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Dedicated Music server vs Mac mini on a Devialet via Ethernet (AIR) connection

Roon and Tidal are working fine now via AIR (EtH) in a Devialet 200. My only digital source is a Mac mini 2012/16GB RAM/ SSD - AIR (eth) direct in. My speakers: Raidho X1.

My concern is that the Mac Mini is not optimized for audio so I wonder what upgrade path to take.

Either I tweak the MM with software and new LPS. But I wonder if that's worth it as I'm not using the USB input on the DEVialet. USB is known for its electric interference. But is not Ethernet a lot cleaner?? a proper Paul Hynes SR5 would cost about €700,-?

The other route is going for a standalone server like Innuos or Sonictransporter i5. (€700-€900) Would that offer a significant improvement on SQ over Ethernet?
If so, what switch is recommended? they also tend to perform better with a better PSU!?

Or just go for a cheap NUC? (€100-200)

Requirements: able to handle Roon core.

My goal is to improve SQ on a budget, but improvement should be significant as in better transparency/separation.
What upgrade path would you choose??
128x128roestano

Showing 2 responses by dbphd

Ag insider logo xs@2x
dbphd
1,616 posts
 
shadorne,  I'm using Roon to send files from my iMac via ethernet over home wiring to an Ayre QX-5 Twenty DAC.  The SQ is excellent, especially with downloaded DSD files.  I've wondered if it might be better to store the files on my Mac Mini and connect it directly to the QX-5 via an ethernet cable.  As I understand your post, the answer is no, given the QX-5 is processing received files to analog, it that correct?

db 
Ag insider logo xs@2x
dbphd
1,616 posts
 
Thanks, shadorne.  The only difference in configuration would be ethernet through house wiring v direct cable from Mini.

db
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