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[kmmcd]

In an inexpensive secondary system, I was using an old laptop (Microsoft Surface Pro 1) to host MC and drive an inexpensive iFi "iOne" DAC (that drives a small power amp). The Surface Pro has finally failed, and I am looking for an expensive alternative. Any suggestions on an inexpensive host for MC that could drive this DAC (or has analog output of suitable audio quality)?

thanks

[BryanC]

If you want Windows 11 and something that can mimic the Surface, a used Thinkpad Yoga X380: https://www.ebay.com/itm/195318478022?mkcid=16&mkevt=1&mkrid=711-127632-2357-0&ssspo=4IEUsWvhTf2&sssrc=2047675&ssuid=l4VxKLtiQDm&widget_ver=artemis&media=COPY

[newsposter]

MeLe has some remarkable mini-PC dongles. Good performance, modern CPUs and GPUs, USB 3, etc.

[craigmcg]

MeLe has some remarkable mini-PC dongles. Good performance, modern CPUs and GPUs, USB 3, etc.

I recently acquired the MeLE Quieter DL (dual lan) which I really like for media use since it has  2.5 GB network (2 of them) instead of the 1 GB network that most of the other MeLE mini pcs have. I find that this reduces buffering time when clicking ahead or behind in a movie.  You could run this without a monitor, keyboard and mouse if you install a remote control software that would allow you to access it from another Windows pc then use JRemote3 (for Android) or JRemote (for iOS) on your phone to "drive" Media Center. If you want direct access to the pc with a screen a wireless keyboard / mouse and monitor could work.

[S. Pupp]

I use a Beelink EQR6 Ryzen 5 miniPC as the host, and another as a client  It was $220 on Amazon Prime Day. It’s not fanless, but I rarely hear it.

[MikeO3]

You don't mention the value of inexpensive...

I have a MeLE PCG02 bolted to the back of a small display for my workshop. I couldn't take Windows 11 patching and forced reboots anymore so loaded Ubuntu and it runs JRiver, Roon really well.

There are also 2 minix Z100's on the network running as endpoints which I prefer. The wireless works really well for any of these devices and is very stable for DSD streaming. I don't use video over wireless so can provide opinion there.

I am more comfortable with Linux and find it better manages the workloads and resources on these devices. Better management >> Less heat and power consumption.