well that's disappointing...
Cambridge CXN V2 or Innuos Pulse Mini?
These two streamers popped up in a few recent threads and got me thinking about upgrading my Bluesound Node, so I would appreciate some advice.
Both are in the $1200 range which is about all I’m willing to spend on digital at this time, so I’m wondering which one I should get and will the difference in SQ be significant, or should I stay where I am for now? (My understanding is the DAC is key to good SQ, but I know zero about DAC brands/specs)
- I stream only, mostly Tidal, then SirusXM, and I am auditioning QoBuz
- I don’t care about MQA
- I don’t need file storage or CD ripping
- I’m reasonably happy with the BluOS app
- Better library / favorites management would be nice
- Input is ethernet cable
- Output is analogue / RCA
Thank you!
Showing 12 responses by macg19
@mahler123 thanks, I believe I did read your post. @soix Thanks for the feedback - I read in a review of the Innous Pulsemini that some higher-res file formats required an external DAC - can you comment on that and do you know would that be the same with Cambridge @mofojo Thanks, I did wonder the same - any suggestions on a DAC and what cabling would I need to connect the Node to the Dac? |
@soix it does help thank you @mazian thank you Based on the feedback I’m leaning towards adding an external DAC and staying with the BlueOS app. I’m looking at the CA DACMagic 200 ($500) with a 60 in home trial OR the DENAFRIPS ARES 12TH anniv. ($1,100). Which one would you get? (or neither, feel free to suggest something else) Thanks! |
@drmuso I understand your perspective. Check out my virtual system - I think you will agree the Node is the weak link. Should I spend $1200 on a new streamer or an external DAC to enhance my $500 digital investment (not including interconnects) is the question. I may be disappointed. Anyway, I appreciate all of the thoughtful and very helpful points of view. |
An honest statement - but to put in perspective, the Node is 1.5% of the total investment. (I realize cost isn't everything but the rest of the system is pretty sweet) I've decided to add the Black Ice tube external DAC to the Node - they offer a 45 day no risk trial. Thanks a lot for the link to the Node PSU upgrade - I will definitely take a hard look at it. Voiding the warranty is a minor concern. btw I emailed back and forth with Alvin as the Denafrip ARES 12th was on my short list. He seems honest and definitely responsive. I may end up with the Dena if the Black Ice doesn't do it for me. |
@curiousjim Me too, Black Ice DAC but COAX - Analysis Plus Digital Crystal |
@vthokie83 I read your post last night from my phone, and coincidently Alvin emailed me 5 minutes after your post to confirm the kit does fit the current (N130) Node. (I just clicked the link you posted and there are options to select the Node model that I did not see yesterday) |
@vthokie83 me too, PSU+LPS |
@mapman I ended up with a Black Ice Tube DAC and NOS Mullard tubes - very happy. Did a whole bunch of tweaks as well. All listed under this thread A Skeptics Digital Upgrade Journey |