It would be interesting to see a test of what I consider a modern, simple, uncomplicated system.
Something consistent with the move to small, single-purpose devices I have discussed here.
Not complex. No PC. No NAS. Specifically not a Computer Audiophile.
Not super-expensive, that makes it irrelevant for most of us, and such systems are often high-strung and replete with discussions of room placement within inches.
Not super-cheap, then we get into DIY, nothing wrong with that but it has its own complications.
Not bogged down by old-think: I have seen some reviews recently where the tester had trouble because of starting with an already-complicated mindset and too many components, not mainstream
The kind of system that I would recommend to a 1st-world normally affluent, middle-aged, non-technical music lover.
If I were to build such a system, I would get a Nucleus, an external 1 TB USB drive (SSD for $350 or HD for $50), and powered, USB-input speakers (from KEF to Kii). Direct USB connection, or add a MicroRendu if you want. Total budget $4k to $20k depending on speakers, not peanuts by general standards, but reasonable by audiophile standards.
AND NO COMPLICATIONS. No worries about LPS or power conditioning or USB cleaners or audiophile cables.
The problem is, my own system is already too complicated. And in various rooms, either above a reasonable budget or piled up with obsolete, less-than-modern gear and too many boxes. And I fear many of us in this forum are in a similar situation.
Anybody who has built such a simple system and can comment?