I've gone the SOTM 200 Ultra route, essentially a linux audiophool small computer built to only do audio. I run a Roon server connected to a network switch. I did this primarily to get the convince of Roon with better SQ. The Roon server sounds good but is not nearly as good sounding as the SOTM.
For me Roon was the way to go to leverage my Tidal and Qobuz subscriptions. I'd cancel Roon but I'm on a package deal with Mike and Raffy. It just opens up so much more music to me and the Roon engine is pretty sweet.