Ready For Digital Source...Computer?

itsjustme correct, all servers are essentially optimized computers, the optimization is the critical difference between them. I consider actual computer diy solution, off the shelf server already done for you.

Its also correct that much of the noise upstream of dac can be eliminated by various means. Optical conversion of ethernet is one good way, do this just prior to dac or various usb renderers.

Network optimization pays great dividends. In the end, many paths to great streaming sound quality.

Also, if you're if your choice comes down to non-optimized computer vs. server, get the server. I progressed from stock Windows and Mac computers to somewhat modded mac mini, then present extremely moded mac mini. No comparison, even the first modded mini was far superior to stock computer. Anyone using stock computer as server is missing much of the potential of streaming.

Again, diy modding of computer requires skills many may not possess.

sns - thanks for that.

At the end of the day, I may just end up with a Roon Nucleus (optimized computer) as a music server (USB to DAC) again. Although I didn’t like the added expense of Roon, it was easy pezzy, offers a great format and sounded awesome!

Times on my side at the moment so, sooner or later I’ll figure it out (with a lot of help from you all!) :-)

If you deciede on the Roon Nucleus, get a linear power supply for it.  I would recommend the Keces P8 at this point because the Roon can draw up to 65 watts (3.5A).  The P8 has a large enough power supply to keep up with this draw.  I do not recommend Farad or the Teddy Pardo "TeddyNuc" power supply.  The problem with Teddy Pardo is that it's a dual regulated design.  The power flows through two bipolar transistors and creates a LOT of heat with high current draw.  The case ends up getting burning HOT.  Also, he uses heat pads between the transistors and case instead of mating the transistor directly with metal.  This helps in easy manufacturing, but heat transfer is poor.

auxinput - very helpful, I will heed your advive!

 Thanks