MacBook Pro Late 2013
2.6 GHz Quad core Intel Core i7
16 GB 1600 MHz DDR3
Big Sur V 11.7.6
Networking Gear & Setup Details
Asus RT-AC1200
WiFi
No VPN
Connected Audio Devices
WiFi Mytek Brooklyn Bridge +
WiFi Naim MuSo
WiFi iPad Pro 12” 2
WiFi iPad Air 4
WiFi iPhone 7
Number of Tracks in Library
61147 Tracks
Description of Issue
Roon core will exceed 100% CPU usage at times. Otherwise it runs at 8-23%. When running over 100% the end device will loose communication to the core pausing streaming. This occurs frequently. I have set backups to occur at night when Roon is not in use.
@Stephen_Ford, welcome to the Community. Does the 100% CPU utilization occur randomly or when streaming to 1, 2, or a specific number of endpoints, or a specific endpoint? That version of MacBook Pro (I had one also) and your router are limited to a WiFi 5 (or AC) connection, and it may be running out of bandwidth if you have other WiFi devices being used, such as TV streaming, other computers, cameras, etc.). This may cause the MBPro to retransmit which could result in more CPU cycles needed.
The problem happens randomly. I do all my listening late in the evening 10pm - 1am. There is nothing else going on. No other streaming. And it is the only Roon endpoint operating.
I have automatic updates and backups scheduled after 2 am.
What would be the best router for streaming through network?
Before you look at a new router, I recommend trying to isolate the WiFi as a potential issue. Is it possible to connect your MBP Core via an Ethernet cable to your router and see if that prevents your CPU utilization from spiking?
100% CPU utilization just means effectively that 100% of 1 core of the CPU is being used. The CPU in that MacBook Pro had 2 cores so you could be using all of 1 core or 50% of both cores…