Meridian Unplugged - Powered by MrTechGuy.co.uk Forums Discussion Meridian - Streaming QNAP TS-253A Issues

I was about to order a QNAP TS-253A 8G (RAM), 2 TB or 4 TB drive as a Sooloos streaming resource. I chose this model because it was the one used for demo at CEDIA 2016. However I thought it a good idea to check first with tech support.

I learn that there are certain technical issues between Sooloos and this particular QNAP NAS involving both hardware and software. The matter is being addressed but clearly this obstructs me purchasing.

Can anyone throw light on the matter and possibly suggest an alternative NAS with better or equivalent performance. I have in mind high res audio and possibly 4K video

Best wishes,
Geoff

Interesting as that is the model offered by Meridian pre-configured for Sooloos. I would however say that while some may use their QNAP drive for other purposes than Sooloos, I would keep it as a dedicated appliance.Just my preference.

Servers Direct currently have good deals/discounts on this model (don't forget to add the VAT).

Hello and thanks,

I think I need to know of an alternative or sure knowledge that the issue is fixed.

Best wishes,

Geoff

The TS251 and 451 are what is in the documentation as being recommended. Do not update the firmware in the QNAP though. All firmware issues are supposed to be resolved in the to be released QTS 4.3 software for the QNAP.

I am using a TS-253A successfully for my Sooloos system, with 4GB of RAM. However, it would not work at all (for Sooloos) on QNAP firmware 4.2.1 and I found it unreliable on 4.2.2 (which I believe is still the latest). Reverting to firmware 4.2.0 has resolved all difficulties.

QNAP owners may well be interested in following this link. QNAP Releases QTS 4.3 Beta

Would it be safe to assume any Sooloos bugs are fixed in this release?

May we anticipate any statement from M?

That is very interesting. May I make a very selfish suggestion (selfish on my part). I have an operating and stable Sooloos system on QNAP 4.2.0 whereas evidently you do not. How would you like to take the plunge and try 4.3 and report back to us? Well, I had to ask didn't I?

Hi,

I am finding it difficult to decide on the way ahead as follows:

• Advice from Tech Support is "We can only really stand by the models that we use here on a daily basis, which are the TS-251 and TS-453U. The NAS needs to be running an Intel family CPU and have 4Gb RAM. Avoid the TS-253A/453A."
  
• My comparison of the TS-x51 series alongside the 253 leads me to believe the 253 has considerably greater processing power and will stream 4K video, making it highly suitable for my purpose.
• I see with interest the statement from CMB/Bruce above that the v. 3.0 release will solve the present problems. This is either not confirmed by QNAP/M or is contradicted by the statement from Tech Support.

Do I request devine intervention??

Geoff

I would hold fire until the New Year.

QNAP typically announce new models after CES.

The simple solution is to use what is recommended. If you choose to also use it for video as well, then you are doing so at your own peril. QNAPs and storage are cheap enough these days that you could have one optimized for each format. If you load a music QNAP up with a bunch of other apps or video, is it going to be Meridian's fault when something doesn't run correctly? Meridian has to recommend what they can reasonably support.

At work we use high end video controllers that are essentially a Windows PC with a ton of video inputs and outputs. Sure it is a PC and works as a PC but when you put a lot of other programs and applications on it and try to run them concurrently with the video controller software all of the sudden, it doesn't work so well for its intended purpose and tech support will only say to remove the programs and applications.

If you want a minimal fuss music system, go with the dedicated appliance. If you want both on the same appliance, please accept that it may have its challenges. The QTS 3.0 release is supposed to cure the previous issues with the latest QTS firmware and Sooloos.

The decision has been made without much stress and there is a QNAP TS-251+ on its way. This will be followed when available by a 218 zone controller.
When and if 4K is readily available then a dedicated 4K streamer might be justified but for now a trouble free life seems a good idea.

The diggers arrive in the morning for the fibre Broad Band duct installation so I have more than enough boys toys to play with for now. Next stop Met Opera and ENO web sites!!!!!!!!!!

Happy winter Solstice to all.