Best Server To Run Roon Core


Hi Folks,

I don’t currently run ROON, but would like to begin correctly in order to give it a chance - and I understand that server (hardware) on which Roon core is installed is important for SQ (due to noise reduction and other factors).

What are the best hardware for SQ and usability where ROON core should be installed and why (be it audiophile dedicated servers or modified PCs)? Please comment on the rest of your setup for context if you could.

Thank you in advance.


Ag insider logo xs@2xjmarshak

Thanks @thyname

So as an update,

I have the nuc running Rock OS headless, in a fanless case. Roon UI is flying! Also, SQ improved. But not sure if improvement is due to the new Core setup, or because the new DAC is continuing to break-in. Regardless,I am not complaining!

Next, I would like to ad an LPS. I don’t have much hope that SQ will improve further, mainly because the core is not connected to the DAC directly (its connected through network), but figure it’s worth a try.

Apart for speed and “bandwidth”, the other benefit of your fanless NUC is a dedicated machine that runs headless 24/7 with no interruptions.

 

From my experience, since your Roon Core is not directly linked to DAC (I.e via USB cable), the LPS will not bring much to the table. That’s just my experience with a NUC first then Nucleus+. Some other people experienced an improvement. So you can definitely try for yourself.

I am using a Mac M1 mini Running Roon and HQplayer only. 

I am upsampling  everything to DSD512/ASDM7/poly-sinc-xtrr-mp-2s via HQPlayer. Runs flawlessly.

 

The rest of my system: McIntosh Mx-150/MC312 B&W Nautilus 803's

DIY solution for me. May be high end ATX build that combines server/streamer. May be high end NUC for server, combine with any number of streamer choices. Also depends on whether one is using I2S, usb or xlr on dac. May also run another music player software such as Euphony Stylus.

I now have the Fan-less NUC running on a nice linear power supply and I do like the sound better.  Basically I perceive a lower noise floor.  I did not think it was possible anymore, but I do like it better. Tried few days with Quboz and local files sitting on the core ssd drive.

Details: The NUC is connected to the network.  All of my network components run on linear power supplies (modem, router, switches).  I also use fiber for isolation and long distances runs. 

I fear that this finding unfortunately supports the 'everything matters' camp in the digital domain.  It also means that a lot more money will be spent in the future