A music server is actually more IT technology than audio technology. Therefore, almost every computer can become a playback device. For this purpose, our converters also offer the possibility of connecting via USB inputs. For unadulterated music enjoyment, however, we recommend a proven specialist, a well-designed music server. Because a computer – and a streamer is basically nothing else – is, first of all, a high-frequency-clocked computing machine that generates a lot of RF interference as “operating noise”. These impair the listening pleasure in two ways: they impair the clock quality as a centrally important basis of the DA conversion and/or they scatter directly into the analog music signals on their way from the converter to the loudspeaker.

A fundamental criterion for a music server is, therefore, to avoid such feedback effects. In addition to the direct path of influence via the audio interface, the so-called secondary paths of influence via radiation are also decisive. In the case of mu-se, the radiation of RF interference is already kept low at the source by using power-saving and thus low RF-radiating hardware. High-performance CPUs such as those installed in classic computers are the completely wrong strategy for this application. In addition, the processors in our devices are housed in a tightly shielded enclosure and operated via a power supply that is specially designed to allow little high-frequency interaction with the power grid. As an alternative to the usual network connection via copper LAN cable, fiber optics are also an option. Apart from the power cable – and here the shielded toroidal transformer ensures galvanic isolation – the device has no wired contact with other components of the music system. All in all, the best prerequisites for the best possible EMC (electromagnetic compatibility) and thus for unclouded listening pleasure.