Both are good but prefer my PS Audio Directstream with Bridge II overall. Any thoughts on which would be the best idea from the following choices? 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. 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 This has been a fantastic experience. 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. 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? 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. Copyright 1996-2023, Crutchfield New Media, LLC. Cambridge Audio CXN Version2 - 13th Note HiFi Reviews In some places, it repeats the review of the previous product: CXN V2 still has a wonderful DAC but unfortunately . DACs, Streamers, Servers, Players, Audio Interface. Have you tried plugging a hard drive into the Node 2i? If I recall correctly the Node 2 did not test well. Other than that, I would like to use Airplay (1). Linked to my laptop, other than getting the artwork wrong occasionally, its pretty seamless. JavaScript is disabled. Personally, I think you are better off with the NODE. Yeah I want to get full resolution from what files and services I'm using so that's a con on the Cambridge. This website uses the TMDb API but is not endorsed or certified by TMDb. with the design (ie look) of it. This is my experience. Bluesound Node (2021) or CXN V2? That's interested @rvpiano. CXN V2? You are using an out of date browser. 4, was the latest, and supports multi-room use, resampling, and Memory Playback. 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. Cambridge BT100 for CXN or Bluesound Node 2? | Stereophile.com I suspect a ND5 XS2 is in my future, for simplicity. I mean, why would anyone want the internal DAC limiting the sound, then sending it on to a better DAC? For Tech Support, call
A quality USB-C to USB-B cable from Amazon or Monoprice will got the job done. It is half the price of the Cambridge and has a much better user interface with BluOS. CXN is also 40% more expensive. How to make the most of Amazon's high-res and CD-quality music streams. Discussion in 'PCs & Music Servers' started by centralflori, Jul 3, 2021. but the IPad USB C is direct audio then? The new one has touch buttons led lights on top of the unit. I find it an excellent combination. The factor that most affected my home network music streaming performance was/is the quality of the switch. the Amazon Associates Program via amazon.com. A better switch dramatically improved performance by eliminating lag, dropouts, arbitration issues when the network is particularly busy, etc. What is the difference between 'dark' and 'warm'? company number 03997482, registered in England and Wales. 853. Marantz ND8006 vs Cambridge CXN V2 or other? All web chat conversations are recorded. So Im not sure what to go for between these streamers, or if I should simply stick with a cable for now. IMO any unit that does not have an MQA decoder will be effectively obsolete within 2 years. New Bluesound Node vs Cambridge CXN v2 for High Res Streaming? Copyright 2000-2023 M2N Limited E. & O.E. Possibility of dropouts on Tidal in particular due to the small buffer. 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. Yeah I hope sound doesnt drop over 3 meters. I was a complete novice and you helped me figure out what would work best for me. Focus on speakers/room where a much more substantive change is possible. All the node's outputs are active all the time, which makes the Node quite nice for its price. My setup is as follows and it sounds great. JavaScript is disabled. Im still using a NP5 and Hugo mk1 - it sounds fabulous. My 2 cents; Buy the CXN v2 it's such a pleasure.the app works really quick and the quality is more then good. Find out what gear you need to hear Qobuz at its best. . 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. AVForums.com is owned and operated by M2N Limited, Along with the streaming capabilities, which is the best for playing files from a hard drive. Too many DACs> Too many amps> Too many headphones. 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. bunno77; 1 Link to comment . Node app is way superior over the CXN and for me is the best music app after Roon. I dont think that is correct. The Chromecast is is pretty impressive but it isnt gapless. I really appreciate your technical staff. 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 first streamed digital files attached to my network computer thinking the USB was only good for smaller capacity flash drives. The Node 2i costs about RM1,000 more than the Yamaha. 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. 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. Hi, looking for some advice please. 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. Hello. I did not try a directly connected HD. I purchased a black one this morning from Music Direct at the reduced price. this can result in this site earning a commission. This is where the cable game can get me. Plus an in-depth review of the service by Jeff Miller, Crutchfield's headphone guy. The Matirx streamer as well as the audiolab streamer are superb too. One thing I appreciated with Bluesound Vault is its app support of many streaming platforms. The CXN V2 is older but likely to have better sound quality. Powered by Xenforo, Hosted by Nimbus Hosting, Original design Critical Media Ltd. But I've heard consistently that the Cambridge sounds better which I would expect. If so the I guess it just comes down to features/size etc. 99 Sale price $299. Not sure how much better it is than a Node but it supports all major streaming platforms plus ROON. Not familiar with the the streamers youve mentioned, but youre getting some good advice. Other than that, I would like to use Airplay (1). Any further thoughts on these two streamers would be much appreciated. 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. The BluOS constantly updates. Node? You know more than I do! Learn how to choose the best speakers for your home. Thanks for the update, consider adding this to your profile. But, if I were later still to obtain an NDS2 or NDX2, would the nDAC still serve as an upgrade to them? Musiccast was crap. The Bluesound supports a HDD whereas the Yamaha only supports a USB stick. Discussion in 'Audio Hardware' started by wingram, Jul 5, 2019. 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? Crazy. HELP WITH CHOICE OF MUSIC STREAMER-CAMBRIDGE AUDIO OR AUDIOLAB OMNIA & TURNTABLE, Chromecast / Airplay Question - iOS - CXN V2 Streamer. 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. It lets you compare sonic characteristics between speakers so that you can make a more informed shopping decision. One caveat with the Cambridge you should know. That USB-C is direct, right? Plus, our headphone writer reviews the high-res streaming music service. 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. I have not tried the cxn v2 , but the node2i DAC was ok when I tried. bumpquestion regarding the need for external DAC above? Audiogon Discussion Forum I stream from the Qobuz app. They do not share. Do you know what I mean? 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 have the moon neo 250i amplifier Top . Poor WiFi performance: you need to use an Ethernet cable for reliable performance. I think its a home-run product. Personally, I'd get an Amazon Basics or Ugreen that meets your requirements for terminations and length and give it a go. All you really need is a craving for good sound and a system-building plan. All Naim streamers have a digital output which allows you to run them with a separate DAC as an upgrade option. Find out what makes high-res audio sound better, and how you can experience it. Streamers ranked by sound quality - Networking, Networked Audio, and All using original Naim interconnects and NAC-A5 cabling to an old pair of Castle Harlech speakers. No complaint about the Cambridge app. I was aware that it could be an issue, but was hoping it had been sorted by now. It includes a pair of studio-quality headphones, and a guide to getting the most out of your session, and a few other necessary items. I am a Qobuz user and for me, it surpasses all other streaming services when it comes to SQ and content. What are some of the differences between the 2 streamers with regards to high res streaming? It does that both analog out and digital out, - and with AirPlay . Does anyone have any insight. I know the node has USB out (if Bluesound have managed to get it working correctly). Hopefully this will be fixed with a future Firmware update, but at the moment it's an issue. They ARE NOT a streaming service. Is this correct? 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. For free personalized advice, call 1-888-291-8923. Cambridge Audio CXN V2 - A good buy or not? | AVForums 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. Select your brand of headphones in the right-hand column. .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 the term "chromcast" refers the technology which nowadays available in variety of equipments like TV, Streamer, Sound bar etc. It doesn't take deep pockets or "golden ears" to obtain and appreciate good sound. I currently have both the bluesound node2i and the Cambridge CXNv2 and IMO, the DAC in the CXNv2 is better. 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. https://www.cambridgeaudio.com/usa/en/products/openboxclearance?f%5B0%5D=category%3A10. Copyright 2000-2023 M2N Limited E. & O.E. Especially with Tidal MQA, would the node 2i unfold MQA to a partial level since the Yggy is not MQA compatible? Or, would the DAC quality in these streamers have surpasseed that offered by the nDAC, by this point, making the nDAC now redundant? I have seen numerous posts from people who have and love either unit. Virtual audio technology allows you to compare sonic characteristics between speakers so you can make a more informed shopping decision. It offers Roon Ready and Spotify Connect but no Chromecast Built-in. Very good units for the price, especially when connected via wired internet as opposed to WiFi. Hi all, just considering dipping my toe into the sreaming world Pleased with this digital part of my sound system while looking around and saving funds for a more performant replacement. You are using an out of date browser. CXN (in my opinion) has a little darker sound (not to be confused with warm). So Im not sure what to go for between these streamers, or if I should simply stick with a cable for now. A lot of good advice on this site. Built my own and took ten minutes. See which models top our list of best picks for 2023. But it's a little involved and if you don't like to tinker stick with the CXN or get a Node 2i. #streaming #tidal #qobuzSUBSCRIBE TO PATREON to support Honest & Credible and well produced HiFi reviews and for ;-Ad Free Videos-Added Video Review content . With this limited intention I am not bothered that it doesnt match my other sources, although its very listenable. You are using an out of date browser. If your headphones aren't listed, we recommend using our Listening Kit. CXN v2 supports full 192khz if available. Yeah no to be clear, the DAC I want to use is in the A-S801 amplifier. 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. No support for AirPlay, Chromecast, Roon. On March 6, 2020 By hifitr5_wp There are a couple of budget (around $500) Audiophile Music Streamers I recommend. You also mentioned the IFI Zen. You must log in or register to reply here. Why can't I access my USB stick via the USB Audio menu on the CXN (V2)? Itll work with you iPad or out of your Windows laptop. So have Sony, Onkyo, NAD, and others. Absolutely outstanding are the words I think of to describe the selection, price, shipping, & the customer service. Connect the CXN V2 outputs to one of the analogue inputs of the CXA61/81 via balanced XLR (CXA81 only), or unbalanced RCA. Love Crutchfield! Help on getting the maximum from cxn v2 and tidal. 7 Best Music Streamers of 2023 [For Real Audiophiles] - DownHomeDigital Learn how to get great sound from your computer, tie it into your home audio system, and improve your user experience. displayname, Oct 2, 2019 #12 psulioninks Forum Resident Thanks. All my music servers play it from the NAS drive over Ethernet. The world's largest high-end audio community. I have not heard the Bluesound. For a better experience, please enable JavaScript in your browser before proceeding. $1,299.00
It may not display this or other websites correctly. It seems as the CXN uses dual DACS and has balanced outs. It outperforms the Dac in my Cambridge 851C cd player. BlueOS is quite intuitive. As already mentionned by others, good streamer with nice corresponding app and added a Teddy Pardo power supply to lift up SQ. Qobuz skipping files. Any thoughts on which would be the best idea from the following choices? If you are looking for SQ, go with CXN If you are looking for ease of use, go with Node. Problems with DSD, flacs skipping, bad WiFi connection. 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. More modern, more compact, headphone out, sub out with cutoff filters for bass management, and allegedly blue sound is the best streaming software around. It may not display this or other websites correctly. That way I could have all the internal storage, and quality sound signal maybe a Fiio x7 or so. I think there was an android USB DAC app that did something like that (?) Where did you see that and where does he say it will be compatible with the current CXN series? This site uses cookies to help personalise content, tailor your experience and to keep you logged in if you register. Jaded1 Nov 20, 2020 cxn marantz J Jaded1 Established Member Nov 20, 2020 #1 So I'm thinking of buying my first streamer. No DAC used? actually working with the Bluesound Node on a SN3. The CXN v2 upsamples everything to 24/384 when using it in preamp mode. This gives you a more direct comparison of subtle voicing differences between speakers. Ive also hooked it up to my integrated amp and it works great as well. Not using the internal dacs? 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 Then I got thinking the money I would spend on a streamer.. For a better experience, please enable JavaScript in your browser before proceeding. Bluesound node2i Vs Audiolab 6000N | HiFiVision.com Thatll be $10 of the best $$$ you spend on audio. Cambridge Audio CXN V2 Stereo Network Streamer - amazon.com 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. Unfortunately not. Even its built-in headphone amp is respectable. Easy process from start to finish, and the availability of information is second to none. 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. So what solutioN do I have? 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. Another vote for the Blusound here, like you I was curious and dipping my toes, auditioned a Node 2i and it stayed. In equal volume mode, we've made the loudness of each speaker about the same. Joined: Mon Jun 12, 2017 3:29 pm Posts: 9 Cambridge Audio CXN V2. Which is by no means guaranteed with Android (and possibly Apple- but check the threads on here about that) devices. Star Wars 4-6 are the best movies. JL audio E-sub e110 . 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. Am I correct? 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. This device lets you stream stunning sound quality and let you play music files from various apps such as Spotify and Deezer. There are pros and cons on both sides. Knowing which model headphones youre using lets us remove any sonic coloring from your experience. Do you have any thoughts on cable types and length. Product link at Music Direct. AUDIO X Post subject: Re: Bluesound Node 2 vs Cambridge CXN. Crutchfield: Legendary Service. New Bluesound Node vs Cambridge Audio Day Magic 200 Troubleshooting - Cambridge Audio Support You bet! If you want to save some money and still want Tidal MQA you could go with a Bluesound Node 2i instead of the CXN. That's weird. Since 1974.SM. A second hand Auralic Aries mini is another option worth considering. The Node is very new and seems to have great functionality. 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 auditioned both the Node and the Cambridge. Any difference? Purchased both as opened box/clearance from CA with warranty. the Amazon Associates Program via amazon.com. I own both the CA 851n and the CXN 1. I guess you got confused between "Chromcast audio" and "Chromcast", the former is an audio gear which is currently stopped production. Cambridge Audio CXN Version2. 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. Just forget about indexing or playing a large HDD library. 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. I mean, why would anyone want the internal DAC limiting the sound, then sending it on to a better DAC? 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. When you click on links to various merchants on this site and make a purchase, 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 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'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. I've had a node 2i for about a year now. I would go for the Cambridge over the Bluesound myself well regarded for its price. Unfortunately not. However its several years old and Im wondering if a new version will be out soon with improved functionality, MQA support most likely. Marantz ND8006 vs Cambridge CXN V2 or other? | AVForums Estimated wait for next available agent : Well email you a transcript of this conversation for your records. Local and via tidal, qobuz et al. Nad c658 vs cambridge audio cxn v2 - muunfj.recidivazero.it And as i sold it during first lockdown, sold it for 150 more than I paid. 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 use Airplay for Qobuz. Inside the a-s801 is ES9010K2M. My guess is, very few have listened carefully to both, so it's going to be difficult to get this specific feedback. 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 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). affiliations include, but are not limited to, the eBay Partner Network, and Hows that for humble? DACs, Streamers, Servers, Players, Audio Interface. 1 Home Entertainment Tech Resource. I am mostly concerned with SQ on the digital outputs. Cambridge Audio CXN (V2) review - whathifi So I want a clean signal from a source to be internalised with that DAC. Yes, with the caveats that the source device (tablet/ phone / streamer) isnt doing anything to the file before passing it on. Bangalore. If I needed to play MQA from Tidal, I could just switch the input on my Preamp. 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. Bluesound Node 2 vs Cambridge CXN. Have been reading for a long time and happy to finally contribute to this forum. The customer support team is personal and phenomenal. Sony A95L QD-OLED, X95L MINI LED And Full BRAVIA Range For 2023 (In-Depth Interview). You really need to listen to these combinations yourself as personal preference comes into play and we will not always reach the same conclusions. The OP was interested in the Node, not the Vault. Europe's busiest forums, with independent news and expert reviews, for TVs, Home Cinema, Hi-Fi, Movies, Gaming, Tech and more. It doesn't just read the files and display them in the Bluos app? Difference between Bluesound Node 2i and Cambridge CXN v2 NAP180
I have been recently trying to confirm my understanding of the ascending order of things! 10 Best Music Streamers in 2023 - HomeToys 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 ? Find a used Ayre Codex Dac. So I want a clean signal from a source to be internalised with that DAC. Bluesound Node (New) Do you know what I mean? They're always very helpful! 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 Cambridge CXN (V2) is $1100. The former is more detailed, neutral and works with a variety of upstream equipment. ND5-XS vs Bluesound Node vs Cambridge CXN v2 - Naim Audio I'll be a customer for as long as they are in business. 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. JavaScript is disabled. Affiliate programs and Make sure its MIDI compatible and youll be good to go. Bluesound Node (2021) review - whathifi 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. Yes, I agree! Sleek design. Every review I saw raves about the sound quality on the CXN-(V2). Plenty of other options for less than a new Naim, Lumin U1 mini, Matrix Element I, Ifi Zen Stream. Wi-Fi speakers are the building blocks for wireless multi-room audio systems from Sonos, Bose, and other brands. To help you choose the right speakers, we recommend using Crutchfields SpeakerCompare Listening Kit. I found the Bluesound Node 2 to sound a lot better than the CCA through a cheap Schiit Dac. Use Tidal either directly to CA servers or along Qobuz via Roon to PS Audio. Posted: Mon Jan 08, 2018 9:39 pm . What is the best way to connect up my CXC, CXN and CXA? 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! Have you checked the review index? 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 No one supports Amazon. But, if I were later still to obtain an NDS2 or NDX2, would the nDAC still serve as an upgrade to them? 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. Otherwise you need to move up to something like a Lumin U1 Mini.