Are you looking to enhance your music listening experience with Roon Core? Well, in this article, we are going to unveil a comprehensive list of compatible devices that can seamlessly connect to Roon Core. Whether you prefer using your smartphone, laptop, or a dedicated music server, we have got you covered. Dive in and discover the wide range of options available to elevate your music streaming to new heights.
Computers
Windows PC
A Windows PC is one of the most popular options for running a Roon Core. With the wide availability of Windows-based systems, you have a plethora of choices when it comes to selecting the right hardware for your needs. Whether it’s a powerful gaming computer or a compact laptop, Windows PCs offer the flexibility to customize your setup to your liking. Additionally, Roon software is fully compatible with the Windows operating system, ensuring a seamless and reliable experience.
Mac
Mac users can also take advantage of Roon’s powerful features by running the Roon Core on their Apple computers. Whether you opt for a MacBook, iMac, or Mac Pro, you can enjoy the intuitive interface and extensive music library management capabilities that Roon has to offer. Macs are often praised for their sleek design and user-friendly interface, making them a popular choice among music enthusiasts.
Linux
For those who prefer a more specialized and open-source operating system, Linux provides an excellent option for hosting a Roon Core. With its stability and efficiency, Linux-based systems can be a compelling choice for those seeking a dedicated music server. Although Linux requires a bit more technical expertise to set up and configure, it offers enhanced customization and performance options, making it an ideal choice for advanced users.
Mobile Devices
iOS
Roon is also available on iOS devices, including iPhones and iPads. By installing the Roon Remote app from the App Store, you can easily control your Roon Core and access your music library from the convenience of your mobile device. The iOS app provides a seamless and intuitive user experience, allowing you to browse and play your favorite tracks, manage playlists, and adjust settings on the go.
Android
Android users need not feel left out, as Roon also caters to their needs. With the Roon Remote app available on the Google Play Store, you can transform your Android smartphone or tablet into a powerful remote control for your Roon Core. The Android app offers similar functionality to its iOS counterpart, ensuring that all users, regardless of their preferred mobile platform, can enjoy Roon’s extensive features and seamless integration.
Network Attached Storage (NAS)
QNAP
For those looking to centralize their music library and keep it accessible to multiple devices, a Network Attached Storage (NAS) is an excellent option. QNAP is a highly regarded brand in the NAS market, offering a range of devices with varying storage capacities and capabilities. By installing Roon Server on a QNAP NAS, you can transform it into a dedicated Roon Core, eliminating the need for a separate computer. QNAP NAS devices provide ample storage space and robust performance, ensuring a smooth and uninterrupted music streaming experience.
Synology
Synology is another popular choice when it comes to NAS solutions. With their user-friendly DiskStation Manager (DSM) operating system, Synology NAS devices provide a seamless and intuitive environment for hosting a Roon Core. By installing Roon Server on a Synology NAS, you can access your music library from anywhere within your network and enjoy high-quality audio streaming throughout your home. Synology’s range of NAS devices offers excellent scalability and reliability, making them a favored option among Roon users.
NETGEAR
NETGEAR offers NAS devices that are also compatible with Roon Core, providing an alternative for users seeking a reliable storage solution. With NETGEAR’s ReadyNAS lineup, you can easily set up a dedicated Roon Core and access your music library from any Roon Remote device. NETGEAR NAS devices are known for their robust performance and extensive storage capacities, making them suitable for music enthusiasts with large collections.
ROCK (Roon Optimized Core Kit)
Intel NUC
The Intel NUC (Next Unit of Computing) series is a popular choice for those looking to build a Roon Core. These small form factor computers offer a perfect balance of power and compactness, making them ideal for dedicated music servers. Intel NUCs come with various processor options, allowing you to choose the level of performance that suits your needs. Combine an Intel NUC with the ROCK operating system, and you have a reliable and efficient Roon Core solution.
ROCK ready motherboards
Alternatively, if you prefer a more hands-on approach and want to build your own Roon Core from scratch, you can opt for a ROCK ready motherboard. These motherboards are specifically designed to work seamlessly with the ROCK operating system, providing an optimized and stable platform for your Roon Core. By selecting a ROCK ready motherboard and pairing it with compatible components, you can create a bespoke Roon Core that meets your exact requirements.
Audio Devices
External USB DAC
To enhance your audio playback experience with Roon, you may consider using an external USB DAC (Digital-to-Analog Converter). An external DAC allows for better sound quality by converting digital audio signals into analog signals that can be processed by your amplifier or speakers. Roon is compatible with a wide range of USB DACs available on the market, allowing you to enjoy high-quality audio reproduction and precise sound reproduction.
Integrated DAC
If you prefer a more compact setup or have an audio device with a built-in DAC, Roon can still seamlessly integrate into your system. Many modern audio devices, such as stereo receivers, A/V processors, and network players, come equipped with integrated DACs that are Roon compatible. This integration allows you to have a streamlined audio setup without the need for extra hardware, while still benefiting from Roon’s powerful music management capabilities.
Network Players
Roon offers extensive support for network players, allowing you to stream high-quality audio throughout your home. Network players, also known as network media renderers or network audio players, are devices that connect to your network and can receive audio streams from a Roon Core. These can include dedicated Roon Ready devices or even certain amplifiers with built-in streaming capabilities. With network players, you can enjoy synchronized audio playback across multiple rooms, creating a cohesive listening experience.
Home Theater Systems
ROON Nucleus
For those seeking a ready-to-use and highly optimized solution, the ROON Nucleus provides an all-in-one Roon Core device designed specifically for audio enthusiasts. The Nucleus is a powerful hardware unit that eliminates the need for a separate computer or NAS to run your Roon Core. It offers a plug-and-play experience, allowing you to quickly set up your Roon system without any technical hassle. The Nucleus is an excellent choice for those who value convenience and simplicity, providing a dedicated and reliable platform for your music library.
Roon Ready AV Receivers
To elevate your home theater experience, Roon also offers compatibility with Roon Ready AV receivers. These receivers integrate Roon’s advanced music management capabilities seamlessly into your home theater setup. By connecting a Roon Ready AV receiver to your Roon Core, you can enjoy high-quality audio playback and immersive surround sound, all controlled through the Roon app. Roon Ready AV receivers provide a convenient solution for seamlessly integrating Roon into your home theater environment.
Streaming Devices
Chromecast
Chromecast is a popular streaming device that allows you to cast audio and video content from your mobile device or computer to your TV or speakers. With Roon’s support for Chromecast, you can easily stream your music library to any Chromecast-enabled device in your home. By simply selecting the desired device from the Roon app, you can enjoy your favorite tracks in high fidelity, filling your space with captivating sound.
Apple AirPlay
If you’re an Apple user, Apple AirPlay can be a convenient way to stream audio from your Roon Core to compatible devices. AirPlay enables wireless streaming from your iOS or macOS device to AirPlay-enabled speakers, Apple TV, or other AirPlay receivers. With Roon’s integration with AirPlay, you can effortlessly enjoy your music library on your preferred Apple devices, without the need for additional hardware.
Roon tested devices
Roon continually tests and certifies various streaming devices to ensure compatibility with its platform. These Roon tested devices encompass a wide range of options, including network players, wireless speakers, and audio receivers. By choosing a Roon tested device, you can have peace of mind that it will seamlessly integrate into your Roon ecosystem, providing a superior and reliable music streaming experience.
Virtual Machines
VMware
For users who prefer virtualization technologies, VMware offers a reliable platform for running your Roon Core as a virtual machine (VM). By installing the necessary software and configuring your VM, you can create a dedicated environment for your Roon server. VMware’s robust and feature-rich virtualization software allows for efficient resource allocation and management, ensuring optimal performance for your Roon Core.
VirtualBox
VirtualBox is another popular choice for running Roon Core within a virtual environment. This free and open-source virtualization software enables you to create and manage multiple virtual machines on a single host computer. By using VirtualBox, you can set up a separate virtual machine for your Roon Core, providing a convenient and scalable solution for hosting your music library.
ROON Remote Devices
Tablets
Tablets provide a convenient and portable way to control your Roon Core and enjoy your music library from anywhere in your home. Whether it’s an iPad, Android tablet, or Windows tablet, Roon is compatible with a wide range of devices. Simply install the Roon Remote app on your tablet and connect it to your Roon Core to access your entire music collection at your fingertips. Tablets offer a large and intuitive interface, making browsing and managing your music library a pleasure.
Smartphones
In addition to tablets, smartphones can also serve as powerful remote devices for your Roon Core. By installing the Roon Remote app on your iPhone, Android phone, or Windows phone, you can control your Roon Core and browse your music library while on the go. Smartphones offer the convenience of always being with you, allowing you to enjoy your favorite tracks and manage your playlists wherever you are.
Multi-Room Audio Systems
Sonos
Sonos is a popular choice for multi-room audio setups, providing simple and seamless integration with Roon. By incorporating Sonos speakers into your Roon ecosystem, you can enjoy synchronized audio playback across multiple rooms, creating an immersive and cohesive listening experience. With Roon’s support for Sonos, you can control your Sonos speakers directly from the Roon app, effortlessly managing your music playback throughout your home.
Bluesound
Bluesound is another reputable brand that specializes in high-quality multi-room audio systems. With Roon’s compatibility with Bluesound, you can effortlessly incorporate Bluesound speakers into your Roon setup, enabling synchronized audio playback throughout your home. Bluesound speakers are known for their exceptional sound quality and robust connectivity options, making them an excellent choice for audiophiles.
HEOS
HEOS, developed by Denon, is a versatile wireless audio ecosystem that seamlessly integrates with Roon. With HEOS-enabled devices, you can create a multi-room audio setup and enjoy synchronized playback from your Roon Core. HEOS speakers offer excellent sound quality and intuitive controls, allowing you to easily manage and control your music playback experience.
In conclusion, Roon offers a wide range of compatible devices for its Core software, ensuring that you can enjoy your music in the way that suits you best. Whether you prefer a dedicated computer, a mobile device, a NAS, or specialized audio equipment, Roon’s extensive compatibility ensures a seamless and immersive music streaming experience throughout your home. With its user-friendly interface and powerful features, Roon provides music enthusiasts with the ultimate solution for managing and enjoying their music collections. The choice is yours – explore the possibilities and create your perfect Roon setup.
