Should I upgrade from a Mac Mini to a dedicated server or should I upgrade my dac?

@verdantaudio that’s strange. I’ve been using Mac Mini in my system since 2008. First one died after 11 years of pretty much non stop service. The 2018 version is still going strong and is being used only as Roon core.
Granted, the Mini isn’t an awesome streamer by any stretch of imagination but it’s totally fine as a Roon core.
 

I never ran into network problems with it. Other issues like Mac OS upgrade induced Roon bugs yes, could be annoying.

What you’re describing sounds like some sort of a firewall and or compatibility problem with ISP, DACs etc

@audphile1 That is what makes this even worse.  It is only some mac mini's that have this issue.  But here is the thing, it does not need to be part of the audio chain to create the problem.  I have no good explanation for why or how this happens.  Just a good thing to know from a troubleshooting perspective.  

That’s bizarre….

I like audphile1 have used different iterations of mini for years without issue. Also been used in various network setups, I experiment a lot. Whenever mini has disappeared has been network issue, my streaming setups can become pretty complex, many causes for various issues, never mini. Whenever I see any disappearing server issues, and this with any brand server, nearly always network issues, lots of computer network novices are getting into streaming, steep learning curve!

And I agree, the mini can be pretty nice as server alone, forget about using it for rendering/streaming. Run dual ethernet ports on it avoids complexity and rendering, lps cleans up noise, optimize OS, again lowers noise, disable system integrity protection (SIP) same benefit as optimizing OS. Get I7 processor model, run PCIe SSD instead of sata, add all above nice little server.

IME, it’s the subpar and lazy approach in the design and implementation of most ROON compatible devices that leading us to believe that a single device serving as Roon core and end point is not optimal. To name a few, take a look at Taiko, Pink Faun, Grimm Audio and Merging Technologies. All these are prime example of how both Roon Core and Renderer can co-exist in a single device and yet yield to a sublime streaming audio experience, provided your rest of the system is up to par. I am just amazed by my Merging Technologies +player abilities to render captivating ROON experience, all from a single box.