Downloads Versus Streaming

@jbuhl So I take it that you bought a component from Roon or someone else that serves as the Roon Core and sounds better than your experience using a Mac computer? If so, it makes a good deal of sense to me that your experiencing better results with a component dedicated to Roon, given it's filters an other audio design properties. Which makes me wonder if it's worth spending money on a filtering device between the modem and the Pi?

Yeah a Small Green Computer Sonic Transport (SGC ST).  Runs bit calmer, way more stripped down.  Don't have to worry about all the Mac updates and baggage  that platform brings along.   Stability is rock solid as well (so far) and support is good.   Dedicated device only way to run a ROON core IMO.  Sometimes you see them on the used market.  Been really happy with mine.

@jbuhl All-right, not cheap but still within reach. Does it elevate audio quality to where it's equal to MPD? Also, I'm assuming you can now play DSD files via Roon when using the Sonic Transport? To be honest and it's a long way off but I'm rather focused on the NAIM ND5 XS2 just because, I believe I could convince my local dealer to let me take one home for an audition. I'd really like to see how much of an improvement I'd hear when comparing it to the Pi.

As for Small Green Computer, these small boutique type companies just seem to keep sprouting up. It's encouraging.

The SGC/ST like most of this stuff was an incremental bump and got things close enough to MPD that I stayed with Roon.   Roon also opens things up for sprinkling other low cost endpoints around the house like old Sonos zp90s that can be picked up for dirt cheap.   Got those endpoints in the garage and work station.   I do not stream DSD.  I no longer buy downloads due to unpredictable/unknown quality of the source.   I am at a point where I am good with red book,24/96 and  vinyl.

@jbuhl So you've found a way for the Pi to work for you, which was something I was really interested in hearing about, thanks!