mac mini is definitely not the best streamer.
if Roon is in the picture here I would keep it simple and run the roon core on mac mini and get a dedicated streamer that’s a roon endpoint. Not a fan of a server/streamer combo and at this price point there’s most likely no solution without a compromise with a one box unit. For Roon endpoint you can try Lumin U2 or Aurender N200 for example.
Also don’t forget the USB cable makes a pretty significant difference. Good Ethernet cables can also improve sound.
Options to improve digital sound
Hi,
I am looking for some, hopefully, simple advice. My current digital system is an M4 MacMini feeding a Holo May DAC into a PrimaLuna 400 preamp and amp. My speakers are Devore Gibbon X. I primarily listen to downloaded and ripped files with Roon and Audirvana. I also use Qobuz, but not as often.
The sound quality is good, but I feel like it could be improved. The options I'm considering are a Small Green Computer SonicTransporter i7 to replace the Mini, or a SGC UltraRendu to put between the Mini and the Holo May.
Which option would be better? Is there a better option? I'd like to keep the cost under around $2500.
Thanks
- ...
- 55 posts total
I agree with the consensus. Keep the Mac Mini, it's a very handy thing to have in the system, but get a streamer or renderer. I'd recommend one with an I2S output for the Holo. Any quality renderer will have options for running Roon or Audirvana. In fact Audirvana now makes an embedded Linux version that operates directly from the streamer and can be controlled from a portable device with their remote app. If you like Audirvana, look for a device that encorporates this. You can check their web page for cooperating manufacturers. The Holo Red is a very affordable streamer that would be a great match for the May. |
1) If anyone knew how to make no veil sound d player, he won’t be quiet about it and we’ll be hearing his music. What stops him come out in this time and age? 2) I’ve been exhibiting my system in audio shows last >10 years. I went all other rooms to check out sounds. All they have thick veils. And all their sounds match with Youtube videos. Microphones don’t lie. YT videos are very accurate. 3) Hottest speaker now is Stenheim. In below, people voices are clean/normal w/out the veil. When the music starts, the veil masks music behind it (or bright glare if you use immersive technique). Primare, Stenheim and AntiCables Compare with no veil system. Chantal - Besame mucho 4) Please post the link if anyone finds no veil sound system. Alex/Wavetouch audio
|
Definitely a good streamer is the answer. @mihorn are you OK? |
- 55 posts total