a remarkably basic question about Roon

Roon needs a server (they call it "Core") to run the program, and a streamer (what they call "end point") to stream to your DAC. They can often be one and the same (i.e. a laptop you connect directly to DAC via USB).

A quick look at the Roon Ready list, shows several compatible Bryston BDP streamers:

You will still use your current laptop to run the Roon server (the "Core"). Based on what you already have, you can certainly give it a try. They do free trials, I believe 30-day. Then you can see for yourself if you like it or not.

P.S. I forgot to mention the third component of a typical Roon setup - the remote. This is what you use to control and play via Roon, and can be your smart phone (app), or a tablet. Of course, you can also use the laptop you use as a Core as a remote too. The same laptop. But, controlling everything via a phone or iPad makes it much easier and elegant.

@northman : You got this right! The purpose of a Nucleus is though not useless. The idea is to "free" your laptop, and run Roon Core (the server) in a dedicated headless machine that stays always on. You can accomplish this not just via a Nucleus, but also by cheaper solutions, like a NUC or sonicTransporter (from Small Green Computer).

but I personally find it easier to think about Roon as an organizing app that I download on my laptop that will interface with my streamer, either through the laptop or phone, and allow me to control my music. 

First paragraph: https://help.roonlabs.com/portal/en/kb/articles/squeezebox-setup#Getting_Started

No remote Roon access. Has to be in-network (i.e. in your house)

It’s completely impossible @mapman to really know whether Roon has any added value to you without trying it. Give it a shot and you will REALLY know. $1 for three months trial, what do you have to lose? OK… maybe a buck 🤦‍♂️

Hmmmm.... did it ever cross your mind @pwayland that the difference in sound may have been in your DAC, its network bridge vs. the USB input in it?

Sorry I am not familiar ... the Zen Stream is a streaming device, USB out to DAC? And you can use this as a Roon endpoint too?