I merged the threads. Going to answer it all here.
Is the above a logical signal path? I’m switching over from the analog world, and after so much reading I both feel like I understand this new digital world, and that I don’t get it (yet).
Yes
Which multichannel DAC do you recommend? Various pricepoints… under $5k, under $10k. I’ve browsed the Roon Ready Network Devices list… not many multichannel ones in there I’ve seen so far.
Under $10k, exaSound. $10k+ NADAC+PLAYER or Trinnov Altitude32.
I have spent more time with exaSound and NADAC+PLAYER than Trinnov. I think Trinnov is overkill for your application anyways. I would be happy with either in this application. They are both based on flagship ESS DACs, and sound quite similar.
A unit like the MERGING+PLAYER lacks the CPU horsepower to handle the DSP filters, correct? Hence the need for the NUC as a separate device.
Generally, it’s DSD sampling rates (or upsampling from PCM to DSD) that pushes the CPU requirements up. Running acourate filters on TIDAL content, or even high-res PCM content, in a 4ch digital XO arrangement like you describe is easily in reach of the i3 NUC in the NADAC+PLAYER.
There are no capabilities lost by using the NADAC+PLAYER first as-is, then considering an upgraded core later if DSP requirements become too heavy. Everything will work the same way. Make a backup on the NADAC+PLAYER, restore it on the new core, and proceed from there.
How does the NUC “feed” the network? The MERGING+PLAYER uses Ravenna.
The MERGING+PLAYER supports RAAT directly, and the Roon Core running on any platform speaks RAAT natively, so no issues there.
Can Roon on a ROCK stream to the MERGING+PLAYER?
Yes, via RAAT, same way that the built-in NUC in the MERGING+PLAYER does.
Would the PC that runs Roon need some kind of Ravenna PCI card?
Nope. If you run Roon on a PC (Windows) or Mac, you just need Merging’s driver to feed a NADAC or NADAC+PLAYER.
Any other changes or recommendations?
No–but your setup is a lot like what I want to do in my living room if I ever find the time. I want to build a pair of 3-way speakers (probably using a published design–I am no speaker designer, but my cabinetmaking is solid) and then do the crossovers myself.
I am almost decided on driving them with Hypex modules. I’m replacing Meridian DSP7200s…which are incredible sounding but obsolete so I’d better do a good job. I’m not going to match their performance without digital crossovers + time domain correction, so I’m stuck doing this crazy stuff.
What Hypex stuff are you using? What are your speakers?