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what is the advantage of having a Roon core that's not on your computer?

I currently am using my iMac as my Roon core.  It feeds an Sonore urendu downstairs and an Node 2i unpstairs.  Is there a SQ advantage in getting a separate computer such as a NUC, a Roon nucleus or a Sonictransporter from small green computer?  Is it a speed issue or CPU power issue?  I do notice with very high res files (196k 24bit), my stream sometimes can't load, especially if all my web browsers are open on my computer.  Is my internet too slow or is Roon running poorly on the Mac?

thanks
adam8179

Showing 1 response by jaytor

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jaytor
746 posts
 
I switched from using my Windows PC to using a NUC running Roon Rock. When I had the NUC connected over my home network (through an EtherRegen) to a Bryston streamer, I can't say for sure that the NUC sounded any better. But it was certainly a lot easier to manage since I didn't have to content with Windows updates causing issues and the Roon Rock automatically handled backups and updates.

But one big advantage of using a dedicated Roon server in a device that can built without fans is that you can have the device located next to your equipment. If you plug a USB CD drive into the NUC running Roon Rock, it will automatically rip a CD by just inserting it and add it to your library. 

I have recently rearranged my system by replacing the Bryston with a Denafrips Gaia. This isn't a streamer, but buffers and converts different digital audio signals. I moved the Roon Rock to the output side of the EtherRegen and connected it to the Gaia with USB. The Gaia is now connected to my DAC with i2s. This change made a big improvement in sound quality.
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