Best Server To Run Roon Core


Hi Folks,

I don’t currently run ROON, but would like to begin correctly in order to give it a chance - and I understand that server (hardware) on which Roon core is installed is important for SQ (due to noise reduction and other factors).

What are the best hardware for SQ and usability where ROON core should be installed and why (be it audiophile dedicated servers or modified PCs)? Please comment on the rest of your setup for context if you could.

Thank you in advance.


Ag insider logo xs@2xjmarshak
@decathlon -- 

I have a question. I’m using the Cary Audio DMS600 Streamer/DAC with a Roon Nucleus and a Audioquest Vodka Ethernet Cable. Is there any additional devices that will improve the sound even more like an OpticalRendu, UltraRendu or an EtherREGEN? Any other option available? I am thinking about the Cary Audio DMS700.
The Cary DMSs have a nice network bridge (renderer / endpoint) built in. If you want to improve something, then upgrade to the DMS-700. There is thread in here about a few people upgrading to the 700 and being very happy.

Later on, if so inclined, you can try an EtherREGEN or some other type of Ethernet switch or filter.
Just get a roon nucleus, it’s all you need. Don’t clutter things up with an unnecessary addon streamer, unnecessary.

no one has a clue why they need a streamer and a nucleus. Nucleus is all u need. Maybe add a lps, but this depends on your power quality to home, lps for most is snake oil.
Here's what I have and it has been running great for many months with zero issues:

Roon Optimized Core Kit (Rock) running on Intel Nuc NUC8I7BEH (Intel Core i7-8559U 2.7GHz). I have 16GB of memory, 256GB SSD for the OS and a separate 1 TB SSD for Storage of the music files. I also added a second external 1TB SSD connected via USB for additional music storage.

I wanted zero noise - no fans. So I took the Intel Nuc board out of the Intel case and installed it in an Akasa Plato X8 fanless PC case. You can buy these on Amazon. This black case looks great, and more importantly it keep everything running cool despite my fairly complex Roon DSP settings or when I play DSD music for hours. When I touch the case, it's barely warm, not hot. And I leave my Roon Rock on all the time, it is never turned-off.

My music files are Flac, DSD/DSF, and some Apple lossless. 

I have used this Roon server with USB connected direct to an integrated Amplifier (Lyngdorf TDAI-2170), as well as through Ethernet to a Naim Uniti Nova. I also used it connecting to a DAC that was connected with Raspberry Pi running RoPieee connected to my Oppo DAC, which worked great also.

Hope this helps, but message me if you have any specific questions.
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I found no need for extra computing power when I first installed Roon.  I just put it here on my desktop iMac (old, 2009, 24", 4GB RAM).  It isn't the fastest in the world, but acceptable for and old retired audio nut going on two years in the basement.  I too am looking for a Core, but the sound is very good.  My first move will be to hook the iMac to the rest of my audio system with Ethernet.