The digital side of my system consists of a Pachanko Labs Constellation Mini SE server/transport feeding a dCS Lina Network DAC and Lina Master Clock via LAN cable connections to a shared network switch (the Lina then outputs to a Dan D’Agostino Progression Integrated amp and on to Von Schweikert Endeavor SE - renamed Model ONE - speakers).
The Pachanko runs Roon, and I’ve had a lifetime subscription since they first offered them. But I’d like to try Mosaic. Unfortunately, the Pachanko is not a uPnP server, which I understand is a Mosaic requirement. I’m told that the solution is to install MinimServer on the Pachanko, but Pachanko Labs has gone out of business, so I’m on my own, except for what I can learn from the Web.
I’m assuming that some here have experience with MinimServer as a means of using Mosaic. First of all, was it all worthwhile in the end, and secondly, does anyone have any hints or lessons-learned?
As you are aware, Mosaic was ( is) developed using MinimServer. The reason is that it is the most stable server software for audio storage that they have found. Meaning that using other UPnP server software can produce unexpected results like misinterpreting commands from Mosaic.
This means that you may be able to load Mosaic to your device and it might work, at least to give you a vague experience of it. However it will only work if Mosaic is able to recognise Pachanko which, if it is not UPnP as you state, it may be unable to. However it is free for you to give it a try . So download Mosaic from App Store or Google to your device and see. I wouod not expect the combination to provide a good user experience but it will just be as a trial.
MinimServer is custom made for the server that it will be run on. Pachanko is not catered for. You will need to source another server. The link is to a list of those currently available. https://minimserver.com/downloads.htm
So to pursue this idea further will involve a cost as you will need a server that can run MinimServer for it all to work reliably. My only tip once you have made a decision is to buy a licence as this gives more features including a degree of ability to amend what you will see in Mosaic .
Is Mosaic better than Roon? That is a personal decision and we all have individual preferences.
I’m sure you have a Mac or Windows PC at home, so why don’t you do a quick test? Install MinimServer on your computer and connect an external drive containing your ripped files to the same computer.
Install Mosaic on an iPhone or iPad and give it a try playing from Qobuz, Tidal, and your ripped files.
See how you think it sounds compared to your previous set up
Thanks to both of you. The Pachanko Labs machines run an optimized (stripped-down) Windows installation, so I’ll try to install MinimServer directly on the Pachanko’s system drive (there’s one SSD for the system and a second for the music library).
I was actually suggesting installing on a separate Windows or Mac computer. That would allow you to compare vs. your previous installation. You might be surprised at what you may find.
Mike, I have been using MinimServer with Mosaic for a while. Personally Roon UI IMHO is the best. That said (and this is Hugh argument) I don’t feel its SQ is as let’s say “Clean” as Mini/Mosaic. Your chain is the most impactful on how you may experience Roon. Ok That said I have found that the small green computer co sells their sonictransporter servers,I have their i7) IMO they have the best implementation of Roon I’ve had and can also run MinimServer and even Audrivana. Thereby providing several options on one server. They are also very reasonable in pricing. With it you can compare both Roon against Mosaic in real time A/B tracks etc. look it up it may provide solution path for you. I use MinimServer and Mosaic as its a perfect fit with DCS Dac’s etc