2. digital
  3. 190042-125

Should I cash in?

I have an Oppo UDP205, using it as Roon endpoint and DAC, fed by a very old Mac Mini (no idea what OS, it’s too old to use Roon 2.0 though). I never use physical media any more. 
should I sell the 205 and upgrade the Mini to a more updated version, then get a DAC to replace the Oppo’s DAC? I do currently use the balanced outputs to my pre (currently an Emotiva XMC-2), then to the Pass 250.8, then Aerial 7T’s (so you experts can guide me based on level of current equipment).

My technical knowledge on digital is almost non-existent, my eyes glaze over quickly when discussing bits and clocks and formats. I know SQ is subjective, but I would like the option of Roon on the go, and my current setup won’t allow that, and the sound quality of what I have is satisfying as is. Not looking for a leap forward in that department, but any changes would have to be at least as good. 
 

I also have a BDP103, so if I did need a transport with the new equipment to load what few discs I have, I would have that.

english210

Showing 2 responses by audphile1

audphile1's avatar
audphile1
5,443 posts
 

My recommendation would be to:

1. Leave the current mac mini as Roon Core

2. Get a good streamer that’s Roon Ready (Lumin, newest Aurender, Innuous)

3. Get a good DAC (depending on budget research DAC recommendations in the forums)

4. Eventually upgrade the preamp to a Pass XP-12, XP-22 or Audio Research if you want to try tubes

You will have a kick ass system. 

audphile1's avatar
audphile1
5,443 posts
 

If you want to maximize the ROI with your first purchase get a preamp. Or pickup an all in one unit like the Bricasti M3 with network renderer. It has excellent preamp section (I owned this DAC and used it direct and with preamp) that will hold you over until you can get a good dedicated preamp. Spending almost a grand on mac mini just to get the latest Roon version won’t upgrade your system’s sound quality. 

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