See which models top our list of best picks for 2023. The other possible route is to put a PSU on the NDX2 such as an XPS. Best streamer for Qobuz? I use Qobuz via a Raspberry Pi running MoOde Audio software. However its several years old and Im wondering if a new version will be out soon with improved functionality, MQA support most likely. Bluesound Node 2i This is another plug-and-play all-in-one box solution similar to the Yamaha. The CXN 2 sounds better. Hello. 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. 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)? The pluses for the CXN2 is good sound quality, overall feel (no plastic), a more powerful processor, and physical controls. I read somewhere there would be a partial unfolding (higher res than red book) on MQA titles from Tidal. bunno77; 1 Link to comment . Bluesound Node (2021) review - whathifi If I were to go the streamer/DAC/pre-amp route I would buy the Cambridge Audio rig in a heart beat. 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. NAC102/HiCap/NAPSC Sony A95L QD-OLED, X95L MINI LED And Full BRAVIA Range For 2023 (In-Depth Interview). If I recall correctly the Node 2 did not test well. 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. I have the CXN V2 and with a Qutest it performs brilliantly. NAP180 displayname, Oct 2, 2019 #12 psulioninks Forum Resident Inside the a-s801 is ES9010K2M. CXN's DAC is definitely better than Node. Looks like the only changes to the CXN v2 is a new paint job Agree, same for the CXC as well. 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. But how can i use it from my couch? 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 Best Digital Music Streamers for Your Home - Gear Patrol A comparison of the best network audio players of 2021 Can't say for surejust learning about this all myself. 19,270. Dont want the ****** internal DACs to touch the signal. A curious decision on the model designations! Cambridge Audio CXN(v2) Streamer . Anyone have hands on with both? Cambridge Audio CXN v2 & BlueSound Node 2i - YouTube Help on getting the maximum from cxn v2 and tidal. A better switch dramatically improved performance by eliminating lag, dropouts, arbitration issues when the network is particularly busy, etc. Itll work with you iPad or out of your Windows laptop. Given all the choices of streaming services, it usually comes down to one or two you really like to keep around. Mac Mini? I mean, why would anyone want the internal DAC limiting the sound, then sending it on to a better DAC? Details -$300.00 Price break. Thank you for the replies everyone. The CXN v2 upsamples everything to 24/384 when using it in preamp mode. A quality USB-C to USB-B cable from Amazon or Monoprice will got the job done. This does though, get some good reviews and not too expensive to dip your toe in, as has been suggested. 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 ? CA CXN V2 + CXA81 or the new NAD C399 | AVS Forum SpeakerCompare simulates the sound of home and car speakers through your headphones. Bangalore. 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. 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. I have not tried the cxn v2 , but the node2i DAC was ok when I tried. i have mentioned before, i had an all JBL LSR 3XX system with subwoofer and I could not get the pacing nor timing right until I added Audirvana that was the missing link. My advice to anyone who asks is to investigate them only after you are satisfied with every other part of your system, with emphasis on the speakers, room acoustics, and electronics. I have a CXN v2(as source with Flac, streaming Spotify) paired with CA351a and Elac 2.0 B5.2. The Matirx streamer as well as the audiolab streamer are superb too. What are some of the differences between the 2 streamers with regards to high res streaming? In equal power mode, you'll hear these differences in loudness as they naturally occur between speakers. I would go for the Cambridge over the Bluesound myself well regarded for its price. The factor that most affected my home network music streaming performance was/is the quality of the switch. 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. If it isn't double blind, likely is double talk. Cambridge Audio CXN (V2) & CXA80 Double Review 8 Best Music Streamers Of 2023 - Audiosolace - Rebirth of Audio If using toslink it could be the cable as some do not work well above 24/96 . It doesnt seem like he needs the storage and disc ripping of the Vault. When you click on links to various merchants on this site and make a purchase, 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. Is this the very latest model? 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. 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 more I read about the Node 2i, the better it seems for my purposes. A lot of good advice on this site. Bluesound Node or WXC-50 or Cambridge CXN V2 or. a cable? | Audio Local and via tidal, qobuz et al. The CXN V2 is older but likely to have better sound quality. Too many DACs> Too many amps> Too many headphones. 1-888-292-2575. It is half the price of the Cambridge and has a much better user interface with BluOS. Hi, I have tested both Audiolab 6000N and Bluesound Node 2i with a wide variety of speakers. CXN V2 - Network Player | Cambridge Audio US Please enter a valid 10-digit phone number. Problems with DSD, flacs skipping, bad WiFi connection. The improved NDX2 closes the gap somewhat but for me the NDAC is still an upgrade, and at used prices, a pretty cheap one. Messages: 2,061 . You are using an out of date browser. I have not heard the Bluesound. Otherwise you need to move up to something like a Lumin U1 Mini. this can result in this site earning a commission. I do use an external Meridian DAC (which I had already owned) and the difference between the two DACs is very subtle. Personally, I think you are better off with the NODE. Not using the internal dacs? 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. Other than that, I would like to use Airplay (1). To help you choose the right speakers, we recommend using Crutchfields SpeakerCompare Listening Kit. If it is if any use. I use an iPad Air as a streamer into the USB on my Element II DAC/Amp. 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. Yeah no to be clear, the DAC I want to use is in the A-S801 amplifier. Which is by no means guaranteed with Android (and possibly Apple- but check the threads on here about that) devices. I Have the Node and like the connectivity, and supported features to other services like Roon, Qobuz, TuneIn and many more. Then I traded up to the CXN 2, and late in 2018 to the Node 2i. JavaScript is disabled. 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. How to make the most of Amazon's high-res and CD-quality music streams. JavaScript is disabled. I auditioned both the Node and the Cambridge. Ive also hooked it up to my integrated amp and it works great as well. Discussion in 'Audio Hardware' started by wingram, Jul 5, 2019. Marantz BD8006, Bluesound Node 2021, Marantz Pearl Lite, Revel Concerta2 M16, Sony XZ Premium, LGV30. Also the means and ways of interacting with the CXN and its 'switchability' in always . No dealers near me carry it. AVForums.com is owned and operated by M2N Limited, But the term "chromcast" refers the technology which nowadays available in variety of equipments like TV, Streamer, Sound bar etc. In an actual listening room, you'd find that some speakers play louder than others when fed the same amount of power. 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. On their Support/Community site, they state the Firmware that opened the USB output is still in Beta. Very good for the money. Powered by Xenforo, Hosted by Nimbus Hosting, Original design Critical Media Ltd. The Node is very new and seems to have great functionality. The articles & videos are also super-helpful! (Not sure if I can get the correct interconnect for my toe though!). So the cambridge gets rave reviews but It would be a struggle finding room in my existing CD6006 and Marantz Pearl Lite set up. Marantz ND8006 vs Cambridge CXN V2 or other? Node app is way superior over the CXN and for me is the best music app after Roon. Panasonic 55FZ950. 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. This has been a fantastic experience. 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. Personally, I'd get an Amazon Basics or Ugreen that meets your requirements for terminations and length and give it a go. Both can be Roon endpoints, thought the Cambridge is by virtue of Chromecast. 390. Being able to connect a HDD is much more ideal. Makes sense. Cambridge Audio CXN (V2) Firmware Update Problems. Great customer service, product expertise & lifetime technical support has me as a happy customer. Personaly I'm not interested in other functionality like dac and pre amp. Another vote for the Blusound here, like you I was curious and dipping my toes, auditioned a Node 2i and it stayed. 1 Home Entertainment Tech Resource. 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. 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. company number 03997482, registered in England and Wales. Hence the post! Virtual audio technology allows you to compare sonic characteristics between speakers so you can make a more informed shopping decision. The NAD C399 has higher output and also the possibility of upgrading and having room correction. Cambridge Audio CXN Version2. 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. Just forget about indexing or playing a large HDD library. I always choose to support you guys over a big box. They ARE NOT a streaming service. I stream from the Qobuz app. I had intended to make an introductory post, in the lounge, but got carried away with myriad questions! I prefer Audiolab over Bluesound Node 2i. 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. Good luck. #12. 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 The Bluesound seems relatively simple and definitely inexpensive. 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.. 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. One into my Dac and then one analog out from the Node. Its a brilliant streamer, dac, Preamp, bluetooth & Mqa is also there. Every review I saw raves about the sound quality on the CXN-(V2). With its Bluetooth aptX, the Bluesound Node 2i easily supports 24-bit streaming directly from your phone or tablet. The CXN is great at $900, but even better at less than that. The world's largest high-end audio community. Love Crutchfield! Thatll be $10 of the best $$$ you spend on audio. I own both the CA 851n and the CXN 1. 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. The new one has touch buttons led lights on top of the unit. I've had a node 2i for about a year now. 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. I've heard the sound quality is superior in the CXN v2 but I also do not believe it even supports Amazon Music HD. The CXN V2 has three digital inputs, two digital outputs, analog (single-ended and balanced) outputs and one Ethernet input. If you're doing Roon just get a Sonore Ultra Rendu and go USB to the DAC, Yeah, Ive looked at those and I just dont think I can get along. 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. 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 ? That's weird. So the cambridge gets rave reviews but It would be a struggle finding room in my existing CD6006 and Marantz Pearl Lite set up. It lets you compare sonic characteristics between speakers so that you can make a more informed shopping decision. With this limited intention I am not bothered that it doesnt match my other sources, although its very listenable. And as i sold it during first lockdown, sold it for 150 more than I paid. Qobuz skipping files. The mk2 is possibly out of my budget, for the time being. Then I got thinking the money I would spend on a streamer.. I purchased a black one this morning from Music Direct at the reduced price. Have you checked the review index? Any opinions on BS node 2i into Yggdrasil Dac. But just to emphasise, digital coax output to a DAC works absolutely fine with the Node as Roon Endpoint. Copyright 2000-2023 M2N Limited E. & O.E. BUT. For free personalized advice, call 1-888-291-8923. Any further thoughts on these two streamers would be much appreciated. Copyright 2000-2023 M2N Limited E. & O.E. Very bummed they are dropping the black gear though, and very happy I purchased mine in black already. Sorry if this is a duplicate of some sort (lots of threads to sort through) but I was hoping to get some help from you guys. The Cambridge Audio CXN V2 is a powerful network streamer. Cambridge CXN V2 or Bluesound Node 2i paired with external DAC? With the Node 2i connected to my LAN by ethernet, performance is seamless. Being able to connect a HDD is much more ideal. 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. If you are looking for SQ, go with CXN If you are looking for ease of use, go with Node. Unfortunately not. Cambridge Audio CXN Version2 - 13th Note HiFi Reviews Cambridge Audio CXN V2 Audiophile Music Streamer In The House: First The first is the Audiolab 6000N Play, which I consider to be the best sounding streamer in that price range. As far as I can tell, so far, the latest (2021?) 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 No. I did not try a directly connected HD. Has both digital and analog outputs, SQ is likely superb and available at a small fraction of their top of the line products, and resale value, however limited, is likely high among competing products. 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. Carlos and Alex bring our famous DIY spirit to the annual United Way Day of Caring. 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 Too bad the matching amp is priced so high. Absolutely outstanding are the words I think of to describe the selection, price, shipping, & the customer service. Calls may be recorded for training and quality control purposes. /Stageline Discussion in 'PCs & Music Servers' started by centralflori, Jul 3, 2021.