Streamer/server that works as a Roon core

@bill_k this has a fan but very quiet, not an issue.  Just install Roon, maybe a USB driver if vendor provided for DAC  (that is the case with my Topping DAC) and good to go.   Windows based but lots of headroom, can be used for general purpose computing alongside Roon as needed.  Best to opt out on as many Windows setup options as you can in order to preserve compute power for what matters.   Initial Windows set up may take an hour or so depending but went smoothly for me.  I was up and running with Roon is less than 2 hours.   47000 tracks in my library including local storage (external USB drive) and Qobuz.   Lightning fast, very reliable, sounds great.  Nothing left on teh table with Roon here IMHO.   Cheers!

@mapman - Thanks for the tips! Actually I was thinking of installing Roon ROCK instead of Windows, here's a brief overview for those not familiar with it.

ROCK (Roon Optimized Core Kit) is a stripped-down, purpose-built OS created by Roon that turns your Intel NUC into a single-purpose Roon appliance.

• Installs directly on the NUC (wipes the drive)
• Runs “headless” (no monitor/keyboard after setup)
• No extra apps, no Windows overhead
• Best when: dedicated Roon server

@bill_k yes that is an option to consider but for most folks running on this hardware with Windows does the trick, is very user friendly,  plus you can use it for other things as well as needed.  
 

Windows always involves  a lot of processing overhead out of the can but in this case it’s a non issue in regards to cost effectiveness and running Roon optimally.  

Note I do run other home audio related apps on the PC as well including dbpoweramp for ripping CDs (cd drive connects easily when needed) and manual tagging, Picard for auto tagging, and Audacity for digital mastering.  All Windows based programs I’ve used for years. File backups are also easy to set to help avoid data loss.  There are others I could use as well. Windows or IOS tend to be the most familiar OSs for most home users.  Roon is the main reason I upgraded to the NUC but there is more to do than just that.  I have no interest personally  in a Roon proprietary device or OS at this point.  

 

So did the op decide on a server /streamer or narrowed down the choices?