I previously had preferred some alternatives to Roon, with my thoughts being Roon sounded a bit soft and rounded in presentation compared to alternatives like Squeeze and Minimserver through Lumin App using Lumin X1. With addition of Makua with DAC (Tambaqui), that opinion has changed. I did experiment with a couple different ethernet cables and connection locations, settling on feeding the Antipodes K50 with a Audio Sensibility Signature Ethernet cable ( using OCC silver twisted cables) to K50 from a switch and then using same type cable out from K50 Direct Stream ethernet port to the Roon Ready ethernet port of the Mola Mola DAC. The results have been very, very good--excellent imaging, great tone, and smooth yet detailed presentation. I also configured one of the other Makua preset locations for USB input to the DAC from the K50. I can use then Roon Player from the K50, Squeeze and other Antipodes enabled player options. Choice of USB cable has ( Triode Wire Labs and Wireworld Platinum Starlight) presented differently with WW more detailed. For now, I am primarily listening using the Roon Ready ethernet port on the Mola Mola DAC.
The Mola Mola DAC is special, and I too would recommend an audition. I am also an owner and fan of the Lumin X1 and prefer music presentation using the Lumin App over Roon for more sit down critical listening. I do prefer Roon for its mature and easy to operate landscape. I have not been using the various filters or conversion/upscaling options with Roon. The Lumin X1 is a great piece as well, but does require considerable initial break-in, say 200-400 hours. The LEEDH Processing option Lumin offers (no charge) is excellent. You also have option of fiber optic or RJ45 ethernet connection to the Lumin X1.