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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 yage

yage
400 posts
 

AirPlay 2 is limited to 24 bit / 48 kHz, so not ideal if you want bit-perfect hi-res playback.

 

I don’t think any third-party software integrates Apple Music so you’ll have to control the Mac if you’re wed to that streaming service.

 

You can enable Screen Sharing on your Mac and use an app like RealVNC to control the Mac from an iPad. The thing to remember with VNC is that you’re using a mouse cursor to interact with the remote desktop. That means you’re dragging your fingertip to move the cursor to the right spot to click a button or select a row, etc.

 

I would use USB to connect the Mac to the ML 585.5.

 

I currently have a Mac mini pulling double duty as music storage and as a streamer for a living room system. I use an Android app called BubbleUPnP to send hi-res audio from my phone to the Mac.

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