MP3 encoding uses the ARM software, based on fraunhoffer (with optimisations). Ripping is in-house software, which copes with most eventualities, and we have something in the wings for the next software update which would pretty much rip a burned pancake if you could fit it in the drive.

Only one drive is supported. Software is included to rebuild a unit with a blank disk from the ground up, so advanced users could upgrade - but not within the terms of the warranty. There is not an official upgrade service.

There's no onboard Ethernet - if you want it you can plug in a USB Ethernet adapter. HPNA and USB are built in.

It users the usual Receiver streaming method based on http - refer to the Rio Receiver BBS to read some threads about, for example, how to stream to WinAmp.

Rob