cambridge audio cxn v2 vs bluesound node cambridge audio cxn v2 vs bluesound node

For Tech Support, call Also the means and ways of interacting with the CXN and its 'switchability' in always . I could purchase the s/h ND5-XS for roughly right inbetween the new prices of the Bluesound and the cambridve. I did not try a directly connected HD. When I had the Node 2 I used two outputs. the Amazon Associates Program via amazon.com. It does that both analog out and digital out, - and with AirPlay . Easy process from start to finish, and the availability of information is second to none. It doesn't take deep pockets or "golden ears" to obtain and appreciate good sound. Ok. Is this possible? You are using an out of date browser. That's weird. I have the Cambridge and really like it, but I have no experience with the bluesound. Cambridge Audio CXN (V2) Firmware Update Problems. Knowing which model headphones youre using lets us remove any sonic coloring from your experience. 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 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. 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. If so the I guess it just comes down to features/size etc. In equal volume mode, we've made the loudness of each speaker about the same. Thatll be $10 of the best $$$ you spend on audio. 1 Home Entertainment Tech Resource. Given all the choices of streaming services, it usually comes down to one or two you really like to keep around. 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. I think there was an android USB DAC app that did something like that (?) Yeah I hope sound doesnt drop over 3 meters. Find a used Ayre Codex Dac. The NAD C399 has higher output and also the possibility of upgrading and having room correction. My first-hand feedback is that the Node works fine as a streamer (MPQ radio sounds good). You bet! I want to load a hard drive up with my library (AIFFs) and play from it. When you click on links to various merchants on this site and make a purchase, NAP180 Do you know what I mean? Affiliate programs and Every review I saw raves about the sound quality on the CXN-(V2). 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)? Please enter a valid 10-digit phone number. The No. I find it an excellent combination. Cambridge Audio CXN(v2) Streamer . But also I really need to know if the signal from the tablet or phone is untouched. JavaScript is disabled. Does anyone have any insight. Bluetooth is a simple, wireless way to send music from your phone, tablet, or laptop to your home stereo. Thanks for the update, consider adding this to your profile. It lets you compare sonic characteristics between speakers so that you can make a more informed shopping decision. If not, for just a bit more money than a new Node 2i, you can get a second hand Cambridge Audio CXN V2, which is in a completely different league, and . Other than that, I would like to use Airplay (1). The factor that most affected my home network music streaming performance was/is the quality of the switch. Personally, I'd get an Amazon Basics or Ugreen that meets your requirements for terminations and length and give it a go. Please help Purchase the Audiolab 6000A Integrated Amplifier at a special offer price. Are you aware that the original ND5XS uses rather dated streaming tech compared to its Mk2 replacement and has limitations if you are intending to stream from internet sources rather than a music collection stored on your local network? Both are good but prefer my PS Audio Directstream with Bridge II overall. My entry into streaming was an cxnv2. The Chromecast is is pretty impressive but it isnt gapless. 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. Hi, looking for some advice please. I used (and still use) network attached storage. If I recall correctly the Node 2 did not test well. In some places, it repeats the review of the previous product: CXN V2 still has a wonderful DAC but unfortunately . I need to replace my modded Sonos connect with a new streamer. 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. iTunes ( my Windows computer) rips my CDs directly to my NAS Ethernet drives. Discussion in 'Audio Hardware' started by wingram, Jul 5, 2019. Makes sense. It may not display this or other websites correctly. It may not display this or other websites correctly. Ill inquire with Cambridge. Difference between Bluesound Node 2i and Cambridge CXN v2. 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. With its Bluetooth aptX, the Bluesound Node 2i easily supports 24-bit streaming directly from your phone or tablet. The website is extremely user friendly, unbeatable product selection, customer support, and audio knowledge. The trade-off is form factor and a higher price. 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. Its a brilliant streamer, dac, Preamp, bluetooth & Mqa is also there. Thoughts if so? So Im not sure what to go for between these streamers, or if I should simply stick with a cable for now. 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. (,,,) 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. So the cambridge gets rave reviews but It would be a struggle finding room in my existing CD6006 and Marantz Pearl Lite set up. CXN is also 40% more expensive. Wiim Pro? affiliations include, but are not limited to, the eBay Partner Network, and So, if I get an MQA capable DAC, can I bypass the Cambridge DAC and get full MQA? I use an iPad Air as a streamer into the USB on my Element II DAC/Amp. They ARE NOT a streaming service. And I understand the Node has now been further improved over the 2i. Sleek design. If you're using an outboard DAC I believe the signal just passes through. This device lets you stream stunning sound quality and let you play music files from various apps such as Spotify and Deezer. Discussion in 'Audio Hardware' started by wingram, Jul 5, 2019. I have the CXN V2 and with a Qutest it performs brilliantly. But performance in the real world is affected by the acoustics of your car or home, your choice of amplification, and your source material. Help on getting the maximum from cxn v2 and tidal. I dont know the Cambridge except for what Ive read. 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. Panasonic 55FZ950. The Matirx streamer as well as the audiolab streamer are superb too. Bluesound Node (2021) or CXN V2? Our Advisors have listened to most of the speakers we carry, and can help you make the best choice for your system. I prefer Audiolab over Bluesound Node 2i. Europe's busiest forums, with independent news and expert reviews, for TVs, Home Cinema, Hi-Fi, Movies, Gaming, Tech and more. All Naim streamers have a digital output which allows you to run them with a separate DAC as an upgrade option. For a better experience, please enable JavaScript in your browser before proceeding. Comparing their single-ended analogue outputs (because the Node 2i doesn't do balanced), the CXN (V2) exposes us to a little more inner detail but a substantially more expansive soundstage. actually working with the Bluesound Node on a SN3. I purchased a black one this morning from Music Direct at the reduced price. One thing I appreciated with Bluesound Vault is its app support of many streaming platforms. I've heard the sound quality is superior in the CXN v2 but I also do not believe it even supports Amazon Music HD. Any thoughts on which would be the best idea from the following choices? Copyright 2000-2023 M2N Limited E. & O.E. Find out what gear you need to hear Qobuz at its best. Marantz ND8006 vs Cambridge CXN V2 or other? Someone mentioned here that the Cambridge doesnt so full resolution unless using their app? My place for electronics, great customer service, product expertise & lifetime technical support. Posted: . Anyone have hands on with both? Any thoughts on which would be the best idea from the following choices? Bluesound Node (New) 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 If you decide on the CXN, spend a little extra to upgrade the power cord. 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. The CXN is great at $900, but even better at less than that. This is where the cable game can get me. Plus an in-depth review of the service by Jeff Miller, Crutchfield's headphone guy. Crutchfield: Legendary Service. I always choose to support you guys over a big box. And as i sold it during first lockdown, sold it for 150 more than I paid. I don't need to spend thousands but it's a toss up between the Bluesound Node 2i and the CXN. Thanks. They're always very helpful! This gives you a more direct comparison of subtle voicing differences between speakers. Preferred the smsl su-8 over their inbuilt DAC. Let's take a closer look at this device. 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 ? Nice system. So, are the prices going on the new paint scheme CXN v2? But, if I were later still to obtain an NDS2 or NDX2, would the nDAC still serve as an upgrade to them? So Im not sure what to go for between these streamers, or if I should simply stick with a cable for now. I have my ipad pro connected to my dac/amp via usb c , everything sounds nice. The Cambridge CXN (V2) is $1100. CXN's DAC is definitely better than Node. 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. For the money I doubt theres anything else out there to beat it until you start spending Naim or similar entry level price points. Naim ND5-XS (S/H) Bluesound Node (New) 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. 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 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 1) Bluesound to CXA via RCA. The other possible route is to put a PSU on the NDX2 such as an XPS. Especially with Tidal MQA, would the node 2i unfold MQA to a partial level since the Yggy is not MQA compatible? The OP was interested in the Node, not the Vault. It is half the price of the Cambridge and has a much better user interface with BluOS. The SQ isnt a match for my Hugo when I listened to one, but definitely got closer with an upgraded, Naim, interconnect. Every time I use Crutchfield I am happy. CD3.5/Flatcap Personally, I think you are better off with the NODE. Just forget about indexing or playing a large HDD library. Joined: Mon Jun 12, 2017 3:29 pm Posts: 9 With this limited intention I am not bothered that it doesnt match my other sources, although its very listenable. This raises the question of what you mean by dipping your toe in - what do you want to find out? Multi-room network audio players Multi-room connectivity emerged with the advent of digital music and wireless streaming. That's interested @rvpiano. I know own the Cambridge, and Im using Chromecast for the high Rez Qobuz offerings, Ok thanks. Crutchfield has and always will be the number one source for all electronic needs, there is no one better. I think its a home-run product. My guess is, very few have listened carefully to both, so it's going to be difficult to get this specific feedback. 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. 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. In addition to its new Roon Ready support, the CXN features Chromecast built-in, making it easy for users to access content from Sirius XM, Soundcloud, and hundreds of other music sources. company number 03997482, registered in England and Wales. AUDIO X Post subject: Re: Bluesound Node 2 vs Cambridge CXN. Getting hands-on with our products helps us pick what's best for our customers. Sony A95L QD-OLED, X95L MINI LED And Full BRAVIA Range For 2023 (In-Depth Interview). DACs, Streamers, Servers, Players, Audio Interface. So what solutioN do I have? #4. It delivers a collection of top music technologies for home use. I'll be a customer for as long as they are in business. 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. Weve carefully chosen the components of this kit to ensure a crystal-clear listening experience. The Bluesound Node 2i is designed with enhanced dual-band WIFI to render the best-in-class performance even in crowded airspaces. I owned a CXN (first version) and the original Bluesound Node for a couple of years. A second hand Auralic Aries mini is another option worth considering. Discussion in 'PCs & Music Servers' started by centralflori, Jul 3, 2021. All my music servers play it from the NAS drive over Ethernet. Dave's made his daily life so much more convenient by installing Smart Home devices. The CXN 2 sounds better. So many options to consider. It outperforms the Dac in my Cambridge 851C cd player. Personaly I'm not interested in other functionality like dac and pre amp. 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. All you really need is a craving for good sound and a system-building plan. Both can be Roon endpoints, thought the Cambridge is by virtue of Chromecast. 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. Bryston BDP pi on here. SpeakerCompare gives you a sense of the sonic differences. I first streamed digital files attached to my network computer thinking the USB was only good for smaller capacity flash drives. If I were to go the streamer/DAC/pre-amp route I would buy the Cambridge Audio rig in a heart beat. with the design (ie look) of it. All component separate. 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. Otherwise you need to move up to something like a Lumin U1 Mini. bumpquestion regarding the need for external DAC above? Hopefully this will be fixed with a future Firmware update, but at the moment it's an issue. Ive also hooked it up to my integrated amp and it works great as well. But what about the sound quality? Bangalore. 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). I currently have both the bluesound node2i and the Cambridge CXNv2 and IMO, the DAC in the CXNv2 is better. I have not tried the cxn v2 , but the node2i DAC was ok when I tried. If anyone still on this thread, what is the difference in streaming quality vs the two. 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. 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. Inside the a-s801 is ES9010K2M. Please consider the user interface. A better switch dramatically improved performance by eliminating lag, dropouts, arbitration issues when the network is particularly busy, etc. Find out what makes high-res audio sound better, and how you can experience it. I'm always impressed with their professionalism and sincerity. Not the earlier Node model though that pre dates the 2i, just to confuse matters I see Bluesound are now naming its latest iteration The Node. 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. So far, so good! BUT. But it's a little involved and if you don't like to tinker stick with the CXN or get a Node 2i. Crazy. 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). 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? Not sure how all this would sort out, appreciate advise. We use automated technology to connect you with an Advisor and to answer some common questions. Ned's best friend helps him evaluate frequencies only dogs can hear. The Node can be impressive and always seems to be compatible with every streaming service around. 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. This has been a fantastic experience. Since 1974.SM. If your headphones aren't listed, we recommend using our Listening Kit. The iPad Pro making the switch to USB-C means now is the perfect time to look at how it all works and why it matters when it comes to the sounds of your life. What is the difference between 'dark' and 'warm'? JavaScript is disabled. Built my own and took ten minutes. It may have to do with if the hard drive is removed and then attached againI will find it eventually. CXN is amongst a handful of players to have Chromecast built-in. New Bluesound Node vs Cambridge CXN v2 for High Res Streaming? The NDAC was certainly an upgrade on the internal DAC on the original NDX. Which is by no means guaranteed with Android (and possibly Apple- but check the threads on here about that) devices. To help you choose the right speakers, we recommend using Crutchfields SpeakerCompare Listening Kit. Am I correct? Read the manual, the CXN v2 passes digital through up to 24/192 on the toslink or coax. In an actual listening room, you'd find that some speakers play louder than others when fed the same amount of power. My setup is as follows and it sounds great. While the cost is about double if the sound quality is as good as . But, if I were later still to obtain an NDS2 or NDX2, would the nDAC still serve as an upgrade to them? .The C 658 is pure high resolution from input to output and features NAD's Direct Digital 35 bit 844kHz DAC, one of the . You also mentioned the IFI Zen. On March 6, 2020 By hifitr5_wp There are a couple of budget (around $500) Audiophile Music Streamers I recommend. Thank you! You can also look at stuff from SMSL, Topping and NuPrime stream 9. Thank you for the replies everyone. the Amazon Associates Program via amazon.com. The articles & videos are also super-helpful! Other than that, I would like to use Airplay (1). But how can i use it from my couch? Cambridge Audio CXN V2. If you are willing to pay that fine. No support for AirPlay, Chromecast, Roon. Great customer service, product expertise & lifetime technical support has me as a happy customer. 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 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. this can result in this site earning a commission. Have you tried plugging a hard drive into the Node 2i? All using original Naim interconnects and NAC-A5 cabling to an old pair of Castle Harlech speakers. Love Crutchfield! Node app is way superior over the CXN and for me is the best music app after Roon. 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. Node? Do you have any thoughts on cable types and length. 1 Home Entertainment Tech Resource. Being able to connect a HDD is much more ideal. They do not share. Looks like the only changes to the CXN v2 is a new paint job Agree, same for the CXC as well. company number 03997482, registered in England and Wales. 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! CXN (in my opinion) has a little darker sound (not to be confused with warm). I use both qobuz and local flac files via Roon so integration with Roon is important too. The Bluesound DAC isnt bad but I wouldnt be surprise if the CXN better. I also heard that Bluesound Node has support for the upgraded Bluetooth Aptx and better support for Roon and Qobuz compared to the CXN. SpeakerCompare is protected by patents and patent applications owned by Crutchfield Corporation. That way I could have all the internal storage, and quality sound signal maybe a Fiio x7 or so. /Stageline Thats sort of the point of external USB DACs. Select your brand of headphones in the right-hand column. About Press Copyright Contact us Creators Advertise Developers Terms Privacy Policy & Safety How YouTube works Test new features Press Copyright Contact us Creators . To be fair Blue Sound vaguely mentions this and favors the use of a NAS but personally unable to justify the extra hustle. Focus on speakers/room where a much more substantive change is possible. So I want a clean signal from a source to be internalised with that DAC. What not a PI streamer with a Hat like Hifiberry or Allo. Problems with DSD, flacs skipping, bad WiFi connection. IMO any unit that does not have an MQA decoder will be effectively obsolete within 2 years. SpeakerCompare simulates the sound of home and car speakers through your headphones. Plus, our headphone writer reviews the high-res streaming music service. Thorens TT (Cant recall the model, its from around 1968 and maybe TD125 or TD150, but I do remember its a MkII !) You dont have to spend a lot of money to get a decent stereo system. This site uses cookies to help personalise content, tailor your experience and to keep you logged in if you register. Copyright 2000-2023 M2N Limited E. & O.E. If you no longer wish to receive the call, please click the button to cancel your request. Very good for the money. I'm probably recalling it badly but I think the USB spec is 3m (or maybe 5). Im not even sure which service might be best, for me. The Node, no question. No dealers near me carry it. Not sure how much better it is than a Node but it supports all major streaming platforms plus ROON. The Node 2i costs about RM1,000 more than the Yamaha. Purchased both as opened box/clearance from CA with warranty. 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 ? Naim ND5-XS (S/H) marcozero Registered Joined Nov 16, 2021 14 Posts It doesn't just read the files and display them in the Bluos app? Sounds like folks are leaning to the NODE which I think I am as well. Any further thoughts on these two streamers would be much appreciated. Qobuz skipping files. 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. 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. calculate gaussian kernel matrix,