What are the weaknesses of iTunes and what are its alternatives?

[PeterG]

I started with iTunes/Amarra years ago because it was virtually free ($50 for Amarra on any Mac).  Then (of course) I "needed" a USB decrapifier, then another, then another....Also (of course) I needed to upgrade to an SSD, and performer other tweaks.  And the whole thing was never really stable.  So I dropped $3K on a Naim after "investing" hundreds or a thou in the Mac.

 

Pretty much as soon as I knew I loved computer audio, the Mac was no longer a bargain.  If I was just starting today, I would buy a Bluesound Node for $500 or so.  If you already know you're in for a longer haul, or cost is not an issue, there are a bunch of higher end servers/streamers too.  

 

Good luck!