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!
@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. |
Hey Knighttodd. I think you’re right regarding Dan. I had the mod done and finally put Amperex in last week. It’s a different dac now. Much happier. I also have the Topping d90 for the more accurate, perhaps digital sound. Nice to have each end of the spectrum. Going to run the tube dac for January and let it break in. |
I’m not familiar with the components you have, so I can’t really judge if the Node is actually the weakest link. But some Audiogoners and pro reviewers have compared the Node’s performance to much pricier streamers (the TAS review of the Node 2 said it was comparable to streamers with an extra 0 behind the price; and I believe the newer Node is significantly better than the Node 2 in SQ). If you’re dissatisfied with the BluOS app, that might be a good reason to upgrade; on just a sonic basis, I suspect if you went for a used, high-performing DAC you would be more likely to hear a benefit than upgrading the streamer. Also, consider upgrading the PSU of the Node; I just got an email from Vinshine Audio about their upgrade:
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