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Mac Mini As A Streaming Source

I have been looking to add a digital streaming source to my sound system and so am VERY new to this process.  But, from what I see the variety is mind boggling and there is no complete device out there that would do CD/SACD playback, plus all available music streaming apps, plus Roon.

I use apple music for high res/lossless streaming on my phone, especially their new classical service as that is my primary listening, so compatibility with this app is mandatory.  This, however, seems to eliminate every single digital streamer out there.  But, am I missing something?

So, what are the thoughts on using a mac mini for a dedicated source, linked to a DAC?  I can put all of the streaming apps there, and install Roon there, and put my existing CD ripped files on the hard drive. Connect to the internet over wifi.

What output cable would I use to connect to the internal DAC on my Mark Levinsion 585.5?

Could everything be operated with an Ipad running Roon, without the need for keyboards?

The only thing missing would be CD playback, but could that be accomplished using  a DVD/Blu Ray reader attached to the Mac?

Any help on this would be appreciated!

gwhphoto

Showing 1 response by audphile1

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audphile1
4,320 posts
 

I’ve used mac mini as a streamer for years. I had Roon on it and was streaming Qobuz and local files in AIFF, FLAC, ALAC. Wasn’t a fan.

Both streamers I purchased as upgrade, the Auric Aries G1 and Limin U1 Mini easily beat it on tone, finesse and musicality

I now use my mac mini as a Roon core only. Very happy with.

I would not recommend using it as a Roon core and streamer all at once. If you read up on Roon’s guidelines for core, they don’t recommend using core as a streamer.

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