cambridge audio cxn v2 vs bluesound node

I have not tried the cxn v2 , but the node2i DAC was ok when I tried. 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. Even its built-in headphone amp is respectable. Cambridge Audio/Music Direct - CXN v2 Network Player Network Player on Sale for $725 Awesome deal on this unit! When you click on links to various merchants on this site and make a purchase, My first-hand feedback is that the Node works fine as a streamer (MPQ radio sounds good). The new one has touch buttons led lights on top of the unit. All using original Naim interconnects and NAC-A5 cabling to an old pair of Castle Harlech speakers. Built my own and took ten minutes. 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. The Bluesound Node 2i is designed with enhanced dual-band WIFI to render the best-in-class performance even in crowded airspaces. (Not sure if I can get the correct interconnect for my toe though!). If I needed to play MQA from Tidal, I could just switch the input on my Preamp. 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. 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 bumpquestion regarding the need for external DAC above? . The CXN V2 is part of Cambridge Audio's midrange CX series, which also includes two integrated amplifiers and a CD transport. 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. the Amazon Associates Program via amazon.com. 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 ? Have been reading for a long time and happy to finally contribute to this forum. There is a thread talking about how it re-indexes and that it takes a whileI got the impression it will workbut was not really designed to do this. That way I could have all the internal storage, and quality sound signal maybe a Fiio x7 or so. I have not heard the Bluesound. 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. Will it give full res using Roon? So far, so good! Is this possible? But also I really need to know if the signal from the tablet or phone is untouched. Thanks. So, are the prices going on the new paint scheme CXN v2? Crazy. Naim ND5-XS (S/H) 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. Please consider the user interface. Plus an in-depth review of the service by Jeff Miller, Crutchfield's headphone guy. Sorry to throw a monkey wrench into the discussion, but after many A-B comparisons, in general the Chromecast sounds better than the Sondstream despite the occasional higher sampling rate. Very good units for the price, especially when connected via wired internet as opposed to WiFi. Europe's busiest forums, with independent news and expert reviews, for TVs, Home Cinema, Hi-Fi, Movies, Gaming, Tech and more. You must log in or register to reply here. Posted: . It may not display this or other websites correctly. Bluesound Node 2 vs Cambridge CXN - Canuck Audio Mart For a better experience, please enable JavaScript in your browser before proceeding. New Bluesound Node vs Cambridge Audio Day Magic 200. So pure source upto the amplifiers DAC. Any opinions on BS node 2i into Yggdrasil Dac. 1 Home Entertainment Tech Resource. 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.. Estimated wait for next available agent : Well email you a transcript of this conversation for your records. 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. Thorens TT (Cant recall the model, its from around 1968 and maybe TD125 or TD150, but I do remember its a MkII !) If I were to go the streamer/DAC/pre-amp route I would buy the Cambridge Audio rig in a heart beat. If you're using an outboard DAC I believe the signal just passes through. 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 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 used (and still use) network attached storage. If you are looking for SQ, go with CXN If you are looking for ease of use, go with Node. No, Im not very aware of software choices at this point. There are pros and cons on both sides. If I am using an outboard DAC then is there much difference in SQ between these two streamers? Wi-Fi speakers are the building blocks for wireless multi-room audio systems from Sonos, Bose, and other brands. 19,270. Node app is way superior over the CXN and for me is the best music app after Roon. 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. 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. HELP WITH CHOICE OF MUSIC STREAMER-CAMBRIDGE AUDIO OR AUDIOLAB OMNIA & TURNTABLE, Chromecast / Airplay Question - iOS - CXN V2 Streamer. CXN (in my opinion) has a little darker sound (not to be confused with warm). 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. Difference between Bluesound Node 2i and Cambridge CXN v2. Sony A95L QD-OLED, X95L MINI LED And Full BRAVIA Range For 2023 (In-Depth Interview). Focus on speakers/room where a much more substantive change is possible. Sounds like folks are leaning to the NODE which I think I am as well. Someone mentioned here that the Cambridge doesnt so full resolution unless using their app? Cambridge Audio CXN (V2) review - whathifi Panasonic 55FZ950. 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? See which models top our list of best picks for 2023. Thats sort of the point of external USB DACs. 390. All component separate. Carlos and Alex bring our famous DIY spirit to the annual United Way Day of Caring. Audiogon Discussion Forum Ned's best friend helps him evaluate frequencies only dogs can hear. I love my Vault though. I guess you got confused between "Chromcast audio" and "Chromcast", the former is an audio gear which is currently stopped production. Or, would the DAC quality in these streamers have surpasseed that offered by the nDAC, by this point, making the nDAC now redundant? Looks like the only changes to the CXN v2 is a new paint job Agree, same for the CXC as well. 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. A lot of good advice on this site. A 3.5mm headphone jack can be found in the middle of the front panel, below the Bluesound logo, too. Linked to my laptop, other than getting the artwork wrong occasionally, its pretty seamless. The main issues with the 1st gen models include: Can't say for surejust learning about this all myself. Troubleshooting - Cambridge Audio Support Do you have any thoughts on cable types and length. Sony A95L QD-OLED, X95L MINI LED And Full BRAVIA Range For 2023 (In-Depth Interview). Find a used Ayre Codex Dac. That's weird. marcozero Registered Joined Nov 16, 2021 14 Posts Both are good but prefer my PS Audio Directstream with Bridge II overall. https://www.cambridgeaudio.com/usa/en/products/openboxclearance?f%5B0%5D=category%3A10. It works great. It was getting too late at night for me! Some great advice above, I started a thread covering my own thought processes around streaming options with Naim kit. 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. 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. you get some phase and time alignment voodoo as well as some system optimization benefits. 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 Thanks for the update, consider adding this to your profile. With this limited intention I am not bothered that it doesnt match my other sources, although its very listenable. Am I correct? Product link at Music Direct. Read the manual, the CXN v2 passes digital through up to 24/192 on the toslink or coax. How to make the most of Amazon's high-res and CD-quality music streams. Thank you djones. One caveat with the Cambridge you should know. and you got the option to use an external dac. You must log in or register to reply here. The Node, no question. Node? Bluetooth is a simple, wireless way to send music from your phone, tablet, or laptop to your home stereo. 853. And it sounds great. It may not display this or other websites correctly. this can result in this site earning a commission. Your website is very efficient and easily navigable, selection is wide, and technical/chat support is outstanding. Otherwise you need to move up to something like a Lumin U1 Mini. Streaming Newbie: Cambridge 851N, NAD C 658 Or Let's take a closer look at this device. Since 1974.SM. The BluOS constantly updates. 4, was the latest, and supports multi-room use, resampling, and Memory Playback. The Node is very new and seems to have great functionality. Cambridge Audio Support CXN (V2) Troubleshooting Troubleshooting How to optimise your StreamMagic browsing experience (Metadata Tagging) How to connect your CXN (V2) manually using the IP address Windows Audio USB Class 2 Driver Why can't I add Pandora to my CXN (V2)? company number 03997482, registered in England and Wales. Please help Purchase the Audiolab 6000A Integrated Amplifier at a special offer price. 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. The articles & videos are also super-helpful! It is similar in terms of inputs and versatility, packed in a classy looking black or white box with a single LED and somewhat useless controls on the top. The Bluesound is also half the price of the Cambridge piece. Cambridge CXN v2 (New). This is my experience. Any thoughts on which would be the best idea from the following choices? It may not display this or other websites correctly. Virtual audio technology allows you to compare sonic characteristics between speakers so you can make a more informed shopping decision. Do we get hands-on with the gear we sell? It might actually sound better but any help would be appreciated. Multi-room network audio players Multi-room connectivity emerged with the advent of digital music and wireless streaming. I first streamed digital files attached to my network computer thinking the USB was only good for smaller capacity flash drives. I guess your cambridge setup is messed up or the unit is defective. 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). Inside the a-s801 is ES9010K2M. Especially with Tidal MQA, would the node 2i unfold MQA to a partial level since the Yggy is not MQA compatible? Poor WiFi performance: you need to use an Ethernet cable for reliable performance. DAC & Streaming Confusion: Cambridge CXN V2 vs DacMagic 200M - reddit Streamer Shoot-Out: Allo, Bluesound, Cambridge Audio, Innuos - YouTube Affiliate programs and Streamers ranked by sound quality - Networking, Networked Audio, and 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 also heard that Bluesound Node has support for the upgraded Bluetooth Aptx and better support for Roon and Qobuz compared to the CXN. Personaly I'm not interested in other functionality like dac and pre amp. I mean, why would anyone want the internal DAC limiting the sound, then sending it on to a better DAC? A quality USB-C to USB-B cable from Amazon or Monoprice will got the job done. I compare the Cambridge Audio CXN version 2 to the Bluesound Node 2i in this video review. The Best Digital Music Streamers for Your Home - Gear Patrol Difference between Bluesound Node 2i and Cambridge CXN v2 .The C 658 is pure high resolution from input to output and features NAD's Direct Digital 35 bit 844kHz DAC, one of the . If you are willing to pay that fine. Im not even sure which service might be best, for me. My 2 cents; Buy the CXN v2 it's such a pleasure.the app works really quick and the quality is more then good. Itll work with you iPad or out of your Windows laptop. displayname, Oct 2, 2019 #12 psulioninks Forum Resident 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.. Well I purchased the Node 2021 and am so pleased! Not using the internal dacs? Compare Cambridge Audio CXN (V2) vs Bluesound NODE The NAD C399 has higher output and also the possibility of upgrading and having room correction. One into my Dac and then one analog out from the Node. In equal power mode, you'll hear these differences in loudness as they naturally occur between speakers. In equal volume mode, we've made the loudness of each speaker about the same. 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. The CXN V2 has three digital inputs, two digital outputs, analog (single-ended and balanced) outputs and one Ethernet input. Being wireless is great, but that cable option is simple. 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. 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. I always choose to support you guys over a big box. But i feel I want to know for sure whether it skips the internal DAC or not. 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. Hi, there is no NDS2!? Makes sense. 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. The improved NDX2 closes the gap somewhat but for me the NDAC is still an upgrade, and at used prices, a pretty cheap one. NAP180 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. Our Advisors have listened to most of the speakers we carry, and can help you make the best choice for your system. Hopefully this will be fixed with a future Firmware update, but at the moment it's an issue. 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. The internal device DAC isnt used when you connect via USB. This discussion is important for me. Powered by Xenforo, Hosted by Nimbus Hosting, Original design Critical Media Ltd. 7 Best Music Streamers of 2023 [For Real Audiophiles] - DownHomeDigital The Chromecast is is pretty impressive but it isnt gapless. 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. 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! this can result in this site earning a commission. No complaint about the Cambridge app. Its a brilliant streamer, dac, Preamp, bluetooth & Mqa is also there. 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. A second hand Auralic Aries mini is another option worth considering. This device lets you stream stunning sound quality and let you play music files from various apps such as Spotify and Deezer. As far as I can tell, so far, the latest (2021?) A better switch dramatically improved performance by eliminating lag, dropouts, arbitration issues when the network is particularly busy, etc. But it's a little involved and if you don't like to tinker stick with the CXN or get a Node 2i. AirPlay 2 and Chromecast compatible, the Cambridge CXN v2 network player can receive music from any iOS or Android smartphone. The CXN V2. Files are large as unable to justify individual track ripping for some music styles (jazz, classical) and instead do full record sides. I stream from the Qobuz app. I use both qobuz and local flac files via Roon so integration with Roon is important too. If it isn't double blind, likely is double talk. AVForums.com is owned and operated by M2N Limited, I was aware that it could be an issue, but was hoping it had been sorted by now. New Bluesound Node vs Cambridge CXN v2 for High Res Streaming? Its available for a nominal rental fee, and includes a $25 Crutchfield merchandise credit. Bluesound Node 2 vs Cambridge CXN. You also mentioned the IFI Zen. Dear friendsWhich one to choose? Problems with DSD, flacs skipping, bad WiFi connection. Cambridge CXN V2 or Bluesound Node 2i paired with external DAC? Dave's made his daily life so much more convenient by installing Smart Home devices. CXN (in my opinion) has a little darker sound (not to be confused with warm). Im still using a NP5 and Hugo mk1 - it sounds fabulous. With its Bluetooth aptX, the Bluesound Node 2i easily supports 24-bit streaming directly from your phone or tablet. Why can't I access my USB stick via the USB Audio menu on the CXN (V2)? So I'm biased there and also multi-room can get expensive. I use a dedicated Roon Rock server for my Roon to PS Audio DAC endpoint. 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 only oversight I can see is not including HDMI arc. You know more than I do! 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. In some places, it repeats the review of the previous product: CXN V2 still has a wonderful DAC but unfortunately . 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. Just a heads up on the Node's USB output when using the Node as a Roon Endpoint - there are still issues with the implementation of this from Bluesound's side of things. It may not display this or other websites correctly. It seems as the CXN uses dual DACS and has balanced outs. For a better experience, please enable JavaScript in your browser before proceeding. Please enter a valid 10-digit phone number. Qobuz skipping files. But what about the sound quality? So I want a clean signal from a source to be internalised with that DAC. 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. My place for electronics, great customer service, product expertise & lifetime technical support. If anyone still on this thread, what is the difference in streaming quality vs the two. The Node 2i costs about RM1,000 more than the Yamaha. 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. A network music streamer lets you play digital music from different sources, and play them through connected speakers and devices in your home. JavaScript is disabled. 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! 10 Best Music Streamers in 2023 - HomeToys I own both the CA 851n and the CXN 1. Also the means and ways of interacting with the CXN and its 'switchability' in always . About Press Copyright Contact us Creators Advertise Developers Terms Privacy Policy & Safety How YouTube works Test new features Press Copyright Contact us Creators . DACs, Streamers, Servers, Players, Audio Interface. The CXN V2 is older but likely to have better sound quality. Absolutely outstanding are the words I think of to describe the selection, price, shipping, & the customer service. Bangalore. You are using an out of date browser. 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 think there was an android USB DAC app that did something like that (?) The CXN v2 upsamples everything to 24/384 when using it in preamp mode. Bluesound Node or WXC-50 or Cambridge CXN V2 or. a cable? It seems as the CXN uses dual DACS and has balanced outs. Sonos Port or Bluesound Node 2i? | What Hi-Fi? Forum $1,299.00 Oh, apart from the RCA to DIN, where I have a Chord Crimson and a Chord Chrysalis (iirc?). the Amazon Associates Program via amazon.com. Any difference? Possibility of dropouts on Tidal in particular due to the small buffer. Cambridge Audio CXN V2 - A good buy or not? | AVForums Tags: music streamers sound quality; centralflori Super Member. Is this correct? The Bluesound supports a HDD whereas the Yamaha only supports a USB stick. 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 USB-C on iPada makes the a legit streamer option IMO. No support for AirPlay, Chromecast, Roon. Bluesound Node or WXC-50 or Cambridge CXN V2 or. a cable? | Audio Find out what makes high-res audio sound better, and how you can experience it. I read somewhere there would be a partial unfolding (higher res than red book) on MQA titles from Tidal. My overall interaction with Crutchfield was easy and pleasant. 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. For a better experience, please enable JavaScript in your browser before proceeding. I could purchase the s/h ND5-XS for roughly right inbetween the new prices of the Bluesound and the cambridve. Any further thoughts on these two streamers would be much appreciated. And I understand the Node has now been further improved over the 2i. SpeakerCompare gives you a sense of the sonic differences. Anyone have hands on with both? If you want to save some money and still want Tidal MQA you could go with a Bluesound Node 2i instead of the CXN. digital 149206-129624 Difference between Bluesound Node 2i and Cambridge CXN v2 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? In addition to its new Roon Ready support, the CXN features Chromecast built-in, making it easy for users to access content from Sirius XM, Soundcloud, and hundreds of other music sources. Connect the CXN V2 outputs to one of the analogue inputs of the CXA61/81 via balanced XLR (CXA81 only), or unbalanced RCA. Oldsmobile Sport Utility Stereos and Speakers. Copyright 1996-2023, Crutchfield New Media, LLC. Thank you! The Bluesound DAC isnt bad but I wouldnt be surprise if the CXN better. I didn't know that. Not sure how much better it is than a Node but it supports all major streaming platforms plus ROON. To be fair Blue Sound vaguely mentions this and favors the use of a NAS but personally unable to justify the extra hustle. The Cambridge CXN (V2) is $1100. You are using an out of date browser. It doesnt seem like he needs the storage and disc ripping of the Vault. 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. No one supports Amazon. AVForums.com is owned and operated by M2N Limited, SpeakerCompare simulates the sound of home and car speakers through your headphones. 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. All the node's outputs are active all the time, which makes the Node quite nice for its price. actually working with the Bluesound Node on a SN3. I dont think that is correct. I appreciate its going to be affected by the DAC, I currently have a Chord Mojo (and will possibly upgrade to Hugo) and I prefer the USB, but thats not a deal-breaker. Naim ND5-XS (S/H) Bluesound Node (New) Cambridge Audio CXN Version2.