Difference between Bluesound Node 2i and Cambridge CXN v2

When I had the Node 2 I used two outputs. One into my Dac and then one analog out from the Node. If I needed to play MQA from Tidal, I could just switch the input on my Preamp. All the node's outputs are active all the time, which makes the Node quite nice for its price. 

I own both the CA 851n and the CXN 1.  Both are good but prefer my PS Audio Directstream with Bridge II overall.  CA has no Roon or direct Qobuz connection.  I use Airplay for Qobuz. I have not heard the Bluesound.  Purchased both as opened box/clearance from CA with warranty. Very good units for the price, especially when connected via wired internet as opposed to WiFi.

https://www.cambridgeaudio.com/usa/en/products/openboxclearance?f%5B0%5D=category%3A10

I have seen numerous posts from people who have and love either unit. My guess is, very few have listened carefully to both, so it's going to be difficult to get this specific feedback.

For streaming, the CXN is controlled by Cambridge's app or a DLNA control-point app; the Bluesound, by a BluOS app. They are mutually exclusive ecosystems. That will affect user experience, not the sound. You might prefer one or the other, but which? Generally speaking, I think BluOS is considered easier to use and better for multiroom playback, while DLNA could be considered more flexible. (When I tried the CXN2 with a generic DLNA control point, it did not work well -- it was fine with its own app.)

If you have a long run of interconnect going to an amp with balanced inputs, balanced outs are worth having. If all your equipment is in one rack, maybe not so much (though still nice).

As to sound, you might have to get the units on trial and find out which one suits your ears better.

Node app is way superior over the CXN and for me is the best music app after Roon.
Cxn has a very slightly better analog output sounding cleaner but not that much. It is similarly only slight better than an LG V20 connected to an amp.
CXN has a physical remote control.
If I were you, I'd go for the Node and then get a better DAC in the future. You won't miss much and you will get the BluOS.

The CXN 2 sounds better. Both can be Roon endpoints, thought the Cambridge is by virtue of Chromecast.