@yyzsantabarbara I agree with you. Long ago I compared an overbuilt mini PC to my since sold, Innuos Zenith Mk3 with PhoenixUSB. The comparison involved running Roon core. The overbuilt fanless miniPC (since then, an Intel NUC running ROCK) beat the Zenith Mk3 hands down for stability, no crashes of Roon Remote, DSP and SQ. The differences were not subtle. Sold my InnuOS gear and saves thousands. My fanless (Intel NUC) MiniPC cost me around $1000 to build from parts from Amazon. Never looked back. I do have a high quality ethernet cable running from the NUC to an audiophile ethernet switch, as I did with my InnuOS gear, butIMO from my experience, and YMMV, these Roon Core server vendors are the emperor without clothes.
Should I add a DDC? Looking for experienced advise please.
So I will make this as basic as possible. I am just trying to decide if adding a DDC is relevant in my system.
I am currently running. Innuos ZEN mini MKiii with Innuos power supply, Denafrips Pontus II into an Aric Audio 6snl7 line stage that's been upgraded by Aric. For power I am bi-amping with a Aric Audio super KT88 120 SE on the upper end. A pair of Pass labs ACA's built with all upgraded components and some mods on the low end. Into Monitor audio silver 500's. All cabling DIYed with hi quality ingredients and the guidance of Mr. Wonka!
I understand my speakers are probably not the best choice but this is where I am at the at this point. Actually I am quite happy with the sound. I stream Tidal and Qobuz as well as my CD collection via hard drive.
So am I just "pissing in the wind" thinking adding a Denafrips Hermes between the ZEN mini and Pontus II is going to give me any improvement at all?
Would love to hear some input from experience!
Thank you.
J.F.