Roon Server Hardware Requirements
Roon runs on most recent Windows, macOS and Linux PCs. Roon's own recommended hardware is an Intel Core i3 (Ivy Bridge or later), 4GB RAM, and an SSD boot drive. Performance depends on the size of the music library and the number of concurrent zones. A larger library and more zones need more processing power and memory.
For a quiet, low-power Roon Core, a mini PC is a practical choice. It has no fans in some designs and draws little power, so it suits a listening room. Roon supports Intel x86_64 systems for both Core and Output functions. ARM systems support Output functions only, so an ARM device such as a thin client can serve as a Roon Bridge endpoint, not as the Core.
Thinvent Mini PCs for a Roon Server
Thinvent mini PCs with Intel Core i3 or Core i5 processors meet the Roon hardware baseline. The Thinvent Aero Mini PC with Intel Core i3-1215U (6 cores, up to 4.4 GHz, 10 MB cache) and 8GB DDR4 RAM has a compact Roon Core for a library of moderate size. The Thinvent Aero Mini PC with Intel Core 5 120U (10 cores, up to 5.0 GHz, 12 MB cache) and 16GB DDR4 RAM has more processing headroom for large libraries and multiple zones. Both are supplied with 256GB or 512GB SSD storage and a 12V adapter. Both are available with Windows 11 Pro.
The Thinvent Treo Mini PC with Intel N5095A (4 cores, up to 2.9 GHz, 4 MB cache) and 4GB RAM is a low-power option. Its listed specification is at the minimum for a Roon Core, so it suits small libraries and single-zone use. The Thinvent Treo Mini PC with AMD Ryzen 5 7430U (6 cores, up to 4.3 GHz, 16 MB cache) and 16GB RAM suits larger libraries.
Choosing a Configuration
For a Roon Core, choose at least an Intel Core i3 with 8GB RAM and an SSD. For a large library, multiple zones, or DSP processing, choose an Intel Core i5 or a Ryzen 5 with 16GB RAM. Use an Ethernet connection for the most stable streaming. Several Thinvent models have no WiFi, so confirm the network setup before you buy.
Thinvent Range Notes
The Thinvent range does not include Intel Core Ultra or Intel Core i9 processors. For a Roon Core, select the Core i3, Core i5, Core i7 or Ryzen 5 models listed on this page.
