When Harman acquired Roon Labs in 2023, we suspected that a more affordable version of the Nucleus music sever would be forthcoming. It was always going to be a struggle making the Roon music management platform a mainstream product for the simple reason that the subscription has always been really expensive; those of us who were smart enough to lock in a lifetime subscription when it was more affordable got lucky.
We don’t know if the subscription price is changing right away, but we have to believe that the folks at Harman did not just announce the new $499.99 Nucleus One, the newest addition to the Nucleus music server product line — without a major price reduction planned. That would kill this thing at launch.
The Roon Nucleus One incorporates advances in computer technology, technical design, and manufacturing processes to deliver an attractively-priced turn-key device specifically intended for Roon’s music library management, music exploration, and multi-room music player software.Â
Nucleus is Roon’s suggestion for those looking for the best possible server/streamer option for using the Roon platform. The Nucleus One joins Nucleus Titan, replacing previous Nucleus models with updated styling, hardware, and performance, easy set-up and operation, that should satisfy both budget-conscious and high-end consumers.
Comparable in performance to the previous Nucleus, Nucleus One is an affordably-priced, dedicated Roon server molded from high-quality polycarbonate with visual characteristics that echo the premium Nucleus Titan. Priced at just $499.99 (U.S.), Nucleus One may be the best choice for those seeking a reliable Roon server with a best-in-class music experience at an affordable price point.
Nucleus One
- Affordability: At $499.99 the Nucleus One is the most affordable dedicated Roon server available so far.
- Roon OS Platform: The Nucleus One is designed to support Roon OS reliability and performance for all Roon users. The Nucleus One works with other Roon-compatible devices from participating partner companies.
- Connectivity: Connections include two USB-A and one audio-only HDMI port.
- Expandable Storage: The Nucleus One can accommodate 2.5â internal SATA drives with up to 8TB library storage capacity.
- CPU Cooling: The Nucleus One provides cool operation via a quiet internal fan.
- Cabinet: The Nucleus One features a precision molded, modern space gray, high-quality polycarbonate enclosure with a “bird’s nest” top.
Tip: The exterior design of the Nucleus One is similar to Roon’s flagship Nucleus Titan server.
From Enno Vandermeer, Roon Co-Founder: “In the rare case where one team can control hardware, firmware, operating system, and application software, itâs possible to do amazing things. Weâve been on a mission to develop something unique we could recommend to our friends and families. Nucleus One is the culmination of all our experience up to this point: a dedicated Roon server for the price of an off-the-shelf mini PC.â
If the Roon Nucleus One is not enough, you can step up your Roon experience further with the Roon Nucleus Titan which can access all Roon capabilities and is offered in three custom finishes.
Nucleus One vs Titan
| ROON Model | Nucleus One | Nucleus Titan |
| Price | $499.99 | $3,699 |
| Library Capacity | Up to 10,000 Albums or 100,000 tracks | Over 10,000 albums (100,000 tracks) |
| Multi-Room Streaming | Up to 6 simultaneous zones | Over 6 simultaneous zones |
| DSP | Most DSP functions available in the PCM domain, some DSD + DSP combinations may not be possible | All MUSE DSP functions re available to use. |
| USB Connections | 2 x USB Type A 3.0 | 2 x USB Type C 3.0 |
| HDMI Connections (audio-only) | 1 | 2 |
| Gigabit Ethernet/LAN | Yes | Yes |
| Network Audio | Yes | Yes |
| Chromecast | Yes | Yes |
| Apple Airplay | Yes | Yes |
| Internal Storage | 2.5â SATA SSD or HDD up to 15mm drive height (drive not included) – Up to 8TB. | 2.5â SATA up to 15mm drive height (drive not included) – Up to 8TB |
| Compatible Control Systems | Roon API, Crestron, Control4 | Roon API, Crestron, Control4 |
| Works with Third-Party Roon Compatible Devices | Yes | Yes |
| Finishes | Black | Stone, Wood, Metal |
| Dimensions (LWH) | 9.5 x 9.5 x 2.25 inches | 10.88 x 10.88 x 2.25 inches |
| Net Weight | 4 lbs 3oz | 7 lbs |
| Included Accessories | AC power supply (19V, 60W), Ethernet Cable | AC power supply (19V, 60W), Ethernet Cable |
Price & Availability
The Roon Nucleus One is available for Pre-order through Roon Labs for $499.99. Shipping is expected to begin on May 15th, 2024.
The Roon Nucleus Titan will be available through Roon Labs for $3,699.00 (release date to be determined).
Tip: In addition to the Roon Nucleus Servers, there is a subscription fee to use the Roon Service (free trial included)
Related Reading
ORT
March 22, 2024 at 2:53 pm
And the Roonacy continues. How freakin’ difficult is it to hit either “Play” or “Random Play”.
With Roon it becomes more of a “Randumb Play”. The originators of this platform were fortunate to find a buyer for this Flaccidware.
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How does he do it dear readers? To quote Professor McGonagall, ’twas “sheer dumb luck”. It really is “all in the game”.
Back to Tommy Edwards superb singing.
ORT