Ready For Digital Source...Computer?

The answer you are seeking is audiophile linux. Optimized for audio:

The Hi-Fi Rose RS-250 is a much smaller unit in physical size.  This translates to smaller power supply, less circuitry, no modular board sections, etc.  That is the primary price difference.

I do agree that an all-in-one probably won't perform as well as a really good off-board DAC combined with your Rune Nucleus + 100W HDPlex.  There are some servers that have good DACs built in, but they are generall over $10k.

realworldaudio - this looks real cool, that is until you click this link:

https://www.ap-linux.com/documentation/ap-linux-v5-install-instructions/

I'm not sure if I have the smarts (let alone the time) to figure that all out!

auxinput - thanks, but I think sns already talked me out of it...

@high-amp, at some point you'll definitely need to get your laptop out of your listening chain. But if you can't right now while you're taking the time to find a dedicated music streamer that fits your budget and your lifestyle, I would suggest that you first invest in the best DAC that you can afford. When I was using my MacBook Pro as my music source, I used a Chord Qutest DAC that absolutely sounded fantastic to my ears. You can find used ones at very good prices these days. And it's really great because it has a very small footprint, and you can use either a USB > USB or a USB > SPIF cord to connect the DAC to your laptop. I also believe that a high quality interconnect cable is a must IMO. I use an AudioQuest Diamond USB cable in my system. Audiophile DAC's like the Qutest benefit a lot from having a of a good linear power supply(LPS) to help them perform at their best. 

Hey there, have any of you tried this?

https://www.amarrasound.com/amarra-luxe/