments of what's required of a 'typical' system configuration if I want to house WAV/FLAC files (music) on an NAS, access the music via a router linked to an "X" from a remote device (iPhone or iPad, Android phone or tablet) and play it through a DAC into a pre-amp/amp configuration leading to the speakers. Whew.
Question is: For the "X" above, why choose a computer over a music streamer?
I believe when it comes to computers, a lot of members of this Forum gravitate to Raspberry Pi's, which I suppose is partly because of the cost-benefit and fun tinkering factors, but also because of the choice of OS (Linux for example), thereby eschewing Apple and Microsoft. But are there other reasons? :scratch:
And for those who've opted for music streamers, why have you done so? :scratch:
I'm still up in the air about what to do, but think I'd like to avoid Mac Minis and possibly go for a Kangaroo Plus (NewEgg) or Chromebox/VivoMini (Asus) or Sirius B (Ockel).
The other day, however, an audiophile friend recommended I consider a music streamer from Aurender, which seems to fulfill the role of "X" without needing to buy a DAC or a computer, though at a higher price.
Hmmmm. :scratch: I'm sure others have sat on the fence where I'm sitting now. Hence this new thread.