If you’re tight on space, or your shelves of CDs have lost their luster as a showcase in your living room, maybe it’s time for some digital storage.

Colorado vNet is trying to lend a hand with its entry-level, lower cost (contact a dealer for pricing) AS2-400/3 Vibe Audio Server, aimed at people who live in apartments, condos or other MDUs (multidwelling units).

The AS2-400/3—part of Colorado vNet’s Vibe Audio System—can pack in up to 400 CDs on its 250-GB hard drive, and not crush them into low-quality MP3 files, either. You’ll get to listen to your favorite discs in their full resolution, uncompressed entirety.

To load up the AS2-400/3, you can rip the audio files from a networked PC using the company’s vNet Director software, which also allows you to manage the tunes and create playlists on the server.

Instead of popping the CDs into a tray or changer, you can access them with the slick Vibe Color Touchscreen Amplifier, and route the music to three rooms simultaneously if you want.

For more space saving, you can mount the audio server on the wall inside an equipment closet, or tuck it away in a rack system. When you’re done ripping your CDs, you can tuck them, and all the jewel cases you’ve cracked over the years, away from your living room too.

Arlen Schweiger - Editor of Electronic House Magazine

Arlen writes about home technology installations and product news and reviews for electronichouse.com and Electronic House magazine.