Roon Nucleus as a Streamer

big_greg - I am planning on using an SPL pre-amplifier that has an on-board DAC, which I have not heard yet, but from my understanding most built-in DACs can be greatly improved upon. Once I give it a listen I will make that call, but most likely I will be upgrading the DAC. 

The question is then, how good are the DACs in the streamer combos? 

@lwong 

So you are using the USB out of the Nucleus Plus?

I use the Nucleus + and run it with my McIntosh integrated amp, with DAC, and a Tidal subscription as the source.  It sits on a shelf underneath my amp and makes absolutely zero noise (I mention that as I wasn’t clear on the comments upthread about placement and noise..?).  Yes, I could run Roon off a laptop, but I love the clean look and pairing it with my iPad using the Roon app.  Very simple setup - integrated amp, Nucleus +, and speakers.  My music never sounded better.  

@navyachts

As per your last post, you can start off with Node 2 and use existing DAC in SPL. Many online vendors offers Node 2 ($550) with 30 days return policy. The Node 2 also comes with an internal DAC so you will have an flexibility to compare the two DAC’s. You would need a SPDIF cable to use DAC inside SPL. DH Labs sells an inexpensive high quality SPDIF cable.

If you find sound quality of DAC’s on hand undesirable then you can look into adding a dedicated external DAC’s within your price range. Many folks here use an external DAC with Node 2. The Node 2 is a good entry level streamer with a very nice app. The app allows access to most streaming services than any other streamer I am aware of.

If you want DAC/Streamer in one box, look into offerings from Lumin and Aurender.

Good luck!

I run the usb from the roon to my external hard drive only. The directstream dac uses the ethernet to connect the roon