Mac Mini As A Streaming Source


I have been looking to add a digital streaming source to my sound system and so am VERY new to this process.  But, from what I see the variety is mind boggling and there is no complete device out there that would do CD/SACD playback, plus all available music streaming apps, plus Roon.

I use apple music for high res/lossless streaming on my phone, especially their new classical service as that is my primary listening, so compatibility with this app is mandatory.  This, however, seems to eliminate every single digital streamer out there.  But, am I missing something?

So, what are the thoughts on using a mac mini for a dedicated source, linked to a DAC?  I can put all of the streaming apps there, and install Roon there, and put my existing CD ripped files on the hard drive. Connect to the internet over wifi.

What output cable would I use to connect to the internal DAC on my Mark Levinsion 585.5?

Could everything be operated with an Ipad running Roon, without the need for keyboards?

The only thing missing would be CD playback, but could that be accomplished using  a DVD/Blu Ray reader attached to the Mac?

Any help on this would be appreciated!

gwhphoto

I use a Mac Mini as a streamer. Probably USB output would make the most sense since the Mark Levinson accepts USB input, and a new Mac Mini has no other built-in digital audio output capability except HDMI, which I don’t see listed as an input option for the Levinson.

If you get an older Mac Mini it might still have optical digital audio output through the headphone jack. In that case you could try it as well and compare it to the USB output.

 

Also, can I just use my phone (latest android running apple music and Tital) or ipad as my digital source and connect the USB C output to the USB-B input on my amp's DAC?