Thanks @carlidos.
I might try installing the Windows method and comparing the rates with the Linux VM method. It would be interesting to see if the extra layer makes a difference in performance. If you are interested, here is the link:

https://steemit.com/allinone/@omotherhen/ezsteem-suite-1-0-the-ez-way-to-setup-your-steem-miner-node-in-a-linux-vm-windows-compatible