Choose the right media server for your film and disc collection
There is no single “best” media server, only the right one for your environment, devices and expectations.
Once your disc library has been professionally prepared, structured and named correctly, it can be enjoyed across a wide range of modern playback platforms.
DIGIRAW prepares files for compatibility with leading media server software and playback systems. The choice of platform remains entirely yours.
Below is a simple overview of the most widely used solutions.
So, What Is a Media Server?
A media server allows you to store your film, television, home video and music collection in one central location and access it across your devices; TV, tablet, phone, laptop or even remotely when travelling.
Your files are stored on a NAS, computer or dedicated drive in your home or organisation. From there, they are streamed to your screens using media server apps or streaming devices such as NVIDIA Shield TV, Apple TV, smart TVs, Fire TV, Roku or similar platforms.
Instead of navigating folders or external drives, your library appears in a clean, familiar interface with artwork, descriptions and organised structure.
Think of it as your own private streaming service, built around the titles you own.
A media server does not provide films or shows. It simply organises and streams your existing collection in a smarter, more accessible way.
The Major Platforms
Plex
One of the most popular media platforms worldwide.
- Clean interface
- Strong remote streaming capabilities
- Excellent device support
- Suitable for home users and larger curated libraries
- £ Free + Premium paid options
Official site: https://www.plex.tv
Emby
A flexible and highly configurable platform.
- Strong user management
- Customisable metadata control
- Good for structured private libraries
- £ Free + Premium paid options
Official site: https://emby.media
Jellyfin
An open-source media server option.
- Community driven
- No licensing fees
- Manual configuration flexibility
- £ FREE
Official site: https://jellyfin.org
Infuse (Apple ecosystem)
Designed primarily for Apple devices.
- A Media player rather than a media server
- Beautiful playback interface
- Strong direct file compatibility
- Ideal for iPad, Apple TV and Mac environments
- £ Subscription-based (app store download)
Official site: https://firecore.com/infuse
Kodi
A long-established open-source media centre player.
- Local playback focused
- Highly customisable
- Ideal for dedicated home cinema environments
- More technical to set up
- £ FREE *open source
Official site: https://kodi.tv
Where are your files stored?
Your prepared media files can be stored on:
- A NAS (Network Attached Storage)
- A dedicated home computer/server
- External drives
We organise your collection so it works within the system you choose.
The platform is only part of the equation
Media servers do not fix poorly prepared files.
The reliability, naming accuracy, structure, and format of your files determine how smoothly your collection performs over the long term.
DIGIRAW prepares every title so it integrates cleanly into modern media systems, and without unnecessary recompression or shortcuts.
Start small. Build properly. Scale confidently.
Whether preparing a handful of titles or structuring a full curated library, we ensure your collection is ready for the platform you choose.
DIGIRAW Disc-to-Digital Services, Beaworthy, Devon, United Kingdom
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