Music Server Tips

Build a better music server

Better audio for real homes and real lives.

Practical guides on music servers, digital audio, vinyl digitization and building a hi-fi system that fits the way you actually live and listen.

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Independent, practical and based on real-world experience since 2001.

Hi, I'm Michael.

I've been experimenting with computer audio, music servers and hi-fi systems since 2001. MusicServerTips is where I document what I have learned — including the equipment that worked, the mistakes I made and the projects I am currently working on.

Everything here is based on real-world experience with equipment I own, have owned or have personally used. My goal is not to promote the most expensive solution, but to find audio setups that sound excellent and work in everyday life.

More about me and my system →

A look at my audio journey and personal system

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What I'm working on right now

MusicServerTips combines practical audio guides with personal, project-based reporting. These are some of the subjects I am currently exploring and plan to document on the site.

Digitizing My Vinyl Collection

I'm building a practical, high-quality workflow for recording, cleaning, tagging and organizing my records without turning the process into a full-time job.

Rethinking My Listening Space

I'm rethinking my listening space and exploring how serious music listening can work in a smaller, more flexible setup.

Building a Dedicated STAX Listening Area

I'm exploring how to create a comfortable dedicated listening space for my STAX electrostatic headphones — without needing a full-size hi-fi room.

Latest articles

New guides, long-term equipment experiences and updates from my current audio projects.

Popular practical guides

Start with the established guides that help readers build, connect and improve a digital audio system.

DAC Buyer's Guide

DAC Buyer's Guide

Everything you need to know about choosing the right DAC.

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Setup Guides

Setup Guides

Step-by-step tutorials for building your music server from scratch.

Software

Software

Music server software, players, and apps for the perfect setup.

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Occasional updates on music servers, vinyl digitization, equipment and practical ways to build a better listening setup. No daily emails and no hype.