One thing that strikes me about this product is the combination of competitive sound with the balanced design and dual DACs employed. Node? That's weird. If I needed to play MQA from Tidal, I could just switch the input on my Preamp. I don't need to spend thousands but it's a toss up between the Bluesound Node 2i and the CXN. Panasonic 55FZ950. Very good for the money. The trade-off is form factor and a higher price. Im not even sure which service might be best, for me. As already mentionned by others, good streamer with nice corresponding app and added a Teddy Pardo power supply to lift up SQ. bunno77; 1 Link to comment . I've heard the sound quality is superior in the CXN v2 but I also do not believe it even supports Amazon Music HD. Read the manual, the CXN v2 passes digital through up to 24/192 on the toslink or coax. marcozero Registered Joined Nov 16, 2021 14 Posts The new one has touch buttons led lights on top of the unit. 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. Cambridge CXN v2 (New). The Bluesound is also half the price of the Cambridge piece. Focus on speakers/room where a much more substantive change is possible. 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.. Thank you! No support for AirPlay, Chromecast, Roon. Cambridge Audio CXN V2. The Bluesound supports a HDD whereas the Yamaha only supports a USB stick. When you click on links to various merchants on this site and make a purchase, Or, would the DAC quality in these streamers have surpasseed that offered by the nDAC, by this point, making the nDAC now redundant? Not familiar with the the streamers youve mentioned, but youre getting some good advice. 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 ? The world's largest high-end audio community. 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 ? While the cost is about double if the sound quality is as good as . I did not try a directly connected HD. 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. CXN (in my opinion) has a little darker sound (not to be confused with warm). 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. 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. The Bluesound DAC isnt bad but I wouldnt be surprise if the CXN better. @wgosma: Opinions vary on the efficacy of aftermarket power cords. CXN is amongst a handful of players to have Chromecast built-in. 4, was the latest, and supports multi-room use, resampling, and Memory Playback. On their Support/Community site, they state the Firmware that opened the USB output is still in Beta. Bluesound Node (2021) or CXN V2? It was getting too late at night for me! 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. A network music streamer lets you play digital music from different sources, and play them through connected speakers and devices in your home. I have my ipad pro connected to my dac/amp via usb c , everything sounds nice. Taking into consideration Chris comment above about the Naim streamers limitations, out of the two remaining options I would recommend the Bluesound Node.The latest version is a great streamer for toe dipping and the app is a dream. My guess is, very few have listened carefully to both, so it's going to be difficult to get this specific feedback. 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. 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. When you click on links to various merchants on this site and make a purchase, For a better experience, please enable JavaScript in your browser before proceeding. It doesn't take deep pockets or "golden ears" to obtain and appreciate good sound. Reviving this old topic as I am looking at both of these streaming devices and cant quite make a decision. They're always very helpful! Ive also hooked it up to my integrated amp and it works great as well. 99 Sale price $299. With the Node 2i connected to my LAN by ethernet, performance is seamless. 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. Makes sense. 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 CXN 2 sounds better. I am looking forwarding to attaching one of my external hard drives to it for playback of lossless vinyl rips while I work. SpeakerCompare simulates the sound of home and car speakers through your headphones. Do you know what I mean? I own both the CA 851n and the CXN 1. 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. Naim ND5-XS (S/H) All the node's outputs are active all the time, which makes the Node quite nice for its price. There are pros and cons on both sides. #streaming #tidal #qobuzSUBSCRIBE TO PATREON to support Honest & Credible and well produced HiFi reviews and for ;-Ad Free Videos-Added Video Review content . BUT. Do you know what I mean? So I'm biased there and also multi-room can get expensive. I stream from the Qobuz app. The CXN V2 is older but likely to have better sound quality. You are using an out of date browser. Knowing which model headphones youre using lets us remove any sonic coloring from your experience. /Stageline I am on the hunt for a good streamer. Now changing the amp to Acoustic Portrait Swara v2 integrated amp. Being able to connect a HDD is much more ideal. Depending how serious you want to be with streaming and the law of diminishing returns you might find the Node to be perfectly adequate for quite a while, had it about 4 or 5 years now (I think), might find the Node to be perfectly adequate, Just to clarify I mean the Node 2i, a decent used model could be a good bargain or the newer improved version. Find a used Ayre Codex Dac. Love Crutchfield! The Node, no question. Thank you for the replies everyone. However, since I'll mostly be using the streamers as simply pass through, things like the music service compatibility and app UX is probably more important for me in this scenario. All component separate. It delivers a collection of top music technologies for home use. On March 6, 2020 By hifitr5_wp There are a couple of budget (around $500) Audiophile Music Streamers I recommend. 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 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. Cambridge Audio/Music Direct - CXN v2 Network Player Network Player on Sale for $725 Awesome deal on this unit! This does bit mean that the digital signal is not up/down sampled or otherwise processed in the device before it's passed to the external dac. Dave's made his daily life so much more convenient by installing Smart Home devices. Every time I use Crutchfield I am happy. One into my Dac and then one analog out from the Node. Also the means and ways of interacting with the CXN and its 'switchability' in always . 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. Yeah I hope sound doesnt drop over 3 meters. But also I really need to know if the signal from the tablet or phone is untouched. But I've heard consistently that the Cambridge sounds better which I would expect. Crutchfield has and always will be the number one source for all electronic needs, there is no one better. I have not heard the Bluesound. Preferred the smsl su-8 over their inbuilt DAC. You also mentioned the IFI Zen. This site uses cookies to help personalise content, tailor your experience and to keep you logged in if you register. All web chat conversations are recorded. Otherwise you need to move up to something like a Lumin U1 Mini. Ok. 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!) You are using an out of date browser. https://www.cambridgeaudio.com/usa/en/products/openboxclearance?f%5B0%5D=category%3A10. You bet! Have you tried plugging a hard drive into the Node 2i? 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? For a better experience, please enable JavaScript in your browser before proceeding. The articles & videos are also super-helpful! 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. IMO any unit that does not have an MQA decoder will be effectively obsolete within 2 years. Your website is very efficient and easily navigable, selection is wide, and technical/chat support is outstanding. You are using an out of date browser. What are some of the differences between the 2 streamers with regards to high res streaming? I didn't know that. 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. For free personalized advice, call 1-888-291-8923. For a better experience, please enable JavaScript in your browser before proceeding. the Amazon Associates Program via amazon.com. Tags: music streamers sound quality; centralflori Super Member. If you are looking for SQ, go with CXN If you are looking for ease of use, go with Node. 1 Home Entertainment Tech Resource. Any thoughts on which would be the best idea from the following choices? In equal power mode, you'll hear these differences in loudness as they naturally occur between speakers. (Not sure if I can get the correct interconnect for my toe though!). Can't say for surejust learning about this all myself. Messages: 2,061 . I dont think that is correct. Posted: . Plus, our headphone writer reviews the high-res streaming music service. Just forget about indexing or playing a large HDD library. About Press Copyright Contact us Creators Advertise Developers Terms Privacy Policy & Safety How YouTube works Test new features Press Copyright Contact us Creators . Poor WiFi performance: you need to use an Ethernet cable for reliable performance. I first streamed digital files attached to my network computer thinking the USB was only good for smaller capacity flash drives. That USB-C is direct, right? They ARE NOT a streaming service. 1-888-292-2575. 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. The CXN v2 upsamples everything to 24/384 when using it in preamp mode. So Bluesound is both streamer and DAC, CXA is power amp 2) Bluesound to CXA via digital coax. The mk2 is possibly out of my budget, for the time being. I've had a node 2i for about a year now. Sleek design. Ill inquire with Cambridge. Looks like the only changes to the CXN v2 is a new paint job Agree, same for the CXC as well. USB-C on iPada makes the a legit streamer option IMO. DACs, Streamers, Servers, Players, Audio Interface. 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. The Bluesound Node 2i is designed with enhanced dual-band WIFI to render the best-in-class performance even in crowded airspaces. Have been reading for a long time and happy to finally contribute to this forum. Any difference? Powered by Xenforo, Hosted by Nimbus Hosting, Original design Critical Media Ltd. First, Yamaha wxc 50 in preamp mode does SRC to 48 KHz with everything . Its a brilliant streamer, dac, Preamp, bluetooth & Mqa is also there. Yes, I agree! No one supports Amazon. If you do not consent, please do not continue with chat assistance. Hi, looking for some advice please. Find out what makes high-res audio sound better, and how you can experience it. I use Airplay for Qobuz. Compare Cambridge Audio CXN (V2) vs Bluesound NODE Free 2-day shipping to Washington 1-888-955-6000 Contact us Your account 0 Your cart Shop all departments Articles & videos Car audio & video Home audio TVs & video Headphones & wireless Marine Smart home Cameras & drones Pro audio Health More Specials Articles & videos B2B Sales Go Back Hi, I have tested both Audiolab 6000N and Bluesound Node 2i with a wide variety of speakers. I find it an excellent combination. this can result in this site earning a commission. Am I correct? I currently have both the bluesound node2i and the Cambridge CXNv2 and IMO, the DAC in the CXNv2 is better. Yeah no to be clear, the DAC I want to use is in the A-S801 amplifier. I have a CXN v2(as source with Flac, streaming Spotify) paired with CA351a and Elac 2.0 B5.2. Yeah no to be clear, the DAC I want to use is in the A-S801 amplifier. They announced a new app as well, which I believe is supposed to work with the current CXN series as well, so I'm excited to see that. Wi-Fi speakers are the building blocks for wireless multi-room audio systems from Sonos, Bose, and other brands. It lets you compare sonic characteristics between speakers so that you can make a more informed shopping decision. Some great advice above, I started a thread covering my own thought processes around streaming options with Naim kit. Where did you see that and where does he say it will be compatible with the current CXN series? 390. From their Facebook page post of 9/20/19: I sold off the CXN 2 because it sat unused. I have the CXN V2 and with a Qutest it performs brilliantly. Do we get hands-on with the gear we sell? To be fair it looks a little better than the micro rendu. Very bummed they are dropping the black gear though, and very happy I purchased mine in black already. Which is by no means guaranteed with Android (and possibly Apple- but check the threads on here about that) devices. Not using the internal dacs? Absolutely outstanding are the words I think of to describe the selection, price, shipping, & the customer service. If it isn't double blind, likely is double talk. Use Tidal either directly to CA servers or along Qobuz via Roon to PS Audio. Posted: Mon Jan 08, 2018 9:39 pm . If anyone still on this thread, what is the difference in streaming quality vs the two. CXN V2? Possibility of dropouts on Tidal in particular due to the small buffer. Well I purchased the Node 2021 and am so pleased! I know the node has USB out (if Bluesound have managed to get it working correctly). 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. The pluses for the CXN2 is good sound quality, overall feel (no plastic), a more powerful processor, and physical controls. Which did you prefer and why? The OP was interested in the Node, not the Vault. Then I traded up to the CXN 2, and late in 2018 to the Node 2i. This gives you a more direct comparison of subtle voicing differences between speakers. Very good units for the price, especially when connected via wired internet as opposed to WiFi. I mean, why would anyone want the internal DAC limiting the sound, then sending it on to a better DAC? If you no longer wish to receive the call, please click the button to cancel your request. Connect the CXC to one of the digital inputs on the CXN V2 using either S/P DIF for a shorter connection, or TOSLINK optical for a longer connection. USB-C audio and the iPad Pro: Everything you need to know, Cambridge DacMagic vs Cambridge CXN v2 /v3, cambridge streamer cxn v2 USB tracklist error, issue with ECI-2, CXN v2 and external 2.5" HDD, Amplifiers, Phono preamp, and Analog Audio Review, Streamer/Dac Suggestions For AE1 Active's. I think Id much rather get a portable DAP with a good DAC, and use that over a cable connection. Any opinions on BS node 2i into Yggdrasil Dac. So many options to consider. One caveat with the Cambridge you should know. Pleased with this digital part of my sound system while looking around and saving funds for a more performant replacement. But it's a little involved and if you don't like to tinker stick with the CXN or get a Node 2i. I could purchase the s/h ND5-XS for roughly right inbetween the new prices of the Bluesound and the cambridve. Does anyone have any insight. All you really need is a craving for good sound and a system-building plan. The internal device DAC isnt used when you connect via USB. You can also look at stuff from SMSL, Topping and NuPrime stream 9. 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. 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. I have a Node 2i in my listening room, but I work most all day from the family room and wanted to try something different there. The CXN V2 is part of Cambridge Audio's midrange CX series, which also includes two integrated amplifiers and a CD transport. actually working with the Bluesound Node on a SN3. This raises the question of what you mean by dipping your toe in - what do you want to find out? Has both digital and analog outputs, SQ is likely superb and available at a small fraction of their top of the line products, and resale value, however limited, is likely high among competing products. Being wireless is great, but that cable option is simple. 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 Other than that, I would like to use Airplay (1). 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. I read somewhere there would be a partial unfolding (higher res than red book) on MQA titles from Tidal. Plenty of other options for less than a new Naim, Lumin U1 mini, Matrix Element I, Ifi Zen Stream. Otherwise you need to move up to something like a Lumin U1 Mini. Problems with DSD, flacs skipping, bad WiFi connection. I am mostly concerned with SQ on the digital outputs. That's interested @rvpiano. 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. I changed out the PC on my Vault 2 and it made a noticeable improvement. displayname, Oct 2, 2019 #12 psulioninks Forum Resident 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. Itll work with you iPad or out of your Windows laptop. 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. Not the earlier Node model though that pre dates the 2i, just to confuse matters I see Bluesound are now naming its latest iteration The Node. SpeakerCompare is protected by patents and patent applications owned by Crutchfield Corporation. #4. Since 1974.SM. 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 They do not share. 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. 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. Hi. It seems as the CXN uses dual DACS and has balanced outs. Inside the a-s801 is ES9010K2M. 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. The Node can be impressive and always seems to be compatible with every streaming service around. Not sure how much better it is than a Node but it supports all major streaming platforms plus ROON. I have the moon neo 250i amplifier Top . Copyright 1996-2023, Crutchfield New Media, LLC. Will it give full res using Roon? If you want to save some money and still want Tidal MQA you could go with a Bluesound Node 2i instead of the CXN. The Chromecast is is pretty impressive but it isnt gapless. BlueOS is quite intuitive. You must log in or register to reply here. More modern, more compact, headphone out, sub out with cutoff filters for bass management, and allegedly blue sound is the best streaming software around. A second hand Auralic Aries mini is another option worth considering. To be honest, with a good high quality stream there are times when it can give my fairly advanced on the upgrade path LP12 a run for its money. It can also transmit studio-quality music to Bluetooth headphones or external speakers. you get some phase and time alignment voodoo as well as some system optimization benefits. I use an iPad Air as a streamer into the USB on my Element II DAC/Amp. All rights reserved. Estimated wait for next available agent : Well email you a transcript of this conversation for your records. I owned a CXN (first version) and the original Bluesound Node for a couple of years. Dont want the ****** internal DACs to touch the signal. The first is the Audiolab 6000N Play, which I consider to be the best sounding streamer in that price range. Thanks. When I had the Node 2 I used two outputs. Unfortunately not. Hence the post! I'll be a customer for as long as they are in business. In other states where we don't collect sales tax, it may be the customer's responsibility to assure that all appropriate state use taxes are paid. It works great. I guess. .The C 658 is pure high resolution from input to output and features NAD's Direct Digital 35 bit 844kHz DAC, one of the . But, if I were later still to obtain an NDS2 or NDX2, would the nDAC still serve as an upgrade to them? Hello. The improved NDX2 closes the gap somewhat but for me the NDAC is still an upgrade, and at used prices, a pretty cheap one. CA has no Roon or direct Qobuz connection. It outperforms the Dac in my Cambridge 851C cd player. I guess really my question is which sounds better (if we discount the internal dacs) or are they going to be pretty much the same. Being able to connect a HDD is much more ideal. No dealers near me carry it. The NDAC was certainly an upgrade on the internal DAC on the original NDX. SpeakerCompare gives you a sense of the sonic differences. Learn how to get great sound from your computer, tie it into your home audio system, and improve your user experience. This is where the cable game can get me. AirPlay 2 and Chromecast compatible, the Cambridge CXN v2 network player can receive music from any iOS or Android smartphone. JL audio E-sub e110 . But i feel I want to know for sure whether it skips the internal DAC or not. Oldsmobile Sport Utility Stereos and Speakers. Hows that for humble? Along with the streaming capabilities, which is the best for playing files from a hard drive. I was aware that it could be an issue, but was hoping it had been sorted by now. 853. To be fair Blue Sound vaguely mentions this and favors the use of a NAS but personally unable to justify the extra hustle. I have the Cambridge and really like it, but I have no experience with the bluesound. So the cambridge gets rave reviews but It would be a struggle finding room in my existing CD6006 and Marantz Pearl Lite set up. 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. The Cambridge Audio CXN V2 is a powerful network streamer. The CXN is great at $900, but even better at less than that. But performance in the real world is affected by the acoustics of your car or home, your choice of amplification, and your source material. I suspect a ND5 XS2 is in my future, for simplicity. The CXN V2 has three digital inputs, two digital outputs, analog (single-ended and balanced) outputs and one Ethernet input. Sony A95L QD-OLED, X95L MINI LED And Full BRAVIA Range For 2023 (In-Depth Interview). 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 i have mentioned before, i had an all JBL LSR 3XX system with subwoofer and I could not get the pacing nor timing right until I added Audirvana that was the missing link. My advice to anyone who asks is to investigate them only after you are satisfied with every other part of your system, with emphasis on the speakers, room acoustics, and electronics. This website uses the TMDb API but is not endorsed or certified by TMDb. Both are good but prefer my PS Audio Directstream with Bridge II overall. In equal volume mode, we've made the loudness of each speaker about the same. It may not display this or other websites correctly. So I want a clean signal from a source to be internalised with that DAC. I use both qobuz and local flac files via Roon so integration with Roon is important too. So I want a clean signal from a source to be internalised with that DAC. But just to emphasise, digital coax output to a DAC works absolutely fine with the Node as Roon Endpoint.