Intermittent distortion on Roon when playing Qobuz tracks requiring reboot of MacMini to fix

Roon Software Discussion Qobuz
1

So first, my setup:

MAIN SYSTEM:

Roon running on M2 MacMini Pro w/16 g memory (Roon Core), which also runs Qobuz (my streaming service) connected to…

Eversolo DAC Z10 via USB

SECONDARY SYSTEM:

I also have a system in a downstairs den using the same Roon Core via ethernet…This system is a Bluesound Node n103 connected to internal DAC on Advance Paris A12 Apex vis USB.

Now, for the problem…Occasionally, I notice significant distortion, primarily in the midrange. This occurs in both the main and secondary systems…Never one or the other…If it’s happening, it’s audible on both systems. The only way to remedy this is to reboot the MacMini. This only happens when I’m running Qobuz via Roon.

THOUGHTS?

Jim

2

It may be a clock timing issue. Change songs on the album. Does this distortion continue? It typically would with this issue. Okay, now change albums. Do you still hear it? Okay, now change back to the original album. If there is no distortion, it’s generally a clock issue.

3

Another thing to consider (as it has bitten me) is running Room EQ curves that seem to boost too much. If you are running no EQ’s then disregard this :slight_smile:

4

Even without using EQ I’ve had clipping occur in a few cases. Adjusting Headroom Management in Muse solved this (I set it to -3db; more may be needed if boosting EQ as you mentioned).

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