In the realm of high-fidelity audio, two titans stand tall: the Cambridge Audio DACMagic 200M and the Cambridge Audio CXN V2. Both devices promise to elevate your listening experience, but which one emerges victorious in the ultimate audiophile showdown? This comprehensive comparison will delve into their technical capabilities, features, and sound quality to help you make an informed decision.

Design and Build Quality

The DACMagic 200M exudes a sleek and minimalist aesthetic, featuring a compact black aluminum chassis. Its understated design is both elegant and functional, with a clear OLED display providing essential information. The CXN V2, on the other hand, boasts a more elaborate design with a substantial black or silver chassis. Its large TFT color display offers a vibrant and intuitive user interface.

Connectivity and Compatibility

The DACMagic 200M offers a wide range of connectivity options, including USB, coaxial, optical, and Bluetooth. It supports high-resolution audio formats up to 32-bit/384kHz and DSD256. The CXN V2 takes connectivity to another level with an Ethernet port for streaming, as well as Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, and USB. It supports a vast array of audio formats, including MQA, FLAC, WAV, and AIFF.

Features and Functionality

The DACMagic 200M is a dedicated digital-to-analog converter (DAC) that focuses on converting digital signals into pristine analog audio. It features a sophisticated ESS Sabre DAC chip and a sophisticated analog stage for optimal sound quality. The CXN V2, however, is a versatile network streamer and DAC that combines audio playback with streaming capabilities. It supports a wide range of streaming services, including Spotify, Tidal, and Qobuz.

Sound Quality

When it comes to sound quality, both the DACMagic 200M and the CXN V2 deliver exceptional performance. The DACMagic 200M offers a neutral and balanced sound with excellent detail retrieval. It reproduces music with clarity and precision, revealing subtle nuances and textures. The CXN V2, while equally detailed, exhibits a slightly warmer and more musical sound. It emphasizes the midrange frequencies, resulting in a fuller and more engaging listening experience.

Network Streaming Capabilities

The CXN V2 shines in the area of network streaming. Its built-in Ethernet port and Wi-Fi connectivity allow you to access a vast library of music from streaming services, internet radio, and your own music server. The intuitive user interface makes it easy to browse and select music, and the support for MQA streaming ensures the highest possible audio quality.

Additional Features

The CXN V2 offers several additional features that enhance its versatility. It includes a built-in headphone amplifier for convenient private listening, as well as a digital output for connecting an external DAC. It also supports multi-room audio, allowing you to stream music to multiple speakers throughout your home.

Takeaways: The Verdict for Audiophiles

The Cambridge Audio DACMagic 200M and CXN V2 are both exceptional audio devices that cater to different needs. If you prioritize pristine sound quality and prefer a dedicated DAC, the DACMagic 200M is an excellent choice. However, if you seek a versatile network streamer and DAC with a wide range of features and streaming capabilities, the CXN V2 is the clear winner.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Which device has better sound quality, the DACMagic 200M or the CXN V2?
A: Both devices offer exceptional sound quality, but the DACMagic 200M is slightly more neutral and detailed, while the CXN V2 is warmer and more musical.

Q: Which device has more streaming capabilities?
A: The CXN V2 has superior streaming capabilities with Ethernet, Wi-Fi, and Bluetooth connectivity, as well as support for a wide range of streaming services.

Q: Which device is better for headphone listening?
A: The CXN V2 includes a built-in headphone amplifier, making it a more suitable choice for private listening.