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Best Server To Run Roon Core

Hi Folks,

I don’t currently run ROON, but would like to begin correctly in order to give it a chance - and I understand that server (hardware) on which Roon core is installed is important for SQ (due to noise reduction and other factors).

What are the best hardware for SQ and usability where ROON core should be installed and why (be it audiophile dedicated servers or modified PCs)? Please comment on the rest of your setup for context if you could.

Thank you in advance.


jmarshak
lafayette2010
3 posts
 

@verdantaudio Thanks for the observation. I would have thought they would respond professionally. Maybe they are Covid short staffed. I have 2 acknowledged "tickets" but then crickets. It is very unlikely given my experience I will stick with the Nucleus. It's on;y a question how painful the transition will be.

 

jc51373
548 posts
 

@alephresearch

 

I just removed a MacMini M1 and replaced it with a Nucleus as a test to see if the hype is real. I am here to tell you, IT IS REAL. The nucleus was literally like I lifted a curtain..And I have a gigafoil working "isolate" the system from the Server. So there goes your theory. It's real, embrace it Servers are as important (maybe more) important than DACs. If you haven't listened to a dedicated Server it's nothing more than an opinion. If you're happy with the sound you have, great. But know for a fact a dedicated matters and will improve the sound. 

I returned the Nucleus and went straight for the top of the line Antipodes. 

lalitk's avatar
lalitk
5,801 posts
 

When I was considering Roon, one of the important criteria was to choose a component that doesn’t rely on external server and associated LPS, cabling and isolation. 

One such component is Merging Technologies +player which sports an onboard CPU that allows running RoonCore on Linux RoonOS and implements a Roon Endpoint. It connects internally through Ravenna to the MERGING+NADAC (DAC) hardware and enjoys then the exact same characteristics and flexibility as an external computer running Roon. Pretty nifty, isn’t it :-) 

In addition to full blown Roon Server / DAC, it comes with a PRE and Headphone DAC. 

jmarshak OP
157 posts
 

Impressive and forward thinking technology there Lalit.

Thanks all for sharing your thoughts and experiences.  Lots of great comments keep coming.

 

wsrrsw's avatar
wsrrsw
1,203 posts
 

I'm a happy camper using a Roon Nucleus and a Lumin streamer. I can not tell any difference in SQ when running Qobuz with the Roon or when running the native Lumin software. When I used a computer to run Roon the SQ was as not as good.

Lot's here (the forum) on cleaning up your ethernet too. 


 

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