Apple Music to Mu-So

[Richard.Dane]

Yes, if they want lossless then they’ll need to re-rip (being careful to make the correct setting in the Apple Music rip settings) if the original rips were lossy.

[jegreenwood]

Especially at the moment as even that feature stopped working properly with the most recent update. (A fix is promised.)

[jegreenwood]

Can you connect a Mac to the Muso through the USB port to play music?

[GadgetMan]

Looking at the Muso Product page, it says “USB sticks – max. 128 GB” so would suggest it’s similar to the NDX2, in which case you should be able to read your music files from a flash drive. Adding playlists is a little more tricky, but you can do it, and you have to ensure they are stored in the top (root) folder.

[ChrisSU]

No, USB will only read USB memory. To access music from a computer you would need to use Airplay, Chromecast or an optical cable, or run a UPnP server on it.

[jegreenwood]

So it looks like a USB stick is feasible, but the OP may have to edit the playlists.

128 gigs sounds small. I thought Naim had advised up to 1TB in the past.

And as I noted, the current version of the software has a bug which breaks this feature. There are a couple of threads. One says that Naim promises a quick fix.

USB-Stick at Muso Qb2 - only few files displayed

Since the last days, music files (mp3 and flac) on my USB stick (Muso Qb2 device) are only partially displayed. The stick is not faulty, and the same problem occurs with another stick, too. Previously, all files were always fully displayed and could be selected directly via the app. This now only works to a very limited extent (the display stops at the letter “D”). Can anyone please help? - Thanks in advance!

The OP should also be aware that other than playlists, the music is only accessible via the folder structure on the USB stick. In my case, I almost always select my music by drilling down from genre to album artist to album, so my folder structure reflects this. Moreover the tracks within the albums will be listed in alphanumeric order based on the file names for the tracks, not necessarily the track order on the album itself. That’s OK if the file names are. e g. 01 Back in the USSR, 02 Dear Prudence, 03 Glass Onion, etc. which is often, but not always the case.

[Jim3]

To everyone….many thanks for your input! It has helped me moved further along in my journey. I will say that my original question lacked enough knowledge on my partfor it to be a more clear request given my wants.

Below, I have the best I have cobbled together based on dozens and dozens of Google/AI inquiries.

Of course AI inquires can provide incorrect response….

So you should NOT take any of the below information I am providing as gospel….AI is not 100% gospel….

NOTE: As such, I have not tested any of this!!!…but lays a foundation to either

1. Ask Naim/Mu-So team or the general Apple Music / Mu-So users to validate.

2. Or…at some point….I will buy a “60-day full return policy” Mu-So (and all the other goodies that I don’t currently have e.g., Apple TV, potentially a new Smart TV, and of course cables etc.) to test on my own for the overall user-experience for myself.

So…what follows are 4 options to accomplish the following:

1. I am an Apple ecosystem consumer…Apple Music is what I would prefer to maintain because I’ve invested in DRM songs and love the using iPods in the car or when doing exercise or other out-of-the-house work….albeit a AAC bit-rate/kHz.

2. FYI: Analysis of my iTunes library (I’ve not yet migrated to Apple Music but I plan to):

   • 4968 songs from ripping my CD collection into iTunes

   • 326 DRM purchased iTunes songs

   • 248 Apple Lossless songs

   • 91 Protected AAC

3. I want to ‘easily’ be able to switch from listening to music on the Mu-So….to watching a movie with Mu-So enhanced audio….to watching regular TV with or without having the Mu-So provide the audio/sound.

4. I want any of my Apple devices (Macbook, iPhone, 7th Gen Ipod-touch, Apple-TV) to be able to adjust what playlist or track I am listening to…

5. I am not an audiophile…but I want to make a “jump-up” from iPod/Bose Wave radio listening….and I want to improve watching movies….all without going full-tilt into a traditional stereo system. The Mu-So would meet my desired listening ‘needs perfectly. The highest quality of files in my quest…not knowing what I might be missing, is CD-Quality…generally defined as 16-bit/44.1kHz files.

6. I prefer (but don’t know exactly why) to be hardwired (vs. using AirPlay2). However Airplay2 could (very likely?) be a perfectly acceptable listening experience…I’ve never used it to a quality speaker system to know for sure.

7. Finally…I want to keep my expenditures to a minimum (see #3 above…I am not an audiophile…but I want more than what i have with iPods/Bose Wave/AAC files).

Ok…here is what I plan…note there are OPTIONS listed below…and the major break in options are delineated by 2 rows of “ ===== “ signs…..

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Option-1:

Apple Music will stream at CD-quality levels (16-bit/44.1 kHz) by using the TV’s HDMI ARC/eARC port and the correct settings.

Technical Details

• Apple Music Quality: Apple Music offers a standard lossless tier encoded with Apple Lossless Audio Codec (ALAC) at 16-bit/44.1 kHz (CD quality). It also offers Hi-Res Lossless up to 24-bit/192 kHz.

• Apple TV Output: The Apple TV 4K currently maxes out at 24-bit/48 kHz for lossless audio when connected via HDMI, which is slightly better than CD quality and can handle the standard lossless tier.

• TV and Naim Mu-so Connection: Your plan involves using the TV’s HDMI output to the Naim Mu-so 2nd gen’s HDMI ARC input.

  • The Naim Mu-so 2nd gen has an HDMI ARC (Audio Return Channel) input designed for TV audio.

  • HDMI ARC supports audio signals, including the quality required for CD-level or even standard lossless audio (up to 48kHz).

• Configuration: To ensure the highest possible quality, make sure:

  • The Apple TV is plugged into an HDMI port on your TV, ideally an eARC port if available, as eARC supports higher bandwidth audio.

  • The TV is connected to the Mu-so via the TV’s HDMI ARC/eARC port to the Mu-so’s HDMI ARC input.

  • Lossless audio is enabled in the Apple Music settings on the Apple TV.

  • Your TV’s audio output settings are configured to output digital audio without downsampling or unnecessary processing.

This setup should allow the lossless audio stream from the Apple TV to pass through the TV and into the Mu-so at its native CD quality resolution (16-bit/44.1 kHz) or potentially even up to 24-bit/48 kHz.

For the best 2025 TV with eARC and Apple TV integration, look at LG OLEDs (like the G5/C5) for superb picture/gaming, Sony Bravia (A95L/9) for amazing color/brightness, and premium Samsung OLEDs (S95F), all offering HDMI 2.1, eARC, and great Apple TV performance with features like Dolby Vision, though ensure enough HDMI 2.1 ports for all your gear.

Google/AI’s Top Picks & Features

• LG G5 OLED / C5 OLED: Top-tier gaming performance with four HDMI 2.1 ports, fast response, Dolby Vision, VRR, ALLM, and excellent OLED picture quality, perfect for consoles and Apple TV.

• Sony Bravia 9 (Mini-LED) / A95L (OLED): Known for stunning brightness (Bravia 9) and exceptional color/detail (A95L), great for bright rooms and cinematic viewing.

• Samsung S95F OLED: Brilliant colors and high brightness in gaming mode, a strong contender to LG, especially for vibrant HDR.

• Sony Bravia 8ii: Excellent picture & sound, but check HDMI 2.1 port count if you have many devices.

Key Features for Apple TV & Sound:

• HDMI 2.1 Ports: Essential for high bandwidth (4K@120Hz, etc.), often found on higher-end 2025 models.

• eARC (Enhanced Audio Return Channel): Crucial for sending high-quality audio (like Dolby Atmos) from your TV to a soundbar or receiver.

• Dolby Vision/Atmos: Look for TVs supporting these for the best Apple TV content experience.

Recommendation:

For a perfect blend of premium picture, gaming, and Apple TV, the LG G5/C5 OLEDs are fantastic due to their all-around performance and abundant HDMI 2.1 ports. If ultimate brightness is key, Sony’s Bravia 9 is a strong Mini-LED choice. Always check reviews for the specific model’s HDMI port configuration

With the correct settings and connections, your setup will stream Apple Music at CD-quality levels to the Naim Mu-so 2nd Gen and you will be able to control playback using your other Apple devices.

Audio Quality (CD-Quality) : To ensure this works correctly:

• Apple TV: Apple Music on the Apple TV 4K outputs audio over HDMI. While it often converts to multichannel PCM or Dolby Atmos, the original data is lossless (ALAC), and the stream quality will be at least CD quality.

• Sony Bravia A95L: This TV’s eARC port is capable of passing through high-quality audio signals, including multichannel PCM and Dolby Atmos, from external devices (like the Apple TV) to a connected eARC audio system. You may need to set the TV’s Digital Audio Out setting to “Prioritize Passthrough” in the sound settings menu to ensure minimal processing.

• Naim Mu-so 2nd Gen: The Naim Mu-so’s HDMI port will receive the high-quality audio signal from the TV’s eARC port.

Regarding Playback Control (Home Sharing)

You can absolutely control the Apple Music playlist playing on the Apple TV using other Apple devices (iPhone, iPad, Mac). This is primarily done using the Remote App functionality (which is built into the Control Center of modern iOS/iPadOS devices) or via Apple’s HomeKit/AirPlay 2 integration, rather than traditional “Home Sharing” which is more for sharing media libraries across devices.

• Remote Control: Your iPhone or iPad can act as a fully functional remote for the Apple TV, allowing you to navigate menus, select playlists, and control playback of Apple Music.

• AirPlay 2: The Naim Mu-so 2nd Gen is an AirPlay 2 compatible device, meaning you could also bypass the TV and stream Apple Music directly from your Apple device to the Naim Mu-so over Wi-Fi, which also supports CD-quality audio and higher resolutions. This would provide a direct, high-quality connection.

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Option-2: AirPlay2
The Naim Mu-So 2nd Gen is compatible with AirPlay 2, which allows you to stream audio from your Apple TV wirelessly and in sync with other AirPlay 2 devices in your home. This method is the simplest and doesn’t require extra cables or hardware.

1. • How to set up:

     • Ensure both your Apple TV and the Mu-So are connected to the same Wi-Fi network.

     • On your Apple TV, press and hold the TV/Control Center button on the remote to open the Control Center.

     • Navigate to the Audio controls icon (an AirPlay symbol or speaker icon).

     • A list of available speakers will appear, organized by room. Select your Naim Mu-So from the list to start playing audio through it.

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Option-3 HDMI Extractor
If the above options are not suitable, you can use a third-party HDMI audio extractor. This device splits the audio signal from the video signal.

1. • How to set up:

     • Connect the Apple TV’s HDMI output to the input of the HDMI audio extractor.

     • Connect one HDMI output from the extractor to your TV for video.

     • Use the optical digital audio output on the extractor to connect to the Mu-So’s optical input (via a TOSLINK cable). Note that the Mu-So has an optical input, not an HDMI output.

To get audio from your Apple TV (or other sources) to devices like soundbars/receivers while passing video to your TV, you need an HDMI Audio Extractor supporting 4K@60Hz (HDMI 2.0/HDCP 2.2) with HDMI Out, Toslink (Optical), and optionally 3.5mm/RCA outputs, with brands like J-Tech Digital, iArkPower, Proster, and Lindy offering suitable models, noting that Apple TV 4K can use ARC/eARC directly to compatible TVs for simpler setups.

Key Features to Look For:

• HDMI 2.0 / 4K@60Hz: Essential for modern Apple TV 4K and other 4K sources to avoid video limitations.

• HDCP 2.2: Ensures compatibility with protected content (like Netflix, Apple TV+ shows).

• Audio Outputs: Must have at least Toslink (SPDIF) and an HDMI Out port for video. 3.5mm/RCA for analog is a bonus.

• Audio Formats: Supports Dolby Atmos/TrueHD/DTS-HD (via HDMI pass-through) and standard 2CH/5.1CH (via Optical).

• Audio Modes (PASS/2CH/5.1CH): Allows switching between stereo, multi-channel, or letting the source decide.

Recommended Brands & Models (Examples):

• J-Tech Digital: Offers high-spec models like the JTD18G-H5CH, supporting 4K60 HDR, HDCP 2.2, and various audio outputs.

• iArkPower/Proster/avedio links: Amazon brands with various 4K extractors offering Toslink, HDMI out, and 3.5mm.

• Lindy: A more specialized brand with quality extractors that support 4K60.

How it Works:

1. Source (Apple TV 4K) → HDMI Cable → Extractor HDMI IN.

2. Extractor HDMI OUT → HDMI Cable → TV (for video).

3. Extractor Toslink OUT → Toslink Cable → Soundbar/AV Receiver (for audio).

Apple TV 4K Tip:

• If your TV supports HDMI ARC/eARC, you might not need an extractor for basic setups. Your Apple TV sends audio to the TV via HDMI, and the TV sends it back to your sound system via the ARC/eARC HDMI port.

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Option-4: UPnP / Naim app to control Apple Music

NOTE: I believe this section covers solutions that MIGHT NOT meet all my requirments…such as using Apple TV for normal TV watching….but at this point I’ve not dived down deeper on this potential solution….

The most stable and reliable native Apple tool for hard-wired, high-quality audio playback to the Naim Mu-so 2nd Generation, given your constraints, is Home Sharing used with a MacBook connected via Ethernet, or using the Apple TV 4K connected via HDMI ARC.

Recommended Native Apple Tools and Connections

Here are the optimal methods using your specified Apple products and hard-wired connections, ensuring CD quality or better and handling DRM content:

• Option 4a: MacBook (via Ethernet using Home Sharing):

  • Method: Set up Home Sharing on your MacBook to share your music library over your local network. The Naim Mu-so 2nd Gen can access this library as a UPnP (Universal Plug and Play) source over a wired Ethernet connection.

  • Quality: This method allows high-resolution streaming (up to 24-bit/384kHz FLAC, WAV, ALAC, AIFF) and handles DRM-protected files that are part of your iTunes library.

  • Reliability: A wired Ethernet connection is generally considered more stable and reliable than Wi-Fi for high-quality streaming.

  • User Friendliness: You control playback via the dedicated Focal & Naim App, which browses the shared library on your Mac.

• Option 4b: Apple TV 4K (via HDMI ARC):

  • Method: Connect your Apple TV 4K to the Naim Mu-so 2nd Gen using an HDMI cable plugged into the Mu-so’s HDMI ARC (Audio Return Channel) port. You then use the Apple Music app directly on the Apple TV.

  • Quality: The Apple TV 4K supports lossless audio playback at up to 16-bit/44.1 kHz (CD quality) and potentially higher rates depending on the specific model and Naim’s handling of the signal.

  • Reliability: The HDMI ARC connection provides a direct digital link for stable audio transmission.

  • User Friendliness: This uses the familiar Apple TV interface and remote.

How do I configure macOS Audio MIDI Setup for bit-perfect playback to the Naim Mu-So?

To configure macOS for bit-perfect playback to your Naim Mu-So 2nd Gen, you need to manually set the output format in the Audio MIDI Setup app to match the original source material’s sample rate and bit depth.

Note: macOS does not have an “exclusive mode” that automatically switches the sample rate for you. You must manually select the appropriate setting in Audio MIDI Setup.

Step-by-Step Configuration Guide

1. Connect the Devices:

   • Connect your MacBook to the Naim Mu-So using a USB Type-A to Type-B cable (sometimes called a “printer cable”). The Mu-So’s USB input supports up to 32-bit/384kHz PCM audio.

     • Comment by Jim3: Really???..can the Mu-So USB port really support this?? This MIGHT BE a case where Google AI gives a wrong answer???

   • Power on the Mu-So.

Open Audio MIDI Setup:

1. • Go to Applications > Utilities folder and open the Audio MIDI Setup app.

   • Alternatively, use Spotlight Search (Cmd + Spacebar) and type "Audio MIDI Setup”.

Select the Naim Mu-So:

1. • In the left sidebar of the Audio Devices window, you should see the Naim Mu-So listed as an audio output device. Select it.

Configure the Format (Sample Rate and Bit Depth):

1. • On the right side of the window, you will see a Format pop-up menu. This menu displays the current sample rate and bit depth.

   • Click the pop-up menu and manually choose the highest supported resolution your Mu-So offers and that your music library primarily uses, such as 24-bit 44.1 kHz (for CD quality) or higher, up to 24-bit 192 kHz or even 32-bit 384 kHz, depending on your file collection and the Mu-So’s capabilities.

Set as Default Output (Optional but Recommended):

1. • Control-click (right-click) the Naim Mu-So in the sidebar.

   • Choose Use This Device for Sound Output. This will ensure all system audio is routed through the Mu-So.

Verify Playback in Apple Music:

1. • Open the Apple Music app

   • Start playing a song.

   • To confirm the current audio quality, look for the Lossless or Hi-Res Lossless badge next to the song title and hover your cursor over it to see the specific resolution (e.g., 16-bit/44.1 kHz).

Key Point for Bit-Perfect Playback

For true “bit-perfect” playback in macOS with the built-in Music app, the sample rate you manually set in Audio MIDI Setup must match the sample rate of the track currently playing. If the settings don’t match, macOS will automatically perform a sample rate conversion (SRC), which technically is no longer bit-perfect.

• CD Quality: Set Audio MIDI Setup to 44.1 kHz.

• Hi-Res (e.g., Studio Quality): Manually change the setting in Audio MIDI Setup to match the specific track (e.g., 96 kHz or 192 kHz).

Some third-party music player apps can automatically switch the macOS sample rate to match the playing track, providing a more convenient “bit-perfect” experience.

*** However, since you are using the native Apple Music app to play DRM-protected songs, the manual method via Audio MIDI Setup is necessary.

NOTE: Here are some Excluded Options and Reasoning

• iPod Touch (7th gen):

  • The Naim Mu-so’s USB port is designed for playing music from USB drives/sticks, not for a direct digital audio input from an Apple device. The only wired connection for portable devices is a 3.5mm analog jack, which would not guarantee CD quality or better and converts the signal to analog, bypassing the potential for high-res digital audio.

• AirPlay:

  • Per your request, AirPlay 2 (which is built into the Mu-so 2nd Gen, Apple TV, and all your devices) is excluded, even though it is a primary, stable method of streaming from the Apple ecosystem to the Naim speaker.

• General Considerations:

  • DRM-protected songs purchased from iTunes can typically be played through your Apple Music library via Home Sharing or the Apple Music app on Apple TV.

  • To get the best quality, ensure your Naim Mu-so 2nd Gen is connected to your network via Ethernet for the most robust connection, especially when using Home Sharing or the Naim App for browsing the network library

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[jegreenwood]

A question on Option 1. As I understand it, you will be running your music from the source (presumably your Mac) to the Apple TV to the TV to the Mu-So. Will you have to keep your TV on to listen to music?

[Jim3]

Ok….as of today I have all my music in iTunes on an older MacBook. As I’ve not yet re-ripped my CD’s…I am not 100% sure…since 5000 15-minute songs is calculated to need 1.1 TB at 16-bit/44.1 kHz. My MacBook doesn’t have internal storage that big.

My iTunes is all AAC at 256kbps and the same music needs only need 17GB.

This is what Google AI has to say about using an external SSD drive, or putting all my music in iCloud:

Yes, Apple Music can handle 1.5TB on an external SSD

and it works great for large libraries, offering fast access, but you need to set the Music app’s library location to the SSD; and yes, your music files in iCloud (with Apple Music/iTunes Match) will play on devices, but to play local files from your SSD, they need to be added to the Music library, and you can use the Music app on Mac/PC or third-party iOS apps to access them directly from the drive.

1.5TB on External SSD

• Yes, it works well: Keeping your main music library on a fast external SSD is a common and recommended practice for large collections, offering quick loading and playback, according to Apple Support and Stack Exchange.

• How to Set it Up (Mac/PC):

  1. Move your entire iTunes/Music Media folder to the SSD.

  2. In the Music app (or iTunes), go to Preferences/Settings > Files (or Advanced) > iTunes Media Folder Location and point it to your new external drive location.

  3. Ensure your library database file (the .musiclibrary file) stays with the media or on the internal drive for speed, while the actual music files live on the SSD.

Playing Music from iCloud vs. SSD

• iCloud Music Library: If you subscribe to Apple Music or iTunes Match, your personal music files (even ripped from CDs or downloaded from other sources) can be stored in iCloud, allowing you to stream or download them to any device signed into your account.

• SSD (Local Files): Your 1.5TB of music on the SSD are local files. To play them within the Apple Music app on Mac/PC, they must be part of your library (which you’ve moved to the SSD).

• On iOS (iPhone/iPad): The native Music app isn’t great at directly browsing large libraries on external drives without extra steps or apps; consider using apps like **OnePlayer (iOS app)**for direct access from the SSD or keeping essential tracks downloaded via iCloud.

In Summary: Use the SSD for your main music library on your computer for speed, and leverage iCloud for syncing and playback across devices.

[Jim3]

@jegreenwood

A question on Option 1. As I understand it, you will be running your music from the source (presumably your Mac) to the Apple TV to the TV to the Mu-So. Will you have to keep your TV on to listen to music?

Humm….i thought I saw a different question when I made my last post a few minutes ago….

Anyway ….now to your real question:

I did a lot of Google/AI searches…and I actually had the same question! What I don’t have any experience yet is actually using Apple Music….i’ve had tons of experience with iTunes and iPods…but, basically zero streaming experience.

I believe that I MIGHT be able to stream Apple Music without the Smart TV on…as long as the “Apple TV” little black box is on…but I am not sure.

I’ll do some further research and will have to get back to you..later tonight or early tomorrow….

That is a good question…and I want to find out too!!

[jegreenwood]

You’re correct. I answered my first question myself.

[CliveB]

This all sounds fantastically complicated! I would note a couple of points.

1. I am embedded in the Apple universe and also use Naim, and I have a Sony Bravia TV. Sony of course use Android as their OS and it is not very compatible with Apple. Maybe Apple TV will sort this out but I have no experience of it.

2. If you are going to end up putting your Music/iTunes files on a separate SSD, then I really suggest that you look into using an NAS for that purpose. The NAS would be connected to your router and you will be able to simply drop ripped music files into the NAS from the laptop. Then the music files can be played wirelessly to the Muso at CD quality, or above. I don’t have a NAS but the Naim Core which is their proprietary version of NAS - many here use a NAS and would be able to advise on set-up. I think there could be a big advantage in separating the music and TV systems.

[Jim3]

Great point!

I’ve tried to find solutions, and I recall looking very briefly at a NAS type of solution. Like above re “if TV must be on” question…I’ll do some research on the NAS solution….i may have given up too fast on it…but it MIGHT have been a barrier of playing DRM (digital rights management) ….maybe not…I need to research again..

I ‘ll get back later tonight or tomorrow…

Thanks for bringing the NAS up here for me…

Jim

[jegreenwood]

Do your songs average 15 minutes? Seems awfully long (even for classical or jazz). And do your numbers take into account lossless file compression?

As a comparison, I have about 40,000 songs (some “songs” actually being multi-movement classical works or opera acts and thus much longer than 15 minutes), 99.5% CD Quality or better, which take up a total of 2TB. They are on an external drive connected to a low power computer (this in lieu of a proper NAS). Of course I have backup.

Might I suggest that you reconsider setting up a UPnP system, and take a look at some media server software apps. I’m not sure of what is available for the Mac, but I know the two I use are: JRiver and the Lyrion Music Server, the latter of which is free (although the remote control app cost $10 the last time I checked).

[jegreenwood]

So I started up a Blu-Ray disc on my player, which is connected to a Sony TV via HDMI. The Sony, in turn, is connected to my Mu-So 2 via eARC HDMI. Everything started as it should - the sound coming out of my Mu-So 2. But as soon as I turned the TV off, the Mu-So 2 also turned itself off.

I don’t think that’s a bug; I think that’s works as designed.

[jegreenwood]

p.s. - I do think the HDMI extractor would work. Query whether you even need the HDMI to TV cable if you have a smart TV. (You might if you wanted to cast video from your computer to the TV.)

With this option you would need to switch back and forth between the HDMI and Toslink inputs on the Mu-So depending on whether you wanted sound from the TV or from your music library. The Mu-So has a setting that will automatically switch to HDMI when receiving a signal, but you would need the Naim app or remote to switch back to Toslink for music (and maybe to control volume for the music).

My assessment assumes what I’ve read about Apple Home Sharing - that it supports lossless, something that AirPlay 2 does not.

Further query - you claim to have 326 DRM purchased iTunes songs. Apple stopped using DRM in 2009. Were all these purchases before that date? Also, it’s my understanding that if the songs are listed in “my purchases” and are still available from Apple, you can download a non-DRM version.

[Jim3]

@CliveB

If you are going to end up putting your Music/iTunes files on a separate SSD, then I really suggest that you look into using an NAS for that purpose. The NAS would be connected to your router and you will be able to simply drop ripped music files into the NAS from the laptop. Then the music files can be played wirelessly to the Muso at CD quality, or above. I don’t have a NAS but the Naim Core which is their proprietary version of NAS - many here use a NAS and would be able to advise on set-up. I think there could be a big advantage in separating the music and TV systems.

I am running short of time for faster reply/inputs…but I did this search regarding NAS….see below. I am beginning to think if I want to go the Mu-So route with Apple Music I will need to do Airplay2…which might be fine…I just don’t know.

Otherwise possibly (but not desired) would be a NAS-type of implementation using Roon that is ‘proven’….but I am starting to bridge the ‘this is going to cost more than I want to spend….

              Anyway here is what Mr. Google/AI  things about a NAS:

Implementing a NAS solution to stream your ripped CDs to a Naim Mu-So 2nd gen without using AirPlay 2 or physical connections is possible, but it requires a specific setup and a change in how you control your music, making it less straightforward and user-friendly than a standard Apple ecosystem experience. The main challenge is that you will need to manage your library using a different app/server software than the native Apple Music app for this specific setup.

The Technical Requirements and Challenges

The approach you’re seeking relies on the UPnP/DLNA protocol, which the Mu-So 2nd gen supports over a wired network connection. Here’s why it departs from the “easy and user friendly” path you described:

• You must use a third-party app to control playback. The native Apple Music app on your Mac or iOS devices is designed primarily to stream via AirPlay or manage local/cloud libraries, not act as a UPnP controller to browse music hosted on a NAS and send it to a non-AirPlay renderer.

• The Naim App is the control point. You will use the Focal & Naim App on your Apple devices (iPhone, iPod touch, or Mac with an M1/M2/M3 chip) to browse the music library on the NAS and initiate playback on the Mu-So.

• The Apple Music library structure won’t transfer seamlessly. You won’t be able to directly use your existing Apple Music playlists, etc., in the Naim app environment without potentially complex playlist export/import workarounds (e.g., using .m3u files placed in the NAS root folder). The Naim app will index the music files on the NAS by standard metadata (artist, album, genre).

• DRM Music is not compatible. Any music with Digital Rights Management (DRM) (likely older Apple Music/iTunes purchases from the early 2000s) will not play via a NAS/UPnP setup. This method only works for standard, non-DRM ripped CD files (e.g., WAV, FLAC, ALAC, AIFF).

Recommended Setup

To achieve CD quality playback (16-bit / 44.1kHz lossless) without AirPlay 2, you would set up your system as follows:

1. NAS Setup: Purchase a NAS (e.g., from Synology or QNAP) and install a UPnP/DLNA server software on it, such as MinimServer or Asset UPnP. This software organizes your ripped CD files and broadcasts the library over your network.

2. Network Connection: Hard-wire both the NAS and the Naim Mu-So 2nd gen to your network router/switch via Ethernet cables.

3. Library Transfer: Copy your non-DRM ripped CD music files from your Mac to the music folder on the NAS.

4. Control and Playback:

   • Open the Focal & Naim App on your Apple device (iPhone, iPod touch, or Mac).

   • Navigate to the Local Music or UPnP section within the app.

   • Select your NAS server from the list.

   • Browse and select tracks, albums, or genres to play them on the Mu-So. The Naim app streams the data directly from the NAS to the Mu-So via the wired connection, bypassing AirPlay.

Conclusion

While the setup ensures high-quality, hard-wired playback using a reliable protocol, it involves managing a separate music library on the NAS and using a non-Apple control app (Naim app). This is a functional and high-fidelity solution, but it is not as simple or seamlessly integrated into the native Apple Music app ecosystem as using AirPlay 2 would be.

[Jim3]

@jegreenwood

Do your songs average 15 minutes? Seems awfully long (even for classical or jazz). And do your numbers take into account lossless file compression?

Your right….I have…For the life of me, I don’t know what I was thinking when I put 15-minute songs into my calculations….I honestly don’t know at this point….regardless, I have (for me) a lot of songs and your are right, most are 2-3 minutes or so….

So…iTunes says:

• 4968 songs from ripping my CD collection into iTunes

• 326 DRM purchased iTunes songs

• 248 Apple Lossless songs

• 91 Protected AAC

I am guessing only the 91 are DRM’s and the 326 are labeled “Purchased AAC”…I stuck the DRM in front because I wanted a final solution that would not exclude any such scenarios….such as I guess the 91 “Protected AAC”….

Anyway…. it really doesn’t change what I am trying to figure out: is there a user-friendly and reasonably economical way to play Apple Music to the Mu-So…and so far Airplay2 seems to be best solution…but IF that means I lose the wonderful improvement with the Mu-So speakers…then I might as well stay with AAC/Bose-Wave.

I just can’t understand why my search for a solution is taking up so much of everyone’s time….Apple accounts for 10-12% of the Streaming market (per google)…I would think Naim/Mu-So team would address this with a “simple" USB connection from Apple products to their DAC…similar to most external DACs that have 3 or 4 inputs with typically Balanced or RCA outputs (such as Schiit DACs). Why can Mu-So do all that internally by accepting Toslink, HDMI, and USB to send digital music files into the MU-SO DAC. It seems so simple to me…but working with out is seeming to be anything but simple….

To tell everyone the truth….I am about to give up a Mu-So…which kind-of breaks my heart…I though it would be perfect for my small room and ‘affortable’ but big upgrade AAC/Bose-Wave…

A bit frustrated,

Jim3

[Jim3]

@jegreenwood

So I started up a Blu-Ray disc on my player, which is connected to a Sony TV via HDMI. The Sony, in turn, is connected to my Mu-So 2 via eARC HDMI. Everything started as it should - the sound coming out of my Mu-So 2. But as soon as I turned the TV off, the Mu-So 2 also turned itself off.

I found this….does this work?

Yes, your Sony Bravia 9 can play just audio with the screen off or black , usually through a “Picture Off” or “Screen Off” setting found in Quick Settings or Accessibility menus, allowing you to save energy while listening to music or podcasts; if you have a black screen with sound, it’s a fault (like a backlight issue) needing troubleshooting, not a feature.

To turn the picture off (Audio Only Mode)

1. Press Quick Settings: On your remote, press the (Quick Settings) button or the ACTION MENU button.

2. Find the setting: Look for options like Picture Off, Screen Off, or an Accessibility setting for screen control.

3. Activate: Select it to turn the display off while sound continues.

4. Turn back on: Press any button on the remote (like Volume or Power) to bring the picture back.

[jegreenwood]

First and foremost - no matter what set-up you use, the Mu-So 2 will sound FAR better than the Bose. The difference between Apple AAC files and lossless files is minor in comparison.

Having said that, as I mentioned above, my understanding, based on the Darko article, is that an end to end AirPlay 2 set up will not provide lossless audio.

I also mentioned that I thought the Apple TV/HDMI de-embedder (Option 3 from yesterday’s post) was a viable solution. I bought a de-embedder from Amazon - one of the AI recommended brands, although possibly a different model - for USD20.

I remain confused about your Apple purchases. You say you have 248 Apple Lossless songs. My A.I. friend tells me Apple does not sell lossless music. Are these simply tracks associated with a Apple Music account that you have downloaded for offline/local listening?

I am not sure whether the HDMI de-embedder will pass those or any other DRM files, but as I also mentioned, it’s my understanding that to the extent you bought DRM files from Apple (and as long as the music is still available from Apple) you should be able to download non-DRM versions at no charge.

And one last point. If you simply want to connect your iPod Touch directly to the Mu So 2 you can use a USD10 dongle and a USD10 3.5 mm cable to connect to the Mu So’s analog port.