cambridge audio cxn v2 vs bluesound node

I also heard that Bluesound Node has support for the upgraded Bluetooth Aptx and better support for Roon and Qobuz compared to the CXN. My setup is as follows and it sounds great. As far as I can tell, so far, the latest (2021?) Let's take a closer look at this device. 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. Hello. Some great advice above, I started a thread covering my own thought processes around streaming options with Naim kit. CXN is also 40% more expensive. I have not heard the Bluesound. The No. No, Im not very aware of software choices at this point. iTunes ( my Windows computer) rips my CDs directly to my NAS Ethernet drives. All Naim streamers have a digital output which allows you to run them with a separate DAC as an upgrade option. I know own the Cambridge, and Im using Chromecast for the high Rez Qobuz offerings, Ok thanks. 853. 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. 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 Bluesound Node 2 comes with an MQA decoder.. Warner Music Group and Universal Music Group, which make up 75% of the recorded music industry, have committed to MQA. BUT. Calls may be recorded for training and quality control purposes. It can also transmit studio-quality music to Bluetooth headphones or external speakers. The former is more detailed, neutral and works with a variety of upstream equipment. Especially with Tidal MQA, would the node 2i unfold MQA to a partial level since the Yggy is not MQA compatible? I have the Cambridge and really like it, but I have no experience with the bluesound. They do not share. 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. The Cambridge Audio CXN V2 is a powerful network streamer. What not a PI streamer with a Hat like Hifiberry or Allo. 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 CA has no Roon or direct Qobuz connection. Not sure how much better it is than a Node but it supports all major streaming platforms plus ROON. Yeah I want to get full resolution from what files and services I'm using so that's a con on the Cambridge. I guess you got confused between "Chromcast audio" and "Chromcast", the former is an audio gear which is currently stopped production. If you no longer wish to receive the call, please click the button to cancel your request. 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. Copyright 2000-2023 M2N Limited E. & O.E. Joined: Mon Jun 12, 2017 3:29 pm Posts: 9 No complaint about the Cambridge app. Have tried all possible troubleshooting, followed the Bluesound manual/forums and since formatted HDD to NTFS, Fat32, used different flash drives to the exact same outcome. I had intended to make an introductory post, in the lounge, but got carried away with myriad questions! Is this possible? 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. Does anyone have any insight. this can result in this site earning a commission. Hi, looking for some advice please. JavaScript is disabled. Connect the CXN V2 outputs to one of the analogue inputs of the CXA61/81 via balanced XLR (CXA81 only), or unbalanced RCA. Cambridge Audio CXN Version2. 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. Or, would the DAC quality in these streamers have surpasseed that offered by the nDAC, by this point, making the nDAC now redundant? Am I correct? Sorry, I meant ND5-XS2 and NDX2 not NDS2 and NDX2 Can't say for surejust learning about this all myself. 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. Hi. The other possible route is to put a PSU on the NDX2 such as an XPS. 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 currently have both the bluesound node2i and the Cambridge CXNv2 and IMO, the DAC in the CXNv2 is better. The NDAC was certainly an upgrade on the internal DAC on the original NDX. For the money I doubt theres anything else out there to beat it until you start spending Naim or similar entry level price points. Possibility of dropouts on Tidal in particular due to the small buffer. As already mentionned by others, good streamer with nice corresponding app and added a Teddy Pardo power supply to lift up SQ. Any difference? For Tech Support, call I didn't know that. The new one has touch buttons led lights on top of the unit. company number 03997482, registered in England and Wales. Hi all, just considering dipping my toe into the sreaming world Discussion in 'Audio Hardware' started by wingram, Jul 5, 2019. I mean, why would anyone want the internal DAC limiting the sound, then sending it on to a better DAC? New Bluesound Node vs Cambridge CXN v2 for High Res Streaming? 1 Home Entertainment Tech Resource. CXN v2 supports full 192khz if available. Makes sense. 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. So far, so good! I really appreciate your technical staff. Definitely get a cable to connect you iPad to the as801. 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. But also I really need to know if the signal from the tablet or phone is untouched. Others like Cambridge CXN and 851N or steamers up to 2500 euro/dollar like Teac, Sotm, Lumin, Innuos Zen etc. One caveat with the Cambridge you should know. If you are looking for SQ, go with CXN If you are looking for ease of use, go with Node. Inside the a-s801 is ES9010K2M. When I had the Node 2 I used two outputs. Thanks for the update, consider adding this to your profile. Pleased with this digital part of my sound system while looking around and saving funds for a more performant replacement. So Bluesound is both streamer and DAC, CXA is power amp 2) Bluesound to CXA via digital coax. 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 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. Looks like the only changes to the CXN v2 is a new paint job Agree, same for the CXC as well. Yes, I agree! 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. I need to replace my modded Sonos connect with a new streamer. Do you have any thoughts on cable types and length. The BluOS constantly updates. This does though, get some good reviews and not too expensive to dip your toe in, as has been suggested. Thats sort of the point of external USB DACs. JavaScript is disabled. This device lets you stream stunning sound quality and let you play music files from various apps such as Spotify and Deezer. You really need to listen to these combinations yourself as personal preference comes into play and we will not always reach the same conclusions. No one supports Amazon. Any thoughts on which would be the best idea from the following choices? Cambridge CXN v2 (New). It's a good sale now that Cambridge has announced the CX Series 2 line coming next week. 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 Thatll be $10 of the best $$$ you spend on audio. Ill inquire with Cambridge. 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. One thing I appreciated with Bluesound Vault is its app support of many streaming platforms. More modern, more compact, headphone out, sub out with cutoff filters for bass management, and allegedly blue sound is the best streaming software around. 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). Every time I use Crutchfield I am happy. company number 03997482, registered in England and Wales. Oh, apart from the RCA to DIN, where I have a Chord Crimson and a Chord Chrysalis (iirc?). 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 use Airplay for Qobuz. Sleek design. I stand correctedthe Cambridge does indeed have the Wolfson DAC, question regarding the need for external DAC above?. Not using the internal dacs? AVForums.com is owned and operated by M2N Limited, The OP was interested in the Node, not the Vault. Its a brilliant streamer, dac, Preamp, bluetooth & Mqa is also there. It offers Roon Ready and Spotify Connect but no Chromecast Built-in. Crutchfield: Legendary Service. The only lower cost transport that I know of that does a full MQA or DSD pass through is the Aries Mini. It was getting too late at night for me! 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. 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! Getting hands-on with our products helps us pick what's best for our customers. I changed out the PC on my Vault 2 and it made a noticeable improvement. 1) Bluesound to CXA via RCA. So I want a clean signal from a source to be internalised with that DAC. I guess your cambridge setup is messed up or the unit is defective. I owned a CXN (first version) and the original Bluesound Node for a couple of years. I know the node has USB out (if Bluesound have managed to get it working correctly). Your website is very efficient and easily navigable, selection is wide, and technical/chat support is outstanding. 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. CXN's DAC is definitely better than Node. The Matirx streamer as well as the audiolab streamer are superb too. I've heard the sound quality is superior in the CXN v2 but I also do not believe it even supports Amazon Music HD. CXN (in my opinion) has a little darker sound (not to be confused with warm). 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 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. One into my Dac and then one analog out from the Node. Even its built-in headphone amp is respectable. 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. AUDIO X Post subject: Re: Bluesound Node 2 vs Cambridge CXN. I dont know the Cambridge except for what Ive read. this can result in this site earning a commission. We use automated technology to connect you with an Advisor and to answer some common questions. Is this the very latest model? Please consider the user interface. Itll work with you iPad or out of your Windows laptop. If you decide on the CXN, spend a little extra to upgrade the power cord. 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. Is this correct? Naim ND5-XS (S/H) Bluesound Node (New) Any thoughts on which would be the best idea from the following choices? It delivers a collection of top music technologies for home use. To help you choose the right speakers, we recommend using Crutchfields SpeakerCompare Listening Kit. .The C 658 is pure high resolution from input to output and features NAD's Direct Digital 35 bit 844kHz DAC, one of the . Will it give full res using Roon? Do you know what I mean? The Bluesound supports a HDD whereas the Yamaha only supports a USB stick. That's interested @rvpiano. The CXN V2 is part of Cambridge Audio's midrange CX series, which also includes two integrated amplifiers and a CD transport. Dont want the ****** internal DACs to touch the signal. Europe's busiest forums, with independent news and expert reviews, for TVs, Home Cinema, Hi-Fi, Movies, Gaming, Tech and more. Linked to my laptop, other than getting the artwork wrong occasionally, its pretty seamless. This raises the question of what you mean by dipping your toe in - what do you want to find out? 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. and you got the option to use an external dac. 4, was the latest, and supports multi-room use, resampling, and Memory Playback. Ive also hooked it up to my integrated amp and it works great as well. Bluesound Node 2i This is another plug-and-play all-in-one box solution similar to the Yamaha. Yes, with the caveats that the source device (tablet/ phone / streamer) isnt doing anything to the file before passing it on. Thank you! I could purchase the s/h ND5-XS for roughly right inbetween the new prices of the Bluesound and the cambridve. Carlos and Alex bring our famous DIY spirit to the annual United Way Day of Caring. The pluses for the CXN2 is good sound quality, overall feel (no plastic), a more powerful processor, and physical controls. Help on getting the maximum from cxn v2 and tidal. I have the CXN V2 and with a Qutest it performs brilliantly. The world's largest high-end audio community. For a better experience, please enable JavaScript in your browser before proceeding. But how can i use it from my couch? In an actual listening room, you'd find that some speakers play louder than others when fed the same amount of power. Discussion in 'PCs & Music Servers' started by centralflori, Jul 3, 2021. Poor WiFi performance: you need to use an Ethernet cable for reliable performance. Node? Very good units for the price, especially when connected via wired internet as opposed to WiFi. Hence the post! NAP180 actually working with the Bluesound Node on a SN3. If anyone still on this thread, what is the difference in streaming quality vs the two. The first is the Audiolab 6000N Play, which I consider to be the best sounding streamer in that price range. If I were to go the streamer/DAC/pre-amp route I would buy the Cambridge Audio rig in a heart beat. Support for Tidal and Spotify, but no other streaming services unless you are prepared to try various workarounds. Lizard King My entry into streaming was an cxnv2. If using toslink it could be the cable as some do not work well above 24/96 . Virtual audio technology allows you to compare sonic characteristics between speakers so you can make a more informed shopping decision. 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)? On March 6, 2020 By hifitr5_wp There are a couple of budget (around $500) Audiophile Music Streamers I recommend. The CXN 2 sounds better. 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. I find it an excellent combination. It might actually sound better but any help would be appreciated. If you are willing to pay that fine. 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 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. Wi-Fi speakers are the building blocks for wireless multi-room audio systems from Sonos, Bose, and other brands. Someone mentioned here that the Cambridge doesnt so full resolution unless using their app? Read the manual, the CXN v2 passes digital through up to 24/192 on the toslink or coax. Then I got thinking the money I would spend on a streamer.. Very good for the money. 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. Plenty of other options for less than a new Naim, Lumin U1 mini, Matrix Element I, Ifi Zen Stream. I use Qobuz via a Raspberry Pi running MoOde Audio software. 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. Why can't I access my USB stick via the USB Audio menu on the CXN (V2)? This discussion is important for me. 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.. 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 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'll be a customer for as long as they are in business. It doesn't take deep pockets or "golden ears" to obtain and appreciate good sound. I have one and they make a great Roon endpoint. Europe's busiest forums, with independent news and expert reviews, for TVs, Home Cinema, Hi-Fi, Movies, Gaming, Tech and more. 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. It may not display this or other websites correctly. Absolutely outstanding are the words I think of to describe the selection, price, shipping, & the customer service. 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. 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. No dealers near me carry it. Have you tried plugging a hard drive into the Node 2i? But performance in the real world is affected by the acoustics of your car or home, your choice of amplification, and your source material. 19,270. Powered by Xenforo, Hosted by Nimbus Hosting, Original design Critical Media Ltd. Since 1974.SM. Marantz BD8006, Bluesound Node 2021, Marantz Pearl Lite, Revel Concerta2 M16, Sony XZ Premium, LGV30. We still believe that the gold standard for auditioning speakers is hearing them in your own environment thats why we offer a 60-day money-back guarantee. If it is if any use. Then I traded up to the CXN 2, and late in 2018 to the Node 2i. Being able to connect a HDD is much more ideal. 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 web chat conversations are recorded. 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! My guess is, very few have listened carefully to both, so it's going to be difficult to get this specific feedback. 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. Product link at Music Direct. Bluesound app and library management is much better though and more suited for multi-room.usecases. 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 ? So, are the prices going on the new paint scheme CXN v2? Thanks everyone, So I presently just use an Audioengine D2 wireless out of my MacBook and connect via Audioquest Cinnamon Toslink into my Krell Digital Vanguard. So I'm biased there and also multi-room can get expensive. No DAC used? It is half the price of the Cambridge and has a much better user interface with BluOS. But the term "chromcast" refers the technology which nowadays available in variety of equipments like TV, Streamer, Sound bar etc. Knowing which model headphones youre using lets us remove any sonic coloring from your experience. (Not sure if I can get the correct interconnect for my toe though!). affiliations include, but are not limited to, the eBay Partner Network, and This website uses the TMDb API but is not endorsed or certified by TMDb. While the cost is about double if the sound quality is as good as . File format is predominantly FLAC with some WAV and Mp4 for the 16/44.1's. Sounds like folks are leaning to the NODE which I think I am as well. Hi, I have tested both Audiolab 6000N and Bluesound Node 2i with a wide variety of speakers. Sure, you can carry a small handheld speaker with you, but Deia takes her portable tunes more seriously. Otherwise you need to move up to something like a Lumin U1 Mini. The customer support team is personal and phenomenal. I was a complete novice and you helped me figure out what would work best for me. Love Crutchfield! 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. I have a CXN v2(as source with Flac, streaming Spotify) paired with CA351a and Elac 2.0 B5.2. But, if I were later still to obtain an NDS2 or NDX2, would the nDAC still serve as an upgrade to them? 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 am a Qobuz user and for me, it surpasses all other streaming services when it comes to SQ and content. What is the difference between 'dark' and 'warm'? 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.