Streamer/server that works as a Roon core

The Grimm MU2 is a Roon core, streamer, DAC and pre. It’s excellent. I usually advocate separates but this is an exception. When adding up the cost of all the separates and cabels it’s “reasonable” in price. Such a bargain. Come on down. Get yours today. Free parking. 

Some of this depends on the sonic signature you are looking for as well as the strength of your desire to reduce the number of boxes in your system.  Below is a comparison between the MA3i and the Innuos STREAM3 with the internal PhoenixDAC board. Of course, the STREAM3 is also a server and can run Roon core, which eliminates one more box.  However, I usually rank sonic preference slightly above convenience, but not always.

Comparison

• If you prioritize a slightly smoother, more organic, "analog-like" flow, the Meitner MA3i is generally considered the stronger contender.
• If you prefer a highly energetic, punchy, and "live-in-room" presentation with superb resolution, the Innuos Stream3/Phoenix DAC is often preferred.
• The MA3i is praised for its "magic" ability to be detailed yet incredibly smooth.
• The Innuos setup (Stream3+Phoenix DAC) is recognized as a formidable one-box (or rather, "one-chassis") solution that rivals much more expensive separate components. 

Both devices are premium, but they suit different sonic preferences regarding warmth versus energy.

Beauty of Meitner’s in-built streaming card, besides the great sound, is its compatibility with Tidal Connect, Qobuz Connect, Jplay and Mconnect. It gives you options outside of Roon. It would be cool if it had airplay but you can’t have everything I guess. 

5+ years on my Roon Nucleus, highly recommend. Works great over HDMI and network out with several dacs over the years. Simple purpose built device with a library I can easily manage over the network from any computer. 

I had been using a Small Green Computer i5 Gen 3 server as my Roon Core with my MA3i as streamer and DAC.  The sound was absolutely wonderful.  But I recently replaced the i5 with a Baetis Audio Prodigy X3 which now serves as my Roon Core and streamer, using its USB output (which is the upgraded SOtM module) to the MA3i.  Wow!  Smooth as butter with improved resolution, bass extension, dynamics and image focus. In addition to the improved sound quality the personalized service from Baetis is second to none. My unit was purchased used and was treated like a customer who purchased it new from Baetis. Joe Makkerh spent about 5 hours setting everything up for me remotely.  This level of customer service is unparalleled. I recently added the upgraded HD Plex power supply but have not been able to listen to my system because my amp is down and being repaired. I can't wait to hear the difference that makes with the Analysis Plus power cable.