750$ Intel NUC vs $6000 Aurender N200: I don't hear the difference

Wow, melton = melt down? Man take it easy. Don't have to be harsh on someone who is reporting their own findings. I think this is a great thread for folks interested in investing in streamers.

Can someone throw some light on why a dedicated streamer like Aurender/Lumin/Auralic might be better than a fanless NUC? What introduces the so called "noise" in the NUCs compared to the dedicated streamers. The reason I ask is because the streamers and NUCS both support some type of OS; which means the essential hardware has to be in place. And please note that this is NOT an "ASR type" question. I really mean to understand the differences.

I perceive server in much the same way as itsjustme. The majority of what you're paying for in off the shelf servers is r&d. Anyone with knowledge of computers and network can diy solution, the parts pretty similar. Implementation, the r&d of things is where differences are magnified. I recently saw, can't recall where, $35k server, amazing attention to every single little detail, quite possible this server would be revelation. Still, I couldn't account for $35k cost regardless of this maximum attention to detail.

Two considerations, performance and value, maximum performance doesn't care about price. Each of us has to determine value for ourselves. Ultimately, we all want maximum performance at minimum price. Determining maximum utility from streaming setup is so difficult, so many choices!

Every single process on motherboard produces noise. Every single cable, connector, LPS, switching power supplies, piece of equipment produces noise. Less than optimal home and equipment grounding, quality of AC are another source of noise. Noise is in form of EMI/RFI, also external sources such as wifi, cell phone towers, etc. I have Trifield Meter, can assure skeptics there is much RFI coming out of streaming equipment.

In speaking with guys at Uptone they mentioned speed of processors on motherboards, point being limiting time signal on motherboard important for sq. Incredible how far into the weeds one can go with this stuff.

Do people realize that whether a computer use 10 watts or 500 watts, it still must pass the same radiated and emitted radiation standards? There is no guarantee the lower power one is less noisy either, though it is often easier to shield, but that does not mean that it is.

RF fields from unintentional emitters (computers, etc.) are fairly small, even on cables assuming you are using something that has met FCCICESIEC standards for consumer/residential. You don't have to move very far away from them until the fields are low, probably lower than a nearby radio or TV station. Those cheap meters pick up stuff, but you have to be quite close to pick it up.   And even if there, there is no guarantee it will get into the end equipment and most of you are just guessing that it does.