If you had to pick a laptop or mini-PC, which one?

If a windows laptop does everything you want now I would look at a new laptop. No need to spend a lot if all you do is use it for streaming. You could even get a refurbished Dell desktops on Amazon around $250 including Windows 10.

@djones51 - Yep. That makes sense.  If I can't get it to behave with Win8 that's what I'm going to do.  Bummer that laptops don't have SPDIF or Toslink outs.... :-) 

@fuzztone - I'm not sure a streamer will "blow away" any computer sound.  Where's the evidence of that? I didn't notice any difference with the Node 2i.  

A lot of these new laptops don't have a USB port. What the !?!?

I use a NUC. It's convenient but you really need some offboard hardware to handle the Digital side. I use an MF DAC and am ok with the sound. I use my Oppo to play the movies through which also sounds good. Streamers are great but I like the NUCs versatility and am still not convinced that Its time to jump in on one.

I also have a Intel Nuc.

2 ssd hard drives it runs Plex for just my music right now but also does movies.

Connected to my pre by Hdmi. I was recently told about a linear power supply I can get for it that would further improve sound quality, I am considering it but I think it sounds pretty good right now.

I also have an Oppo I can play music from the Nuc with using DLNA. I have the option of playing from my pre off the Nuc using DLNA as well but being able to use Plex, browse and play music on a 75" tv is tough to beat.