PLENUE R2 (128GB) High Resolution Audio Player/aptX JetEffect Bluetooth/Dual DAC, DSD256, SNR 136dB / AI Audio

Whilst used only at 1.00 firmware, UI is fast enough to not distract from music though clearly 1.00 in respect of some less important things being missing. Firmware has already had an update issued which I have not yet installed.DSD256 a welcome addition at this price point and to my ears better than DSD128 like-for-like on a D2 which notionally has same DAC's. Even humble CD-level source as FLAC shows more subtle detail and crispness than on a D2, like-for-like source material.Large-enough screen, sensible button placement and a UI that, though dated and idiosyncratic, is completely usable make for an affordable alternative to both lower and higher-end DAC's alike.Ultimately a worthy upgrade from lesser Cowon products and a challenge to the L line for most ears and most tastes I suspect and at a fraction of the price. I would say it is a sweet spot in affordable DAC's that deserves a higher profile in the market.

I bought this unit after a lot of research around sound but did not realize you can not easily create playlist to use the unit the way I used my phone or IPod. The functionality of the interface is glitchy and you will not always get a timely result to an input and the result may lag or be different from the desired outcome because of lag. I wanted to use this in my home theater but am not willing to change each song or album while entertaining. If there were a Bluetooth interface where the phone could control it, that would be a compromise.

The player plays transparently what you give it as a source. Good recording mastering will show the beauty of the music. Something garage-basement like demo would sound harsh for the ears. Recordings with a high value of the dynamic range play in an engaging way and without the typical deafness, which sometimes manifests itself on other sources, the main thing is to turn up the volume a bit and so the sounds blossom in all its glory.Another aspect unusual for me is the tight punch of bass. Pair up the device with the IEMs with strong lows and the result would surprise you.I used to prefer the Sony's signature sound (ZX300/WM1A). For now I'm definitely into Cowon PR2.Recommended as a solid DAP for those who don't need streaming and android

sound only come out from Bluetooth, 3.5mm has no sound even turn off Bluetooth!!, and Bluetooth headphone has cut of at the beginning of the music. also the decryption said signal to noise ration is 136db, but when you read the manual it is 123db, it is said the body is made of metal, however the whole piece of backplate is a thin plastic you can easily push it in with only 1/2 lb of force. so i have to return it within just couple hours, every disappointed!

I have owned several dozen DAPs, all from major brands, all I can say that this particular one ranks at the top of the list. As far as sound quality is concerned, it sounds as if the musicians are in the same room as you. The music coming out of this player is alive and vibrant. Quality of sound competes with my Sony NW-WM1A Signature Series.

I've used Plenue R2 with AKG K702 and Focal Elear, and was satisfied with the music quality. Plenue is light and portable. UX is intuitive. Interface with computer is also straight forward. I recommend it!

The much touted Jeteffect 7 audio does not function in DSD native modes. Deceptive advertising by Cowon. No where in Cowon's literature is that fact that Jeteffect 7 does not function while playing DSD modes stated.April Follow up: Display now has a heavy Cyan tint. Repair by Cowon will take 2 to 3 months.Did you ever have the feeling you made a mistake?

Solid bass and super cool sound quality. The look is a bit unappealing with basic touch screen functions.