2. digital
  3. 181843-172314

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
macg19 OP
970 posts
 

thx Peter!

curiousjim's avatar
curiousjim
5,014 posts
 

Oh yeah, I did that to. It made a noticeable difference, but…

macg19 OP
970 posts
 

but what?

10229's avatar
10229
41 posts
 

+1 for keeping the Node and investing the funds on a nice DAC and USB cable.  There is a lot of performance still left in the Node for you to uncover and the DAC will be ready to go once you retire the Node.

vthokie83
983 posts
 

Macg19, I actually just posted this on another thread 5 minutes ago:

Two DAC recommendations: Denafrips Ares 12th, or the Musician Pegasus. I have not heard the 12th Anniversary Ares at $1,000, but seems to improved quite a bit over the Ares II.....which I have auditioned in my system and really enjoyed it. I did end up buying the Denafrips Pontus II at $1,800.

I have heard the Musician Pegasus as well, and it also is a great value DAC at $1,100......would have been a close call with the Ares for me, had I not heard the Pontus II.

I'm also probably going to buy the upgraded power supply kit below, as soon as I talk to the owner Alvin Chee.....also the importer for Denafrips

 

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