I am using a Mac M1 mini Running Roon and HQplayer only.
I am upsampling everything to DSD512/ASDM7/poly-sinc-xtrr-mp-2s via HQPlayer. Runs flawlessly.
The rest of my system: McIntosh Mx-150/MC312 B&W Nautilus 803's
Best Server To Run Roon Core
I now have the Fan-less NUC running on a nice linear power supply and I do like the sound better. Basically I perceive a lower noise floor. I did not think it was possible anymore, but I do like it better. Tried few days with Quboz and local files sitting on the core ssd drive. Details: The NUC is connected to the network. All of my network components run on linear power supplies (modem, router, switches). I also use fiber for isolation and long distances runs. I fear that this finding unfortunately supports the 'everything matters' camp in the digital domain. It also means that a lot more money will be spent in the future |
Very interesting topic, thanks you for everyone contributed so far. |
@jksec Running directly to dac generally means running out usb port on server, unless this is optimized with something like Jcat or Pink Faun usb card, not best way to go. Running over ethernet gives one many options like separate streamer/end point/usb renderer, also can do FMC (fiber media conversion) or any number of filters like Acoustic Network Eno.
Issue with Nucs is lack of two ethernet ports, but if one is using network switch of less consequence. Macmini requires mods with diy lps like Uptone Audio MMK and JS-2. Macmini can be modified for two ethernet ports, advantage is don't need network switch.
Server direct to dac is convenience method. Ethernet via switch or direct mode is for maximum sound quality. |