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

I just bought a zen stream as well and have had a lot of challenges setting it up as well with roon.  I use a Black Ice DAC with USB and every time I turn my DAC off I have to go into the iFi app to change it from coax spdif to my DAC so I have to use the All in one setting.  Also, the volume setting also drops most of the time and I have to reset that to hardware otherwise the gain is very low and I have to turn my amp way up.  I have tried opening ticket's with iFi support and they are absolutely worthless and a waste of time.  I have heard that the iFi DACs work well with usb but other brands are glitchy.
I started a thread on low volume with the zen stream as well.  I have decided to live with my zen stream in AIO  mode reseting my DAC/volume with each use.  It does sound very good especially for its price.

@rick_hilton same here…when I go from AIO to Roon setting my DAC and volume drop off. When I switch back to AIO from Roon the DAC and volume were connected again. I have given up and will only use it in AIO mode and set the DAC and volume each time I use the Zen Stream.

@erik_squires Pi 4 sounds intriguing. Might try one that is returnable.  Can you provide more info?  The operating system sounds like an alien language.   What Pi4 memory is needed for roon?  Can you explain the loading software requirements and how to details?  Is the cooling fan noisy?  Thanks

@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

@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.”

@carlsbad HaHa certainly not here….I take all audio reviews as just another source of research no different than Audiogon input…some is good and much is bunk and you have weed through it all.  I have no doubt the Allo sounds good…my iFi does as well.