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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!

macg19
zombiedad's avatar
zombiedad
27 posts
 

Cambridge CXN is not great at all.   Bought it few years ago, used it for a week , I had to return it.  It doesn't sound great at all.  The unit is light and feel like nothing inside.   I returned it get my full refund and got the Lumin instead.   Its like night and day.   Cambridge tech support is worse !   I also tried the DacMagic 200M,  it has some buzzing noise and delay when switching from hi-res to MQA.   Their support took a week to reply me and said it is how the hardware designed and they will escalate the issue to the team.  That's all.  They didn't care.   I will never use their products again.  

macg19 OP
1,374 posts
 

well that's disappointing...

jerryg123's avatar
jerryg123
3,429 posts
 

Innuos and the Sense App is much better than the Blue OS app.

This is an okay starter DAC for $775.00 

 

marco1's avatar
marco1
708 posts
 

Tried the DacMagic when it first came out to use with headphones. SQ was ok for the money.  Lots of features as well.  But ended up returning it and buying an Ares II and separate HP amp.  The Ares II is a far better DAC and imo one of the better units available for the $$$.

knighttodd's avatar
knighttodd
220 posts
 

I have the CXN V2. it's actually a very good streamer and the Wolfson dac sounds great.  I'm partial to AKM dac chips and this is very close in sound. The app works good and if you listen to Amazon you can Stream with chromcast.  I have had only 1 issue and it was taken care of in a timely manner.   One month to repair and back. Also when you want an upgrade send it to Modwright and have the Truth Mod installed.  Takes it to another level. The CXN is also recommended by the owner of Decware.  With the mod you get an excellent dac and capable streamer for undef 3k. Check out my system and you will see the CXN. 

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