I assembled an Intel NUC and installed ROCK which is the same OS that runs on a Nucleus for about $700 and use a raspberry pi4 running Ropiee as an endpoint. The main advantage to me is the OS is optimized for Roon and the sound improved switching from a Windows PC running the core. The Nucleus. Costs more and I know a lot of people here run very expensive streamers which if using roon is just an endpoint and pay more for the USB cable than I did for the NUC and raspberry pi4. Perhaps you could tell enough difference to go that route but I couldn’t.
Anyone been able to compare the SQ of Roon Nucleus vs. MacBook Air?
For the last several years I've wanted to reclaim my MacBook Air laptop for laptoping! I was thinking of 2 options. Trade my Mytek Brooklyn in plus $1200.00 for a Brooklyn Bridge or spend approximately the same money for a Roon Nucleus. My laptop has been plugged into my DAC via USB. I believe the Roon Nucleus could be hooked up the same way. Anyone been able to compare the two? It would seem a dedicated device would have less noise issues and time out issues. Is there a better way to connect the MacBook Air? Would a Mac Mini offer any advantages? Any advice is always appreciated!
Showing 3 responses by djones51
You can find the specs on Roons site. https://kb.roonlabs.com/Roon_Optimized_Core_Kit The only software is ROCK it's an optimized OS to run roon has the core built in it's what's on a Nucleus. I assembled mine with an i5 in a small fanless case and attach an external drive with my ripped CDs. |