I've heard the sound quality is superior in the CXN v2 but I also do not believe it even supports Amazon Music HD. HELP WITH CHOICE OF MUSIC STREAMER-CAMBRIDGE AUDIO OR AUDIOLAB OMNIA & TURNTABLE, Chromecast / Airplay Question - iOS - CXN V2 Streamer. Comparing their single-ended analogue outputs (because the Node 2i doesn't do balanced), the CXN (V2) exposes us to a little more inner detail but a substantially more expansive soundstage. However its several years old and Im wondering if a new version will be out soon with improved functionality, MQA support most likely. I have not heard the Bluesound. DACs, Streamers, Servers, Players, Audio Interface. Bluesound Node 2 vs Cambridge CXN. Copyright 2000-2023 M2N Limited E. & O.E. If not, for just a bit more money than a new Node 2i, you can get a second hand Cambridge Audio CXN V2, which is in a completely different league, and . 1-888-292-2575. All you really need is a craving for good sound and a system-building plan. The first is the Audiolab 6000N Play, which I consider to be the best sounding streamer in that price range. A 3.5mm headphone jack can be found in the middle of the front panel, below the Bluesound logo, too. The CXN 2 sounds better. AirPlay 2 and Chromecast compatible, the Cambridge CXN v2 network player can receive music from any iOS or Android smartphone. This does though, get some good reviews and not too expensive to dip your toe in, as has been suggested. It does that both analog out and digital out, - and with AirPlay . What I was trying to figure out was this: If I were to purchse, for example, a Node and then later add an nDac to it, presumably this would now sound better. If you do not consent, please do not continue with chat assistance. Too bad the matching amp is priced so high. It doesn't take deep pockets or "golden ears" to obtain and appreciate good sound. And from my windows laptop I also have USB C.. so theres that, and Im also concerned about loss of quality over the length of cable, which steers me in the direction of a quality cable, but I dont want to spend $$$ on that trap. Hi, I have tested both Audiolab 6000N and Bluesound Node 2i with a wide variety of speakers. CXN V2 - Network Player | Cambridge Audio US Home CXN V2 Network Player $999.00 4 interest-free payments of $249.75. But, if I were later still to obtain an NDS2 or NDX2, would the nDAC still serve as an upgrade to them? Bluesound Node 2i This is another plug-and-play all-in-one box solution similar to the Yamaha. AUDIO X Post subject: Re: Bluesound Node 2 vs Cambridge CXN. CXN (in my opinion) has a little darker sound (not to be confused with warm). I use a dedicated Roon Rock server for my Roon to PS Audio DAC endpoint. I thought that was interesting, but I guess the products have been on the market for a few years, and tariffs probably aren't helping things. If you're doing Roon just get a Sonore Ultra Rendu and go USB to the DAC, Yeah, Ive looked at those and I just dont think I can get along. AVForums.com is owned and operated by M2N Limited, Powered by Xenforo, Hosted by Nimbus Hosting, Original design Critical Media Ltd. Thanks for that. Through Id never pay such ridiculous prices for cables, but because I cant find support on whether a 3m cable is gonna lose me quality, it makes me now dependent spending more money in hopes to accomplish a good signal, Too many DACs> Too many amps> Too many headphones. I love my Vault though. And it sounds great. You must log in or register to reply here. File format is predominantly FLAC with some WAV and Mp4 for the 16/44.1's. The Node 2i earned a place in second and third systems and lately in my test system that I use for equipment reviews and general fiddling, experimenting with and staging of new components, etc.. Cambridge Audio CXN V2 is a great combination of nice design with consistent geometry and ultra nice buttons, and many great features built-in by the manufacturer. affiliations include, but are not limited to, the eBay Partner Network, and The only lower cost transport that I know of that does a full MQA or DSD pass through is the Aries Mini. Cambridge Audio CXN (V2) Firmware Update Problems. Your website is very efficient and easily navigable, selection is wide, and technical/chat support is outstanding. They do not share. I guess. Naim ND5-XS (S/H) Bluesound Node (New) I use both qobuz and local flac files via Roon so integration with Roon is important too. The only oversight I can see is not including HDMI arc. I have only used it for streaming from Apple Music with the intention of hearing new music which I might then buy in physical form. Sony A95L QD-OLED, X95L MINI LED And Full BRAVIA Range For 2023 (In-Depth Interview). I was a complete novice and you helped me figure out what would work best for me. I first streamed digital files attached to my network computer thinking the USB was only good for smaller capacity flash drives. If I were to go the streamer/DAC/pre-amp route I would buy the Cambridge Audio rig in a heart beat. For a better experience, please enable JavaScript in your browser before proceeding. It includes a pair of studio-quality headphones, and a guide to getting the most out of your session, and a few other necessary items. Thanks. Great SQ, suppports just about any streaming platform your likely to want, very reliable and stable over wifi. The CXN is great at $900, but even better at less than that. No one supports Amazon. You are using an out of date browser. Sleek design. USB-C on iPada makes the a legit streamer option IMO. Files are large as unable to justify individual track ripping for some music styles (jazz, classical) and instead do full record sides. Weve carefully chosen the components of this kit to ensure a crystal-clear listening experience. I was aware that it could be an issue, but was hoping it had been sorted by now. Difference between Bluesound Node 2i and Cambridge CXN v2. This website uses the TMDb API but is not endorsed or certified by TMDb. So the cambridge gets rave reviews but It would be a struggle finding room in my existing CD6006 and Marantz Pearl Lite set up. That's interested @rvpiano. /Stageline Too many DACs> Too many amps> Too many headphones. Itll work with you iPad or out of your Windows laptop. I like to focus this list on the streamer sound quality (with the internal dac bypassed if existant). I really appreciate your technical staff. And as i sold it during first lockdown, sold it for 150 more than I paid. My place for electronics, great customer service, product expertise & lifetime technical support. BlueOS is quite intuitive. Love Crutchfield! Cambridge Audio CXN (V2) tech specs High resolution 24-bit/192kHz, DSD64 Streaming features UPnP, AirPlay, internet radio, Spotify Connect, Tidal Connect, Roon Inputs USB type A x2, USB type B, optical, coaxial Outputs Optical, coaxial, balanced XLR, RCA Network Ethernet, wi-fi Remote Yes Finishes 2 Dimensions (hwd) 9 x 43 x 31cm Weight 4kg So Bluesound is both streamer and DAC, CXA is power amp 2) Bluesound to CXA via digital coax. I posted this in the Coupons, Discounts & Sales section Its a good sale now that Cambridge has announced the CX Series 2 line coming next week. I think there was an android USB DAC app that did something like that (?) AVForums.com is owned and operated by M2N Limited, Cambridge Audio CXN(v2) Streamer . I also heard that Bluesound Node has support for the upgraded Bluetooth Aptx and better support for Roon and Qobuz compared to the CXN. Someone mentioned here that the Cambridge doesnt so full resolution unless using their app? Would this hold true, for the nDAC, if I were to obtain an NDS2 or NDX at a later date, making it more favourable as a longer term investment - or would these mk2s negate the addition of an nDAC ? I'll be a customer for as long as they are in business. I use Airplay for Qobuz. I Have the Node and like the connectivity, and supported features to other services like Roon, Qobuz, TuneIn and many more. Along with the streaming capabilities, which is the best for playing files from a hard drive. the Amazon Associates Program via amazon.com. A curious decision on the model designations! Yes, with the caveats that the source device (tablet/ phone / streamer) isnt doing anything to the file before passing it on. If it isn't double blind, likely is double talk. I am looking forwarding to attaching one of my external hard drives to it for playback of lossless vinyl rips while I work. Also in my humble opinion spending BIG bucks on a streamer is a waste when you can get a PI streamer with Roon, AirPlay2, and DNLA support for next to nothing. Bluesound Node (New) This has been a fantastic experience. Others like Cambridge CXN and 851N or steamers up to 2500 euro/dollar like Teac, Sotm, Lumin, Innuos Zen etc. A network music streamer lets you play digital music from different sources, and play them through connected speakers and devices in your home. This is where the cable game can get me. the Amazon Associates Program via amazon.com. My setup is as follows and it sounds great. I prefer Audiolab over Bluesound Node 2i. Been down this road; if you're using the Yamaha DAC and want plug/play convenience, easy to use interface with self updating software, very good customer support, excellent resale, and access to EVERY source known to man just get the Node or used Node 2i and be done with it. The Bluesound Node 2i is designed with enhanced dual-band WIFI to render the best-in-class performance even in crowded airspaces. You can also look at stuff from SMSL, Topping and NuPrime stream 9. Virtual audio technology allows you to compare sonic characteristics between speakers so you can make a more informed shopping decision. Let's take a closer look at this device. When you click on links to various merchants on this site and make a purchase, If it is if any use. Im not even sure which service might be best, for me. 853. It works great. The BluOS constantly updates. Like the sound of the old Thorens TT. . For the money I doubt theres anything else out there to beat it until you start spending Naim or similar entry level price points. iTunes ( my Windows computer) rips my CDs directly to my NAS Ethernet drives. bumpquestion regarding the need for external DAC above? CXN (in my opinion) has a little darker sound (not to be confused with warm). Thing is I just bought a Node as a streamer for my main system to find this unit is incapable to play any of the large files while the CXN2 has absolutely no issues going through the same data. Well I purchased the Node 2021 and am so pleased! Given all the choices of streaming services, it usually comes down to one or two you really like to keep around. The CXN v2 upsamples everything to 24/384 when using it in preamp mode. I am a Qobuz user and for me, it surpasses all other streaming services when it comes to SQ and content. The other possible route is to put a PSU on the NDX2 such as an XPS. Definitely not looking for a Sonos or any bluetooth type audio, or multi-room stuff. Otherwise you need to move up to something like a Lumin U1 Mini. Affiliate programs and This raises the question of what you mean by dipping your toe in - what do you want to find out? The CXN V2 is part of Cambridge Audio's midrange CX series, which also includes two integrated amplifiers and a CD transport. So, are the prices going on the new paint scheme CXN v2? 19,270. Bluesound Node (2021) or CXN V2? Have you tried plugging a hard drive into the Node 2i? JavaScript is disabled. IMO any unit that does not have an MQA decoder will be effectively obsolete within 2 years. There are pros and cons on both sides. My 2 cents; Buy the CXN v2 it's such a pleasure.the app works really quick and the quality is more then good. bunno77; 1 Link to comment . Cambridge Audio CXN V2 Audiophile Music Streamer In The House: First Impressions And Unboxing Pics! Cambridge Audio's popular Connect iOS and Android app, compatible with the CXN (V2) and the company's other network audio streamers, has been given a major feature overhaul and rebrand. company number 03997482, registered in England and Wales. Dave's made his daily life so much more convenient by installing Smart Home devices. I have not tried the cxn v2 , but the node2i DAC was ok when I tried. In equal power mode, you'll hear these differences in loudness as they naturally occur between speakers. So bluesound is streamer and CXA is both DAC and power amp 3) Bluesound to external DAC via digital coax, external DAC to CXA via RCA. If you're using an outboard DAC I believe the signal just passes through. Very good units for the price, especially when connected via wired internet as opposed to WiFi. Hence the post! Tags: music streamers sound quality; centralflori Super Member. I mean, why would anyone want the internal DAC limiting the sound, then sending it on to a better DAC? The CXN V2 is older but likely to have better sound quality. Or, would the DAC quality in these streamers have surpasseed that offered by the nDAC, by this point, making the nDAC now redundant? It offers Roon Ready and Spotify Connect but no Chromecast Built-in. Cambridge Audio CXC V2 CD speler CD-Spelers, SA-CD-Spelers 699. . You also mentioned the IFI Zen. I know the node has USB out (if Bluesound have managed to get it working correctly). But, if I were later still to obtain an NDS2 or NDX2, would the nDAC still serve as an upgrade to them? Certainly got a point Seeker-smith,i was on the other side of this before, drooling over these big streamers, but then Im even considering just a cable. Thoughts if so? But what about the sound quality? audirvana does make a difference. Learn More Find a dealer $999.00 Stunning Sound Quality - hear every detail from your digital files Twin Wolfson DACs - for stunning digital performance Spotify Connect, TIDAL Connect & Qobuz built in - for the best possible choice Im still using a NP5 and Hugo mk1 - it sounds fabulous. If the Sonos integration is important, get the Port (I haven't heard it, might be better than what WHF review says, especially if you add a good external DAC). and you got the option to use an external dac. Easy process from start to finish, and the availability of information is second to none. I was just surprised to see the ND5-XS at a comparable price (although s/h) to the other 2 aforementioned products, which made me wonder Knowing which model headphones youre using lets us remove any sonic coloring from your experience. Sorry if this is a duplicate of some sort (lots of threads to sort through) but I was hoping to get some help from you guys. Wiim Pro? If you are willing to pay that fine. Cambridge Audio/Music Direct - CXN v2 Network Player Network Player on Sale for $725 Awesome deal on this unit! All Naim streamers have a digital output which allows you to run them with a separate DAC as an upgrade option. Do you have any thoughts on cable types and length. Any difference? No complaint about the Cambridge app. I just put on a Wireworld mini Electra PC on a Bluesound Node 2i and it made a nice difference in a less harsh quality, to be expected with better power cables. Personaly I'm not interested in other functionality like dac and pre amp. Focus on speakers/room where a much more substantive change is possible. Is this correct? The pluses for the CXN2 is good sound quality, overall feel (no plastic), a more powerful processor, and physical controls. Panasonic 55FZ950. Hi, looking for some advice please. #12. My entry into streaming was an cxnv2. Im passed this point of temptation for now, but Ive decided Ill just buy it either next year or if there is a great deal. 1 Home Entertainment Tech Resource. Then again, I do need to think forward and perhaps an outside/backyard setup may be advantageous. I can't comment on the internal DAC on the new NODE, but I have the Node 2i and I think its internal DAC is very good. While the cost is about double if the sound quality is as good as . I can't speak for apple devices but android ones most certainly do do that processing unless you use special software like USB audio player Pro app. I used (and still use) network attached storage. Phones /tablets should never go through their internal DACs when connected to an external dac and any player software should tell you where it is sending it to. My guess is, very few have listened carefully to both, so it's going to be difficult to get this specific feedback. I stand correctedthe Cambridge does indeed have the Wolfson DAC, question regarding the need for external DAC above?. CD3.5/Flatcap It delivers a collection of top music technologies for home use. If your headphones aren't listed, we recommend using our Listening Kit. Not familiar with the the streamers youve mentioned, but youre getting some good advice. You'd think hardwired would be easier to get right Cambridge Audio/Music Direct - CXN v2 Network Player Network Player on Sale for $725, https://www.audioxpress.com/news/ca-audio-components-with-updated-ess-sabre-dacs, Forum Policies, Rules, and Terms of Service. Getting hands-on with our products helps us pick what's best for our customers. Jul 27, 2020. See which models top our list of best picks for 2023. Hopefully this will be fixed with a future Firmware update, but at the moment it's an issue. If CXN has Google Chromcast Audio ( GCA) built in, I wonder ( out of curiosity) how it's SQ would compare with a set up using GCA plus highEnd external DAC t o a Preamp ? Find a used Ayre Codex Dac. I think its a home-run product. I get the feeling the prices on these needed to go up to keep them in circulation and including them in a "new" series is a pretty common move. I want to add a streamer to my existing set up and have my eye on the new Bluesound Node 2021 and the Cambridge Audio CXN V2. NAP180 Sony A95L QD-OLED, X95L MINI LED And Full BRAVIA Range For 2023 (In-Depth Interview). If using toslink it could be the cable as some do not work well above 24/96 . Have been reading for a long time and happy to finally contribute to this forum. The Chromecast is is pretty impressive but it isnt gapless. The Node can be impressive and always seems to be compatible with every streaming service around. Please help Purchase the Audiolab 6000A Integrated Amplifier at a special offer price. The CXN V2 has three digital inputs, two digital outputs, analog (single-ended and balanced) outputs and one Ethernet input. Very bummed they are dropping the black gear though, and very happy I purchased mine in black already. You can also consider Matrix mini ipro/3. Shop smart & save time when you connect with an advisor, Your advisor will be able to share relevant pages and add items to your cart, Please turn active noise cancelling off for best results, Streaming music player with built-in Wi-Fi, Apple AirPlay 2, and Bluetooth, Network audio streamer with Wi-Fi, Chromecast built-in, Apple AirPlay 2, and optional Bluetooth, Streaming music player for amplified components and speakers. Personally, I'd get an Amazon Basics or Ugreen that meets your requirements for terminations and length and give it a go. With its Bluetooth aptX, the Bluesound Node 2i easily supports 24-bit streaming directly from your phone or tablet. I do use an external Meridian DAC (which I had already owned) and the difference between the two DACs is very subtle. The latter comprises mini optical/3.5mm combo and HDMI eARC inputs for connecting audio sources or a TV, plus a range of outputs that includes RCA, coaxial, optical and subwoofer. 390. All the node's outputs are active all the time, which makes the Node quite nice for its price. It can also transmit studio-quality music to Bluetooth headphones or external speakers. Thank you! This website uses the TMDb API but is not endorsed or certified by TMDb. I would prefer to have a streamer that connects to my existing pre, rather that one that replaces the pre, at these price ranges, as I havea long term plans to keep going up the Naim pre/power ladder. I changed out the PC on my Vault 2 and it made a noticeable improvement. $1,299.00
SpeakerCompare gives you a sense of the sonic differences. Connect the CXN V2 outputs to one of the analogue inputs of the CXA61/81 via balanced XLR (CXA81 only), or unbalanced RCA. I guess you got confused between "Chromcast audio" and "Chromcast", the former is an audio gear which is currently stopped production. I'm probably recalling it badly but I think the USB spec is 3m (or maybe 5). The NODE has native integration with just about every streaming service with the exception of Apple Music (and it does have access to Amazon, despite a previous post). Have you checked the review index? Both can be Roon endpoints, thought the Cambridge is by virtue of Chromecast. No, Im not very aware of software choices at this point. I also have, from some years ago, a Pro-Ject RPM and a Pro-Ject phono pre, with USB on board that I got with the idea of rippping some vinyl to CD, but never did much, in the end! I think Id much rather get a portable DAP with a good DAC, and use that over a cable connection. Any thoughts on which would be the best idea from the following choices? I thought I'd just see how well it worked for larger drives so I connected my Toshiba 2TB drive with about 1TB of music files via the USB input. Poor WiFi performance: you need to use an Ethernet cable for reliable performance. Can't say for surejust learning about this all myself. The Bluesound seems relatively simple and definitely inexpensive. Why can't I access my USB stick via the USB Audio menu on the CXN (V2)? It doesn't just read the files and display them in the Bluos app? Bluesound app and library management is much better though and more suited for multi-room.usecases. More modern, more compact, headphone out, sub out with cutoff filters for bass management, and allegedly blue sound is the best streaming software around. That way I could have all the internal storage, and quality sound signal maybe a Fiio x7 or so. It seems as the CXN uses dual DACS and has balanced outs. They're always very helpful! Cambridge Audio CXN V2. You really need to listen to these combinations yourself as personal preference comes into play and we will not always reach the same conclusions. Definitely get a cable to connect you iPad to the as801. Other than that, I would like to use Airplay (1). I think that perhaps my options are likely to be focussed on the Node or maybe the iFi Zen streamer (?). (,,,) The node is appealing pricewise and I like what I have seen/heard but have yet to see or hear a cxn in the wild. Even its built-in headphone amp is respectable. Have tried all possible troubleshooting, followed the Bluesound manual/forums and since formatted HDD to NTFS, Fat32, used different flash drives to the exact same outcome. First, Yamaha wxc 50 in preamp mode does SRC to 48 KHz with everything . Where did you see that and where does he say it will be compatible with the current CXN series? I am mostly concerned with SQ on the digital outputs. It's a good sale now that Cambridge has announced the CX Series 2 line coming next week. Im sure some are going to throw in the Node does MQA but even so a superior DAC w/o MQA is still going to be better. https://www.cambridgeaudio.com/usa/en/products/openboxclearance?f%5B0%5D=category%3A10. The improved NDX2 closes the gap somewhat but for me the NDAC is still an upgrade, and at used prices, a pretty cheap one. This gives you a more direct comparison of subtle voicing differences between speakers. Hi all, just considering dipping my toe into the sreaming world I mean, why would anyone want the internal DAC limiting the sound, then sending it on to a better DAC? The Bluesound supports a HDD whereas the Yamaha only supports a USB stick. So, if I get an MQA capable DAC, can I bypass the Cambridge DAC and get full MQA? So far, so good! Joined: Mon Jun 12, 2017 3:29 pm Posts: 9 Which is by no means guaranteed with Android (and possibly Apple- but check the threads on here about that) devices. Powered by Discourse, best viewed with JavaScript enabled, ND5-XS vs Bluesound Node vs Cambridge CXN v2. CXN V2? Other than that, I would like to use Airplay (1). Support for Tidal and Spotify, but no other streaming services unless you are prepared to try various workarounds. Is this the very latest model? Then I traded up to the CXN 2, and late in 2018 to the Node 2i. Thanks everyone, So I presently just use an Audioengine D2 wireless out of my MacBook and connect via Audioquest Cinnamon Toslink into my Krell Digital Vanguard. 4, was the latest, and supports multi-room use, resampling, and Memory Playback. I have the CXN V2 and with a Qutest it performs brilliantly. JavaScript is disabled. With this limited intention I am not bothered that it doesnt match my other sources, although its very listenable. The only lower cost transport that I know of that does a full MQA or DSD pass through is the Aries Mini. So what solutioN do I have? Not sure how much better it is than a Node but it supports all major streaming platforms plus ROON. I have just returned to this forum, after around 15 years, having finally aquired some upgrades to my original entry level system of NAC92R/NAP90.3 which I bought with the intention of entering the upgrade path, though never got around to it! The main issues with the 1st gen models include: Bluetooth is a simple, wireless way to send music from your phone, tablet, or laptop to your home stereo. The mk2 is possibly out of my budget, for the time being. Sounds like folks are leaning to the NODE which I think I am as well. As already mentionned by others, good streamer with nice corresponding app and added a Teddy Pardo power supply to lift up SQ. SpeakerCompare is protected by patents and patent applications owned by Crutchfield Corporation. All my music servers play it from the NAS drive over Ethernet. If I needed to play MQA from Tidal, I could just switch the input on my Preamp. For free personalized advice, call 1-888-291-8923. Sorry, I meant ND5-XS2 and NDX2 not NDS2 and NDX2 For a better experience, please enable JavaScript in your browser before proceeding. The new one has touch buttons led lights on top of the unit. displayname, Oct 2, 2019 #12 psulioninks Forum Resident I could purchase the s/h ND5-XS for roughly right inbetween the new prices of the Bluesound and the cambridve. #4. You are using an out of date browser. BUT. This is my experience. Do you know what I mean? But the term "chromcast" refers the technology which nowadays available in variety of equipments like TV, Streamer, Sound bar etc. Others? To be fair it looks a little better than the micro rendu. Discussion in 'Audio Hardware' started by wingram, Jul 5, 2019. Oldsmobile Sport Utility Stereos and Speakers. Being wireless is great, but that cable option is simple. Thorens TT (Cant recall the model, its from around 1968 and maybe TD125 or TD150, but I do remember its a MkII !)