In the beginning of Roon software‘s epic journey, Roon curated the files in your own library so that you could re-discover music you already owned.
People would ask, why do I need the software to help me find music in my own library? They only asked that question before they used Roon. 
Roon is by far the best front end for any music system. I cannot live without it.
I am super excited for Roon 1.8.
Roon allows other software such as HQplayer to be the engine for Roon. However, I understand that Roon unpacks the file and streams it to HQplayer.
This is done whether Roon core is on the same server as HQplayer, Or if Roon core is on a different computer and HQplayer is on your server.
I would like to have the option, if the file is on my local network, I would like Roon to present the file to HQplayer to play. The same if the music is streamed, Roon could present the URL to the server.
Ultimately, I would like to be able to choose the engine I use to play the file or URL (directly) and Roon just curates (hand over) the location to the player/engine I choose.
It should be simple to do.
This is my music in my local library or streamed from the streaming provider I pay for. All of the legal provisions would still be in place and would have to be upheld by each link in the chain.
I know that this would be a different business model then we currently have with Roon.
I would happily pay the same price I pay now to have the service for Roon just to be the front end and me to be able to choose my engine/player.
This different business model could even increase Roon’s market place share. Everyone would use it no matter which system they use.
Roon 1.8 Interface speaks of having a museum like format, where it presents your music options on a more neutral pallet. This seems to be right in line with that spirit🙂
Thank you for the wonderful software. It truly in riches my musical pleasure.
Drjimwillie