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)
Thank you!
I wrote a post that seems to have got lost in the ether. I have the CA and used to own the Node. The CA is much better SQ. The apps are comparable. Chromecast and AirPlay are nice features. You can use the DAC with other digital sources. You can even run the Node into the CA DAC for improved SQ. You manage the playlists within the streaming service itself and just play them on the streamer. Can’t comment on Innous, |
@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? |
Yes, I believe I read the onboard DAC on the PulseMini is limited in resolution to either 24/96 or maybe 24/192. That wouldn’t be a deal breaker for me because I find even 24/96 to sound pretty damn good, and sorry but I’m unfamiliar with the Cambridge so really can’t help there. That said, I’d only use the internal DAC until I could afford a good standalone DAC because it is such an important component in the signal chain, so I only view the onboard DAC of the PulseMini as a stopgap and nothing more. But that’s me. Hope this helps at least somewhat. |
I had a Cambridge CXN and the sound quality was very good but the app was crap. I have no experience with the Innous but note that most users like their app. So unless Cambridge have made huge improvements to their app I would go with the Innous or maybe consider Aurender if any of their models are in your price range. |
@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! |
