Network Topology: best location for music library?

Core Machine (Operating system/System info/Roon build number)

MacOS 10.14 / MacMini 2.5Ghz i5 / Headless Roon Server Mac OS 10.0.1.8.

Network Details (Including networking gear model/manufacturer and if on WiFi/Ethernet)

I have a Comcast supplied Modem plugged into an Apple Airport Tower. I use the Airport tower for wifi and ethernet. The Mac Mini, and a switch are connected to the Airport Tower.

Audio Devices (Specify what device you’re using and its connection type - USB/HDMI/etc.)

I’m using a Raspberry Pi with a HiFiBerry Digi+ Pro and the HiFiBerry OS, connected to a Hegel H390 (pending Roon Readiness). HiFiBerry is plugged into a switch that is connected to the Airport Tower.

Description Of Issue

I have my music library on an external SSD. I’m wondering where the optimal place to connect in order to reduce lag or problems would be? Would it be into the machine hosting the core? Would it be into the Airport Tower as a networked drive - equidistant from the core and the audio player? Into the HiFiBerry closest to the endpoint?

My instinct is to plug it into the HiFiBerry but two concerns: 1) I don’t know what the OS’s networking capabilities are? I don’t know that the Mac Mini or the Roon Core would be able to find the drive to index it or call from it for UI purposes. 2) Eventually (knock on wood) the Hegel will be Roon Ready and the HiFiBerry will be removed from the network.

I’d attach it to the Mac mini running the Core.

Definitely on the Mac mini running the core.

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