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[mrklaw]

So, I have all my music finally ripped and organised nicely on my Network HDD and my computer. So I can play them back in the spare room on the computer, and in the lounge via my xbox (XBMC).

But I need a solution for the bedroom and kitchen. Both have stereos with AUX ins, but what's the best option?

Network music player - like Netgear MP101, Creative labs wireless music. These would let me browse and play without a TV (important). But they need the PC on and server software installed. Is there a solution that can stream directly from my NAS (Samba supported but you can't install software on it)?

Xbox w/XBMC - can stream from Samba, but needs a TV. Could LCD mod it but a bit big and clumsy for just music?

Ipod with external speakers - I could store all the music on it and just take it to the bedroom or kitchen (realistically it'd only be needed in one at a time). Couple of sets of cables.

 

[Fowler]

Realistically the iPod + the remote control would probably be the cheapest and most effective option -- but it's certainly not the most fun, so let's look at network music players instead

First off: The Sonos system works with NAS. It's also shit-cool. It also happens to cost a hell of a lot of money, but hey...

I've used the SlimDevices Squeezebox and it's a pretty cool unit. It's very simple to set up and it works well. I'm not sure whether it works with NAS though -- a quick Google seems to suggest it does as long as a computer hosting the server software is on, though I may well be wrong there. Still it's worth shooting them an email to ask, the developers were very good about stuff like that with me. I heard the Creative music player had a lot of problems, even though the controller (with a screen for track data) is a brilliant idea. Supposedly it's a bit slow and dodgy, though they never sent one so I didn't get a chance to test it!

 

[mrklaw]

That Sonos looks the nuts! V.pricy though. squeezebox needs a UPnP server on a PC, so its out for me. Same with Creative, but that uses proprietary software.

You mentioned a remote for Ipod? Got a link? I was considering two docks and line outs, but a friend suggested an FM transmitter, which could be good, as the ipod then becomes the remote too.

 

[Fowler]

I wouldn't recommend an FM Transmitter for a home set-up because of the audio quality. You're much better off with a cable, as ugly as that is.

As for remotes... I'm not sure whether this link works from the Apple Store but it's for the Ten Technology NaviPro eX Wireless Remote Control. Alternately Griffin also sells the AirClick which uses RF instead of IR.

Also -- not entirely practical because you have speakers already -- but some iPod dock/speaker combos have remotes already. The Bose SoundDock seems to be univerally hailed as the best of the lot.

 

[Dilbert]

Ummm...why not get yourself an Airport Express? You can stream from iTunes to any set of external speakers...and, oh yeah, you can use the device as a wireless Ethernet port or USB print server. I have one at home, and it rocks.

You still need some kind of remote, though, since you'd have to go into your computer room to affect the playlist. I haven't investigated those options yet, but I'm sure SOMETHING is out there...

 

[Fowler]

Re: AirPort Express Remote, Griffin sells another AirClick that'd do the job, as would Salling Clicker or other Bluetooth remote controls. I get the idea he doesn't want the PC involved though.

 

[mrklaw]

I don't want the PC on. One reason for my NAS purchase, otherwise simple USB2 HDD would have been enough.

So it needs to be NAS+Samba compatible. I think the audiotron is, but I need to check. I think I'll probably go with an ipod solution though - its cheapish and flexible.