cambridge audio cxn v2 vs bluesound node

It might actually sound better but any help would be appreciated. You are using an out of date browser. Other than that, I would like to use Airplay (1). Every time I use Crutchfield I am happy. Can't say for surejust learning about this all myself. Possibility of dropouts on Tidal in particular due to the small buffer. Its available for a nominal rental fee, and includes a $25 Crutchfield merchandise credit. JL audio E-sub e110 . We use automated technology to connect you with an Advisor and to answer some common questions. Bluetooth is a simple, wireless way to send music from your phone, tablet, or laptop to your home stereo. Learn how to get great sound from your computer, tie it into your home audio system, and improve your user experience. Cambridge Audio CXN V2. It doesnt seem like he needs the storage and disc ripping of the Vault. It is half the price of the Cambridge and has a much better user interface with BluOS. I use an iPad Air as a streamer into the USB on my Element II DAC/Amp. Thoughts if so? 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. The CXN V2 has three digital inputs, two digital outputs, analog (single-ended and balanced) outputs and one Ethernet input. I do use an external Meridian DAC (which I had already owned) and the difference between the two DACs is very subtle. 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. Apparently the stream magic app is a different one from Connect, and can only drive a specific range of network players, but not the cxn. It may have to do with if the hard drive is removed and then attached againI will find it eventually. It seems as the CXN uses dual DACS and has balanced outs. Getting hands-on with our products helps us pick what's best for our customers. Crutchfield is a servicemark of Crutchfield Corporation. Dont want the ****** internal DACs to touch the signal. So I'm thinking of buying my first streamer. Cambridge Audio CXN V2 Stereo Network Streamer - All-in-One Wireless Media Streaming with WiFi (Lunar Grey) Visit the Cambridge Audio Store 179 ratings | 117 answered questions Amazon's Choice in Streaming Media Players by Cambridge Audio Lowest price in 30 days -23% $99900 List Price: $1,299.00 See more About this item Some great advice above, I started a thread covering my own thought processes around streaming options with Naim kit. With its 24-bit/384kHz Wolfson DACs, the CXN V2 delivers great sound quality and support for Internet Radio, Tidal, Spotify Connect, AirPlay 2, Bluetooth aptX, and your networked music collection. I have my ipad pro connected to my dac/amp via usb c , everything sounds nice. I also heard that Bluesound Node has support for the upgraded Bluetooth Aptx and better support for Roon and Qobuz compared to the CXN. Wiim Pro? I had the Node 2i for a while and was underwhelmed by their app it does a lot but none of it very well and I found their service a bit meh, but to each their own. This is where the cable game can get me. Ive also hooked it up to my integrated amp and it works great as well. But it's a little involved and if you don't like to tinker stick with the CXN or get a Node 2i. If I am using an outboard DAC then is there much difference in SQ between these two streamers? So far, so good! Help on getting the maximum from cxn v2 and tidal. Yeah I want to get full resolution from what files and services I'm using so that's a con on the Cambridge. #12. Why can't I access my USB stick via the USB Audio menu on the CXN (V2)? Multi-room network audio players Multi-room connectivity emerged with the advent of digital music and wireless streaming. The only lower cost transport that I know of that does a full MQA or DSD pass through is the Aries Mini. One caveat with the Cambridge you should know. 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! 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). Inside the a-s801 is ES9010K2M. I prefer Audiolab over Bluesound Node 2i. audirvana does make a difference. Yeah no to be clear, the DAC I want to use is in the A-S801 amplifier. Poor WiFi performance: you need to use an Ethernet cable for reliable performance. 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. It lets you compare sonic characteristics between speakers so that you can make a more informed shopping decision. To be fair Blue Sound vaguely mentions this and favors the use of a NAS but personally unable to justify the extra hustle. actually working with the Bluesound Node on a SN3. Easy process from start to finish, and the availability of information is second to none. 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. Estimated wait for next available agent : Well email you a transcript of this conversation for your records. This raises the question of what you mean by dipping your toe in - what do you want to find out? A network music streamer lets you play digital music from different sources, and play them through connected speakers and devices in your home. 19,270. See which models top our list of best picks for 2023. Then I traded up to the CXN 2, and late in 2018 to the Node 2i. All my music servers play it from the NAS drive over Ethernet. So Im not sure what to go for between these streamers, or if I should simply stick with a cable for now. AVForums.com is owned and operated by M2N Limited, I use a dedicated Roon Rock server for my Roon to PS Audio DAC endpoint. You are using an out of date browser. Which is by no means guaranteed with Android (and possibly Apple- but check the threads on here about that) devices. Use Tidal either directly to CA servers or along Qobuz via Roon to PS Audio. CD3.5/Flatcap Sure, you can carry a small handheld speaker with you, but Deia takes her portable tunes more seriously. 1-888-292-2575. It may not display this or other websites correctly. It offers Roon Ready and Spotify Connect but no Chromecast Built-in. For a better experience, please enable JavaScript in your browser before proceeding. Your website is very efficient and easily navigable, selection is wide, and technical/chat support is outstanding. I'm always impressed with their professionalism and sincerity. If you are looking for SQ, go with CXN If you are looking for ease of use, go with Node. DACs, Streamers, Servers, Players, Audio Interface. A second hand Auralic Aries mini is another option worth considering. 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. 4, was the latest, and supports multi-room use, resampling, and Memory Playback. I found the Bluesound Node 2 to sound a lot better than the CCA through a cheap Schiit Dac. The website is extremely user friendly, unbeatable product selection, customer support, and audio knowledge. I use both qobuz and local flac files via Roon so integration with Roon is important too. That USB-C is direct, right? Absolutely outstanding are the words I think of to describe the selection, price, shipping, & the customer service. The CXN 2 sounds better. Have you tried plugging a hard drive into the Node 2i? I did not try a directly connected HD. About Press Copyright Contact us Creators Advertise Developers Terms Privacy Policy & Safety How YouTube works Test new features Press Copyright Contact us Creators . It delivers a collection of top music technologies for home use. 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. Learn about the terms used to describe sound, so you can find the right audio gear. The Bluesound node and the Bluos app have my highest recommendation,been using them for six months streaming Qobuz an Amazon music to Electrocompaniet amplifier and Dali Menuet SE speakers,sounds amazing,I have considered the Cambridge,but reading reviews of it's control app put me off,sticking with the Bluesound. Ordered list Unordered list Audioquest said they dont do that size but on their product sheet they state they do, Ive checked all over the internet and found some odd shops that do, but are too far for Germany. Thatll be $10 of the best $$$ you spend on audio. Files are large as unable to justify individual track ripping for some music styles (jazz, classical) and instead do full record sides. 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. Select your brand of headphones in the right-hand column. https://www.cambridgeaudio.com/usa/en/products/openboxclearance?f%5B0%5D=category%3A10. 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. 1) Bluesound to CXA via RCA. NAC102/HiCap/NAPSC But, if I were later still to obtain an NDS2 or NDX2, would the nDAC still serve as an upgrade to them? Sony A95L QD-OLED, X95L MINI LED And Full BRAVIA Range For 2023 (In-Depth Interview). I currently have both the bluesound node2i and the Cambridge CXNv2 and IMO, the DAC in the CXNv2 is better. CXN V2? This device lets you stream stunning sound quality and let you play music files from various apps such as Spotify and Deezer. Any 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 Anyone have hands on with both? Hopefully this will be fixed with a future Firmware update, but at the moment it's an issue. The OP was interested in the Node, not the Vault. All using original Naim interconnects and NAC-A5 cabling to an old pair of Castle Harlech speakers. No dealers near me carry it. You also mentioned the IFI Zen. CXN's DAC is definitely better than Node. Cambridge Audio CXN Version2. To help you choose the right speakers, we recommend using Crutchfields SpeakerCompare Listening Kit. 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. Yes, with the caveats that the source device (tablet/ phone / streamer) isnt doing anything to the file before passing it on. So many options to consider. the Amazon Associates Program via amazon.com. Are you aware that the original ND5XS uses rather dated streaming tech compared to its Mk2 replacement and has limitations if you are intending to stream from internet sources rather than a music collection stored on your local network? But I've heard consistently that the Cambridge sounds better which I would expect. Hence the post! The Bluesound DAC isnt bad but I wouldnt be surprise if the CXN better. Plus, our headphone writer reviews the high-res streaming music service. I didn't know that. Itll work with you iPad or out of your Windows laptop. The BluOS constantly updates. I mean, why would anyone want the internal DAC limiting the sound, then sending it on to a better DAC? So, are the prices going on the new paint scheme CXN v2? Ok. This site uses cookies to help personalise content, tailor your experience and to keep you logged in if you register. this can result in this site earning a commission. Every review I saw raves about the sound quality on the CXN-(V2). New Bluesound Node vs Cambridge CXN v2 for High Res Streaming? How USB Storage Differs From A Local Library, Cambridge Audio Introduces CX Series 2 Audio Components with Updated ESS Sabre DACs, https://www.cambridgeaudio.com/gbr/en/beta-testing, Forum Policies, Rules, and Terms of Service. ND5-XS vs Bluesound Node vs Cambridge CXN v2 Streaming Audio Realitycomputer August 31, 2022, 3:30pm #1 Hi all, just considering dipping my toe into the sreaming world (Not sure if I can get the correct interconnect for my toe though!) So I know if I get a streamer and hook-up a hard drive to my files then I know Ill get clean source if I bypass the streamers DAC, however what Im trying to find out, is that if I skip the streamer and directly go from USB-B on the A-S801, through an appropriate cable, and straight into a tablet or phone, HOW to bypass the internal processing of the tablet or phone, so it can send a direct signal to the cable and onto my A-S801. 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.. I love my Vault though. The former is more detailed, neutral and works with a variety of upstream equipment. But i feel I want to know for sure whether it skips the internal DAC or not. Cant speak for the CA CXN, but using my Vault 2, going through the DAC in my CA 851C is far better then the DAC in the Vault. Cambridge Audio CXN V2 and CXA81 NAD C399 The advantage with CA is the decoupling between the streamer component and the amplifier, allowing future upgrades of each component and keeping the other one. Hm, lets see what others have to say, but i think any random long usb a to b (there were plenty because of the printers) + an adapter to whatever usb you need should be more than fine. JavaScript is disabled. Dave's made his daily life so much more convenient by installing Smart Home devices. The Chromecast is is pretty impressive but it isnt gapless. Hi, I have tested both Audiolab 6000N and Bluesound Node 2i with a wide variety of speakers. Copyright 2000-2023 M2N Limited E. & O.E. My entry into streaming was an cxnv2. 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. For Tech Support, call My overall interaction with Crutchfield was easy and pleasant. 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. Knowing which model headphones youre using lets us remove any sonic coloring from your experience. 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 . The only lower cost transport that I know of that does a full MQA or DSD pass through is the Aries Mini. Yamaha RX-A2070, Musical Fidelity M6si integrated amp, Benchmark Dac1, Bluesound NODE 2i, Audiolab 6000CDT CD Transport, Parasound Zphono USB Phono Preamp, Fluance RT85, Ortofon 2M Bronze, Polk L600's, L400, L900's, RC80i's, Audioquest Interconnects and Digital Cables, Nordost Silver Shadow Digital Cable, Cullen Gold and Crossover Series Power This gives you a more direct comparison of subtle voicing differences between speakers. I was thinking of a chord qute 2 or maybe a moon 300d v2 . Please help Purchase the Audiolab 6000A Integrated Amplifier at a special offer price. Thats sort of the point of external USB DACs. All Naim streamers have a digital output which allows you to run them with a separate DAC as an upgrade option. Tags: music streamers sound quality; centralflori Super Member. Ive been looking at Audioquest cables, and Im think about 2 or 3 meter, and I guess a 2 meter is going to be better for sound than 3, but ideally 3 would be great. It outperforms the Dac in my Cambridge 851C cd player. Learn how to choose the best speakers for your home. Affiliate programs and Thank you djones. They do not share. Being able to connect a HDD is much more ideal. So what solutioN do I have? So it's not the Connect app anymore but one called Stream Magic? So I'm biased there and also multi-room can get expensive. Thanks for that. Another vote for the Blusound here, like you I was curious and dipping my toes, auditioned a Node 2i and it stayed. Hi, there is no NDS2!? I dont know the science around it, but my thinking is youd need to have a cable much longer that 2-3 meters to experience any noticeable degradation in sound quality. DACs, Streamers, Servers, Players, Audio Interface. So the cambridge gets rave reviews but It would be a struggle finding room in my existing CD6006 and Marantz Pearl Lite set up. The NDAC was certainly an upgrade on the internal DAC on the original NDX. You know more than I do! Roon can run a lot generic audio gear so think about that also but requires a 24/7 computer and $10/mo or $700 lifetime. affiliations include, but are not limited to, the eBay Partner Network, and Support for Tidal and Spotify, but no other streaming services unless you are prepared to try various workarounds. When I had the Node 2 I used two outputs. I know own the Cambridge, and Im using Chromecast for the high Rez Qobuz offerings, Ok thanks. I used (and still use) network attached storage. Makes sense. I have a CXN2 on my living room serving as 2 channel multi media interface also connected to a 4Tb HDD for streaming high res ripped vinyl files and some CDs. I guess. In equal volume mode, we've made the loudness of each speaker about the same. The Cambridge is in the list because i like the idea that I could use the internal DAC instead of my A-erhalten DAC, if It is better. The CXN V2. I've used the USB out to my DAC, and like many others have had to revert to a digital coax connection for Roon as crackles and pops make listening impossible. All the node's outputs are active all the time, which makes the Node quite nice for its price. SpeakerCompare tailors your listening experience to the exact headphones you have, so that what you hear is comparable to auditioning speakers side-by-side in person. Otherwise you need to move up to something like a Lumin U1 Mini. When you click on links to various merchants on this site and make a purchase, Looking at both of these units and I know there is a $500 difference but can anyone tell me the differences between them and which might be better? I could purchase the s/h ND5-XS for roughly right inbetween the new prices of the Bluesound and the cambridve. displayname, Oct 2, 2019 #12 psulioninks Forum Resident CXN is amongst a handful of players to have Chromecast built-in. Based on how I hear the Node 2i indexes, I think the CXN v2 may be the better bet for thisit's how I plan to use it mostly. I changed out the PC on my Vault 2 and it made a noticeable improvement. My first-hand feedback is that the Node works fine as a streamer (MPQ radio sounds good). I owned a CXN (first version) and the original Bluesound Node for a couple of years. #streaming #tidal #qobuzSUBSCRIBE TO PATREON to support Honest & Credible and well produced HiFi reviews and for ;-Ad Free Videos-Added Video Review content . There are pros and cons on both sides. 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. I have been recently trying to confirm my understanding of the ascending order of things! Not sure how much better it is than a Node but it supports all major streaming platforms plus ROON. The CXN is great at $900, but even better at less than that. Looks like the only changes to the CXN v2 is a new paint job Agree, same for the CXC as well. Posted: Mon Jan 08, 2018 9:39 pm . A lot of good advice on this site. The internal device DAC isnt used when you connect via USB. Pleased with this digital part of my sound system while looking around and saving funds for a more performant replacement. Have been reading for a long time and happy to finally contribute to this forum. What not a PI streamer with a Hat like Hifiberry or Allo. You must log in or register to reply here. 99 Sale price $299. No DAC used? I guess your cambridge setup is messed up or the unit is defective. Naim ND5-XS (S/H) IMO any unit that does not have an MQA decoder will be effectively obsolete within 2 years. If you want to save some money and still want Tidal MQA you could go with a Bluesound Node 2i instead of the CXN. I use Airplay for Qobuz. I have not heard the Bluesound. I mean, why would anyone want the internal DAC limiting the sound, then sending it on to a better DAC? If so the I guess it just comes down to features/size etc. Cambridge Audio CXN (V2) & CXA80 Double Review | The Master Switch The Master Switch Search Home Theater Best Full Systems 5.1 Home Theater Systems 7.1 Home Theater Systems AV Receivers I like to focus this list on the streamer sound quality (with the internal dac bypassed if existant). You are using an out of date browser. Will it give full res using Roon? If your headphones aren't listed, we recommend using our Listening Kit. with the design (ie look) of it. Along with the streaming capabilities, which is the best for playing files from a hard drive. See our in-depth review of the Cambridge Audio CXN (V2) streamer and CXA80 amp, with our analysis of the design, sound quality, accessories, and more. I want to load a hard drive up with my library (AIFFs) and play from it. Dear friendsWhich one to choose? The iPad Pro making the switch to USB-C means now is the perfect time to look at how it all works and why it matters when it comes to the sounds of your life. Local and via tidal, qobuz et al. The SQ isnt a match for my Hugo when I listened to one, but definitely got closer with an upgraded, Naim, interconnect. I'm probably recalling it badly but I think the USB spec is 3m (or maybe 5). AirPlay 2 and Chromecast compatible, the Cambridge CXN v2 network player can receive music from any iOS or Android smartphone.