I think HQplayer doesn’t even take advantage of the M Apple GPU
Yes, the GPU is not supported, because in it’s current form it is not suitable for the task. Or in general tasks like scientific computing. Maybe in future it will and then it could be supported.
Computing needs of AI are pretty much opposite of HQPlayer. HQPlayer requires support for high precision arithmetic. While AI operates primarily on reduced precision arithmetic, like 8-bit integers and half-precision 16-bit floating point math.
Thanks for the detailed answer! 
I think the stronger performance/efficiency cores should provide more reserves, if I understand correctly?! They are about 15% stronger than the M4, which should be enough for smooth playback with heavier filters and more serious noise shaping.
Another question:
Which is the best NAA for DSD1024? The Holo Red is a very good unit, but what else is also recommended, but not too expensive?
Thx.. 
Probably any SBC that is supported by NAA OS, with images on Jussi’s repository, paired with a good USB isolator like Intona.
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Thx, I have a Holo Audio Cyan 2 Dac, its usb input is completely galvanically isolated. 
Is an isolator necessary? Which one supports DSD1024?
This USB 3.0 SuperSpeed Isolator
Model 7055-C
417,83 € incl. VAT (not cheap)
This insulator is not cheap, wouldn’t it be easier to buy the Holo RED?
I read somewhere that the RPI5 is a better choice than the RPI4 because it has better LAN and USB handling and stability.
Wait for Jussi to jump in, you will get a more accurate answer. He did mention that 7054 model is cheaper and delivers basically same result. And yes, Holo Audio DACs carry very good designed USB audio interfaces, optically isolated, and adding an separate isolator doesn’t improve much or at all.
There are various Intel based small devices. And the basic RPi4. I use for example UP Gateway. But it is not in production anymore. Now it predecessor is UP 4000 which should work fine too (I have one of those, but I have not tested it as a NAA recently)
In my case UP Gateway is driving Holo Spring 3, Gustard A26 and Musical Fidelity M3x DAC. Holo Red is driving TEAC UD-701N.
Thx!
@jussi_laako
For now I’ll look at the RPI 4 / 5 line. Thanks for the quick reply!
I3-8100T Mini PC in server room (Roon Server) -
Apple Mac Mini M4 Base model (HQPlayer 5 + DAC Correction) it’s Super silent!
RPI4 HQPlayer NAA
Holo Audio Cyan2
So far it works perfectly! The RPI4 will be moving to a new all-aluminum case. (Akasa Gem Pro) A-RA09-M2S)
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If you start with a flac file that has a higher sample rate (96, 192, etc.) will it still work? My M4 Studio will pause randomly with those files.
Interesting. Mine definitely has intermittent pauses when starting with hi res files. Maybe it’s because I have DAC Correction turned on with my DAC 200.
It is also important to remember enable High Power Mode:
Otherwise it will thermal throttle before reaching maximum performance.
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I don’t think the M4 Mac Studio has the option to do that.
I also have DAC correction turned on.
Maybe some service is running in the background? Mine is a brand new machine, with a brand new system. There is almost nothing installed, just HQPlayer and TG Pro. I bought this machine specifically to run HQPlayer. This is my dedicated PCM/DSD upscaler.
Apple “M-Scaler”. 
This is my 16-port Gigabit switch:
Continuous, stable operation! (24/7) All wired network devices are connected here. 
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