The decades-long transition from vinyl to compact disc was an inevitable shift, though not necessarily a welcome one. While the analog audio reproduction provided by vinyl’s grooves is irreplaceable in the hearts of many, modern digital media provide superior fidelity and greater convenience. The same is true with the evolution of video storage to DVDs, though there are probably only a few who look back on the days of VHS and VCRs with longing. With disc-based audio and video formats, however, one major hitch remains: the disc itself.
Today’s technology enables data from CDs, DVDs, and Blu-ray discs—which, too, will soon become relics of the past—to be stored digitally, eliminating the potential for scratched discs and putting to rest the need for physical music and movie collections. Companies such as ReadyToPlay (www.readytoplay.com) offer digitization services to transfer such collections to media servers, devices dedicated to storing and sharing a household’s audio and video files. Media servers vary in their form and functionality, though the majority offer local file access through a fixed hard drive; some have the capacity to share media throughout the home by way of an attached network. Both are viable options for the home, though consumers will want to consult their local CEDIA-certified installer (Custom Electronic Design & Installation Association; www.cedia.net) to determine which media server will best suit their needs and stay ahead of the next format shift.
Bang & Olufsen BeoSound 5
Crestron and Kaleidescape are the recognized leaders for storing and accessing digital media, but Bang & Olufsen’s entry into the market is gaining attention for more than just functionality. The $5,900 BeoSound 5 music server is essentially a digital jukebox for the home, offering simple and intuitive access to up to 20,000 songs. Its sleek control unit has a 10.4-inch LCD and can be mounted on the wall or displayed with a floor or table stand.
Bang & Olufsen, 866.520.1400, www.bang-olufsen.com
Kaleidescape Mini System
The new $7,995 Mini System—with a maximum capacity of 225 DVDs—can act as a standalone digital media server and player, though the ability to integrate it with Kaleidescape’s extensive product line is also quite appealing. For example, the Mini System can be linked up with the 3U Server to upgrade to an 1,800-DVD capacity; Kaleidescape players can also be placed throughout the house for multiroom access through an Ethernet setup. Kaleidescape offers numerous digital-movie packages, including a collection of 347 films nominated for a Best Picture Academy Award since 1929.
Kaleidescape, 650.625.6100, www.kaleidescape.com
Pearing Core Systems MECO
A newcomer to the media-server market is the Media Core (MECO) from Pearing Core Systems. The MECO makes TV, computer, radio, music, and movies accessible to multiple rooms from a wireless keyboard, hiding all of the devices in a single stylish end table that is available in a number of finishes. In addition to storing media, the network-attached MECO can access other home systems, including lighting, security, and sprinklers. The top-of-the-line MECO is priced at $4,950 and offers a 6-terabyte hard-drive capacity.
Pearing Core Systems, 415.686.7231, www.pearingsystems.com