Upstream Bottlenecks, Experience, Opinions, Meitner Dac

Sorry about the dog, I have cats, when pets suffering not good.

Hopefully streaming stays up and running with that Mac OS. I'd still try the router direct to MA3 and see how the two compare.

Ghasley correct, forget usb, NAS on network, you have good streamer, no need for usb anywhere.

Thanks sns, I’m a retired vet so it also comes with the territory. Taking your advice and going direct. Next purchase lps for router. Have to ask, tried external hd via usb to ma3, Meitner auto switches to network, no problem, sound amazing, just what keeps the usb setting usb on the ma3? Thanks 

@dicokrum, an SGC server is on the short list  I was attempting to make sure I wasn’t short changing myself in the near future as I’m not one that swaps out gear frequently. Sure would like to remove peripherals as in external storage.  Best  DaveH

The lps on router was relatively large change IME. I don't understand why you're using usb when you have Synology NAS. NAS is network only connection, likely superior to any usb storage. I use AQ Vodka ethernet cable with my Synology NAS, better than any usb storage I've tried. Don't know why Meitner auto switches to network vs usb, other MA3 owners will have to chime in here.

When you do comparison, direct vs. mini, report back, I for one would be interested.  You could also try something like Network Acoustics Eno, Muon or Uptone Etherregen between mini (or router whether you go with direct route to Meitner or keep in mini server chain-in this case between router and mini) and Meitner. Mini or any server is generator of noise in streaming chain, lowering noise floor prior to streamers will result in greater resolution, likely more natural sound.

In response to an earlier comment.  Small Green Computer sells a music server line (sonicTransporter i5, i7 CDR, and i9) that can be your Roon Core.  Happy Wednesday