iFi Zen Stream (No USB output in Roon exclusive mode)

@tksteingraber Too much for here and too much for me to type, but I’ll explain a little.

• Memory: 2 GB should be sufficient but Roon recommends 4 GB for Linux
• The cooling fans vary a lot, but you can get cases which are fanless which perform well. The end point doesn’t stress the CPU at all so it stays pretty chill anyway.
• You flash Ubuntu server on a microSD card. 16 GB is plenty. Look online for those instructions. Stick the card into you Pi and go through the initial installation process.  Then install bzip. Then add the requirements and follow the Easy Installer instructions from Roon.

Make sure you use Ubuntu for Arm64 and get the Roon for Arm64 as well. Intel/AMD binaries won’t work here.

Fanless cases:

https://amzn.to/3ZBeVDe

@erik_squires Thanks that is perfect.  I was able to look up the install instructions for Ubuntu and they explained it well.  Just s couple more questions for you:

Wanted to confirm the Pi4 a roon core and a streamer all in one?
Ubuntu has several software choices for different uses and wanted to make sure the one for Core is the best one?

How does the SQ level rate with an LPS?

Much appreciated.  Thanks again, Tom

@tksteingraber  Unfortunately Roon does not support the Pi 4 except as a stream end point. You'll notice there is no Core for Arm64

I use an ifi Power X for the Pi but can't say it's made a huge difference.

@erik_squires Thanks for your patience with me getting up to speed , it’ been very helpful.  Being a stream end point makes more sense.  I have a sonic transporter that I us as my roon core for 2 systems so another is not needed.  

@carlsbad I came across this in doing research on the Raspberry Pi sound quality vs my ifi zen stream one review did comparisons.  Interesting but just one review and everyone’s system has many variables.

“:Allo USBridge Signature and Allo DigiOne both sound smooth and natural, but are no match to Zen which is more revealing, more precise, and has a bigger soundstage with a darker background. That said, Allo DigiOne still presents a good value at its price whereas USBridge is much more debatable. If you need a USB out, I suggest saving a bit and going for Zen Stream instead.”