cambridge audio cxn v2 vs bluesound node

You must log in or register to reply here. 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. If I were to go the streamer/DAC/pre-amp route I would buy the Cambridge Audio rig in a heart beat. this can result in this site earning a commission. Which is by no means guaranteed with Android (and possibly Apple- but check the threads on here about that) devices. That's weird. It doesnt seem like he needs the storage and disc ripping of the Vault. Sorry, I meant ND5-XS2 and NDX2 not NDS2 and NDX2 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 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. The CXN V2. You bet! CXN is amongst a handful of players to have Chromecast built-in. But it's a little involved and if you don't like to tinker stick with the CXN or get a Node 2i. A better switch dramatically improved performance by eliminating lag, dropouts, arbitration issues when the network is particularly busy, etc. Reviving this old topic as I am looking at both of these streaming devices and cant quite make a decision. The world's largest high-end audio community. 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 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. 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. Ive also hooked it up to my integrated amp and it works great as well. Problems with DSD, flacs skipping, bad WiFi connection. It may not display this or other websites correctly. Along with the streaming capabilities, which is the best for playing files from a hard drive. They ARE NOT a streaming service. Im not even sure which service might be best, for me. Thorens TT (Cant recall the model, its from around 1968 and maybe TD125 or TD150, but I do remember its a MkII !) Sony A95L QD-OLED, X95L MINI LED And Full BRAVIA Range For 2023 (In-Depth Interview). But i feel I want to know for sure whether it skips the internal DAC or not. 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 ? I am a Qobuz user and for me, it surpasses all other streaming services when it comes to SQ and content. Anyone have hands on with both? For a better experience, please enable JavaScript in your browser before proceeding. Crutchfield has and always will be the number one source for all electronic needs, there is no one better. Calls may be recorded for training and quality control purposes. And I understand the Node has now been further improved over the 2i. It outperforms the Dac in my Cambridge 851C cd player. It took some time to get it all indexed but once it did it worked just fine and I could access my music files via usb or network drives with equal facility and sound quality. So, are the prices going on the new paint scheme CXN v2? Any difference? This is where the cable game can get me. But also I really need to know if the signal from the tablet or phone is untouched. Not familiar with the the streamers youve mentioned, but youre getting some good advice. So Im not sure what to go for between these streamers, or if I should simply stick with a cable for now. JavaScript is disabled. So have Sony, Onkyo, NAD, and others. 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. Where did you see that and where does he say it will be compatible with the current CXN series? Find out what makes high-res audio sound better, and how you can experience it. I think Id much rather get a portable DAP with a good DAC, and use that over a cable connection. For a better experience, please enable JavaScript in your browser before proceeding. I also heard that Bluesound Node has support for the upgraded Bluetooth Aptx and better support for Roon and Qobuz compared to the CXN. Too many DACs> Too many amps> Too many headphones. I would go for the Cambridge over the Bluesound myself well regarded for its price. It seems as the CXN uses dual DACS and has balanced outs. 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. If I am using an outboard DAC then is there much difference in SQ between these two streamers? Learn how to choose the best speakers for your home. 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. Pleased with this digital part of my sound system while looking around and saving funds for a more performant replacement. /Stageline Very bummed they are dropping the black gear though, and very happy I purchased mine in black already. One thing I appreciated with Bluesound Vault is its app support of many streaming platforms. If I recall correctly the Node 2 did not test well. To help you choose the right speakers, we recommend using Crutchfields SpeakerCompare Listening Kit. Also the means and ways of interacting with the CXN and its 'switchability' in always . The Bluesound DAC isnt bad but I wouldnt be surprise if the CXN better. Bluesound Node 2 vs Cambridge CXN. Cambridge CXN v2 (New). You are using an out of date browser. I have the moon neo 250i amplifier Top . JavaScript is disabled. Support for Tidal and Spotify, but no other streaming services unless you are prepared to try various workarounds. Wiim Pro? 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? It may not display this or other websites correctly. 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 My guess is, very few have listened carefully to both, so it's going to be difficult to get this specific feedback. 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. 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. You dont have to spend a lot of money to get a decent stereo system. Tags: music streamers sound quality; centralflori Super Member. Others? company number 03997482, registered in England and Wales. If it isn't double blind, likely is double talk. I first streamed digital files attached to my network computer thinking the USB was only good for smaller capacity flash drives. Crutchfield collects state sales tax on items shipping to the following states: AK, AL, AR, AZ, CA, CO, CT, DC, FL, GA, HI, IA, ID, IL, IN, KS, KY, LA, MA, MD, ME, MI, MN, MO, MS, NC, ND, NE, NJ, NM, NV, NY, OH, OK, PA, RI, SC, SD, TN, TX, UT, VA, VT, WA, WI, WV, WY. 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 You are using an out of date browser. It works great. Why can't I access my USB stick via the USB Audio menu on the CXN (V2)? What not a PI streamer with a Hat like Hifiberry or Allo. Hence the post! displayname, Oct 2, 2019 #12 psulioninks Forum Resident In equal power mode, you'll hear these differences in loudness as they naturally occur between speakers. 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 dont know the Cambridge except for what Ive read. Another vote for the Blusound here, like you I was curious and dipping my toes, auditioned a Node 2i and it stayed. New Bluesound Node vs Cambridge CXN v2 for High Res Streaming? A curious decision on the model designations! Do you know what I mean? 99 Sale price $299. No, Im not very aware of software choices at this point. Ned's best friend helps him evaluate frequencies only dogs can hear. The CXN 2 sounds better. Which did you prefer and why? I use a dedicated Roon Rock server for my Roon to PS Audio DAC endpoint. If you want to save some money and still want Tidal MQA you could go with a Bluesound Node 2i instead of the CXN. but the IPad USB C is direct audio then? I prefer Audiolab over Bluesound Node 2i. Musiccast was crap. Details -$300.00 Price break. Yes, I agree! 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. One into my Dac and then one analog out from the Node. I have been reading some threads about the addition of an nDAC being a possible wothwhile upgrade to these, at some point. Both are good but prefer my PS Audio Directstream with Bridge II overall. Purchased both as opened box/clearance from CA with warranty. The CXN is great at $900, but even better at less than that. It may not display this or other websites correctly. 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. 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. 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. Please enter a valid 10-digit phone number. Hows that for humble? It may not display this or other websites correctly. CD3.5/Flatcap Otherwise you need to move up to something like a Lumin U1 Mini. Absolutely outstanding are the words I think of to describe the selection, price, shipping, & the customer service. Im still using a NP5 and Hugo mk1 - it sounds fabulous. It doesn't just read the files and display them in the Bluos app? Affiliate programs and Oh, apart from the RCA to DIN, where I have a Chord Crimson and a Chord Chrysalis (iirc?). Both can be Roon endpoints, thought the Cambridge is by virtue of Chromecast. With this limited intention I am not bothered that it doesnt match my other sources, although its very listenable. All Naim streamers have a digital output which allows you to run them with a separate DAC as an upgrade option. 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. I have been recently trying to confirm my understanding of the ascending order of things! We use automated technology to connect you with an Advisor and to answer some common questions. 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. The only lower cost transport that I know of that does a full MQA or DSD pass through is the Aries Mini. Too bad the matching amp is priced so high. The Bluesound seems relatively simple and definitely inexpensive. If it is if any use. The website is extremely user friendly, unbeatable product selection, customer support, and audio knowledge. As far as I can tell, so far, the latest (2021?) Naim ND5-XS (S/H) Bluesound Node (New) 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. I don't need to spend thousands but it's a toss up between the Bluesound Node 2i and the CXN. Other than that, I would like to use Airplay (1). Naim ND5-XS (S/H) I use Qobuz via a Raspberry Pi running MoOde Audio software. As already mentionned by others, good streamer with nice corresponding app and added a Teddy Pardo power supply to lift up SQ. It doesn't take deep pockets or "golden ears" to obtain and appreciate good sound. For Tech Support, call Looks like the only changes to the CXN v2 is a new paint job Agree, same for the CXC as well. It is half the price of the Cambridge and has a much better user interface with BluOS. 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. You are using an out of date browser. Qobuz skipping files. It seems as the CXN uses dual DACS and has balanced outs. They do not share. No DAC used? One thing that strikes me about this product is the combination of competitive sound with the balanced design and dual DACs employed. I guess your cambridge setup is messed up or the unit is defective. So I'm biased there and also multi-room can get expensive. 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. If you are willing to pay that fine. The BluOS constantly updates. Your website is very efficient and easily navigable, selection is wide, and technical/chat support is outstanding. (Not sure if I can get the correct interconnect for my toe though!). 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. IMO any unit that does not have an MQA decoder will be effectively obsolete within 2 years. The internal device DAC isnt used when you connect via USB. Hi, there is no NDS2!? Hi, I have tested both Audiolab 6000N and Bluesound Node 2i with a wide variety of speakers. Can't say for surejust learning about this all myself. I was a complete novice and you helped me figure out what would work best for me. Jaded1 Nov 20, 2020 cxn marantz J Jaded1 Established Member Nov 20, 2020 #1 So I'm thinking of buying my first streamer. Jul 27, 2020. 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. You know more than I do! I am mostly concerned with SQ on the digital outputs. I dont think that is correct. 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. (,,,) 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. Being able to connect a HDD is much more ideal. SpeakerCompare gives you a sense of the sonic differences. And it sounds great. https://www.head-fi.org/threads/warm-sounding-vs-dark-sounding.15160/, Buying Advice - Raspberry Pi or Bluesound Node 2021, Digital + Analog Converters (DAC/ADC/DDC), Acoustic Portrait Swara v2 Integrated Amplifier review. It does that both analog out and digital out, - and with AirPlay . 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. The mk2 is possibly out of my budget, for the time being. DACs, Streamers, Servers, Players, Audio Interface. 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. But just to emphasise, digital coax output to a DAC works absolutely fine with the Node as Roon Endpoint. Cambridge Audio CXN V2. Does anyone have any insight. My entry into streaming was an cxnv2. CXN v2 supports full 192khz if available. 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. Its available for a nominal rental fee, and includes a $25 Crutchfield merchandise credit. So pure source upto the amplifiers DAC. Cambridge Audio CXN V2 Audiophile Music Streamer In The House: First Impressions And Unboxing Pics! Linked to my laptop, other than getting the artwork wrong occasionally, its pretty seamless. 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. Is this the very latest model? For a better experience, please enable JavaScript in your browser before proceeding. 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. you get some phase and time alignment voodoo as well as some system optimization benefits. The NAD C399 has higher output and also the possibility of upgrading and having room correction. 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)? Now changing the amp to Acoustic Portrait Swara v2 integrated amp. The Node, no question. I use both qobuz and local flac files via Roon so integration with Roon is important too. So I decided on getting a cable, and I wanted a mid-range quality cable, so decided on the usb b>c and spends days looking for this cable to find out that they dont do that size? The customer support team is personal and phenomenal. 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. This is my experience. Make sure its MIDI compatible and youll be good to go. Hi. Panasonic 55FZ950. I think that perhaps my options are likely to be focussed on the Node or maybe the iFi Zen streamer (?). I compare the Cambridge Audio CXN version 2 to the Bluesound Node 2i in this video review. I have the Cambridge and really like it, but I have no experience with the bluesound. Every review I saw raves about the sound quality on the CXN-(V2). If anyone still on this thread, what is the difference in streaming quality vs the two. This discussion is important for me. Inside the a-s801 is ES9010K2M. 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 had the Yamaha wxa50 before. 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 always choose to support you guys over a big box. Joined: Mon Jun 12, 2017 3:29 pm Posts: 9 I want to load a hard drive up with my library (AIFFs) and play from it. One caveat with the Cambridge you should know. JL audio E-sub e110 . Hello. 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. 1) Bluesound to CXA via RCA. Thanks for that. Have been reading for a long time and happy to finally contribute to this forum. A 3.5mm headphone jack can be found in the middle of the front panel, below the Bluesound logo, too. So I want a clean signal from a source to be internalised with that DAC. The Bluesound Node 2i is designed with enhanced dual-band WIFI to render the best-in-class performance even in crowded airspaces. I stream from the Qobuz app. The Bluesound supports a HDD whereas the Yamaha only supports a USB stick. Very good for the money. Great customer service, product expertise & lifetime technical support has me as a happy customer. Do you know what I mean? I found the Bluesound Node 2 to sound a lot better than the CCA through a cheap Schiit Dac. Definitely get a cable to connect you iPad to the as801. Just forget about indexing or playing a large HDD library. However its several years old and Im wondering if a new version will be out soon with improved functionality, MQA support most likely. Thanks. 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 Amazon Associates Program via amazon.com. I was thinking of a chord qute 2 or maybe a moon 300d v2 . I have the CXN V2 and with a Qutest it performs brilliantly. You are using an out of date browser. Any opinions on BS node 2i into Yggdrasil Dac. 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. Thoughts if so? And as i sold it during first lockdown, sold it for 150 more than I paid. Node app is way superior over the CXN and for me is the best music app after Roon. This website uses the TMDb API but is not endorsed or certified by TMDb. JavaScript is disabled. Love Crutchfield! I'll be a customer for as long as they are in business. New Bluesound Node vs Cambridge Audio Day Magic 200. NAC102/HiCap/NAPSC Cambridge Audio CXN(v2) Streamer . Discussion in 'Audio Hardware' started by wingram, Jul 5, 2019. Even its built-in headphone amp is respectable. That USB-C is direct, right? So Im not sure what to go for between these streamers, or if I should simply stick with a cable for now. 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. Itll work with you iPad or out of your Windows laptop. May 1, 2020. If you decide on the CXN, spend a little extra to upgrade the power cord. The Cambridge CXN (V2) is $1100. Easy process from start to finish, and the availability of information is second to none. I am looking forwarding to attaching one of my external hard drives to it for playback of lossless vinyl rips while I work. My first-hand feedback is that the Node works fine as a streamer (MPQ radio sounds good). So it's not the Connect app anymore but one called Stream Magic? 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. Files are large as unable to justify individual track ripping for some music styles (jazz, classical) and instead do full record sides.