New from British company AVA Media is the RIP-N-PLAY, an all-in-one music ripper, store and server designed to make it easy to set up a complete streaming system.
It uses virtual mapping software, works with the likes of iTunes, DLNA/UPnP, Roku and Samba, and can be optimised for particular playback devices, and controlled, using a secure web interface, or using apps for Apple, iOS, Windows, Android or Blackberry.
Music is stored in FLAC or ALAC, with gapless playback, the 1TB version holding 2000-3000 CD and the 2TB double that amount, and the unit can also downconvert to MP3, doubling that capacity.
Set-up is just a matter of plugging in power and network cables, while ripping requires no more than the insertion of a disc into the front slot-loading drive. Disc contents are looked up, and the disc ripped and then ejected.
The RIP-N-PLAY is designed, built and supported in the UK by a team drawing on the expertise gained by AVA Media's sister company Tranquil PC. Cased in aerospace-grade aluminium, it's been designed for low energy consumption and near-silent operation.
Distributed by Computers Unlimited, it's a available from a range of top hi-fi and home cinema retailers – to find your nearest stockist, go to the AVA Media website.
