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Roon for high end audio?

I have been listening almost exclusively to CDs but want to start to get into music streaming.  Sound quality is very high on my list, and I am interested in streaming for 2 reasons; broad selection and hopefully better sound.  I am using a dbx Venue 360 with a Jeff Roland Concerto Preamp and Roland Power amp.  I have a Savant system that allows music playback in multiple rooms, controls video etc.  My Savant integrator suggested Roon. Since I am not currently into streaming, I can’t figure out if Roon is the right thing to do.  It seems like a great music server service with the ability to manage very high quality digital files, but the downstream handling of the files and conversion to analog (DAC) seems lacking.  It seems most people are using it for playback in less than audiophile situations, and compatible equipment is very limited.  Quality wise, am I better off with something like Bluenote and a high quality DAC like say, Denafrips?
kingofgix
erik_squires
17,557 posts
 
I think the Roon ecosystem is a lot bigger than you think it is.

It sounds like you have only seen the itty bitty appliances that are out there.  Lots of high end DAC manufacturers offer streamer/DACs with Roon compatability, including dcs, Bricasti, Mytek, Auralic, Aurender...

Here's a fairly complete list:


https://roonlabs.com/partners

tablejockey
4,405 posts
 
If you're gonna get with the times streaming incorporating Roon, is the best thing since sliced bread. 

If I wasn't into just listening to LP's/FM, I would be all in. I'll keep my internet connection for everything else but listening to music.
chorus
976 posts
 
My interest was piqued when I read the Troy Evo comments.
As I looked at the product line I saw only the top product does
not employ wall warts. At $14kUS it should be good. The bottom product is close to $4k and comes with warts. Seems a bit farcical for the EVO folks to trumpet their amazing triple toroidal power supply unit at $14k, then sub in the warts on everything under that. I did love the opening page photo though.
chorus
976 posts
 
G-rIng,

I have had an Innuos Zen 3 since Jan 2021 and oddly have had no
email notice about their new software. I bought new from a dealer.

Doubly odd since the two email questions I have sent them were all answered nearly the same day. Emmanuel was the guy I recall.
I will inquire about the particulars at RMAF.

I have Roon but if it is holding me back I can gladly lose it.

FYI the Innuos Zen 3 I have is making me quite happy. I did add the
Uptone Audio Etheregen and that was nice +.


rsf507
2,577 posts
 
One dealer touting the EVO and surprise surprise he's the US Importer. Sounded more like an ad than anything. 
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