I’ve done A/B comparisons between Roon and using the Lumin app that works with my Lumin Streamer / DAC. I’ve used 2 different cores, both laptops that when being used as the core we’re running no other programs, they were hardwired to the modem. I’ve had both cable internet and now fiber optics, highest speed / bandwidth tiers available.
As another member mentioned in this thread, I wouldn’t say the sound is degraded when using Roon but it doesn’t sound as open, full bodied. The highs are a little harsher and the mid / lows a little less defined. Not a huge difference but enough of a difference that I use the Lumin app which I’m not a big fan off. Roons interface, ability to play albums in order, create personal playlist / stations based on your musical tastes is way better. Along with the DSP functionality which is awesome.
Unsure why there is sound quality difference, guessing both the Lumin app and Roon are providing the same bit quality. I’ve been on the Roon forum and a Lumin representative is active and adamant both provide the same level of bit quality.
Maybe if I went all in and had a dedicated standalone core but I can’t logical understand how that would provide any better performance than a adequate laptop running nothing else but Roon, no way Roons requirements should overload the laptops capabilities with no other programs running that I can see. If sound quality is better with just the Lumin App and nothing else in between the streamer / DAC seems like putting a core in the middle of that and having it potentially lowe the quality / performance is silly.
I’m not knocking Roon at all, I think it’s a great product. Those however that are stating anyone who hears a difference in SQ when comparing Roon to other available streaming options are wrong, my ears say different. Could it be my set up absolutely it could but on paper my set up is more than enough to provide optimal performance for Roon to sound its best.