UPnP renderer capability now available for the Cantata Music Center
12 June 2013
Firmware version 2.10 adds UPnP renderer capability for up to 24/192k gapless playback for FLAC, WAV, and AIFF files.
Click here for Mac instructions to update to version 2.10
Click here for Windows instructions to update to version 2.10

What is UPnP?
UPnP (Universal Plug "n" Play) is a set of protocols that allow a Cantata Music Center to access music files that are stored on a Network Attached Storage device (NAS), or other UPnP compatible music server, to be quickly and easily selected and played. Essentially the Music Center announces its availability on your home Ethernet network that it can be uses as a renderer (playback device) for music stored on a UPnP-capable server. A control point device (iPad, iPhone, Android tablet, etc) is used to select the Cantata as a renderer together with a NAS as a server. The control point device requires an app like PlugPlayer or other control point software for browsing and playlist control.


What do I need to use the UPnP capability in the Music Center?

The simplest and most elegant UPnP enabled playback system would consist of the following components:

● Cantata Music Center with firmware version 2.10 or higher.

● iPad or Android tablet to use as a control point (remote control).

● Control point app of your choice on the tablet (Plug Player is recommended on iPad, BubbleUPNP on an Android Nexus 7 tablet is another good option).

● Network Attached Storage (NAS) device to store and serve your music library. We like the Synology products such as the DS212j. You can select whatever capacity hard drives you wish to install in the NAS. A couple of mirrored Western Digital "Red" 2TB drives is a nice choice.

● Router with wired and wireless capability, such as the Apple Airport Extreme.

● Good quality CAT5e or CAT6 Ethernet cables (one from NAS to router, one from Router to Cantata).

● Some patience. Getting good results depends on a lot of variables, and every system and environment is a bit different. A very robust network is essential to achieving good results. You may also find that the control point software which works well for someone else doesn't work well in your situation, so some trial and error is too be expected. Your dealer can be a valuable resource in helping you. Also you can find very helpful information in forums like computeraudiophile.com
Chances are good that many people have experience with exactly what you are setting up and optimizing. We will also be expanding our website with tips and recommendations, as well as firmware update, so check back here occasionally.